Westfield Local Heroes

Central Coast Women's Community Health Centre

Sara describes the Central Coast
Community Women’s Health
Centre, where she is CEO, as a
place that changed her life.
“At 18, I sat in the Centre’s waiting
room, scared and uncertain after
learning I was pregnant,” she
explains.

“The Centre gave me information,
a non-judgemental ear, and
connection to support.”
Twenty years on, Sara now leads
the organisation that gave her a
lifeline, working with her team
to help women facing violence,
trauma, and isolation.

Gig Buddies

Matthew connects people living with a moderate learning
disability or autism to volunteer buddies, giving them the
chance to attend events that they love. His work with Gig
Buddies Australia on the Central Coast helps to create new
friendships and combat isolation while also promoting inclusion.

Wyong Neighbourhood Centre Inc - Phoenix Youth Support Service

For two decades, Chris has been helping vulnerable youth
through the Wyong Neighbourhood Centre, mentoring
those who face struggles such as mental health, housing,
education or family. His own difficult past means he brings
empathy and compassion as he delivers his vital support,
which includes anger management programs and guidance
through the justice system.

Disabled Surfers Association Central Coast

Czeslaw (Czes) Lawicki has
dedicated the past six years to
enriching the lives of disabled
individuals through his love of the
ocean and surfing.
As vice president of the Disabled
Surfers Association Central Coast,
Czes ensures that everyone,
regardless of their abilities, can
experience the thrill of riding a wave.

Coast Shelter

Erin Jacob is dedicated to supporting disengaged young
people. As the community, wellbeing, and education
manager at Coast Shelter, she coordinates in-school
programs across four schools identified by local police as
needing additional support. Participants learn power and
control, shame, choice, empathy and emotional regulation.

SPCC Young Parents Central Coast

Helen Chisholm is dedicated to helping young parents
break generational cycles and improve their futures. At
SPCC Young Parents College, she addresses issues like
domestic violence, mental health, and parenting struggles.
Helen’s classes on parenting, sexual health, cooking and
nutrition aim to empower young parents to thrive.

The Entrance Food Hub

Generous Mirandra Browne has
started a social enterprise that
provides hundreds of Central Coast
people with food and other essentials.
Mirandra is the President of the
volunteer-run The Entrance Food Hub,
which provides very low-cost or free
food to families struggling to make
ends meet.

Because We Care Boutique

Selfless Sharyn Becker works tirelessly at the Because We
Care Boutique in Glenning to provide women overcoming
adversity with attire for different occasions. Women visit the
volunteer-run store for free consultations and receive outfits
for job interviews, court appearances, work or important
appointments. Many of the women are provided with full
work wardrobes.

Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Centre Association Inc

Retired nurse Kim Juresa is the driving force behind the provision
of food and connection for at least 1000 locals as the President
of the Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Centre. The centre offers a
food pantry and hosts communal meals and Brekkie on the Go
gatherings for school children.