We are excited to announce Charlie from South Sydney Juniors as your 2024 Westfield Local Hero for Eastgardens!

Westfield is proud to award a community grant of $20K to help Charlie at South Sydney Juniors to continue to grow their impact in the local community.

The 2024 Westfield Local Heroes program will award 125 grants across Australia and New Zealand – totalling $AUD1.24 million to support local communities.

Your 2024 Westfield Eastgardens Local Hero is:

Charlie Gallico

South Sydney Juniors

Humble. Kind. Generous.

At nearly 80 years old, Charlie Gallico has dedicated more than 30 years to supporting his community. Charlie works as a South Sydney Juniors trainer, and the South Sydney Rabbitohs mascot – Reggie Rabbit.

Charlie's commitment to community services includes visiting sick children in hospitals, supporting Indigenous youth locally and in remote locations, and participating in community events organised by Souths Cares – the South Sydney Rabbitohs not-for-profit that supports disadvantaged youth and their families.

"Being an active member of my local community engages me with people of all ages," Charlie says. "I try to give the young people some life advice to help them better themselves. I attend schools dressed as the mascot and visit young children who are sick or terminally ill. It brings me a lot of pleasure to help young members of the community."

Charlie's strong work ethic and commitment to helping others began as a young man. As the child of immigrant parents, he began working at 14 to assist his parents financially and help them buy a home. The challenges he experienced throughout his life help him see the value in community connections and giving back to others.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities. The finalist with the most community votes is the Westfield Eastgardens Local Hero for 2024, receiving a $20,000 grant for the organisation they represent. South Sydney Juniors will use the grant to help pay for the cost of four leadership and cultural camps for Indigenous youth.

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We'd like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5K grant for the organisation they represent...

Emilie Barker from The Minhi’s Netball Club

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.

Jack Broughton from Bayside Women’s Shelter

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.

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If you need support, please phone Lifeline: 13 11 14

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Recognising all our 2024 nominees

View all of the Westfield Eastgardens nominees and their organisations.