Site set on bank project at Heads

KIM WATERS
The finalisation of site negotiations have “locked in” plans for a Barwon Heads community bank, according to a committee spokesperson.
Barwon Heads Community Bank company chair Heather McCarthy said the project’s board was “satisfied” with the deal for 70 Hitchcock Avenue.
“We’re more than happy with the outcome in terms of the position of our proposed branch and we hope it will provide convenient access to Bendigo Bank’s quality products and services for all of our customers,” she said.
Ms McCarthy said the board would invite residents who pledged their support in a survey last year to “follow through” as bank shareholders.
“All Barwon Heads Community Bank share pledges will receive an invitation to attend the official prospectus launch in coming weeks,” she said.
“More than 270 Community Bank branches across Australia have returned more than $50 million to support local groups and projects and the more people who bank with us the more we can give back.”
The Independent reported in September that the bank’s steering committee had smashed its target capital of $750,000.
Spokesperson Chris Bryan said the $830,000 of capital was “really exciting”.
The committee surveyed 2500 Barwon Heads’ residents and 50 of the town’s businesses last year as a final “tick off” before choosing the site, he said.
“We’re really hoping to have the bank up and running later this year.”