Voting has now closed for Westfield Local Heroes

We congratulate all of our finalists and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community.

This year Westfield will award 126 grants across Australia and New Zealand totalling $1.25M. Now in its 7th year, the Westfield Local Heroes program will have contributed $8.6M to more than 860 successful Local Hero organisations since it began.

Voting has now closed and the Westfield Local Heroes will be announced 15 October.

Meet our Local Hero finalists

Blake Johnston

Surfing Sutherland Shire

Selfless. Humble. Unique.

Blake Johnston, a surfer and mental health advocate, teaches wellness strategies to empower young people. Blake's program, SWELLBEING teaches young people practical skills to thrive in life and be the best version of themselves. In 2023, he set a world record with a 40-hour surf session, raising over $500,000 for youth mental health initiatives.

If Blake is successful in the community vote, the money will be used by Surfing Sutherland Shire and Cronulla Surfing Academy to empower youth with wellness tools and encourage them to grow into positive, healthy adults who contribute to their communities.

Deborah (Debbie) O’Connor

Phoenix Community Project Inc

Innovative. Courageous. Passionate.

Deborah (Debbie) O'Connor, co-founder of Phoenix Community Project, is dedicated to empowering young people with disabilities through innovative programs and classes. She is passionate about breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, working to ensure individuals with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and resources. Phoenix Community Project currently supports over 100 families in the local area.

If Debbie is successful in the community vote, the funds will be used to enhance existing programs at Phoenix Community Project while also improving accessibility. A portion will also go towards building a garden that will be used to teach sustainability practices to youth.

Ken Marslew AM

Enough is Enough Anti Violence Movement Inc

Caring. Inspiring. Resilient.

As the founder and CEO of Enough is Enough Anti-Violence Movement Inc, Ken Marslew AM works to reduce violence in the community by supporting victims of crime and working with perpetrators to prevent reoffending. Ken's efforts have impacted thousands, aiming to create a safer community through a holistic and preventative approach.

If Ken is successful in the community vote, the money will be used to pay for art therapy support groups for victims of serious crime. A portion will also go towards a monthly community cook-up that distributes meals to 500 vulnerable locals.

Voting is now closed for Westfield Local Heroes.

The successful 2024 Westfield Miranda Local Hero will be announced on 15 October. We congratulate all of our finalists and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community. Thank you for your votes.

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