Glebe local, Aunty Kathy Dodd Farrawell, was announced as NSW Local Woman of the Year for the Balmain Electorate on International Women’s Day in March. In presenting the award, Jamie Parker, Member for Balmain, said:

Aunty Kathy is an amazing local woman and a stalwart of the Glebe community. As an accomplished and award-winning artist, Aunty Kathy provides a strong connection to her culture through her artworks as she creates her beautiful murals in gardens and indoor spaces.

A proud Kaanju-Birri woman, Aunty Kathy is a mentor and tutor for children who might be facing challenges, through the Glebe Treehouse project and the Glebe Youth Service.

Along with other local Aboriginal elders, Aunty Kathy has been instrumental in organising a range of NAIDOC Week events each year.

I speak to Aunty Kathy frequently, often because she is helping friends and neighbours with challenges they’re facing – she’s a true pillar of our community and a fitting recipient of the award.

This International Women’s Day I’ve been reflecting on the many strong, proud and caring women like Aunty Kathy who make our local area so special with their energy and commitment. Thank you so much for your wonderful work.

Daryl Farrawell, Aunty Kathy Dodd Farrawell, Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Jamie Parker (image: http://www.jamieparker.org/)