Tasmanian Premier opens Freycinet Coast’s second Community Bank^®

One of Tasmania’s most spectacular locations – Bicheno on the Freycinet Coast, held a big celebration to launch its newest community owned bank branch.

The Bicheno Community Bank^® Branch was officially opened by the Tasmania Premier, the Hon David Bartlett, on 10 September.

The opening follows the launch of the Swansea Community Bank^® Branch in March this year – the sister branch of Bicheno.

Both communities have worked together for more than three years in a bid to return traditional branch banking to their communities.

The celebrations were the culmination of that hard work which has involved local residents of both communities becoming shareholders in the public venture.

Swansea/Bicheno Community Bank^® Chairman, Rob Woolley, said having the Premier agree to officially open the Bicheno branch emphasised the significance of what both communities had achieved.

“This is an historic day for the people of both towns,” Mr Woolley said.

“By becoming shareholders in this venture, these people have placed their faith in the strength and commitment of their individual communities.

“I am looking forward to getting down to the business of providing traditional banking services for Bicheno and Swansea,” he said.

Bendigo Bank now supports 220 Community Bank^® branches throughout Australia.