Since opening twenty-one years ago, the Merbein Community Bank (MCB) has been committed to ‘do good, do more and do well.’ Located in the heart of Merbein, the Bank reinvests a sizable portion of its annual profit back into the community to support local organisations like the Mildura Health Foundation, which has recently received $25,000 in sponsorship from MCB.
Mildura Health Foundation Board Director, Ms. Karen Woolfe, said that the funds would go directly to support the fit-out and ongoing operational costs of the Dr. Julie Zrna Centre, which upon completion later this year, will provide accommodation to people receiving cancer treatment at the Mildura Health Icon Cancer Centre.
“The generous donation from the Merbein Community Bank is a wonderful way to begin the new year. It is truly heartwarming when community organisations and individuals unite for a common cause.
“The Julie Zrna Centre is going to have such an impact for so many families, and we are extremely grateful for the support the bank and all our other donors have given us.”
The Chair of Merbein Community Bank, Mr. Malcom Bennett, said a Mildura Health Foundation presentation to the board was influential in the bank’s decision to donate, as was the extent of support that project was receiving from other sources.
“The presentation gave us a clear understanding of the intent and value of the project, and the financial support and planning that underpin the Foundation. It certainly gave us the confidence to make the largest single sponsorship commitment in the history of the bank.
“As a board, we are proud to be associated with the Centre and the benefits it will deliver; attracting more specialists to Mildura and expanding choice when it comes to quality healthcare for regional and remote people.”
Merbein Community Bank staff and board members have witnessed loved ones struggle with a cancer diagnosis and the travel for treatment it demanded; forced to leave support networks, pets, and the comforts of home behind. They all agree that the Dr. Julie Zrna Centre would have made a world of difference.
“We are so pleased to be able to support the Centre because we know what it will mean for families going through difficult times.”
Mr. Bennett said that another factor in the decision to commit funds was the interest and investment the project has received from far west New South Wales.
“In particular, the donation from Broken Hill certainly made us think – their contribution speaks volumes about the need.”
Ms. Woolfe agreed, saying that the provision of accommodation is a vital component of an accessible, high quality regional healthcare system and that it will change the cancer treatment landscape for people from outlying areas.
“I am sure many people would prefer to travel to Mildura, over Adelaide or Melbourne, for radiation and cancer care. Coming here will be easier, less travel, less cost, and closer to home, family, and friends. The Centre will link treatment to support.”