News

A huge congratulations goes out to Anne Adamson, who has been officially crowned Westfield Miranda Local Hero for 2025! Anne dedicates her time volunteering with Illawarra Palliative Care at Bulli Hospital as both a Community Visitor and a Grief Companion.

As a Grief Companion, Anne listens and provides companionship, often to elderly patients who have lost many friends and may not have family close by. Her work provides comfort not only to patients, but to their family and friends as well.

“I have come to realise how much loneliness there is in our community,” Anne shares. ” I love being able to provide companionship to those in need and I get great fulfillment from all the roles I do.”

Initially, Anne, being a valued member of the close-knit Illawarra Palliative Care team, was a bit reluctant to be singled out for individual recognition. However, she was persuaded to accept the nomination on behalf of all the hardworking Palliative Care and Bereavement Volunteers.

The entire service stands to benefit from her well-deserved win, with Westfield generously awarding a prize of $20,000 to the service. This brings the total windfall to an impressive $25,000, once the $5,000 awarded for being a finalist is included.

Volunteer Coordinator Cynzia Dei-Cont expressed her gratitude to everyone who voted and encouraged others to do the same.

“This award truly acknowledges the incredible dedication, effort, and community service of our volunteers,” says Cynzia. “Thanks to your efforts, these funds will significantly help to enhance the support our volunteers offer our patients and clients, their families, and carers.”

The prize money will be put to excellent use, with plans to purchase ‘jolly trolleys’, fridges, and storage solutions for both Bulli and Shoalhaven hospitals. Clients will also enjoy beautiful sensory experiences through the purchase of new aromatherapy and massage oils. Additionally, volunteers will be kitted out with new aprons that clearly identify them as part of the service, and they’ll be upskilled with valuable Accidental Counsellor training.