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

Andrew Scott

Carevan Blacktown

Driven. Selfless. Passionate.

Andrew Scott, CEO of Carevan Blacktown, has dedicated the past 13 years to supporting vulnerable people. Despite having a full-time job, Andrew provides meals, groceries, clothing and hygiene products to over 250 people weekly. He creates an inclusive community service, offering vital support and fostering a sense of belonging.

If Andrew is successful in the community vote, the money will be used to help pay for the monthly rental of Carevan Blacktown’s warehouse so the charity can continue their meal delivery service to those in need.

Laura Ranola

The Street University, Mount Druitt

Caring. Fierce. Leader.

Laura Ranola is the dedicated manager at the Ted Noffs Foundation’s Street University, Mount Druitt. She supports disadvantaged youth by providing a safe place to connect, seek guidance and learn. Under her leadership, the centre offers workshops on music, dance, coding and more, ensuring comprehensive support for youth aged 12-25.

If Laura is successful in the community vote, the money will be used to repair and update the facilities within The Street University. This will ensure young people have a safe and secure facility that meets their needs.

Marti Fletcher

Blacktown Women’s Shed - BACC

Passionate. Supportive. Dedicated.

Marti Fletcher volunteers at Blacktown Women's Shed through BACC. She was instrumental in reopening the shed in 2023 working with Blacktown Council and BACC. Marti secured donations and built workbenches as well as supported Council with repairs and upgrades to the shed and with BACC to work towards equipping the shed with the appropriate tools. Marti teaches tool use, promotes sustainability, and creates an inclusive space for women to connect and grow.

If Marti is successful in the community vote, the funds will be used to add more essential tooling and equipment to the once-empty Blacktown Women’s Shed.

Voting is now closed for Westfield Local Heroes.

The successful 2024 Westfield Mt Druitt 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.

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