Sheila Woodcock, from Newcastle in New South Wales, lived a comfortable and private life before her death in May 2018 at age 87

An elderly woman who rarely spoke of her wealth has left her $14million fortune to 15 charities.

Sheila Woodcock, from Newcastle in New South Wales, lived a comfortable and private life before her death in May 2018 at age 87.

Her second cousin Kent Woodcock said friends and family knew Ms Woodcock was well-off but they didn't know the extent of her multi-million estate until her passing.

On Wednesday, 15 of Ms Woodcock's chosen causes were invited to Broadmeadow's Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service facility where they were told the detail of her generosity.

'The charities were gobsmacked but when they realise it's 14 other charities... it's awe-inspiring,' Mr Woodcock told Newcastle Herald.

Ms Woodcock did not marry or have children and spent her life enjoying close friendships, travelling, horticulture, acting and chocolate during her long life.

Her second cousin Kent Woodcock said friends and family knew Ms Woodcock (pictured) was well-off but they didn't know the extent of her multi-million estate until her passing

On Wednesday, 15 of Ms Woodcock's chosen causes were invited to Broadmeadow's Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service facility where they were told the detail of her generosity

Ms Woodcock, who was tight-lipped about her fortune, left her $14million to 15 charities

The charities paid tribute to Ms Woodcock's legacy during Wednesday's gathering, with her second cousin declaring it to be a 'celebration' of her life.

'I don't think anybody [in Newcastle] has ever done something like this and I don't think we'll ever see it again.

'It's not sadness at her passing, it's: ''Look what she's done, look what she's doing''.'

Mr Woodcock said the multi-millionaire was a private and independent person, who did not have a regular career and kept tight-lipped about her earnings.

Tim Crakanthorp, the state member for Newcastle, wrote on Facebook: 'Often people will leave some money to charity when they pass away, but Sheila Woodcock took that to a whole other level.'

'Sheila lived in Bar Beach and passed in 2018, bequesting an amazing $14 million to 15 community organisations.'

He shared a picture with a guide dog puppy which has been named Woody in Ms Woodcock's honour.

On top of her bequest, Ms Woodcock had donated more than $347,000 to Guide Dogs NSW/ACT over more than 30 years.

Ms Woodcock did not marry or have children and spent her life enjoying close friendships, travelling, horticulture, acting and chocolate during her long life