Westfield Local Heroes 2019
Westfield Local Heroes is a recognition and awards program that connects and enriches communities in Australia and New Zealand. The program discovers and celebrates individuals who make a positive impact to their local community and/or environment.
For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here.
Danny Mayson-Kinder
Flyhighbillie
__Strong . Focused . Compassionate __
Danny Mayson-Kinder’s world was shattered in 2016 when she lost her 12-year-old daughter, Billie, in a tragic horse accident. She has ensured Billie’s legacy lives on with the charity Flyhighbillie, which is dedicated to promoting empathy and compassion in children. “When our beautiful daughter died, we received thousands of messages saying how kind and empathetic she was. This means Billie's legacy has become one of kindness,” Danny says. Central to the charity’s mission is spreading a message to "B Kinder" (be kinder), a reference to Billie’s name and her compassionate nature. Flyhighbillie publishes interactive B Kinder workbooks for children, with proceeds going to charities. Sales of Billie's book, "Hope" and the B Kinder Workbooks have raised over $116,000. The purpose behind the message is to reduce mental health issues, bullying and suicide in school age children.
Ned Narouz
Rap 4 Change
__Caring . Dedicated . Selfless __
Ned Narouz knows from experience how vital a mentor can be for young people struggling through the juvenile justice system. As the founder of Rap 4 Change, Ned volunteers his time to help tackle substance abuse, self-harm, bullying and racism with music, creativity and sport. “I am able to build a good connection with the young people and help educate them on life skills and how to achieve success the right way,” says Ned, who was released from juvenile detention at the age of 17 and was lucky enough to find his own mentor.
Rosie Surace
Shalvey Community Centre
__Amazing . Dedicated . Beautiful __
Rosie Surace believes that everyone deserves to dance, no matter how much money you have. That’s why she volunteers her time to run Shalvey Community Dance for children from disadvantaged and migrant families around Mt Druitt. “Our goal is to run a safe haven for the community and give struggling parents the chance to allow their child to be a part of something amazing,” says Rosie, who is in her final year of an education degree. She took over the studio in 2016 when it had 24 students. Since then, it has grown to 150.
Recognising all our 2019 nominees
We congratulate all of our finalists and nominees and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community.
View all of the finalists, nominees and their organisations
Support
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Christmas at Westfield: Feels like Christmas
Discover more reasons to love the season and watch our nostalgic ad here!
Westfield Local Heroes 2025 nominations now open
Know someone who's making a difference? Nominate them for a $20K community grant with our Westfield Local Heroes program.
Celebrate Santa’s arrival at Westfield Mt Druitt
Santa’s coming! Get ready for the parade of the year with Mrs Claus, Rudolph and more welcoming Santa on Saturday 9 November.