In Memory of Sarah Helen Carter
In Memory of
Sarah Helen Carter
Sarah was my sister — and one of the strongest people I have ever known. She dedicated her life to service, to her community, and to advocating for causes far beyond her own city.
Her Achievements
Sarah was first elected to Maribyrnong City Council in 2008, representing Ironbark Ward. In 2010, at just 32 years old, she became the youngest person ever elected Mayor of Maribyrnong — and went on to be re-elected Mayor again in 2019 and 2022, making her the first woman in the council's history to serve three terms in the role.
She held a Bachelor of Communications (Public Relations) from Victoria University, graduating in 2006.
Since her passing in August 2024, Sarah's contribution has been recognised in lasting ways: she was posthumously inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women, the Australian Workers' Union established an annual Sarah Carter Memorial Award in her honour, and Maribyrnong City Council created the Sarah Carter Gender Equity Award, named a contemplative seat at Footscray Wharf after her, and now displays her mayoral robes within the renovated Town Hall.
Sarah Helen Carter — Art Creating Awareness
Her strength continues to guide me every day. Painting has become more than a passion — it is how I carry her legacy forward. In her honour, I created Sarah Helen Carter — Art Creating Awareness: an ongoing initiative where I donate original artwork to a different charity partner throughout the year. Each piece is auctioned or sold by the receiving charity as part of their own fundraising efforts, with all proceeds going directly to that charity. Every donation is credited to Sarah Helen Carter — Art Creating Awareness, keeping her name, and her generosity, part of the story — and helping bring awareness to causes close to both our hearts.
Partner With Us
If you're part of a charity or cause and would like to explore working together — whether that's receiving a donated piece, collaborating on a fundraising event, or simply learning more — I'd love to hear from you.
Please get in touch at abstractsbyrebeccacarter@yahoo.com, and let's talk about how we can support your cause together.