Westfield Local Heroes
Westfield Local Heroes is a recognition, awards and partnerships program that shines the spotlight on individuals in Australia and New Zealand who make a positive impact to their local community or environment.
Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted by their communities. Each year, one Local Hero per Westfield destination receives a $20,000 grant and two finalists for each destination receive a $5,000 grant for the organisation or group they represent.
Read more about Westfield Local Heroes here.
Voting is now open. Click on the banner above to discover this year’s finalists and vote before 20 September.
Program Alumni 2018-2025
Since 2018, Westfield has contributed more than $9.8 million* to 991 community organisations in Australia and New Zealand.
We continue to partner with and support many of our heroes and finalists to strengthen their connections and impact within local communities. We value all of our previous heroes, finalists and nominees. Select from the dropdown menu at the bottom of this page to read about all alumni since 2018.
Westfield Warringah Local Hero, Simone Short
Gidget Foundation Australia
For 24 years, Simone has been working to support the emotional wellbeing of expectant, new and
potential parents in the Northern Beaches and beyond. Her commitment to this cause started in 2001 after her sister, Louise, nicknamed Gidget, took her own life while experiencing post-natal depression.
Westfield Warringah Finalist, Antoinette Spear
Autism Swim
Antoinette was instrumental in the launch of ‘Dippers’ in Warriewood - an inclusive surf safety program for neurodivergent young people. The teaching and support helps children and young adults with specific learning needs to enjoy the beach and be safe in the water. Through training volunteers, the program also fosters broader community inclusion and understanding.
2024 Hero and Finalists
2023 Hero and Finalists
Westfield Warringah Local Hero, Tim Hewson
Mongrels Men
Dedicated Tim Hewson motivates thousands of Northern Beaches men to get outdoors, exercise and feel part of a supportive community. Tim is the founder and volunteer Director of Mongrels Men, a charity on a mission to improve men's mental and physical health.
Westfield Warringah Finalist, 2023
Toby Williams
Toby Williams is a dedicated advocate for youth wellbeing, working tirelessly with The Burdekin Association to provide safe housing and support services for vulnerable youth. He ensures the safety and compliance of services, benefiting over 125 youths nightly. Toby also volunteers with other local community groups, a demonstration of his committed to the enhancement of the local community.
View all Westfield heroes, finalists and nominees since 2018
Select a year to download past Westfield Local Heroes information.