Your 2025 Westfield Warringah Mall Local Hero is:

Simone Short

Gidget Foundation Australia

Empathetic. Dedicated. Humble.

For 24 years, Simone has been working to support the mental health 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.  

Simone feels that back then, there had been nowhere for parents to access the necessary support, and so together with family and friends, she created the Gidget Foundation to support parents experiencing, or at risk of, perinatal depression and anxiety (PDNA). They were determined that what happened to Gidget would not happen to others.  

“I am so proud of what has been created in Gidget’s memory,” says Simone.  

Gidget Foundation Australia now provides an extensive range of services, including free specialist perinatal mental health psychological services, a wellbeing screening program, a workplace program, peer support groups and online education tools. 

Simone is Chair of the Board of Directors, but her volunteering extends to packing merchandise, speaking at events, phoning donors to thank them and most importantly connecting with clients and clinicians. 

As a direct result of Simone’s dedication, the foundation established Gidget House at Northern Beaches Hospital, where parents can receive free perinatal mental health support.  
“Gidget Foundation Australia started because of my sister. But it’s not only about her anymore,” says Simone.  
“It is about all the other parents out there suffering. This is what motivates me to continue to raise awareness of perinatal depression and anxiety and educate parents on the signs and symptoms.”

The $20,000 grant will be used to fund specialist training for healthcare professionals and delivering education and awareness campaigns in the community.

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We’d like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5K grant for the organisation they represent...

Antoinette Spear from 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.

Tess Tracy from LocalKind

As the first point of contact at Manly’s LocalKind drop-in centre, Tess brings warmth, kindness and humour to every visitor. For those who are struggling or vulnerable – whether through domestic violence, homelessness or other hardship - Tess creates an inclusive atmosphere that supports them as they seek help to navigate their lives.

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

Recognising all our 2025 nominees

View all of the Westfield Warringah Mall nominees and their organisations.