Bravehearts Ball 2026

Representing the Premier, Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, the Honourable Amanda Camm MP; Operations Commander, Child Abuse and Sexual Crime Group, Crime and Intelligence Command - Queensland Police Service, Detective Superintendent Denzil Clark APM; Bravehearts Chair, Mrs Vanessa Garrard and Members of the Board; CEO, Mrs Alison Geale; Ambassador in Chief, Mr Bob Atkinson AO APM and Ambassador, Professor Jon Rouse APM; National Vice-Patron, Mr Karl Morris AO; Daniel Morcombe Foundation Founders Mr Bruce Morcombe OAM and Mrs Denise Morcombe OAM; dedicated supporters; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.  

Thank you, Tribal Experiences for your warm Welcome to Country. I would also like to acknowledge the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people with us this evening.  

 As Patron-in-Chief, I am delighted that Graeme and I can again join you this evening for the Bravehearts Annual Fundraising Ball — an occasion that allows us to come together in support of Bravehearts and its vital work to prevent and respond to child sexual abuse.

At the outset, I take this opportunity to thank the event organisers for their hard work and dedication in planning and staging tonight’s spectacular function.

The word “Braveheart” speaks not only to the organisation we are here to support — it also reflects each of you. By being here, you show a shared belief that all children and young people deserve to feel safe, valued and protected from harm.

In that sense, each of you carries a ‘Brave Heart’ — expressed through your compassion, integrity and willingness to stand alongside others in support of children and families.

To the many generous supporters here tonight, and the many more around state and nation — thank you for supporting the vital work of Bravehearts, which since 1997 has grown to become a national leader in advocacy, education and support for victim-survivors. Through its coordinated and holistic approach, Bravehearts has helped shape a safer Australia for our children.  

Sadly though, their work is far from over. The prevention of child sexual abuse, whether online or in person, continues to call on our shared attention and care.  

Research indicates that more than 1 in 4 Australians have experienced child sexual abuse — more than 1 in 3 Australian girls and almost 1 in 5 boys.  

We know that many victim-survivors carry these experiences silently for years; and if, and when, they do choose to share their story, it is often after a long journey toward feeling safe and supported enough to speak out.This is why the leadership of organisations like Bravehearts is so important in shifting awareness, strengthening prevention, and equipping families, schools and communities with the knowledge and confidence to act.

As Governor and Patron-in-Chief, I acknowledge the extraordinary leadership of the Bravehearts Board, executive team and staff for their relentless commitment to the ongoing safety of our children, and for offering support and hope to victim-survivors.

I also acknowledge the vital contributions of the state and federal governments, corporate partners, sponsors, donors, Ambassadors, Research Advisory Panels and volunteers whose collective impact in this space is immeasurable.

On behalf of all Queenslanders, I thank everyone here this evening for your generosity which will ensure that Bravehearts remains strong, credible and effective as it continues its life‑changing work.

Thank you for your dedication, and I wish you all a wonderful evening.