Bendigo banks on bright future

THE Mt Evelyn Bendigo Community Bank branch is due to announce dividends to go to the local community at its annual general meeting tonight (Tuesday).
Chairman Allan Grundy said two dividends would go to the community – one for the shareholders who were instrumental in forming the branch and another for community groups through a grants and sponsorship scheme.
Mr Grundy said after more than three years in business the Mt Evelyn branch was proud to announce that not only has it recorded a profit for 24 months, but that it could return the profits to the local community.
“Our 300-plus shareholders can expect a dividend cheque to arrive in coming weeks and community groups can apply for grants and sponsorship,” he said.
In the past three years Mt Evelyn Community Bank has opened more than 4200 accounts worth more than $62 million.
Mr Grundy said when the Bendigo Bank first embarked on a community bank in Mt Evelyn it continually stressed that it was going to be about more than just banking.
He said this year has really seen that statement become a reality as the bank prepares to return its branch profits to the community and stakeholders.
“We thank all of our customers and shareholders for their unwavering support of this exciting community project,” he said.