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 Penrith, 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 on Level 2, near The Coffee Grounds 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

Greg Waddell

Creative Spring

Supportive. Committed. Inspiring.

Once a young athlete pursuing professional football, Greg Waddell rebuilt his identity and purpose after career-ending injuries. That experience now shapes every program he runs through Creative Spring - a Western Sydney organisation he founded to give young people the safe spaces, guidance and connection he once needed himself.

If Greg is successful, the grant will support Stop Drop Action, expanding resources like the Seed of Hope comic book, free workshops and community games days.

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Heiki Forth

Nepean Little Athletics

Selfless. Inspirational. Mentor.

Sport gave Heiki Forth a path to belonging when she arrived in Australia as a child with little English. Today, as President of Nepean Little Athletics, she gives others that same opportunity - coaching, mentoring and fundraising across junior sport in Penrith to build inclusive spaces where children of all abilities and backgrounds take part.

If Heiki is successful, the grant will support registration costs, uniforms, coaching, training equipment and IT resources for Nepean Little Athletics.

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Natalie Bennett

Hope In A Suitcase

Altruistic. Caring. Humble.

Children entering out-of-home care receive a suitcase of brand-new belongings through Hope In A Suitcase — a practical gesture that restores dignity and signals that others care. Natalie Bennett has coordinated this work across Sydney for close to five years, keeping supplies stocked and supporting hundreds of children.

If Natalie is successful, the grant will restock suitcases across Penrith - with clothing, toiletries, blankets and toys - for more than 100 children entering out-of-home care.

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

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Penrith nominees and their organisations.