Congratulations to NSW Local Woman of the Year 2026 for Lake Macquarie Chris Gavenlock!

It was a pleasure to join with Chris this morning as she received the prestigious award at the NSW Women of the Year Awards.

I've known Chris for many years, back to our days at Morisset Hospital, and her dedication to our community is truly inspiring. Chris has spent nearly 30 years preserving the history of Morisset Hospital, founding the Morisset Hospital Historical Society, and even writing a book on the subject, A Private World on a Nameless Bay.

Chris has also used her own life experiences to help others, through her support and advocacy with the Dystonia Network of Australia.

Well done, Chris on this very well-deserved accolade!