27/07/2026
Sawtell Catholic Care is delighted to announce that Marian Grove Village Manager Karen Martin has been nominated for an Ageing Australia You are ACE! Award in the Individual – Leadership category.
The nomination recognises Karen’s exceptional leadership of Sawtell Catholic Care’s Retirement Village Services over the past five years and her sustained contribution to the wellbeing, independence and quality of life of Marian Grove residents.
During this time, Karen has successfully led a diverse portfolio encompassing resident services, village administration, sales, property refurbishment, grounds and maintenance, asset management, emergency preparedness, regulatory compliance and financial sustainability.
Karen has built a capable, collaborative and resident-focused team whose work consistently reflects Sawtell Catholic Care’s values of Love, Respect, Justice and Courage and our mission of “We care.”
Her leadership has contributed to strong resident satisfaction, increased community connection, successful sales and occupancy outcomes, service expansion, regulatory compliance and significant reputational gains for Marian Grove and Sawtell Catholic Care.
Karen is widely respected for her approachable, optimistic and solutions-focused leadership style. She maintains strong relationships with residents, families and the Marian Grove Residents Committee, ensuring residents have meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions affecting their homes and community.
Karen’s strategic leadership has supported Sawtell Catholic Care’s commitment to ageing in place, helping residents remain independent, connected and supported as their needs change. She works closely with Sawtell Home Care and Mater Christi Residential Care to assist residents and families through changing circumstances and important care transitions.
Her contribution was recently recognised internationally through Sawtell Catholic Care’s success in the Ageing Asia Eldercare Awards for Ageing in Place. This achievement celebrated the connected community and integrated service model that Karen has played a key leadership role in developing.
Chief Executive Officer Michael Darragh said Karen’s nomination was fitting recognition of her outstanding contribution.
“Karen is an exceptional leader who combines strategic vision and strong operational management with warmth, compassion and genuine care for residents and staff,” Mr Darragh said.
“Karen embodies our mission and values in action every day, and we are very proud to nominate her for this important recognition.”
The Ageing Australia You are ACE! Awards celebrate excellence and acknowledge individuals and teams making an outstanding contribution to aged care, retirement living and services supporting older Australians.
Sawtell Catholic Care congratulates Karen on her nomination and thanks her for her exceptional leadership and commitment to the Marian Grove community.
