IPSWICH’S everyday changemakers are being encouraged to step forward – or be nominated – for the 2026 Westfield Local Heroes program, which will award 126 grants across Australia and New Zealand.
At the forefront of Ipswich’s inspiring local leaders is one of last year’s winners James Peterson, founder of the breakingfree program, who has been quietly transforming youth mental health across South East Queensland.
Since age 19, Peterson has delivered over 670 programs to more than 138,000 students, teaching resilience, wellbeing, and positive life choices.
“Mental health struggles were present in my family, and I experienced my share of tragedies,” Mr Peterson said.
“That inspired me to do something meaningful.”
What began as a simple idea – creating t-shirts with positive messages – evolved into a fully fledged youth mental health program.
Mr Peterson made his first school visit, cold-calling All Saints College on the Gold Coast, to offer mental health sessions.
“Year 11 and 12 are when young people start making their own choices,” he said.
“Everything we talk about is based on choices – they’re in control of their mental and physical health, and that foundation affects everything else in their lives.
He said there were times when he could feel he had the entire room’s attention.
“You can see it in the students’ eyes – they’re absorbing what you’re saying.
“Those moments are really special.”
Now 31, Mr Peterson continues to inspire students across South East Queensland, embodying
the impact of initiative, persistence, and compassion.
His recognition as a 2025 Westfield Local Hero is a well-deserved testament to a lifetime of dedication –
helping students not just survive, but thrive.
Ipswich has a proud record of producing Local Heroes.
In 2025, Jan Schutt also won being recognised for co-founding Stationery Aid, which redistributes used stationery to disadvantaged children.
The program has supported more than 2700 children and diverted over 60 tonnes of waste from landfill.
With nominations now open for 2026, organisers are encouraging Ipswich residents to nominate individuals who are quietly making a difference.
This could be through volunteering, youth work, education, environmental initiatives, or community care.
Now in its ninth year, the Westfield Local Heroes program recognises individuals who dedicate themselves to causes that support their local community or the environment.
Each Westfield centre will select three finalists: the Local Hero receives a $20,000 grant, while the remaining two finalists receive $5,000 each for their cause.
Nominations close on March 12 – visit westfield.com.au/local-heroes.
