Many thanks for the bank

By Kath Gannaway
BENDIGO Bank has given the go-ahead for a community bank branch in Healesville.
Following a successful pledge campaign Healesville and District Community Enterprise Limited will launch its prospectus at a community day in July.
More than 360 residents, businesses and community organisations who pledged to buy shares in Healesville’s community-owned bank were advised last week by H&DCEL chairman Gary Slater that the Bendigo Bank had approved the franchise.
“It is a huge thrill for our newly-formed board, and for the many supporters who have helped get us to this point,” Mr Slater said.
He said among a number achievements in recent months, a successful feasibility study, the move from a steering committee to a board of directors, and the fact that H&DCEL has already secured a home for the bank, at 205 Maroondah Highway, were all things to be celebrated.
Pledgees will receive an advance copy of the prospectus prior to the launch.
“If our pledge campaign is anything to go by, I expect demand for our $1 shares to be strong, and the offer is limited,” Mr Slater said.
He said the board had also decided to increase the share limited from $10,000 to $20,000 and invited anyone who wanted to increase their pledge amount to phone him on 0421 319 640, or call in at 205 Maroondah Highway.
Mr Slater said although pledge campaign had officially finished, anyone in the 3777 postcode area was still able to pledge.
“To help get our community bank branch off to a flying start, I would also encourage pledgees, and others to consider becoming a Bendigo Bank customer by transferring some or all of their banking across,” he said.
A Bendigo Bank adviser is available at 205 Maroondah on Thursdays to help with banking queries.
Mr Slater said another significant marker for the new board had been coming up with a meaningful vision statement.
“Establishing a community-owned bank in Healesville is about local banking benefiting the local community,” Mr Slater said.
“We have seen over the past 10 years communities all along the Warburton Highway and throughout Yarra Ranges reap the benefits of sponsorships and grants from their community banks, as well as returns to shareholders.
“With the setting up of the Healesville Community Bank we are looking forward to being able to providing those same benefits.
“We believe our vision statement “Our Community – Empowered and Thriving,” reflects what we are doing, and where we are going,” he said.
The prospectus launch will take place at Healesville Football Club on Sunday, 18 July.