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

Debra Robertson

Blue Light Victoria

Committed. Passionate. Inclusive.

Debra Robertson, a retired police officer with 41 years of service, continues to give back to her community by volunteering with Blue Light Victoria. She has held multiple roles over the last 13 years, including board member and chairperson. Debra's extensive work includes fundraising, recruiting volunteers, training, leading and participating in school and community-based programs and, mentoring leaders.

If Debra is successful in the community vote, the grant money will support Blue Light Victoria's Blue EDGE program which has proven benefits for young people including improving physical and mental wellbeing.

Mark Muscat

South Morang Football Club

Supportive. Passionate. Leader.

Mark Muscat is the dedicated football operations manager and sports trainer at South Morang Football Netball Club. He guides over 400 players and 70 volunteers, managing operations, coaching and mentoring young players. Mark’s passion and dedication has created an inclusive, supportive environment and a strong community spirit.

If Mark is successful in the community vote, he will use the grant to attract more female players to the club by subsidising fees and uniforms of female players with the rest going to upgrading facilities.

Nalan Tarjan

Big Group Hug

Energetic. Dedicated. Inspiring.

Nalan Tarjan is a dedicated warehouse supervisor at Big Group Hug. Since 2021, she has volunteered over 2,000 hours, managing volunteer operations and supervising up to 20 volunteers. Nalan ensures essential aid reaches disadvantaged families, supporting 6,705 children annually. Her commitment inspires her peers and positively impacts the community.

If Nalan is successful in the community vote, the funds will buy 57 infant cots and mattresses, providing safe sleeping space for 114 babies over ten years.

Voting is now closed for Westfield Local Heroes.

The successful 2024 Westfield Plenty Valley 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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