Helen Westman is Eurobodalla's 2026 Local Hero, earning the honour at Saturday night's Mayor's Charity Ball at Bay Pavilions.
Since 2018, Helen has sat beside learner drivers through nerves, night-time practice and the long path to getting a licence. Through Y drive, she has given almost 3,000 volunteer hours and helped more than 25 people gain the independence that comes with being able to drive. A former theatre and drug and alcohol nurse, Helen brings compassion, patience and practical care to everything she does. Her support has also reached young people in unsafe situations, newly arrived families and community members during the Black Summer bushfires.
Helen was humbled by the recognition and messaged her grandchildren the news straight away. Their excited reply was: "hard work pays off".
"I thank the Ydrive team so much. They're always supportive, and my time with the CWA has been wonderful," Helen said.
Helen said she was proud of the young people she had supported over the years, especially those who built confidence through school programs and Ydrive.
"The high school programs were so grounding. It is wonderful to help young people get on the right track, see their schoolwork improve and watch them turn up to school more often. To continue that work through Ydrive, helping disadvantaged teens gain confidence and independence, has been very rewarding."
Eurobodalla Mayor Mathew Hatcher said Helen's award was a fitting recognition of years of quiet service.
"Helen gives her time in a quiet, practical way, and the impact of that support is huge," Mayor Hatcher said.
"Seeing her recognised alongside our other finalists, Gary Smith and Sofia Keady, was a reminder of how many people are working behind the scenes to make Eurobodalla a better place.
"Helen, you've made a real difference to people's lives, often at times when they needed support the most. On behalf of Eurobodalla, thank you."
The night rolled into a loud and exciting auction where wallets opened to support three charities - Art Central Moruya, Deadly Runners and Talk2MeBro. Then the dance floor lit up as guests swapped bidding for dancing.
"What a night! The generosity in the room was amazing. From ticket sales to the live and silent auctions, every contribution helped support these organisations doing such important work in our community," Mayor Hatcher said.
"Thank you to everyone who bought a ticket, placed a bid, donated an item or helped bring the night together. It shows what can happen when the community gets behind a good cause."
