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

Kerryn Thrupp

Woven Earth

Determined. Hard-working. Compassionate.

Kerryn Thrupp is the founder and CEO of Woven Earth, a charity dedicated to creating loving homes for family violence survivors and their children. Her personal experience with family violence inspired her to help others rebuild their lives. Under her leadership, Woven Earth has furnished over 680 homes and empowered more than 2,500 people.

If Kerryn is successful in the community vote, the funds will help set up bedrooms for women and their children, including the cost of new linen and mattresses, as well as transportation fees.

Paula Beguely

Auckland Down Syndrome Association

Helpful. Advocate. Lifesaver.

Paula Beguely is the community liaison officer at the Auckland Down Syndrome Association (ASDA). After her daughter was diagnosed with Down syndrome, Paula became motivated to help other families. In her role, she provides families with key resources and opportunities for social connection. ADSA work with approximately 500 families across Auckland.

If Paula is successful in the community vote, the money will be used to support through additional education opportunities for families, schools and other key organisations, social events, and a website update to help guide families through each stage.

Robyn Walker

North Shore Centres of Mutual Aid

Dedicated. Inclusive. Compassionate.

Robyn Walker is the general manager of North Shore Centres of Mutual Aid (CMA), a charity dedicated to providing companionship and activities for isolated older adults in Auckland. Under Robyn's leadership, eight CMA centres offer activities designed to foster friendship and alleviate loneliness for older adults, helping ensure they feel connected and supported.

If Robyn is successful in the community vote, the money will go towards launching a new day respite centre on the North Shore. The centre will provide day care for older adults who cannot be at home alone during the day.

Voting is now closed for Westfield Local Heroes.

The successful 2024 Westfield Albany 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 Aotearoa: 0800 543 354