Thank you for voting for your 2026 Westfield Hurstville Local Hero.

We are excited to announce the successful hero on 20 October.

In 2026, the successful hero for each of our 42 Westfield destinations is awarded a $20,000 grant for the organisation or group they represent, and each finalist receives a $5,000 grant for their organisation or group.

2027 nominations open 20 October.

Meet our Westfield Local Hero finalists

Helen Dwyer

Scout Association of NSW

Selfless. Caring. Tireless.

More than 40 years into Scouting with Scouts Association of NSW, Helen Dwyer continues to help week in, week out. Now in her 70s, she supports a large community of young people, mentoring other Scout leaders while also organising camps, outings and participation in community events. She is described as ‘a multi-tasker extraordinaire’ who has helped thousands of young people grow and learn.

If Helen is successful, the grant will fund the training of two Mental Health First Aid instructors, who can then deliver courses to other Scouting volunteers.

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Shirley Zhuang

Project Youth

Fierce. Supportive. Compassionate.

As a Lived Experience Board Director with Project Youth, Shirley Zhuang shapes decisions affecting young people facing housing insecurity and homelessness across Georges River, Sutherland Shire and Bayside. Having experienced homelessness as a young person, Shirley chose to work from within to improve the systems that once supported them, advocating for services that are trauma-informed and centred on prevention. 

If Shirley is successful, the grant will sustain weekly sessions for young mothers facing homelessness, funding youth worker sessions, parenting education, outings and play resources.

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Sophie Ward

Shopfronts Arts Co-op

Genuine. Creative. Courageous.

Sophie Ward found confidence, creativity and lifelong friendships at Shopfront Arts Co-op and now helps other young people do the same. After 15 years with the organisation, she is its Young Leader, championing youth voices, delivering programs for young people living with disability or mental health challenges, and creating opportunities for others to feel seen, heard and valued. 

If Sophie is successful, the grant will expand Outside the Lines to twice-weekly no-cost sessions across the school year, funding workshop facilitation, administration and operations.

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

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Hurstville nominees and their organisations.