Bendigo Bank Branch Manager Belinda Larkin from Orange will assist locals with the town’s campaign to establish permanent branch operations.
Belinda will be in Canowindra one day per week from 20th of August, 2018 to meet with and advise prospective customers on a range of banking matters specific to their needs. Mrs Larkin, who brings more than 14 year’s financial services experience, will be available at The Bendigo Bank® Agency at Ian Simpson and Co at 80 Gaskill St, Canowindra from 10.00am to 2pm.
The campaign to bring banking back to Canowindra started in September 2017 following the closure of the National Australia Bank. More than $8 million of banking business is now allocated to the Canowindra Agency of the Bendigo Bank. There will be an independent Public Forum to take place on the 24th September at the Canowindra Services and Citizens Club. This Forum will give the local community the opportunity to ask questions and understand the benefits of having a Community Bank in Canowindra.
Graham Rice, a member of the Steering Committee said, “This campaign to date has been based on community spirit – we now have to determine whether a Community Bank® branch for Canowindra is a commercial reality.”
The committee selected the Community Bank® model because community members can become shareholders, while a portion of profits go towards community critical initiatives.
David Harrison, a member of the Steering Committee said, “$780,000 in pledges of support is a strong indicator a Community Bank® branch would be viable, however we can have all of the community spirit in the world, but this venture must be seen to be commercially viable if it is going to be successful for everyone connected with our branch.”
Members of the Canowindra community can contact Belinda Larkin on 043 939 6537 to make an appointment.