Coasties urged to get behind their local heroes

Westfield shopping centres across Australia and New Zealand have announced the 126 finalists of the 2025 Westfield Local Heroes program.

With 126 local causes and people to get behind, voting has opened and Central Coast residents are being encouraged to get behind the three local finalists.

Now in its eighth year, the Westfield Local Heroes program has awarded over $8.6M in grants to 865 community organisations.

The program recognises and celebrates individuals and groups dedicated to their communities by shining a spotlight on them and their work.

In 2025, Westfield will award up to $1.25M in community grants across all 42 Westfield destinations in Australia and New Zealand.

Each Westfield destination will award one hero a $20,000 grant to the group or organisation they represent, and each of the two finalists will receive a $5,000 grant, further enabling their valuable work for the community.

Westfield Tuggerah’s three finalists for 2025 are:

Chris Dryden, Wyong Neighbourhood Centre: For two decades, Dryden has been helping vulnerable management programs and guidance through the justice system youth through the Wyong Neighbourhood Centre, mentoring those who face struggles such as mental health, housing, education or family.

His own difficult past means he brings empathy and compassion as he delivers his vital support, which includes anger management programs and guidance through the justice system.

If he is successful, the money will help repair and redevelop two vandalised outdoor yarning circles at the Wyong Neighbourhood Centre.

Matthew Collins, Gig Buddies Australia: Collins connects people living with a moderate learning disability or autism to volunteer buddies, giving them the chance to attend events that they love.

His work with Gig Buddies Australia on the Central Coast helps to create new friendships and combat isolation while also promoting inclusion.   

If he is successful, the funds will be used for marketing, volunteer recruitment and training, and facilitating community events.

Sara Foster, Central Coast Community Women’s Health Centre: At 18, Foster sought support from the Central Coast Community Women’s Health Centre.

Now its CEO, she leads with humility and dedication, helping women experiencing violence, trauma and isolation.

Under her leadership, the centre supports thousands of women and children every year, helping them regain control of their lives.

 If she is successful, the centre will create at nature-based play area for children and use the funds towards urgent upgrades for its childcare facilities.

“We’re delighted to announce our Westfield Local Heroes finalists for 2025,” Westfield Tuggerah Centre Manager Brett Fahy said. 

“The impact these individuals have on our community is extraordinary, and we encourage our customers to take a few minutes out of their day to cast their vote in support of these everyday heroes making a real difference.”

Voting for this year’s Westfield Local Hero closes on Monday, September 8.

TVisit www.westfield.com.au/local-heroes or your local Westfield website to read about the finalists and cast your vote.

The successful hero for each Westfield centre will be announced on Tuesday, October 14.