Bank provides sound returns

– Tania Martin
BENDIGO Bank is spending its profits by granting more than $53,000 to 49 community groups across the Dandenong Ranges.
A new playground for disabled children, vital medical equipment and prizes for musical students will be made possible with the help from Bendigo Bank’s community branches in Upwey, Belgrave, and Cockatoo-Gembrook.
Upwey Community Financial Service, which operates the three bank branches, returned more than $53,000 from its profit back to the community.
Company chairman Peter Marke said it is always rewarding to share the profits from the local community with people who have supported the bank.
“Local people have supported us throughout all stages of our community bank journey and it’s fantastic to return that support through grants to local groups,” he said.
“It’s a fabulous position to be in – not only do residents have the chance to bank at three local community owned bank branches, we are doing what we promised to do – returning profits to our community.”