BENDIGO Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine held its AGM and Community Event, on Wednesday, November 13, and the Whitsundays community were the big winners.
“At Bendigo Bank, our customers and the community always win,” Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine chairman Mark Henry said.
“Our success is based on our profit-with-a-purpose model, which sees a majority of the profits generated by our independently owned and operated Cannonvale-Proserpine branch invested back into the community.
“Over the past seven years, we have invested just over $211,000 into local schools, social programs, sporting groups, arts and culture events, conservation initiatives, and community prizes.
“At our 2024 Community Clubs Event, the Whitsundays Old Iron Restorers Club, the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club, and Whitsunday United Football Club all won cash prizes,” Mr Henry said.
The recipients have shared how their prize will be used.
Michelle and Dave from the Whitsundays Old Iron Restorers Club were grateful for their $500 prize, which will be invested into the club’s 2025 car show, held at the end of September.
Representing the Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club, Natasha was excited to receive $300, which will be used to support coaching staff coming up from Brisbane and equipment for the kids.
Finally, Allan from the Whitsunday United Football Club thanked the Community Bank for their prize, which will be used for new equipment for the junior teams.
The bank’s second annual Community Event brought together the branch team and board directors with local shareholders and a number of local community groups and clubs.
The Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine opened on June 5, 2012, with the support of local shareholders, who saw the value of the Community Bank model and raised $800,000 to establish a branch in the Whitsundays.
“Our ability to invest in the local community is due to our branch team for delivering quality service, our shareholders for backing the Whitsundays community, and all the passionate local directors, past and present, for their hard work and dedication,” Mr Henry said.
Local clubs and not-for-profit organisations are invited to submit applications for sponsorship or free hire of the fully equipped community trailer for hosting barbecues.
Contact secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au for more details and the online sponsorship application form.
