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

Catherine Rider-Aichholzer

Bosom Buddies ACT

Resilient. Compassionate. Inclusive.

Catherine Rider-Aichholzer is the executive officer of Bosom Buddies, a charity dedicated to supporting individuals diagnosed with breast cancer in the ACT and regional NSW. Despite being retired, she works part-time to ensure no one faces breast cancer alone. Catherine and her volunteer team support over 1,000 people every year.

If Catherine is successful in the community vote, the grant money will be used to expand the Bosom Buddies program, increasing peer support opportunities and increasing the organisation’s community footprint. Catherine also hopes to target a younger demographic and include a partner support network.

John Pratt

Parkinson’s ACT

Dedicated. Humble. Compassionate.

John Pratt, an acclaimed artist and lead facilitator of the internationally recognised Tingey Painting with Parkinson's ACT Program, has dedicated nearly 30 years to supporting those with Parkinson's through art therapy. He leads skilled volunteers, organises exhibitions, and maintains art supplies. His efforts provide participants with social connection and improvements in emotional and physical wellbeing.

If John is successful in the community vote, the funds will be used to expand the program across the region, covering set up costs, volunteer training, the printing of facilitator guides and admin expenses.

Karen Mohring

Raise Foundation

Supportive. Determined. Giving.

Karen Mohring is the community programs manager at Raise Foundation. She coordinates youth mentoring programs in Canberra high schools, supporting students' mental health and wellbeing. "I love working with young people and supporting their healthy development and wellbeing," she says. Karen's dedication ensures students receive the guidance and encouragement needed to succeed.

If Karen is successful in the community vote, the money will help pay for a degree-qualified counsellor to support the 20-week mentorship program across three local high schools.

Voting is now closed for Westfield Local Heroes.

The successful 2024 Westfield Woden 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.

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