V
PUMP
The Samford Progress Association’s free community newspaper printed continuously since 1977.
The ILLAGE
@TheVillagePumpSamford
“Your Community Newspaper, owned by the Samford Community and produced for the benefit of the Samford Community.” 09 JUNE, 2023
P: 0477 663 696
E: editor@villagepump.org.au NEXT DEADLINE THURSDAY 15/06/2023
COMMUNITY GIFT UNVEILED Almost 12 months ago, Community Bank Samford merged its Brendale and Samford branches and undertook a major refurbishment of the Samford site. Since then, the idea of a community mural to enhance the side of the building facing Station Street had been planned. On Friday 2 June after many, many months of collaboration, the bank’s gift to the community was unveiled. “When the concept of a community mural was discussed, we knew we wanted it to be created by local artists, to depict the past, present and include our indigenous connections, as well as all the things that are unique to Samford – our flora, fauna, buildings and lifestyle,” said Senior Branch Manager Mandy Bell. It was a big ask for a big space and so Mandy and the Pine Rivers Community Finance Board approached Creative Samford to discuss the potential of bringing the concept to fruition. Creative Samford’s then President, Marie-Ann Coyle was excited by the idea, seeking interest from their members to paint the five panels. The creative
process began, designs for the five panels were finalised and the artists collaborated throughout to ensure the panels flowed and connected. “On behalf of the PRCF Board and Community Bank Samford team, we are thrilled to finally unveil this mural – our gift to the Samford community,” said Pine Rivers Community Finance Board Chair Malcolm Frizzell. “We wanted to give something back to this community that had not only come together to start this community bank, but has supported it’s development by banking with us, since we began in 2002.” Bendigo’s Community Bank model was developed 25 years ago and there are
Image: Craig English Photography
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now more than 300 Community Banks throughout Australia. These local banks deliver the full range of traditional banking services, but unlike traditional banks, up to 80 per cent of all profits are returned to shareholders and granted to local communities. Last financial year, across the 49 community banks in Queensland, $7 million was distributed to local community groups and clubs. So far, Community Bank Samford’s grants program has distributed almost $1 million dollars. As part of its 21st birthday celebrations, the Board will announce a very special grant round later in the year, which they hope will make a huge difference to local community projects, and in turn, many people in this region. Next time you’re walking in the village or enjoying a coffee and a bite to eat at The Long Yard Larder, who by the way did an awesome job of canapes and drinks at the launch event, check out the mural and drop into the branch while you’re there. The team would love to help you with your banking needs and when they do, you’ll be helping the local community too.