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

Chris Paterson

Bamboo Projects

Innovative. Persistent. Compassionate.

Chris Paterson founded Bamboo Projects to support individuals with mental illness and disabilities through outdoor therapies and environmental programs. Chris' inclusive initiatives promote environmental stewardship and foster personal growth and community inclusivity. In the past year, Bamboo Projects has removed 70 tonnes of marine debris from Moreton Bay.

If Chris is successful in the community vote, the money will be used to fund non-slip painting on Bamboo Projects' new all-abilities accessible boat. This enhancement will improve access to Moreton Bay waterways for individuals with disabilities.

Deb Mills

Food for Kids

Selfless. Caring. Inspiring.

Deb Mills, program coordinator for Food for Kids, addresses food insecurity among children. After a neck injury, Deb transitioned to this role, providing essential food supplies to 11 local schools. Her efforts ensure over 1,000 students receive meals daily. This improves their concentration, learning and overall wellbeing.

If Deb is successful in the community vote, she will use the grant money to support the Food for Kids program for an entire year. This includes providing food for breakfast and lunch clubs in 11 local schools, ensuring that vulnerable children can access nutritious meals.

Paul Toonen

Give A Child A Chance - SVDP

Selfless. Caring. Inspiring.

Paul Toonen has supported the community for over 40 years through the St Vincent de Paul Society. As treasurer and co-founder of the Give a Child a Chance Committee, he ensures disadvantaged children receive necessary educational resources. Paul’s dedication earned him the Order of Australia Medal in 2023.

If Paul is successful in the community vote, the grant money will be used to support more disadvantaged families in the region. The funds will provide educational resources so vulnerable children can continue their schooling and reach their potential.

Voting is now closed for Westfield Local Heroes.

The successful 2024 Westfield North Lakes 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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