Karen Partington kicked off her career in local government as a cashier a quarter of a century ago, collecting fees for land rates and dog registrations.

Now, she’s amassing coveted accolades for her tireless work, integrity and dedication to her career and the community throughout the past 25 years.

Ms Partington, who has risen through the ranks to become Lake Macquarie City Council’s acting director planning for the future, received a Woman of Distinction Award in the 2025 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government on Thursday 23 October.

It recognised her “exceptional innovation, ethics and initiative” as well as her positive influence on others.

Ms Partington has fulfilled diverse responsibilities throughout her journey, in strategic land use planning, infrastructure, environm

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