SINCE 2009, Regional Australia Bank’s Community Partnership Program has supported regional communities’ clubs, schools and charities, disbursing $3.07 million this year alone.
Last Tuesday evening, more than 200 people from organisations and groups from Laurieton and Wauchope gathered at Wauchope RSL to share more than $100,000.
“This is the highlight of the year for all of our staff,” RAB Wauchope’s Matt Lester said.
“It’s where we get to meet amazing people doing amazing things, and it’s an absolute honour to help them do that.
“On average, Australians carry out an estimated 5.2 hours of volunteer work per week.
“Looking around this room, I think it’s a lot more than that.”
A total of $101.063.96 was disbursed throughout the evening to a diverse range of groups.
“The program encapsulates everything that we do for our community,” RAB Chief Executive Officer David Heine said.
“We give away 13% of what the bank earns after tax.”
The major recipient of the evening was the Hastings Volunteer Support Group for Westpac Rescue Helicopter, which received $11,051.
The group’s dedicated volunteers raise funds for the service through community events such as lamington drives, cake stalls and barbecues.
The group’s president, Sharon Salter said the operating cost of a rescue is $4000-$7000 for every hour a helicopter is in the air.
“It might not be you, but it could be one of your loved ones that needs the rescue helicopter,” she said.
“We are so very grateful to receive this money.”
By Rachael THORPE
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