By Parker McKenzie
Nominations for Westfield Knox’s Local Heroes 2023 program are now open, with nominees receiving $5000 for the group or organisation of their choosing and the eventual winner receiving $20,000.
Nominations are open until 30 March and recognise individuals who make a positive impact on their local community or environment.
Scentre Group National Community Manager Pam Wilson said she is thrilled to see the return of the Local Heroes program for the sixth consecutive year.
“Our local communities are full of everyday heroes who go above and beyond for others, and this is our chance to recognise and support them to continue their important work,” she said.
“Nominating your Westfield Local Hero is one small act that can have a big impact. If you know a community champion who deserves to be recognised for their outstanding contributions, visit the Westfield website, and nominate them.”
Last year, Sophie Ashdowne was named Westfield Knox’s local hero, earning $20,000 for Basywater-based charity Pinchapoo.
When she was announced as the winner in September 2022, Pinchapoo CEO Kate Austin said Sophie had an amazing journey to win the title of local hero.
“Putting aside the funding for a moment, I’m more excited for Sophie and being able to have a platform to talk about the benefits to an organization and business through greater inclusion and diversity in the workplace,” she said.
“Making sure that people have somewhere to belong and contributing in their own capacity, I love that everyone brings something different to the table.”
Sophie lives with down syndrome, and volunteers multiple days a week with the charity.
Kim Hallworth from Southern Cross Kids Camp Knox and Darren Hill from Knox Youth each received a $5000 grant after being nominated for the program in 2022.
Ms Hallworth told the Star Mail on 4 August 2022 that it was an overwhelming feeling to be announced as a finalist.
“I’m not expecting any sort of recognition at all,” she said.
“With Covid, it’s really been a struggle in terms of fundraising.”
Ms Hallworth was nominated for her 19 years of service in supporting at-risk children in the community through raising money, training volunteers and leading the five-day camp each year.
Since it was launched in 2018, the program has distributed over $6 million in grants to the organisations the winners and nominees represent. A community vote will be held between 22 August and 11 September to name the winner.
For more information, visit www.westfield.com.au/local-heroes
