Your 2025 Westfield Hornsby Local Hero is:

Darren Heath

1st Hornsby Heights Scout Group

Thoughtful. Inclusive. Dedicated.

As a dedicated Cub Scout Leader for the 1st Hornsby Heights Scout Group, Darren not only supports the children’s activities but also works behind the scenes. He is described as the person who is always first to lend a hand, while also being on top of risk paperwork and making sure activities for kids are both adventurous and safe.  

 He ensures bushwalks are taken on existing trails and that camping trips take place without anyone leaving a trace behind them.  “My motivation is seeing the development of the Cubs, especially the kids that start as 8-year-olds who initially find the activities and camps challenging,” says Darren.  

 “They develop over their three years in Cubs, and beyond in Scouts, with far more confidence and skills.”  Darren makes sure he talks to parents to understand their child’s needs and to share their child’s progress. 

 “We have a large number of neurodiverse kids and I love being able to provide them with a safe place where they can learn and develop at their own pace without pressure,” says Darren.  He adds, “I believe it takes a community to raise a child, and that I’m helping these children and their families develop some great life skills.”  

The $20,000 grant will be used to purchase tents, a box trailer and additional equipment to support its members. 

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

Donald Mathewson from MENTORING MEN LTD.

Donald volunteers with Mentoring Men, offering free one-to-one mentoring to help support men’s mental health. Drawing on the anxiety he suffered due to his Naval service, as well as his coaching career and athletic achievements, he brings positive change to at-risk men, their families and communities. At 80 years old, Donald is also committed to developing mature-age men’s fitness and health.

Karen Humphries from CanSupport

Having twice survived stage 4 cancer, Karen now supports other cancer survivors from the Royal North Shore Hospital, through fundraising, developing survivorship guides, ensuring inclusivity and advocating for creative therapies and holistic healing. Her empathy, born of experience, fuels her mission to ensure no one faces cancer alone.

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

Recognising all our 2025 nominees

View all of the Westfield Horsnby nominees and their organisations.