Westfield Local Heroes is a recognition and awards program that connects and enriches communities in Australia and New Zealand. The program discovers and celebrates individuals who make a positive impact to their local community and/or environment.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here.

Gavin Shaw

EB Research Foundation
Dedicated . Reliable . Determined

Gavin Shaw jumped in to help when he saw the anguish that a rare skin disorder was causing to his friend’s daughter. He is now an invaluable volunteer with the EB Research Foundation, which raises funds for treatments and a cure for epidermolysis bullosa (EB). The genetic illness causes the skin to break and blister, leading to pain, disfigurement and gaping wounds. “My greatest achievement, apart from my family, is being part of the team helping to find a cure for EB, the worst disease you’ve never heard of,” says Gavin.

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Mary Chiodo

Copperfield College
Inspirational . Driven . Kind

Copperfield College is a large school with 68 nationalities and low scores for socio-educational advantage. It also has enthusiastic students with a sense of purpose. Kings Park Campus Principal Mary Chiodo has been at the school for 32 years and has played an essential role in creating this positive culture. Mary's standout contribution is the award-winning Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) program, which actively creates connections outside the school for Year 11 and 12 students. “Through the program, 1000 students have given back to their local community and built long-term relationships,” says Mary.

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Niketa Loftus

Craigieburn Netball Assoiciation
Selfless . Dedicated . Charitable

Niketa Loftus founded the Craigieburn Thunders Club after volunteering to coach an under-9 netball team in 2014. Most of the players have been together for five years and are undefeated, despite being in a division two age groups older than them. The family-like club has grown to five teams and 81 players and provides a safe, inclusive environment for players regardless of their ability, cultural background or ability to pay. “The main purpose is to provide disadvantaged children and youth a safe haven to play the game they love,” says Niketa.

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Recognising all our 2019 nominees

We congratulate all of our finalists and nominees and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community.
View all of the finalists, nominees and their organisations

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