LOCAL LIFE
Katherine Kirk named 2026 Castle Hill NSW Local Woman of the Year
Katherine Kirk has been recognised as the 2026 Castle Hill Woman of the Year at the NSW Women of the Year Awards in Sydney.
The Local Women of the Year Awards celebrate community champions, advocates and trailblazers who make a meaningful difference at a grassroots level, recognising the outstanding contributions of women and girls across the state.
Member for Castle Hill, Mark Hodges, said the annual awards provide an important opportunity to acknowledge the women who make a lasting impact across NSW.
“ Our community is incredibly proud to see Katherine Kirk honoured at the NSW Women of the Year Awards,” Mr Hodges said.
“ Katherine has made an outstanding contribution through her leadership and volunteer work across the Hills. As President of the Castle Hill High School P & C Association, she is a tireless advocate for local families.
“ Her impact extends throughout the community through her dedicated support of Hills Spirit FC, the Castle Hill RSL Sub- Branch and the Shining Light Foundation, which provides assistance to people experiencing homelessness.”
Mr Hodges also acknowledged
Katherine’ s remarkable ability to balance her many commitments.
“ While working two jobs and raising five children with her husband Chris, an Army veteran, Katherine continues to give back and make a genuine difference,” he said.
“ It is clear she exemplifies the strength, compassion and generosity that define the women in our community and across NSW.”
Shadow Minister for Women, Felicity Wilson, also congratulated all award recipients.
“ Across NSW, we have seen countless women recognised for their work as inspirational role models for women and girls,” Ms Wilson said.
“ Their efforts make a real difference in the lives of others and deserve to be celebrated.
“ Every award winner embodies this year’ s International Women’ s Day theme,‘ Give to Gain’. Progress is driven when we invest in women’ s leadership and elevate their voices— not just today, but every day.”
Introduced by the NSW Government in 2012, the annual awards continue to honour women and girls whose determination, courage, skill and passion inspire their communities and others to achieve great things.
Katherine Kirk with Mark Hodges MP
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THE HILLS INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine. com. au ISSUE 130 // APRIL 2026 5