Your 2026 Westfield Liverpool Local Hero is:

Katie Dokmanovic

Road Trauma Support Group NSW

Selfless. Courageous. Inspiring

Katie Dokmanovic has been awarded a $20,000 grant for their organisation, Road Trauma Support Group NSW.

Since her son died in a high-speed car crash, Katie has spoken to thousands of young people about the choices they make behind the wheel, determined to spare other families the same tragedy.

Nicholas died on Christmas Eve in 2020, leaving Katie devastated, facing a court process and a coronial inquest, and supporting her surviving child through the loss of his brother.

“I don't want this to happen to anyone else,” says Katie. “My heart breaks every time I meet another parent who has lost their child in a car crash,” she adds.

Through the Road Trauma Support Group NSW, Katie delivers powerful educational talks to schools and juvenile detention centre, sharing the story of her son Nicholas’ death to help teenagers understand that poor road choices can bring lifelong suffering to families and communities.

As well as reaching thousands of young people through her talks, Katie also provides peer support for families who have lost a loved one in a criminal road crash. She offers understanding, guidance and hope -drawn from her own lived experience.

“I do this to encourage change, to make sure families are supported and that no one gets left behind,” says Katie.

“I am committed to making sure I reach as many as I can. I am a big advocate for preventing further incidents and helping children make better low impact choices.”

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

Aniese Ismail

Street Industries

Fearless. Motivated. Empowering

By sharing her own journey from social housing to semi-professional soccer, Aniese has become a role model for young women in Liverpool. She works with the community to help young people break down barriers to sport, while using her experience to guide teenagers through societal challenges and towards better futures.

Antoinette Sulfaro

Ladies Like To Lunch

Compassionate. Driven. Purposeful.

From oncology Pilates, to mindfulness, care packages and the provision of wigs and accessories, Antoinette Sulfaro does everything she can to support women and their families navigating cancer treatment and recovery. Her not-for-profit – Ladies Like to Lunch – offers practical and emotional support for patients across Liverpool and wider South Western Sydney.

---

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

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Liverpool 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