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TRIBUTES from both sides of the political fence have flooded in for former Ballarat West MP Karen Overington, who died yesterday after a long illness, aged 59.Parliamentary colleagues and political opponents alike have described Ms Overington has a feisty opponent and a tireless worker for the underdog.Former Victorian Premier Steve Bracks, who worked with Ms Overington on building up the Labor Party profile almost 40 years ago, said yesterday he was shocked and saddened by her death.“Karen was a stalwart of the Labor Party, as well as a hard worker for the community, particularly Sebastopol. She worked unbelievably hard and was a real fighter for the community,” Mr Bracks said.“She would put her shoulder to the wheel, but would not ask for recognition in return. She was a battler and a fighter for people who needed support.”Parliamentary colleague and good friend Geoff Howard yesterday reflected on an energetic woman who was a strong defender of people in need.“Because of her sense of determination, she successfully represented her constituents. Only two years ago, she was still active in the community.”Sharon Knight, who won the seat of Ballarat West at last year’s state election after Ms Overington stood down, described the former MP as an unsung hero was wasn’t interested in song and dance. “She epitomised a real local member,” Ms Knight said.Despite being on opposing political teams, Ballarat City Councillor Judy Verlin had great respect for her former council colleague.“We served on council together and formed a unique relationship ... the happy balance between political opponents and friends,” Cr Verlin said.“Karen was a passionate advocate for her believers and was always keen to represent those who were disadvantaged in the community.”Former Ballarat South MP, Frank Sheehan, was Ms Overington’s boss when she worked at his parliamentary office. “Karen entered parliament from the shop floor, from working people. She was a grassroots person,” Mr Sheehan said.“She was an excellent communicator and her time on the Borough of Sebastopol and the Ballarat City Council gave her good grounding for her time in state politics.”Also saddened by her death was Kevin Waugh, who worked with Ms Overington in establishing the Wendouree West Community Renewal Project. The program was set up to help residents in improving the sense of community confidence, pride and amenity as the quality and integration of local house, services, facilities and infrastructure was raised.He admired the respect Ms Overington showed people in the Wendouree West community before, during and after working on the program.“Karen knew this wasn’t about government programs. It was about building people up. She made the people of Wendouree West step out of their comfort zone and excel. She gave us affirmation and taught us to have ability in ourselves. We realised we’re not no-hopers, we’re not dole-bludgers, we’re not druggies, we’re Wendouree West.”Federal Member for Ballarat Catherine King said of Ms Overington: “Karen was a terrific advocate for the people of Ballarat. She cared deeply about people, particularly those who were vulnerable or disenfranchised. I was proud to have her as a mentor. She leaves an important legacy for the city and the people of Ballarat in the Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre. She will be missed greatly.”While Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews said Ms Overington would be remembered for her passion and drive as she worked tirelessly each and every day for the people she represented. “She stood up for her community, lobbying strongly to deliver better education, health and other services that have made a real difference to families in Ballarat West. ”Victorian premier Ted Baillieu said he too was saddened to hear of Ms Overington’s passing.“On behalf of the Victorian Coalition government, I express sincere condolences to family, friends and parliamentary colleagues on both sides of the Parliament,” he said in a statement. “Karen was always a passionate representative of the Labor Party, the people of Ballarat and the people of Victoria.”Editorial, page 15
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Former Australian Member of Parliament  has died at the age of 59. Her death followed a long battle with ill health. Overington was the Member of Parliament for  with the  from 1999 until she stood down in 2010. During her political career, Overington worked to improve living standards for the community's disadvantage.

Tributes have flown in for Overington from both her political colleagues and opponents. Premier of Victoria Ted Baillieu said “On behalf of the Victorian Coalition government, I express sincere condolences to family, friends and parliamentary colleagues on both sides of the Parliament, Karen was always a passionate representative of the Labor Party, the people of Ballarat and the people of Victoria.”

Opposition leader  also commented: “She stood up for her community, lobbying strongly to deliver better education, health and other services that have made a real difference to families in Ballarat West." , the woman who won the parliamentary seat in Ballarat West after Overington stood down, praised her, saying, “she epitomised a real local member.”

Overington is survived by her two children.



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