The Bendigo Bank been around for 150 years ago in various disguises. It started as a building society and became a bank in 1997 when the community bank model was also introduced. The Dromana-Rye-Rosebud group are a community bank which is like a franchise which is owned by local shareholders. The profits are shared by the community and the shareholders with 80 percent to the community and the balance to shareholders.
In the last 20 years, the bank was given back over $200 million to the community over the last 20 years and the Dromana group has given back over $11 million in the same period. Grants close in the end of March and September. President Rick indicated that the bank recently gave the club $2,000 to support our work for the Dromana Community centre.
With the onset of Covid, a number of bank branches are closing, cause the customers to use on-line banking. Although on-line banking is relatively simple, Jason understands that some will be cautious about using it. There are layers of security that keep funds secure. Jason did speak about bank fraud, and said there was a number of scams around at present. Every week, Jason sees 3 or 4 customers who have a concern.
Rick indicated that in a former life he manufactured computers; An example is shown in the photograph below. This is also one that was used by Sandhurst trust, a forerunner of the Bendigo bank.
Club Business President Rick said that club was going to donate the funds from the spinners to Dromana Community House. The spinners are now going to support the “Lift the lid”project for mental health.
Rick, after speaking to Part President Peter, suggested that awards from last year could be presented at the Christmas party.
Elaine said that Peter has donated a bucket of free-rage eggs with the funds raised from their sale to support the “Lift the lid” project. Please contact Elaine if you wish to purchase eggs at a very reasonable price.
Secretary Bob, spoke about the meeting with the District Governor. A district conference will he held in Berwick on 1 and 2 May next year, hopefully with some face to face contact.
District conference in Berwick, 1 and 2 May. There will be some face to face contact. Further details of the District Governor’s visit was provided in last week’s bulletin. The end of year scholarships that we provide have been reduced by 50 per cent.
Harry thanked the members for filling the directorship positions
Tony spoke about the first Market on the 23 January, 2021. He said that there will be structural changes on how the market is run. Tony will be looking for assistance and will be seeking volunteers through Clubrunner.
The club congratulated Ray for his 39 years’ service to Rotary through 2 clubs.
CAROL'S MOB.
