Businesses rally for Heathcote SES

HEATHCOTE businesses are rising to the call to raise funds for a new 4WD Medium Rescue truck for the local SES unit.

Community Bank Heathcote and District is encouraging local businesses to ‘pay it forward’ by donating a small portion of their sales to the fundraising efforts.

The bank will be matching donations dollar for dollar until Easter next year.

“We’re absolutely amazed at the response we have received from this promotion,” bank marketing and local engagement officer Charleen Warburton said.

“To have the support of so many businesses and local groups is wonderful.

“SES Heathcote Unit help us all during the most challenging conditions, whether it be flood, high winds or a road incident.

“We do need to support their amazing volunteers so they can continue to do their amazing work.”

Donations have already been received from Gaffney’s Bakery, Heathcote Lions Club, Friends of the Kilmore-Bendigo Rail Trail and Costerfield Mines/Mandalay.

Businesses that have joined the ‘pay it forward’ promotion include Chick’n Licken, Swirls Gifts and Decor, Oval Takeaway, Pizzeria Montana, Libertas Legal & Consulting Services, and the Fodder cafe.

“Contributions big or small all add up very quickly,” Ms Warburton said.

“Under our dollar-for-dollar commitment, donations so far have already reached over $54,000, half of which comes from Community Bank Heathcote and District.

“We’re hoping that with our help we can get them much closer to their end goal.

“Up to 80 per cent of our profits at Community Bank Heathcote and District are returned back into our community, and this is an absolutely amazing cause to invest them in.”