Much-Loved Local Teacher Passes Away

Kind-hearted teacher and active community member, Karen Collins, passed away on Boxing Day after a brave battle with cancer.

Known also as Miss McKenzie, Karen spent most of her career teaching at local schools and will be remembered fondly by many of her students.

It was in the 1980’s that Karen left her home-city of Melbourne, following a desire to travel around Australia and finding herself falling in love with the beauty of the Whitsunday region.

Deciding to make the area her home, she taught at primary level at Hamilton Island, Cannonvale State School and St Catherine’s Catholic College in Proserpine, shaping many young lives and instilling a love of learning.

Karen was renowned for her kind, caring and generous nature and her love of teaching.

Many will remember her colourful classrooms that were a sight to behold.

Also a high-profile member of the hospitality industry, Karen was an extremely sociable person and well-known member of the wider Whitsunday community.

She was married to local restauranteur, Kevin Collins, for 18 years.

Karen also loved her sport and will be remembered as an avid netball player, competing and winning at World Masters Games level.

She was also involved with numerous fundraising activities both as a member of Cannonvale School staff and as a member of Zonta.

Karen will be missed by many, including family, friends, colleagues and her past pupils who were always dear to her heart.

She is survived by her five siblings.

No memorial service was requested but the family ask everyone who knew her to spend a moment remembering the very best of times and shared memories of this remarkable lady.

Memorial story written in conjunction with Karen’s family and close friends.

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Karen Collins (Miss McKenzie) passed away on Boxing Day

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