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 Hornsby, 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 1, near Baker's Delight 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

Michelle Key

Smiles2u

Compassionate. Tireless. Benevolent.

Unexpected hospital visits can be isolating and frightening. As founder and director of Smiles2u, Michelle Key puts together comfort bags for sick children and their loved ones, as well as adults undergoing cancer treatment. Powered by donations and volunteers, the organisation distributes thousands of packs each year to patients and their families at local hospital across the North Shore. 

If Michelle Key is successful, the grant will fund production of Smiles Bags and Essentials Packs, while supporting expansion of the service to more hospitals. 

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Milton Kirkwood

Pankind Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation Limited

Empathetic. Proactive. Committed.

Knowing that pancreatic cancer patients and carers had nowhere to connect, Milton Kirkwood set up a local support group in his Hornsby community. For the past six years, he has volunteered as Pankind's support group facilitator, leading a free online meeting that draws participants from across Australia. Now in his 80s, he runs monthly sessions connecting patients and carers through shared experience, expert speakers and practical support. 

If Milton Kirkwood is successful, the grant would be used to upgrade PanKind's phone system, ensuring every caller reaching the Nurse Navigator service receives a timely response. 

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Sharon Reid

The Zone at Hornsby Connect

Warm. Understanding. Inclusive.

Sharon Reid is the founder of The Zone at Hornsby Connect, a free weekly group for young people aged 12 to 18 with autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental differences. As a practising psychologist, she recognised the need to provide a space for building friendships, belonging and connection.

If Sharon Reid is successful, the grant will fund furniture, technology, physical games and storage to expand The Zone and welcome more neurodivergent young people each week. 

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

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Hornsby nominees and their organisations.