Celebrating 18 Years and $1.8M invested

On Sunday, Community Bank Mansfield & District marked its 18th anniversary with the announcement of its 2025 Community Impact Program projects. This latest round of funding, combined with initiatives supported over the past 12 months, brings the Community Bank’s total investment to $1.8 million in shared profits. This year’s round saw 34 applications seeking more than $520,000 in funding for projects valued at over $1 million. The selected projects are a powerful reflection of the dedication, innovation, and community spirit of Mansfield district’s remarkable volunteer organisations, whose tireless efforts continue to drive meaningful change across the region. “Our Community Impact Program isn’t just about financial support—it’s about investing in ideas and people that build a stronger, more sustainable future,” said branch Manager, Phil Camilleri. “While banking is our business, community is our purpose, and our Community Impact Program is our commitment to investing in the growth of a resilient, sustainable and thriving Mansfield and district community. “ Held at the Goughs Bay Boat Club’s new ‘Community Hub’ (also proudly sponsored by the Community Bank Mansfield & District), representatives from the bank offered an insight into how this most recent investment of over $140,000 will be spent - supporting 19 local initiatives that embody the program’s five strategic pillars: Leadership, Innovation, Wellbeing, Connection, and Liveability. This year’s funding highlights a strong commitment to leadership across all ages. From empowering young environmental leaders at Mansfield Rudolf Steiner School to supporting women’s development through the WiNE Network, each initiative fosters growth and confidence. This year’s funding also reflects a strong commitment to fostering leadership across all ages and sectors of the community by building mental health literacy through the Let’s Keep Talking program, and supporting the next generation of sports mentors through improved facilities at the Mansfield Junior Netball Club. This year’s investment also champions innovation through creative, forward-thinking projects that bring people together in new ways. The MACE Community Kitchen upgrade fosters cultural exchange through shared meals, Radio Mansfield’s website and membership drive strengthens its role as a platform for local voices, and Arts Mansfield’s Open Studio Trail celebrates artistic expression through a curated journey that turns exploration into inspiration. Supporting wellbeing also remains a core focus, with initiatives that care for the physical, emotional, and social health of the community. From the life-changing experiences offered at the Southern Cross Kids’ Camp for children impacted by trauma, to the MCF Food Pantry ensuring food security and dignity for those in need, each project addresses vital aspects of community care. The Mansfield Living with Parkinson’s Group and the upgraded Men’s Shed workshop provide safe, inclusive spaces for connection and support. Additionally, the Beolite Residents’ Activity Program promotes health and engagement for older community members, and the Active Kids program supports wellbeing through its inclusive, health-focused approach to school holiday care. Strengthening community connection is at the heart of this year’s supported projects, as Cycling Without Age Mansfield continues their good work offering free trishaw e-bike rides for seniors and people with disabilities, helping to reconnect with nature, share stories, and build meaningful relationships. The CWA Mansfield’s Raise the Roof Project restores a treasured community hub, ensuring it remains a welcoming space for gatherings, workshops, and intergenerational connection. Meanwhile, the Mansfield Readers & Writers Festival celebrates the power of literature and storytelling to bring people together, fostering a shared sense of identity and cultural engagement. Enhancing liveability in the Mansfield district is also a key focus of the program, this year’s funding supports initiatives that encourage active lifestyles and improve community facilities. The Mansfield Tennis Association is revitalising courts and expanding Junior Hotshots and Pickleball programs, promoting sport and activity across all ages. The Mansfield Soccer Club is receiving portable goals to meet the growing demand for youth sport, providing essential equipment for training and matches. Meanwhile, the Mansfield Cubby House is transforming its outdoor learning environment into a vibrant, nature-rich space that nurtures exploration and development for young children. Together, these projects span a wide range of community needs, including mental health, youth programs, food security, the arts, sport, and social inclusion. “These projects are a testament to what’s possible when local people with great ideas are supported,” said Nicole Nally, Chair of Mansfield & District Community Enterprises Ltd. “By investing in diverse initiatives that empower individuals, strengthen bonds, and enhance local facilities, we are not only supporting immediate community needs but helping to build a foundation for a better tomorrow.” The Community Impact Program is made possible thanks to the everyday banking of the Community Bank Mansfield & District customers. As part of the Bendigo Bank network, profits generated by the Community Bank Mansfield branch are reinvested locally, to support the community that helped generate them - because you’re banking really can make a difference.

Celebrating 18 Years and $1.8M invested

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