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. Hurry, voting closes 20 September.

With $30,000 in grants to be awarded at Westfield Chatswood, 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 4, near Glassons 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

Gerard Hewson

Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT

Influential. Motivating. Passionate.

Six-time Paralympian Gerry started the Lane Cove Cockatoos wheelchair basketball club in early 2026 to open the sport to local people with disabilities and help build their confidence. Through his mentorship, the players have already gone from strength to strength, while the club has become a local gathering point for their families and the community.

If Gerry is successful, the grant will support Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT to cover venue hire for training and community events, maintenance of sports wheelchairs, and event costs such as catering and referees.

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Max Harpham

The Shepherd Centre - For Deaf Children

Inspiring. Dedicated. Driven.

Born profoundly deaf, Max’s childhood was transformed by specialist support from The Shepherd Centre, giving him the chance to play and learn with his hearing peers from an early age. He now volunteers as a mentor for Hear For You, ensuring young deaf people are offered the same life-changing experiences and opportunities.

If Max is successful, the grant will support the ‘Hear For You’ mentoring program, providing workshops and creative activities for young people who are deaf/hard-of-hearing.

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Peter Quinn

Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury Sydney

Compassionate. Courageous. Committed.

Peter’s experience with personal loss has motivated him to help sports clubs in his community address mental health challenges. Through the charity Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury and the group that he founded – Mates in Mind – he supports hundreds of men and women and fosters a culture of openness.

If Peter is successful, the grant will help launch a pilot program to help sports clubs address and understand mental health challenges for players.

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

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Chatswood's nominees and their organisations.