Michelle Cowan, a trauma and grief counselor from Grafton, has been named the 2026 Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year for her community-based mental health support work. The honor, announced by NSW Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson, recognizes Cowan’s role as founder of Marahn, an integrated therapy and support center in the Clarence Valley.

Impact on Regional Mental Health

Cowan’s work focuses on supporting individuals and families through grief, trauma, injustice, and major life transitions. According to Mr. Williamson, her organization has created a rare, integrated space for healing in regional Australia.

“Through Marahn, Michelle has created more than a therapy house — she has created a place of safety, restoration and belonging,” Mr. Williamson said. “In a regional community like ours, that kind of integrated, heart-led support under one roof is rare and incredibly important.”

Cowan’s center provides trauma-informed care and culturally safe support to those handling complex systems, including families of children who have lost parents and individuals rebuilding their lives after trauma. The center’s approach emphasizes advocacy, protection, and emotional support when it is needed most.

Grassroots Advocacy in Regional Communities

Mr. Williamson highlighted the importance of grassroots, trauma-informed care in regional communities, saying the Clarence Valley is stronger because of Cowan’s courage, compassion, and commitment.

“She gives a voice to people who often feel unheard and ensures they are treated with dignity and respect,” he said. “She is incredibly worthy to be recognized as the Local Woman of the Year.”

Cowan emphasized that the award does not reflect personal achievement but rather the voices of the people she supports daily. She said the honor represents children handling grief, families fighting for safety, and individuals rebuilding their lives after trauma.

“My work has always been about advocacy — ensuring regional voices are not overlooked and that trauma-informed, culturally safe care is accessible in our community,” Cowan said. “This recognition strengthens my voice — not for myself, but for those who trust me to carry their stories with integrity.”

Cowan accepted the award with deep gratitude and a renewed commitment to continue serving the Clarence Valley with heart, respect, and advocacy.

Recognition of Women’s Contributions

The Local Woman of the Year Awards program provides Members of Parliament with the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions of an outstanding woman in their electorate as part of International Women’s Day celebrations. The recognition is part of a broader effort to highlight the role of women in regional communities.

Cowan’s work aligns with the goals of the program, which seeks to acknowledge the often-overlooked contributions of women in grassroots mental health and community support roles. Her recognition is a testament to the value of integrated, culturally safe care in regional Australia.

As the Clarence Valley continues to grow and evolve, the need for accessible mental health services like those offered by Marahn becomes even more critical. Cowan’s work is a model for other regional communities seeking to build sustainable, trauma-informed support systems.