Westfield Local Heroes announced

WESTFIELD shopping centres across Australia and New Zealand have announced their Local Heroes for 2025, celebrating individuals and their organisations who have made a significant impact in their communities.

Janice McGowan from the Christ Church Community Meals Program was this year’s recipient of the $20,000 grant in Geelong.

Ms McGowan has provided daily meals at to those in need at Christ Church Geelong for the past 35 years, even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Serving around 500 people weekly with meals sourced through community generosity, she offers nutrition, kindness and community interaction, and is committed to ensuring the service continues, although she is in her 80s.

“The real crux is that the guests know they can rely on breakfast being available every day, which makes me proud,” she said.

“Food served with respect and compassion, ensuring no one goes away empty-handed – this drives me.

“Voluntary work is an extension of my view that we should work for the betterment of all and that our society is judged on how we treat those less fortunate than ourselves.”

Friend in Me founder Louise Larkin received one of the two $5,000 grants.

Ms Larkin founded Friend in Me to support children with additional needs, providing inclusive spaces through programs, events, and sensory tools.

She has helped more than 5,000 families in Melbourne and Geelong with her guidance, practical help and understanding. Louise is driven by seeing children thrive and make friends, and by helping families feel supported and connected.

Roxie Bennett from the Barwon Health Foundation received the other $5,000 grant.Over two decades, Ms Bennett has dedicated more than 5,000 volunteer hours to her Geelong community. She champions many different causes, including Barwon Health, Lifeline Geelong, and animal welfare, and uses her media skills and passion for the region to raise awareness, fundraise, and inspire others to take action.

Now in its eighth year, the Westfield Local Heroes program has awarded more than $9.8 million in grants to 991 community organisations since its inception in 2018.

Earlier in the year, Australians were invited to nominate people who go above and beyond for their local community or environment.

The voting phase saw a record number of votes cast by 74,000 members of the public across Australia and New Zealand.

“Janice McGowan from Christ Church Geelong has spent more than three decades ensuring no one in her community goes without a warm meal or a friendly face,” Westfield Geelong centre manager Lauren Frew said.

“Her extraordinary dedication and compassion have built a place of nourishment and belonging for hundreds of locals every week.

“As we round out the eighth year of the program, we continue to be astounded by the selfless contributions these individuals make, and we’re pleased to be able to recognise their achievements and grow their impact through the program.”

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