They’re banking on community

A NEW bank may be on the horizon for Hampton Park.
Discussions are underway between the directors of the Bendigo Community Bank in Carrum Downs and members of the Hampton Park Progress Association to start up a branch in Hampton Park.
Carrum Downs Community Bank chairman Gary Rowe said he wanted Hampton Park residents to experience the benefits the branch had delivered to the Carrum Downs community, $1 million during the past 11 years.
The bank has supported projects including new rescue vehicles for local SES crews, a dog for Guide Dogs Australia and hampers for needy families at Christmas.
“Hampton Park people need this kind of support and the kind of banking products we provide,” Mr Rowe said.
“Basically, communities form publicly owned companies, which enter into a commercial franchise to run a Bendigo Bank branch.
“Bendigo Bank provides the banking infrastructure and licensing, while the community runs the branch operation, generating customer support.”
An information stall will be set up at Australia Day celebrations in Hampton Park at the Robert Booth Reserve from 9am to midday.