to secure non-binding pledges for a new branch to service Port Pirie and

the Southern Flinders Ranges.

The Bendigo Bank, which also owns Adelaide Bank, is established on a Community Bank model, where the community invests money into the bank to become shareholders.

State Community Ent-erprise Manager for South Australia, Mike Clutter-ham, said that prior to Wednesday’s meeting about $150,000 in pledges as already been received.

The bank aims to receive more than $750,000 before a feasibility study can be conducted. A steering committee has been established with Bronte McLaughlin as chairman.

He is leading a group of 12, all pushing for the Bendigo Bank to be set up in Port Pirie.

“Having an interest in the community, I thought the Bendigo Bank would benefit the Port Pirie community and district,” he said.

The turnout was quite pleasing for the steering committee and they say future meetings will be held.

Bendigo Bank representatives anticipate that it will be 18 months before the bank is up and running.

The prospects are good for the community.