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 Hurstville, 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 VM Cabinet located on Level 2, near Witchery 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

Helen Dwyer

Scout Association of NSW

Selfless. Caring. Tireless.

More than 40 years into Scouting with Scouts Association of NSW, Helen Dwyer continues to help week in, week out. Now in her 70s, she supports a large community of young people, mentoring other Scout leaders while also organising camps, outings and participation in community events. She is described as ‘a multi-tasker extraordinaire’ who has helped thousands of young people grow and learn.

If Helen is successful, the grant will fund the training of two Mental Health First Aid instructors, who can then deliver courses to other Scouting volunteers.

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Shirley Zhuang

Project Youth

Fierce. Supportive. Compassionate.

As a Lived Experience Board Director with Project Youth, Shirley Zhuang shapes decisions affecting young people facing housing insecurity and homelessness across Georges River, Sutherland Shire and Bayside. Having experienced homelessness as a young person, Shirley chose to work from within to improve the systems that once supported them, advocating for services that are trauma-informed and centred on prevention. 

If Shirley is successful, the grant will sustain weekly sessions for young mothers facing homelessness, funding youth worker sessions, parenting education, outings and play resources.

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Sophie Ward

Shopfronts Arts Co-op

Genuine. Creative. Courageous.

Sophie Ward found confidence, creativity and lifelong friendships at Shopfront Arts Co-op and now helps other young people do the same. After 15 years with the organisation, she is its Young Leader, championing youth voices, delivering programs for young people living with disability or mental health challenges, and creating opportunities for others to feel seen, heard and valued. 

If Sophie is successful, the grant will expand Outside the Lines to twice-weekly no-cost sessions across the school year, funding workshop facilitation, administration and operations.

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

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Hurstville nominees and their organisations.