Your 2026 Westfield Warringah Mall Local Hero is:

Bronwen Simmons

Bear Cottage

Passionate. Dedicated. Inspiring.

Bronwen Simmons has been awarded a $20,000 grant for their organisation, Bear Cottage.

At Bear Cottage, the only dedicated children's hospice in NSW, Bronwen Simmons raises funds and awareness to keep support flowing to children with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

Bear Cottage offers paediatric palliative care, practical help and compassion for children and their loved ones.

As Community Relations Manager, Bronwen brings volunteers, neighbours and friends together to connect families with care.

“Working closely with children and families at Bear Cottage is an extraordinary privilege,” says Bronwen.

“In our home-like environment, I witness the courage, strength and grace of families facing unimaginable challenges, and the quiet heroism of children embracing life despite adversity. Being able to play even a small role in easing their journey is deeply moving,” she adds.

As a passionate advocate for children and their families, Bronwen helps to deliver uplifting initiatives throughout the year, including Superhero Week and Christmas gift wrapping. Over the past two years, the Christmas gift wrapping program alone has raised more than $60,000 for Bear Cottage.

“I am constantly inspired by the generosity of our community. People who give their time, energy, compassion, and financial support to make a real difference,” says Bronwyn.

“Our motto, ‘Where life is for living’, comes to life every day, and seeing moments of joy is my motivation.”

We'd like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5,000 grant for the organisation they represent

Mel Kypri

MoWaNa Safe Space

Compassionate. Supportive. Courageous.

Four evenings each week, Mowana Safe Space opens its doors to adults experiencing emotional distress, loneliness or difficult times. Mel Kypri founded the volunteer-led drop-in space to provide non-judgemental support, human connection and compassion for people feeling overwhelmed or in crisis.

Michelle Povah

Women and Children First

Humble. Determined. Caring.

For over 25 years, Michelle Povah has worked to create safety, opportunity and inclusion for young people and families. Now CEO of Women & Children First, she leads support for women and children affected by domestic violence, offering refuge and recovery. She also volunteers as a Girl Guides leader and brings senior leadership to the Australian Physical Disability Rugby League.

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If you need support, please phone Lifeline: 13 11 14

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Warringah nominees and their organisations.

2027 Nominations Now Open

Do you know someone making a difference in your community? Tell us in 200 words why they should be a Westfield Local Hero and they could receive a $20,000 grant for their organisation.

Find out more here