Family launches foundation after Gold Coast woman Kelly Wilkinson’s tragic death

The grieving family of Kelly Wilkinson has unveiled their plan to keep the beloved Gold Coast mum’s memory alive, almost two years after her tragic death.

The grieving family of Kelly Wilkinson has unveiled their plan to keep the beloved Gold Coast mum’s memory alive, almost two years after her tragic death.

Danielle Carroll is the in early stages of setting up the Kelly Wilkinson Foundation in honour of her sister, who died after being allegedly set on fire in her Arundel backyard in April 2021.

Kelly’s estranged ex-husband, Brian Earl Johnston, is awaiting trial on a murder charge.

Kelly Wilkinson's sister, Danielle Carroll, is launching the Kelly Wilkinson Foundation in memory of her sister. Picture Glenn Hampson

Mrs Carroll, who will lead the foundation alongside gender equality campaigner Shaan Ross-Smith, hoped to launch it by the end of the year.

The organisation would provide direct and ongoing support to those believed to have experienced domestic and family violence, Mrs Carroll said.

“After (Kelly died) we just noticed a huge gap. There is very minimal direct care afterwards,” Mrs Carroll said.

“For families going through this, you are really on your own.

“We were extremely lucky we had amazing community support, but we also know a lot of people don’t get that at all.

“We have been given a unique opportunity here and we want to step forward and help everyone else going through this.”

Gold Coast mum Kelly Wilkinson.

Since the tragedy, Mrs Carroll and husband Rhys have taken over the care of Kelly’s three children, in addition to their five children.

She admitted a household of 10 people could be “really difficult” at times.

“Everyone’s got some level of trauma on board, so it is extremely difficult trying to

be what everyone needs at that point in time,” Mrs Carroll said.

“With trauma, you never know when it is going to trigger and for kids, it is extremely hard for them to identify what they are feeling.

“It is really tough at times.”

The home being built for the family of Kelly Wilkinson. Danielle Carroll and Rhys Carroll with the children, check out the new home being built for them by builders and volunteers. Picture Glenn Hampson

The family will soon move into a brand new home built by Metricon and spearheaded by construction entrepreneur Tamika Smith, who decided to help after learning of the tragedy.

Mrs Carroll said the house had been built and they were just waiting for the finishing touches to be added.

“We’re expecting to move in at the end of May - the kids are very excited,”she said.

The Kelly Wilkinson Foundation is one of four charities that will be supported an upcoming luncheon.

Danielle Carroll from the Kelly Willkinson Foundation and Zoe Scharenguivel from United for Change. Picture: Glenn Hampson

The fundraiser will be held at the Southport Sharks Events Centre on Saturday, May 13.

Organiser Zoe Scharenguivel said she hoped to raise funds and awareness to support those who may be impacted by domestic violence.

“I wish I didn’t even have to say this, but unfortunately there is still a need to fill that gap,” she said.

Luncheon tickets cost $149 each and can be purchased via : events.humanitix.com.