What began as a local movement has grown into a financial powerhouse, returning millions of dollars to the region.
Community Bank Elmore, Lockington and Rochester is celebrating its 15th anniversary — a proud milestone for regional advocacy, local financial security and grassroots community funding.
In the past decade and a half, the partnership between the three towns has reinvested more than $4 million into their communities.
As major banks continue to close regional branches across Australia, the community bank network has stepped in to protect face-to-face banking across Loddon and Campaspe shires, providing a vital lifeline for elderly residents, local businesses and farming families.
“Fifteen years ago, our community of Rochester created something really special,” bank manager Lauren Ross said.
“We didn't know it at the time, but it would go on to achieve some pretty incredible things.”
The $4 million in funding has supported hundreds of sporting clubs, community groups, schools and not-for-profit organisations — helping purchase equipment, deliver local projects and support the community's recovery following devastating regional floods.
As the branches look toward the future, the staff and community boards extended their deepest gratitude to the local customers whose everyday banking makes this localised funding possible.
“Fifteen years on, we're incredibly proud of what we've achieved together, and even more excited about what's still to come,” Ms Ross said.
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