Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Board Chair Karen May alongside Sarina District Schools Chaplaincy Committee members at their 2026 AGM. Photo supplied
The latest round of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s Community Engagement Program has been announced, with over $306,000 in community grants, sponsorships and scholarships and donations committed to groups and projects across the greater Sarina region, alongside lifesaving defibrillators for 12 community groups.
The FY26 program supports a range of initiatives, from wildlife conservation and sustainability to community arts, recreation and educational opportunities, as well as projects that strengthen community spaces.
Community Bank Sarina Business & Community Engagement Chair Maree Franettovich said the projects are “wide-ranging, but all have a common thread – supporting the people who live, learn, work and volunteer locally”.
“These are the kinds of impact investments that change lives – whether it’s creating opportunities for youth, improving community facilities or gathering people together through shared spaces and activities,” Ms Franettovich said.
“Importantly, this long term impact is only possible because people choose to bank with us. As a profit for purpose organisation, our profits are reinvested into our community, creating impact through local initiatives and organisations. We’re incredibly proud of that and grateful to our customers for making it possible.”
Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said it was a moment to reflect on what the region might look like without the direct and significant support of Community Bank Sarina and its customers.
“Over the last 21 years, over $5.3 million has been returned to the community through our community grants, sponsorships, donations and scholarships,” Mrs May said.
“These latest community investments are an extension of our ongoing commitment to the community. When you reflect on the range of support – from school chaplaincy, recreation hubs, community clubs and more – you start to realise the deep impact this support has on the community.
“It’s a privilege to play a part in that, along with my fellow directors, and to stand beside so many local organisations working diligently to make Sarina and the surrounding regions an even better place to live, while leaving a legacy for future generations.”
To see how Community Bank Sarina continues to support local groups and initiatives that make a lasting difference in the community, visit Community Bank Sarina on Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram.
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Community Grant Recipients
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Sponsorship Recipients
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Defibrillator Recipients
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Donation Recipients
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