Community Bank

After a development phase of almost 3 years, the Buninyong Community Bank was proudly opened for business on August 6, 2010, a fine & sunny Buninyong Winter's Day by approximately 250 members of the Buninyong and surrounding districts, with the support of the City of Ballarat, University of Ballarat and Bendigo & Adelaide Bank.

Speaking from the back of a new Isuzu truck generously supplied by Ballarat Isuzu, our Chairman John Emery, City of Ballarat Mayor Judy Verlin, University of Ballarat Deputy Vice Chancellor Rowena Coutts and Bendigo & Adelaide Bank Executive Marnie Baker all served to underscore the importance of the new bank to the township of Buninyong and it's surrounds. They emphasised the importance of the return of banking services to the area after an absence of almost 40 years; of community spirit, of working together and the benefits likely to flow to the community. Our Chairman and Secretary were delighted to emphasise the future potential funding benefits by making donations for specific activities to 8 area Primary School principals on the day.

John introduced branch Manager Stuart McKee and his 4 staff to the crowd, and invited crowd members to make themselves known to the branch staff as they inspected the new branch facilities after the speeches. The Buninyong CFA volunteers were present in strength, with their 2 main fire trucks to add a further element of community to the day.

Other highlights on the Friday:

• Bendigo Bank's "Piggy" (thanks to our anonymous Buninyong resident for dressing up!) and attended by Progress Association member Peter Glover gave colour to the crowd and amused the kids
• Ceremonial Cake supplied by Buninyong Bakehouse and cut by Progress Association President Jim Clementson was enjoyed by all, and Buninyong's new Espresso Depot provided cappuccino and espresso coffees on the footpath outside the branch. Many thanks to both of these Buninyong businesses; we hope you will continue to support them, along with all the other Buninyong's businesses which have supported our bank campaign
• Local CWA ladies turned on a wonderful afternoon tea for guests and visitors
• Local "Tree Fella" Tony Coxall very generously provided his "cherry picker" truck tower so our photographer could take the aerial photograph of the crowd outside the branch. Many thanks to Tony for his donation of time and services, and for his community mindedness in foregoing 2 days tree-lopping income in providing his service.

On Saturday, the branch was officially "opened for business" by local identity and bank shareholder Bill Pryor, whose grandfather was an early settler in Buninyong. Bill spoke with warmth about his pleasure and pride that the bank was opening, sentiments expressed by the whole community.

• A "family day" theme had been arranged for the Saturday, again emphasising community. Lions Club provided a sausage sizzle, and face painters, a balloon tying clown, and jumping castle all contributed to the morning's excitement.
• The City of Ballarat Brass Band entertained the crowds, marched up and down the town's main streets, and added to the occasion's festivities.
• Many community members took the opportunity to be amongst the first to use the bank, transferring accounts, opening new ones and making deposits.