HENZELLS HERO WINNERS 2023
An inspirational advocate for youth mental health, a caring clown, a passionate supporter for those with a rare autoimmune disease, a local legend who cooks meals for the needy and a tireless helper offering support and mateship to people living with a disability.
These impressive individuals are united by the common bond of helping the community and putting others before themselves. They are also our Henzells Heroes for 2023!
As a proud part of the local community since 1935, Henzells is very thankful to the many people who go above and beyond, volunteering their time and efforts so others can shine.
That is why we launched our Henzells Heroes campaign two years ago to uncover worthy local stars who give so much yet ask for so little in return, as nominated by you! As a big thank-you for their efforts, they each received a well-deserved $500 from Henzells Agency.
And the winners are…….
Leon Stensholm
Leon is a true local hero whose positive impact on our community is undeniable. After a profound loss, Leon dedicated his life to supporting vulnerable youth on the Sunshine Coast. Without government funding, Leon established the Stensholm Foundation and conceived "Lookout 07" a 100% free youth centre tailored to the needs of 12 to 25-year-olds. Leon sustains day-to-day operations through the hard work of volunteers and funds from his own business ventures. Read more about Leon here.
Anita Elliott
Anita is one of the happy faces behind Coastal Caring Clowns who visit aged care facilities and hospitals around the region to put a smile on people’s faces. She is so passionate about spreading joy that she happily juggles (literally) her commitments between clowning and running her own business. Anita is always there to spread kindness and lend a helping hand for those in need.
Tara Haneveld
Tara moved to the warmth of the Sunshine Coast after developing the rare autoimmune disease, Scleroderma. Rather than fade away she has taken on the role of advocate and president of Scleroderma Queensland. Tara has a passion for supporting those with this rare condition and spreading awareness far and wide. She has also become a leader on the Board of Scleroderma Australia bringing the voice of Queenslanders to the national agenda.
Murray Boyton
Murray is local legend who works tirelessly for the community in several ways. He runs the Aura Meal Exchange each Thursday night bringing together people who cook for those who need companionship and something to eat. Rain or shine, Murray is there every Thursday night in the park and ready to offer a meal or have a chat. Murray also runs Rythm Espresso Cafe where he employs autistic kids to give them life experience. Yet another initiative of Murray’s is the Christmas hamper program, Parcels of Peace. Henzells has come on board as a ‘pantry partner’ whereby people can grab a bag from our office, fill it up with the listed Christmas pantry items or toys and drop it back to us for donation. Find out more about this great charity bringing dignity this Christmas here.
Chris Paterson
Chris has dedicated his life to supporting people with complex mental health concerns and disabilities. He left a high paying role in construction to start Bamboo Projects Charity Organisation to help provide support and mateship to people living with a disability or mental health issues. In 2019, Chris ran, rode and kayaked the entire coastline of Australia to show the importance of exercise, nutrition and meditation to gain a better mental health. Chris along and his wife Kristy have built an all abilities accessible 9.5 metre boat for people to feel a sense of purpose, inclusion and have a space to connect with others for a good cause.
A big thank you to everybody who took part in our campaign, and an extra big thank you to all our Henzells Heroes for enriching the lives of everybody around them and making the Sunshine Coast a better place.
