In Loving Memory of Lauren Hutchinson

On behalf of the entire Ability Consultants team, we want to honour Lauren Hutchinson, and pass on our deepest condolences to Lauren's family, and her close-knit Illawarra community. 

Lauren joined our team in July 2023, bringing over a decade of experience as a therapist, school counselor, caseworker and support worker. Lauren had a uniquely caring and radiant spirit. She made a positive impact on many children, young people and families. Outside of work, she was a great mum and friend, and was a true pillar of her community. In July 2025, Lauren took a break from work for maternity, and we were eagerly anticipating her return.

Some members of our Illawarra team, closest to Lauren, put the following words together, after attending the sad event of Lauren's funeral, on 20 February 2026.

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It was with immense sadness that the Illawarra/Shoalhaven Ability Consultants team mourned the great loss and celebrated the life of our dear colleague, Lauren Hutchinson

Lauren was the kind of person you hoped you'd be one day, a bright presence, a steady hand, someone you'd want to be sitting next to at a team lunch or co-working meetup. She always had a smile on her face, was keen for a laugh and ready to offer support without judgment. Her warmth, intelligence and honesty will be greatly missed by her team and clients alike. 

Lauren was a superb behaviour support practitioner, our local go to for expertise in working with children and families. A deep listener, humble in her empathy, she was a better practitioner than she ever knew. But most of all we acknowledge her role as a devoted wife, mother, daughter, daughter in law, sister and aunty (always the aunty to her friends' kids as well).

With love and deep gratitude, 

Stephen Holmes, Natalie Lofty, Leonie MacDonald and the Ilawarra/Shoalhaven Team.

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The loss of Lauren, such a beloved, young, kind and brilliant person can't be measured, and our hearts are especially with Lauren's husband, Linken, and their three beautiful children. We are all heartbroken.

Thank you Lauren for your unforgettable example, and beautiful life.

With love and prayers,

David and the AC Team.

Lauren's church community established a GoFundMe to assist Linken and the children. Please give generously.