Bank lends its support for Surf Coast bushfire victims

Bendigo Bank’s Winchelsea, Anglesea, Apollo Bay Community Bank^® branches and Lorne agency have joined force with The Spirit Foundation to administer the Surf Coast Bushfire Appeal.

Donations to assist those impacted by the devastating Christmas day bushfire at Wye River and Separation Creek communities, where more than 100 homes have been lost as a result of the fire, can now be made at any Bendigo Bank in branch or online.

The Appeal, administered by the Bank’s philanthropic arm, Community Enterprise Foundation™ has today been topped up with a $5,000 donation from the Anglesea & District Community Bank^® Branch.

Anglesea and Winchelsea Senior Manager, Jeremy Morris, said local Surf Coast staff have been heartened by customers and community members eager to support those who have been affected by the bushfires.

“Our thoughts are with those in communities’ right across the Surf Coast region that have been impacted by the fires,” he said.

“Everyone is keen to do what they can and at the moment one of the best ways we can help is by digging deep and making a donation.”

Bendigo Bank customers affected by the Surf Coast bushfire should make contact with their local branch as soon as possible.

"We will do what we can to assist these customers and we have a range of financial support options we can discuss with them,” Mr Morris said.

“Our aim is to help them get back on their feet as quickly as possible.”

Victoria Regional Manager Sue Tansey urged people right across Australia to donate to the appeal and support those who have been impacted.

“Our past experience tells us that Victorians, and Australians, are generous when it comes to helping those in need – we don’t expect it to be any different in this case.

“With the weather predicted to return to very hot again by the weekend, the bushfire situation across Victoria is extremely concerning,” Ms Tansey said.

“Our Bank has a decade’s experience in responding to fire and flood crises, and we will do our best to support the surf coast communities and their ongoing needs well after the immediate threat has passed.”

Donations to the Surf Coast Bushfire Appeal can be made at any Bendigo Bank branch or online.

Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.