Member for Ku-ring-gai Alister Henskens SC MP today joined with Minister for Ageing and Disability Services John Ajaka to congratulate local residents Lynne Brakell (Wahroonga) and Sara Spurr (North Turramurra), who are receiving awards in the 2015 NSW Carer of the Year Awards.

The NSW Carers Awards are presented during Carers Week and help raise awareness of the vital role carers play in the community.

Mr Ajaka said that one in 10 people in NSW is a carer and their valuable contribution makes a positive impact to the community and the economy as a whole.

Mr Henskens said that there are more than 857,000 carers in NSW, including over 100,000 young carers.

“I applaud the hard work and commitment of both Lynne and Sara for putting the needs of another ahead of their own,” Mr Henskens said.

“The NSW Government thanks our carers for their extraordinary contribution in supporting some of our most vulnerable. Without carers like Sara and Lynne, many people would not be able to enjoy their independence and participate in their community,” Mr Henskens said.

“The contribution our carers make to the lives of their loved ones and our community as a whole is invaluable and I encourage them to take time out and enjoy some local activities with other carers,” Mr Henskens said.

CEO of Carers NSW, Elena Katrakis, said many carers have little or no social contact due to their caring role.

“For many carers, Carers Week is a highlight of their year. It is a great opportunity to encourage carers to take some time out, and to look after themselves,” Ms Katrakis said.

The 2015 NSW Carer of the Year Awards is a part of the NSW Carers Strategy, a five-year plan which was launched by the NSW Government in 2014 to raise awareness of and recognise carers in NSW.

The 2015 Awards will recognise 65 individuals and organisations. This year’s NSW Carers Week runs until Sunday.