I first met Karen when we began our social work training at Melbourne University in 1978 and we became friends and undertook our final year placement together in 1979 with what I think was then known as DCWS. Karen was a reflective, thoughtful and considered intellectual - she grasped ideas with great depth and consideration. She introduced me to Herman Hesse and Simone de Beauvoir - her copy of the First Sex was the first de Beauvoir' book read. I loved to hear her reviews of films and books-her passion for film well-surpassed mine with her preparedness to attend film festivals with an energy that was met by few others. Karen's passion for culture and trips to Italy . We maintained a friendship over the past 30 years and though at times our contact was irregular, I have always had a deep affection for her. Karen was courageous, generous and intelligent with the ability to cut through the banal - a true and generous friend. My condolences to her family and friends - a life well loved and admired.