A group of interested community members was briefed by Bendigo Bank on 14 September 2006 in relation to the proposal, and in October 2006 the official launch of the community’s pledge campaign began and a Steering Committee was appointed.
In May 2007 confidential survey forms were distributed as well as face-to-face interviews by an independent consultant to gauge the viability of the project. A great response was obtained from the community with indicative support sufficient to encourage the Steering Committee to move to the next stage in the process.
The results of the feasibility study were presented to the committee at a meeting held on 26 July 2007 and it was unanimously voted to proceed towards the establishment of the Apollo Bay & District Community Bank branch. Shares in the Apollo Bay & District Community Enterprises Limited were offered to the public and the target reached.
The branch was officially opened Monday 5 May 2008 with official speeches and entertainment by the local community choir and the primary school choir, followed by a sausage sizzle lunch and refreshments
To date we have given almost $60,000 in community sponsorships with our major recipients including:
Apollo Bay Surf Life Saving Club, Apollo Bay Cricket Club, Apollo Bay Boardriders Club, Apollo Bay Saling Club, Apollo Bay Aquatic Centre, Apollo Bay Web Design, Apollo Bay Community Garden, Apollo Bay Ocean Rescue, Apollo Bay Golf Club, Apollo Bay Football Club, Apollo Bay P-12 College, Lions Club, plus over $15,000 given out in smaller grants.
Branch Manager – Graham Floyer
Business Banking Manager – Luke Gibson
Financial Advisor – John Ashford
- Category:
- Bank/financial services