Arts & Culture
25 September, 2025
Southern Highlands Community Foundation announce two Highlands Heroes for September
The Southern Highlands Community Foundation (SHCF) today announced Peter Doris and Georgie Lewis as the recipients of their Highlands Hero and Young Hero Awards.
The Southern Highlands Community Foundation (SHCF) has today announced Peter Doris and Georgie Lewis as the recipients of their Highlands Hero and Young Hero Award.
‘Highlands Heroes’ is an initiative that aims to recognise and reward the work of volunteers and fundraisers in the Southern Highlands community who work tirelessly for their chosen cause.
Across three decades as a volunteer with St Vincent de Paul, Peter Doris has distinguished himself as a remarkable leader, fostering unity among members and responding to the evolving needs of the community.
A passionate advocate for social justice, Peter is known for his unwavering dedication, compassion and commitment to community.
At just 14 years old, Georgie Lewis pitched the idea of hosting a ‘Pink Golf Day’ at the Moss Vale Golf Club to raise money for Breast Cancer Network Australia.
What began as a one-off event with a fundraising goal of $5,000 grew to raise over $10,000 on the day, and it was so successful that it was repeated again the following year – doubling the funds raised once again.
“Peter and Georgie, in their own distinct ways epitomise what this award is about, and we are thrilled to announce them as Highlands Hero and Young Highlands Hero respectively," said SHCF Chair Jenny Bott AO.
"Peter has shown great leadership, particularly in mentoring other volunteers and has had an enormous impact on our local community through St Vincent de Paul.
Georgie shows us that one person, no matter their age, can see a need or identify a goal and through their commitment and vision make a meaningful difference. Both Peter and Georgie are an inspiration, and it is an absolute pleasure to share their stories.”
Through initiatives like Highlands Heroes, the SHCF aims to shine a light onto areas of need within the community and via a grant, have a positive impact on the causes that each of the Highlands Heroes represent.
Earlier this year, a three-year partnership with the Medich Foundation was announced, allowing the search for Highlands Heroes to continue.
Nominations are open all year round with the judging panel looking for volunteers who have contributed to the betterment of their organisation and/or its services and have made a difference in our community.
Highlands Heroes receive a $5,000 grant, and Young Heroes a $3,000 grant.
For more information on the SHCF Highlands Heroes program or the nomination process, visit https://shcf.org.au.
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