Bank appeals raise more than $262,000 to support bushfire affected communities
Towns across Australia are slowly starting to rebuild after a series of devastating fires over the Christmas and New Year period.
More than $262,000 in donations have been made to support recovery efforts in the South West region of Western Australia, the bushfire-affected areas of South Australia, Victoria's Surf Coast and the rural communities of Scotsburn and Clarendon, also in Victoria.
All four appeals were launched by Bendigo Bank in partnership with community organisations, including The Salvation Army, The Spirit Foundation, Ballarat Community Health and St John SA.
Initial donations included $60,000 from Community Bank® branches, as well as a $10,000 from Lendlease.
Bendigo Bank Executive Robert Musgrove said the Bank wanted to do everything it could to support customers and their communities through this difficult time.
He encouraged customers affected by the recent bushfires to contact their local branch to discuss ways the Bank may be able to help support them to get back on their feet as quickly as possible.
"We know it's going to take time to restore the place they call home, but we believe that together, we can make a difference," Mr Musgrove said.
St John SA CEO Ray Creen said it was also important for people to stay prepared, as hot and dry conditions persisted in many states.
"Bushfire season will not be over for a while yet and we are already seeing more fires start up across the country," he said.
"It's important for people to remain vigilant, ensure they have a good bushfire plan and make sure they stick to it."
Bushfire appeal donation totals (approximate):
- South West Region Bushfire Appeal - $95,000
- Surf Coast Bushfire Appeal - $27,000
- Scotsburn Bushfire Appeal - $55,000
- South Australian Bushfire Renewal Appeal - $85,000
Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. Donations can still be made at any Bendigo Bank branch, or online at www.bendigobank.com.au/bushfire-appeals
