Voting has now closed for Westfield Local Heroes

We congratulate all of our finalists and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community.

This year Westfield will award 126 grants across Australia and New Zealand totalling $1.25M. Now in its 7th year, the Westfield Local Heroes program will have contributed $8.6M to more than 860 successful Local Hero organisations since it began.

Voting has now closed and the Westfield Local Heroes will be announced 15 October.

Meet our Local Hero finalists

Charlie Gallico

South Sydney Juniors

Humble. Kind. Generous.

Charlie Gallico, nearly 80, has dedicated over 30 years to his community as a South Sydney Juniors trainer and the South Sydney Rabbitohs mascot, Reggie Rabbit. He visits sick children in hospitals, supports Indigenous youth and participates in community events, embodying a lifelong commitment to helping others.

If Charlie is successful in the community vote, the money will help pay for the cost of four leadership and cultural camps for Indigenous youth.

Emilie Barker

The Minhi’s Netball Club

Kind. Strong-willed. Humble.

Emilie Barker co-founded The Minhi’s Netball Club in memory of loved ones and to promote good health among First Nations People. Emilie balances multiple roles as president, competition coordinator, student and carer for her Nan. With over 100 members, Emilie has created an inclusive environment that celebrates Aboriginal culture and promotes well-being.

If Emilie is successful in the community vote, she will use the grant money to pay for the costs of registration and fees, provide cultural awareness training and enhance and improve the club by upgrading facilities and purchasing new equipment.

Jack Broughton

Bayside Women’s Shelter

Thoughtful. Inspiring. Kind.

Jack Broughton is a volunteer director at Bayside Women's Shelter, a crisis accommodation refuge for women and children. With a background in information technology, Jack has implemented best practices in IT and cybersecurity at the shelter. His efforts have enhanced the shelter's operational efficiency and improved its service.

If Jack is successful in the community vote, the money will be used to develop a community hub for the Bayside Women’s Shelter. This hub will provide resources for the shelter’s women to access education and opportunities.

Voting is now closed for Westfield Local Heroes.

The successful 2024 Westfield Eastgardens Local Hero will be announced on 15 October. We congratulate all of our finalists and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community. Thank you for your votes.

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