Manly-based guide Karen Smith has been honoured by the Rotary Foundation in recognition of her work in helping thousands of school students and residents to discover the Aboriginal history of the Northern Beaches.                  

Ms Smith, whose family is from the Buruberongal clan of the Hawkesbury area, has lived in the Manly area for many years and is being recognised as a Paul Harris Fellow for her outstanding work in the local community.

Northern Beaches Council Chief Executive Officer Mark Ferguson congratulated Ms Smith on her achievement.

“Karen thoroughly deserves this recognition because she’s made such a positive impact in sharing her knowledge of the Aboriginal history and culture of the area with so many visitors, community and school groups. 

“The northern Sydney area has a rich and sometimes hidden Aboriginal heritage that is the envy of other parts of Sydney,” Mr Ferguson said.

Ms Smith leads guided walks and provides presentations across the region as education officer at the Aboriginal Heritage Office, a joint initiative of Northern Beaches Council, along with Lane Cove, North Sydney, Strathfield, Willoughby and Ku-ring-gai councils.

“Interest in the area’s Aboriginal sites has been increasing steadily year by year and I’m so lucky that I can share them with so many people through my work,” Karen Smith said.

“I’m very honoured to receive this award. It shows the high esteem in which the Aboriginal Heritage Office is held by the local community and the value of our educational programs.”

The Paul Harris Fellowship recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to Rotary or the community through humanitarian and educational programs.  .