Thursday, August 14, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Major Milestone Marked With Meaningful Community Investment

The latest round of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s Community Engagement Program has been announced – with near $900,000 in community grants, donations and sponsorships committed to groups and projects across the greater Sarina region.

The FY25 program includes 15 community grants supporting everything from school swimming programs, providing local students with lifesaving skills, to vital medical equipment.

Community Bank Sarina also confirmed over 30 sponsorships and several major donations, all reinforcing its commitment to building a stronger, more connected and supported community.

Community Engagement Chair Maree Franettovich said the projects were “wide-ranging but all had 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 upgrading play areas for local schools, creating more spaces for community connection, or providing training opportunities for young people,” Ms Franettovich said.

“Importantly, this impact is only possible because people choose to bank with us. As a profit for purpose organisation, our local profits stay right here to be reinvested into our community – something we’re incredibly proud to continue 20 years on.”

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 funding support of Community Bank Sarina.

“Over two decades, $5 million has been returned to the community through community grants, sponsorships, donations and scholarships,” Mrs May said.

“These latest community investments are an extension of that ongoing commitment. When you reflect on the range of support – from schools, hospitals, kindergartens, sporting organisations, community clubs and more – you start to realise the deep impact into the community this support has.

“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 region an even better place to live, and leave a legacy for future generations.”

Find out more about Community Bank Sarina’s community impact on their social media pages – through Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has committed nearly $900,000 in grants, donations, and sponsorships to support projects and groups across the greater Sarina region in FY25. Photos supplied

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