The Community Bank Mt Evelyn & Districts is celebrating giving $3 million back to the community over the past 18 years.
The Bank, which provides grants and sponsorships to community groups and organisations, has become an important feature in Mt Evelyn, Montrose and surrounding areas, ensuring strong and vibrant places for locals to connect to.
Community Bank Chairman, John Stroud said the community bank has been able to reach this momentous milestone thanks to the support of the people, businesses and community organisations who bank with them.
“The Community Bank Bendigo Bank model is based around the premise that the more banking that takes place, the more financial support we can give back to the community. And, as the fifth largest bank in Australia with consumer trust regularly rated the highest of all banks, it’s a great system all-round!” Mr Stroud said.
Some of the many groups who have benefited over the years include local pre-schools, numerous sporting and interest clubs, community organisations including Melba, Bridge Builders, Toy Library, CFA, and Anchor. Service clubs have also benefited, including the RSL’s, Rotary Club’s, Men’s Sheds, community houses and events like the Mt Evelyn Street Party and Montrose Carols.
Over the years the bank’s support has extended beyond Mt Evelyn and Montrose to suburbs including Lilydale, Coldstream, Kilsyth, The Basin, Croydon, Monbulk and Yarra Glen.
“Our friendly team of branch staff and mobile lenders who serve our customers with pride 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,” Mr Stroud said.
Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence joined the Mt Evelyn & District Community Bank team to celebrate this significant milestone.
“Congratulations to the staff, board, shareholders and customers on this tremendous contribution of over $3 million back into supporting our local community. The strength of this support is in the staggering number of local residents who have benefited directly and indirectly as a result of grants or sponsorships to community groups or local initiatives. It is truly remarkable, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved,” Ms Vallence said.
Over the coming months the bank will share stories about the projects, programs and people it has supported.
Merry Christmas from the team and the staff at the Community Bank Mt Evelyn & Districts Bendigo Bank.
