Community Bank Galston & District is proudly part of a network of Community Banks backed by Bendigo Bank, Australia’s most trusted bank, with more than 2.5 million customers nationwide. The unique Community Bank model injected more than $40 million into communities over the past financial year and provided funding for 8021 projects.
Community Banks have contributed more than $366 million back to communities since 1998, with more than 300 communities now embracing the concept. Local branches like Galston enable economic growth and provide grants and sponsorships that underpin and strengthen the social fabric.
The local branch is operated by Galston Financial Services Limited and Chairman Ralph Steele says the branch has had a major impact by supporting many significant projects across the district. “Every day our customers help change and save lives, simply by doing their banking with us,” Mr Steele said.
“Customers and their communities are at the heart of who we are and Community Banking is based on a ‘profit-with-purpose’ model, which means our profits are returned directly to the community that has generated them.”
“This means our Galston branch can enable the building of vital community infrastructure, improve educational outcomes at local schools, strengthen the arts and provide places for Australians to live, work and play, by contributing $3.587Mn till December 2024 in sponsorships donations and grants.
Some of the major beneficiary were Cherrybrook Technology High School $80,000 towards their STEM building project, Kenthurst Rotary Club $35,000, food trailer used to provide food and drink for the homeless and disadvantaged in the Hill Shire, Galston High School $30,000 yearly toward school equipment’s and education requirements, Galston United Church $20,000 to cover the cost of a roof replacement, Dural Menshed $10,000,
Norwest Christian College were the recipients of $8,000 grant toward providing education for students in need & Helping Hearts Survive $7500 for new Fridges & Freezer for their charity. “Community Bank Galston is pleased to be able to continue to support our local sporting clubs, volunteer fire brigades and more and we welcome applications for funding.
“Our customers know their banking is making a real difference, and the ability to be able to support local organisations as we do is testament to the importance and continuing relevance of the Community Bank model.
“Our friendly staff are here to assist with all your banking and financial services needs and welcome enquiries for both residential lending and business banking,” Mr Steele concluded.
