Your 2026 Westfield Hornsby Local Hero is:

Michelle Key

Smiles2u

Compassionate. Tireless. Benevolent.

Michelle Key has been awarded a $20,000 grant for their organisation Smiles2U.

Unexpected hospital stays can be overwhelming for children, adults and the people caring for them.

As founder and director of Smiles2u, Michelle Key responds with practical support that brings comfort and reassurance when it is needed most. 

This comes in the form of thoughtful and meaningful comfort packs for sick children in hospital – such as toys, colouring pencils, activity books or card games – all designed to bring smiles back to their faces.

Michelle and her team, also provide essential items packs for adult patients undergoing cancer treatment, and for parents and carers who arrive at hospital unexpectedly with their children, often with no time to prepare for extended stays.

Michelle says, “Serious illness particularly for children can be isolating, frightening and overwhelming, not just for the patient but for their entire family. I’m motivated by the belief that no one should feel forgotten or alone during those times.”

She adds, “What motivates me most is seeing the difference small acts of kindness can make during someone’s hardest moments.”

Powered by donations, grants and volunteers, Smiles2u supports hundreds of children, adults, families and carers across the local community each year. The impact of Michelle’s work extends beyond patients and their families, to nurses and hospital staff who value every opportunity to ease people’s distress and brighten a difficult day.

We'd like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5,000 grant for the organisation they represent

Milton Kirkwood

Pankind Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation Limited

Empathetic. Proactive. Committed.

Knowing that pancreatic cancer patients and carers had nowhere to connect, Milton Kirkwood set up a local support group in his Hornsby community. For the past six years, he has volunteered as Pankind's support group facilitator, leading a free online meeting that draws participants from across Australia. Now in his 80s, he runs monthly sessions connecting patients and carers through shared experience, expert speakers and practical support. 

Sharon Reid

The Zone at Hornsby Connect

Warm. Understanding. Inclusive.

Sharon Reid is the founder of The Zone at Hornsby Connect, a free weekly group for young people aged 12 to 18 with autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental differences. As a practising psychologist, she recognised the need to provide a space for building friendships, belonging and connection.

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

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Hornsby nominees and their organisations.

2027 Nominations Now Open

Do you know someone making a difference in your community? Tell us in 200 words why they should be a Westfield Local Hero and they could receive a $20,000 grant for their organisation.

Find out more here