Community organisations join forces

PORTARLINGTON’S local traders’ association and community bank branch have joined forces as part of a new project.

The Portarlington Business Development Association (PBDA) and Community Bank Bellarine have announced a new partnership, supporting the community into the future through collaboration and joint initiatives.

Interim PBDA president Mark Williams said it was great for the association, which has more than 200 registered members, to add a well-known and genuine community-minded business to its list of traders.

“It’s a substantial announcement for us, it’s a major part of helping us to move forward, and as a community, it’s a good move too, the right move given how much of a difference our two organisations can make to the community.

“Community Bank Bellarine is one of those businesses that does actually give back to the community in a meaningful way.

“We’re not just focused on Portarlington either, any businesses on the Bellarine Peninsula is welcome to join the PBDA and we’re always looking to advocate on their behalf.”

The new partnership is already showing results with Community Bank Bellarine announcing earlier this week it is partnering with the PBDA for its business spotlight program.

The business spotlight program highlights the valuable work local businesses are doing across the region.

Mr Williams said Community Bank Bellarine’s community engagement manager Chris Niven had been great to deal with.

“Chris is pretty well-known around the community, he has been around for a pretty long time, he’s very community orientated.

“Kerry Trewin, who is also the PBDA treasurer, was also a big part in the discussions that took place. We couldn’t be happier with having the Community Bank jump on board.”

Mr Williams, who has served in his interim role for the past six months, said the association’s annual general meeting will be held on August 20 where an official president will be announced.

For more information about the PBDA, head to pbda.net.au