Bendigo Bank launches Upper Murray -Tooma Bushfire Appeal

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank’s philanthropic arm, Community Enterprise Foundation™, has launched the Upper Murray/Tooma Bushfire Appeal.

The foundation is working in partnership with Mount Beauty & District and Tumbarumba Community Bank^® branches, Upper Murray Health and Community Services and Conservation Volunteers to help assist people in the region affected by this week’s bushfire.

Mount Beauty & District Community Bank^® Chairman, Andrew Randell, said the fire has burnt more than 150 square kilometres of land and has claimed a number of houses.

“Homes have been lost, leaving some local families without permanent accommodation.

“Haysheds, farming machinery and fences have also been destroyed and land used for grazing and cropping has been burnt-all of which will have a huge impact on the livelihoods of our local farmers.

“We have also seen wildlife and livestock killed with many other animals severely injured and in need of care.”

Tumbarumba Community Bank^® Chairman, Colin Nagle, is now urging people to donate to the appeal.

“These fires have struck on the eve of Christmas and many people in our community need help to get back on their feet.

“I’d like to encourage everyone to dig deep and give what you can.”

People wanting to donate can log onto Bendigo Bank’s website www.bendigobank.com.au or call into any Bendigo Bank branch. Donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible.