Celebrating Lili’s Apprenticeship Achievement

Jewellery-making is centuries old, but its future rests in new hands. Willie Creek Pearls’ newest qualified jeweller, Lili McDougall, is carrying on a tradition bigger than herself as one of the first third-generation Banfields to step up in the family business. 

Lili’s path into the jewellery world wasn’t carefully planned; it grew out of a willingness to help during Covid, when the family business needed extra hands. What began as lending a hand quickly revealed a natural eye for design and detail, and under the guidance of Head Jeweller William Grierson, she discovered a craft she wanted to master.

Her apprenticeship became a journey of precision and patience, with early works including pieces made from baroque Keshi pearls that challenged her creativity. One of her proudest moments came with a deeply personal commission: designing a bespoke engagement ring for her cousin to propose with, a project that carried both family significance and professional weight. 

Now fully qualified, Lili joins her mum, uncle, grandmother and wider family in shaping the next chapter of Willie Creek Pearls. For more than 35 years, the Broome-based business has shared the pearling story the town was built on, turning its rich heritage into jewellery, tours and experiences that connect visitors to the region’s soul. 
 
The company is also looking ahead. With a workshop expansion underway and demand for bespoke pieces growing, Lili’s role will evolve in step with the business. She has also begun training as a pearl harvest technician, gaining insight into the delicate harvesting process that ties shell to showroom. 

Willie Creek Pearls chairman Robert Banfield - Lili’s uncle - said seeing her step into the craft has been a proud moment for the whole family. 
 
“Graduating from her apprenticeship is a huge achievement and a commitment to the task that should be celebrated as an integral part of the business,” Robert said. 
 
“Upskilling from within has always been part of the company’s culture and is now strengthening the business across three generations.” 
 
For William Grierson, mentoring his first apprentice has been equally rewarding. 
 
“It’s a proud moment,” he said. 
 
“You pass on what you know and then watch them make it their own. Training someone also gave me a chance to rethink the way I do things and learn more myself. Lili’s fresh ideas gave me a new perspective, and it’s been incredible to see her grow in both jewellery-making and confidence.”Lili was gifted the first pearl she harvested to mark the memorable occasion. Her graduation represents both a personal milestone and a continuation of the family legacy, with skills and knowledge passed down through generations now shaping the future of the business.