Lions club legend rallies community to nominate new local heroes

LOCAL legend Brian Stewart Edward is encouraging not-for-profit organisations and individuals to apply for the 2024 Westfield Local Heroes $20,000 grant program.

Mr Edward was the recipient of the 2023 award and used his grant last month to take 40 deserving children from The Smith Family to Licola Wilderness Village at the gateway of the Victorian Alpine National Park.

The Lions Club of Geelong Corio Bay volunteer has been assisting with the delivery of Camp Licola for more than 20 years.

Mr Edward said the feeling of assisting deserving people in his community never got old.

“I’m very appreciative of the generosity of Westfield for their grant. It enabled 40 of the 103 children to attend the January camp free of charge.

“It was incredibly successful, with many participants enjoying the high ropes course, building rafts, and connecting with other like-minded people.

“It was great to see the smiles on the children’s faces and to see them enjoy things they couldn’t do unless they were at Licola.”

The 2024 Westfield Local Heroes program opened on January 30 and celebrates those who go above and beyond to make positive change.

“I encourage all not-for-profits and people to nominate people to take part in this great scheme,” Mr Edward said.

“It can make such a big difference.”

Westfield national community manager Pam Wilson said she looked forward to unearthing some fresh heroes in 2024.

“The program is an opportunity to recognise the everyday heroes in our communities, so they feel valued, respected and supported to continue their work.

“We look forward to seeing the nominations and celebrating those in our community making positive change.”

Nominations for the awards remain open until March 18.

To nominate a local hero and for more information, head to https://www.westfield.com.au/local-heroes