Cathy McGowan (Indi, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Today I would like to talk about the positive outcome being achieved in my electorate of Indi by the network of community banks. These branches, while they are franchises with great support by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, are locally owned and operated by their communities, all with their own volunteer board of directors. In Indi, I have the privilege of having community banks in Bright, Mansfield, Mount Beauty, Beechworth and Yea. All are making valuable contributions to their communities through the support of groups, clubs, festivals, events and projects, often in partnership with local government.

The Bright Community Bank was established in 2006 and has contributed over $220,000 to the community, including their recent partnership with Alpine Shire in establishing the Bright Splash Park as part of the redevelopment of the Ovens River foreshore.

Today I would like to acknowledge Branch Manager Mark Ditcham—hello Mark—his staff and board members Mark Howard, Jan Vonarx, Stuart Hargreaves, Geoff Tually, Leigh Marlow and Ros Holland for their contribution to their community. The Bright branch was the winner of the Award for Excellence and Professional Services at the Alpine Shire Business Awards and continues to make a really strong, positive impact in Bright and the community, contributing towards local projects, sponsoring events, sporting events, and assisting local students with scholarships. Community banks do a fantastic job in Indi, and I thank the board and the staff for their work.