Jelena Dokic inspires Deni to be brave enough

“What makes us stronger isn’t pretending everything’s fine - it’s being brave enough to ask for help when it’s not.”

That was the heart of the message at this week’s Brave Enough dinner in Deniliquin, where former tennis champion Jelena Dokic received a standing ovation for sharing her story of courage, honesty and healing.

Jelena Dokic receives a standing ovation in the Deniliquin Town Hall

When Jelena spoke, the room was silent. She talked about her journey through trauma, recovery and self-belief - and about what it means to keep showing up for yourself and others.

“I don’t think I will ever get over what I have been through. But I won’t be defined by it; I am now determined to grow from it and be stronger and wiser because of it.”— Jelena Dokic, Fearless

Her words echoed the aim of the Brave Enough campaign - to gently break down stigma, spark conversation and remind us that everyone struggles sometimes. And that support, kindness and connection are what help us through.

Being brave doesn’t mean having it all together. It means listening with kindness, noticing when something feels off, and believing that change is possible.

As Jelena shared, healing isn’t about forgetting what’s happened - it’s about learning to live differently because of it.

We’re deeply grateful to Jelena for bringing her story and her heart to Deniliquin, and for reminding us that bravery and community go hand in hand.

Let's be Brave Enough to believe things can change.

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