They give their time, energy and heart to make a difference in your community. Now, with one simple vote, you have the chance to help them do even more.

With $30,000 in grants to be awarded at Westfield Bondi, your vote can help a local hero create an even greater impact. Meet your three Westfield Local Hero finalists and discover their stories behind the meaningful difference they're making in the lives of others every day.

How to vote

Simply scan the QR code in-centre or click ‘Vote Now’ below.

Visit the exhibition space located on Level 3, near David Jones from 25 August to 20 September to learn more about your three Westfield Local Hero finalists and the incredible work they're doing in the community.

Meet our Westfield Local Hero finalists

Colin Scotts

Brain 4 Life

Resilient. Caring. Motivated.

Colin Scotts is the co-founder of Brain 4 Life, raising awareness of the progressive and degenerative brain disease CTE, which is associated with repeated head injuries. He is driven by his own experience – he was diagnosed with cognitive decline after a career in contact sports – and advocates for brain health education, research and injury prevention.

If Colin is successful, the grant would be dedicated to improving access to specialised health services, increasing community awareness of CTE, and implementing science-backed preventative measures.

---

Ross Leighner

Autism Swim

Empathetic. Committed. Impactful.

Through his work with Autism Swim, Ross Leighner helps neurodivergent people access the ocean with confidence. Adapting his support to each individual, he combines water safety expertise with genuine inclusion, teaching skills, building friendships, and creating a sense of belonging that reaches well beyond the shoreline.

If Ross is successful, the grant will help expand the Autism Swim program beyond its existing four locations, funding clinicians and operational expenses.

---

Sophie Sparks

You Can Sit With Me

Compassionate. Inclusive. Inspiring.

Sophie Sparks equips schools, sporting clubs, and community spaces with practical tools for building a culture of inclusion and belonging. As a teacher, parent, and CEO of You Can Sit With Me, she has grown the organisation to serve thousands of young people across Australia with programs designed to reduce loneliness and strengthen everyday connections.

If Sophie is successful, the grant will support the development of the ‘Respect Check’, a digital tool designed to help schools better understand and address bullying, exclusion, and student wellbeing.

---

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

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Bondi nominees and their organisations.