As local community organisations across the Harbour to the Hawkesbury region continue to navigate funding pressures and rising operational costs, a vital injection of capital has been awarded to three standout civic leaders.
Westfield destinations across New South Wales have unveiled their 2026 Local Heroes, a community recognition program designed to identify and financially support individuals driving positive change in their local precincts. Across the Upper and Lower North Shore and the Northern Beaches, three community champions have each been awarded a $20,000 grant to expand the reach and efficacy of their respective charities.
In Short
- $20,000 Community Grants: Three local leaders have been awarded critical funding to expand their charity and wellbeing programs.
- North Shore Winners: Michelle Key of Smiles2u (Hornsby) and Peter Quinn of Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury (Chatswood) were recognised for their respective health and mental wellbeing initiatives.
- Northern Beaches Winner: Bronwen Simmons was honoured for her vital fundraising and community relations work at Bear Cottage (Warringah Mall).
At Westfield Hornsby, Michelle Key was recognised for her foundational role at Smiles2u. Unexpected hospital visits can be an isolating and frightening experience for families. Key’s initiative provides essential comfort bags for sick children,their relatives, and adults undergoing cancer treatment. Powered by local volunteers and donations, Smiles2u distributes thousands of care packs each year to patients across North Shore hospitals.
In the Lower North Shore, Westfield Chatswood honoured Peter Quinn for his extensive work with Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury Sydney. Driven by personal loss, Quinn established ‘Mates in Mind’, a targeted group that assists local sports clubs in addressing complex mental health challenges, fostering a critical culture of openness among hundreds of men and women.
On the Northern Beaches, Westfield Warringah Mall awarded its grant to Bronwen Simmons, Community Relations Manager at Bear Cottage. Simmons plays a crucial role in mobilising the local community to raise substantial funds,ensuring families of children with life-limiting illnesses continue to find respite, high-level care, and compassion during their most difficult times.
Scentre Group National Community Manager, Pam Wilson, noted the extraordinary work being done across the region,encouraging residents to consider nominating future leaders for the 2027 program.