Cast your vote for Geelong’s local legends

WESTFIELD is calling on the community to vote for their favourite heroes as Westfield Geelong announces its three local finalists.

Now in its eighth year, the annual awards recognise and celebrate individuals and groups dedicated to the communities by shining a spotlight on their work.

Each Westfield will award one hero a $20,000 grant to their group or organisation and each of the two finalists will receive a $5,000 grant.

Making up Geelong finalists is Christ Church Geelong’s Janice McGowan, who has provided daily meals to those in need for the past 35 years, serving about 500 people weekly.

If Ms McGowan is successful in the awards, she will use the money to fund more food for the program and replace some of the ageing equipment.

Friend in Me’s Louise Larkin has also been named as a finalist for her work with her charity, supporting children with additional needs, providing inclusive spaces and helping more than 5,000 families in Geelong and Melbourne.

If crowned as local hero, Ms Larkin will use the funds to expand the mobile sensory trailer initiative and provide a second trailer to support children with disabilities.

Completing the list of finalists is Roxie Bennett from the Barwon Health Foundation who has donated more than 5,000 volunteer hours to the local community, championing many different causes and raising awareness, funds and inspiring others.

If Ms Bennett wins, she will use the prize money to fund an entire year of the Barwon Health Foundation’s free patient transport service.

Westfield Geelong centre manager Lauren Frew said they are delighted to announce the finalists for 2025.

“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.”

The successful hero will be announced on October 14.

For more information and to vote, head to westfield.com.au/local-heroes