August 2019 Directors' Column

Bernie Lloyd - August 2019

What I really enjoy as Chair of our Board is to represent Bank First at various events. Sometimes it’s at meetings with other Chairs across southern Australia where we share predictions, expertise and processes which strengthen mutual sector relationships across the country.

Sometimes it’s at inspiring and engaging conferences run by our industry partners e.g. Indue, COBA (Customer Owned Banking Association), and BCCM (Business Council of Cooperatives and Mutuals). There is always a frisson of excitement when the potential of value driven organisations such as ours, which serve their members first and foremost, is amplified and celebrated.

Just recently Relationship Officers, Directors and Management have been visiting kindergartens and schools across Victoria to distribute our Teaching Initiatives Program Awards. Every now and then, at social events, people query whether our schools have the capacity to meet high standards. This is usually in response to some negative media articles. I’m always pleased to reassure them that our schools are in very good hands indeed; that there are marvellous teachers in all learning communities who are creative, indefatigable and dedicated. We are proud to provide our Teaching Initiatives Program (TIP) winners with financial resources to progress a remarkable program they have highlighted.

Similarly, we are very proud to support Mercy Health. At their recent fund raising event we heard of state of the art research into ectopic pregnancies, pre-eclampsia and stillbirth. Again, a caring and learning organisation bringing hope and progress to many.

This is where the heart of Bank First beats - in service to our community.

Bernie Lloyd
Chair of Board