The Community Bank Mt Evelyn celebrated 20 years of community banking last week, having given more than $3.5M in grants and sponsorships to community groups in that time.
“We are extremely proud of reaching this momentous milestone and want to thank our community and the people and businesses who have made this possible,” said John Stroud, Community Bank Chair.
“Thanks to the foresight and leadership of the community back in 2002, led by Allan Grundy, we have a Community Bank in Mt Evelyn today that serves the township and surrounding suburbs where the more banking that takes place the more financial support the community receives.”
Over the past 20 years the bank has supported disability groups, sporting clubs, environmental groups, secondary and primary schools, preschools, men’s sheds, community festivals, RSL, CFA, scouts, youth groups. Support that has helped kick start ideas, purchased equipment, and created experiences to bring communities together, ensuring we live in a vibrant community with a diversity of healthy community groups. Support to help build stronger, more connected communities.
In recent times, the impact has included special funding grants during COVID lockdowns to help groups stay operating, coffee and food vouchers to help keep people connected and funding for hay to go to Gippsland after the fires.
Bendigo Bank Relationship Manager, Tania Hansen wished Community Bank Mt Evelyn a happy 20th birthday. She said, “This is a significant milestone and a chance for the community to reflect upon your shared success. 20 years of service to the community, employing local people, reinvesting in local projects and organisations, and being part of a national network that leads the way globally when it comes to doing good by doing banking. Congratulations.”
Mr Stroud thanked the shareholders, customers and businesses for their continued support and said he looks forward to another celebration at the November AGM.
“Our friendly team of branch staff and lenders are led by Senior Manager David (Dave) Watt. Dave has been with the branch since day one and has been pivotal in the success of the brand and our ability to give back to the community. Dave and the team are always happy to meet new customers and see how the branch can help with their banking needs,” said Mr Stroud.
If you’re interested in finding out how your banking can benefit your community, then pop into the branch to see Dave and the team, or call them on 9737 1833.
