Five local residents have been recognised for their contributions to the City of Kalamunda community under the City’s Local Heroes and Good Neighbours program. Delivered in partnership with Forrestfield and High Wycombe Community Bank Branches of the Bendigo Bank, the program calls on residents to celebrate their good neighbours and local heroes by nominating those that give selflessly to the community.

Mayor John Giardina said, “We’re excited to shine a light on all of our unsung heroes. Their contributions help to build a connected, happy and healthy community and that’s exactly the kind of place we want our City to be. On behalf of the City of Kalamunda, I would like to thank each of our winners for their outstanding contributions to the community.”

The Local Hero and Good Neighbour awards run each month during the 2018/2019 financial year, with various cash prizes up for grabs.

Aleisha Woodman was one of the recipients to take home a prize for July as the winner of the Young Local Hero award, nominated for her work as a volunteer with Foodbank and getting her school community involved in the process.

The July Local Hero award was taken out by two worthy recipients; Damien Lee and Kody Tan.

Damien is recognised for his courageous efforts in saving an eighteen month old baby from drowning during an incident in Forrestfield.

Kody received numerous nominations from the community who were eager to acknowledge his work with the not for profit group, Friend’s Day out - a social gathering for adults with disabilities that has been operating since 2003.

The Senior Local Hero award for July went to Audrey Boon, a member of the Kanyana Wildlife Centre Team who dedicates many hours to the centre and teaching the public about Australian Wildlife.

Lesmurdie resident, Jo Leith, was the winner of the July Good Neighbours Award. According to Jo’s neighbours, she is the “best neighbour you could have... She is awesome and means much more to us than just a neighbour.” Not only has Jo created a street library with free books, she’s always helping to walk dogs, knit beanies, share produce and is always there when a neighbour is need.

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