Kellie is from the remote community of Karrawang, south-west of Kalgoorlie, and has long dreamed of getting her driver’s licence.
Living in a remote community without public transport meant relying on lifts, a big challenge for Kellie when only two family members had a licence, including her Nan, who often drove 13 grandchildren, adult children, and great-grandchildren into town.
In June 2025, Kellie proudly passed her practical driving assessment with the support of the McGovern Foundation’s Wanderer Program, funded by the Driving Access and Equity Program, and she was overjoyed.
“I am so happy to get my licence today. It’s hard living out in community having to bum a lift all the time,” she said.
“I can now help my Nan and other family. I’m not sure I could have done it without this program. My Nan said if I pass, she will buy me a car…I cannot wait. So excited!”
Kellie said her Nanna is just as thrilled.
“Nanna will be screaming and onto it, online looking for a car for me.”
It’s an achievement that for Kellie means more than just independence, it’s a step toward her future goals that include a job in the mines and someday travelling to Egypt to see the Pyramids, a lifelong fascination.
The McGovern Foundation said it had been a pleasure to help Kellie achieve her licence, and by extension, help the wider Karrawang community.
