Decade Of Dedication To Community

The board of directors, all of whom are volunteers, of Sarina and District Community Financial Services Limited (SDCFSL), which operates Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, recently recognised one of their own at the 2023 Annual General Meeting.

Deputy Chair, Company Secretary and Chair – Business and Community Engagement are the three current hats worn by Maree Franettovich, who was recognised for 10 years of volunteer service and re-elected as a non-Executive Director with the SDCFSL board.

A well-known advocate for regional prosperity, community sustainability and youth education, Maree said that the decade-long appointment to the board sometimes came with a demanding workload, but that the impact made for the local community was worth the time and effort.

“When I was first appointed to the board in 2013, my aim was to contribute based on my skills, combining my passion for community and business as a way to give back to my local community – in addition to my hometown of Sarina, but the broader region as well,” Ms Franettovich said.

“Looking back 10 years later, it’s a little overwhelming to reflect on how much of an impact we’ve had – and I’ve truly enjoyed the part I’ve been able to play in making that happen, as well as working with a team of elected, committed directors who contribute their skills and expertise over the years.

“A notable highlight has been the development of the scholarship program, not only at CQUniversity but also the introduction of a program at Sarina State High School. This investment in youth and education is not only about supporting students with their studies, but also about developing future community leaders.

“It’s incumbent upon us as a community to invest in our young people. Scholarships are an investment in people and people are an investment in the future of our communities.

“The unique community bank model is based on profit for purpose, meaning that the $3.8 million that has been contributed back into the community through initiatives like the scholarship program are only possible because people choose to bank with Community Bank Sarina.

“Enabling community groups to build longer-term capacity for their organisations and the people they support has also been a key focus of mine throughout this time.

“Working with so many other volunteer groups across the region and seeing over the years where they started, to what they are doing today – and how we’ve been able to support and enable that to happen – it’s actually quite incredible when you think about the impact that has on a community overall.” Ms Franettovich stated.

SDCFSL board chair Karen May offered her personal thanks and congratulated Maree for the years of service.

“I’ve sat on many boards across our community for many years, and Maree has to be one of the most energetic contributors I’ve seen,” Ms May said.

“Her dedication to the community is so genuine and the impact that has had is undeniable.

“On behalf of the board, and from me, we thank Maree so much for everything she does for our organisation, our team and our community.”

‍

Community Bank Sarina’s Maree Franettovich and Karen May at the presentation of Maree’s 10 years of service to the Bank’s board

Photo supplied