A life well lived, a heart well-loved and a community well-served
By Kel Rowe
On Friday 16 August, people from all walks of life in both the West and beyond, gathered to bid their emotional farewells to Maribyrnong City Councillor Sarah Carter, who tragically passed away suddenly in early August.
The Atrium at Flemington Racecourse was filled with faces of politicians, community members, colleagues, friends and family of the late Cr Carter; many of whom sang the praises of a fiercely intelligent, vivacious and deeply kind human who had simply gone far too soon.
Her family and friends described the 45-year-old as a force — a bright spark driven to achieve from an early age. Carter was remembered as funny, kind and exceedingly generous, and often the life of the party.
In the West, Carter will be remembered for her service to community, as a Councillor, and as three-time Mayor — an achievement that earned her the title of Emeritus Mayor — the first woman to be awarded the honour in the history of the City of Maribyrnong.
For almost half of her life, Carter was a tireless advocate for her community, a champion of gender and equity, and quite simply, a local who loved getting amongst it. Be it council meetings, the local women’s footy, or the Festival of Colours — West was truly Best in her eyes.
Her service to others was immeasurable and her impact reached beyond the political spectrum, suburban boundaries and even country borders.
Carter’s work with Save the Children took her all over the globe, and often saw her showing decision makers of the world just how they could make a difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.
Her decade-long tenure at the charity was marked by an unshakeable commitment to driving positive change and to raising awareness of the challenges faced by children worldwide.
Often heralded as someone destined for political greatness, Carter had her aspirations firmly set on Federal Parliament, but sadly didn’t get the chance to apply her incredible intellect and drive to the gig.
Carter’s absence will be keenly felt by many, but we are fortunate to have shared in the light, energy and enthusiasm of her tragically short, but well-lived life.
