Sarina Bank supports students, provides ATM on campus
Published on 03 April, 2012
Jennifer Hickey has two reasons to smile.
Having been awarded a $4000 scholarship from the Sarina Community Bank® Branch, she was also the first to make a transaction from the newly installed Bendigo Bank ATM at CQUniversity Mackay.
The installation of the campus' first ATM marks a significant milestone for the University, with staff and students now having the convenience of easy access to cash. The ATM is just outside the Refectory in a central location.
Branch manager Roanna Brady said the bank aimed to continue providing extra support for students at CQUniversity.
"The Community Bank is excited that CQUniversity's ATM is our first step in offering financial services on campus," Ms Brady said.
"We will be able to provide financial management advice and steps for identity protection as well as further services such as loan applications, term deposits, all insurance and credit facilities."
Pro-Vice Chancellor (Community & Engagement) and Head of Campus in Mackay, Professor Pierre Viljoen said the scholarship and installation of the ATM was a result of an ongoing partnership with the Sarina Community Bank® Branch.
"Thanks to our partnership with the Sarina Community Bank® Branch, we can now provide further support to our students and staff, who have shown a strong desire for this type of facility on campus," Professor Viljoen said.
The Sarina Community Bank® Branch is also proud to deliver the first $4000 bursary for 2012. The scholarship is open to students who are currently enrolled at CQUniversity and studying towards obtaining a degree in Business or Information Technology.
Bachelor of Accounting student Jennifer Hickey said she was delighted to be awarded the scholarship for 2012.
"This scholarship is life-changing as it will allow me to focus more on my subjects without the worry of being able to afford the cost of studying," Ms Hickey said.
"I feel very honoured and this is an opportunity that other students should open themselves up to."
Ms Hickey said she had been amazed with the support the Community Bank was offering students.
"I love the fact that parts of the profits are returned to the community and the branch is run by a local board which allows local input into how the funds are distributed."
Chair of Sarina Community Bank® Branch's Board of Directors Ralph Johnson said he hoped the scholarships would assist students from regional areas to obtain a tertiary education, further their career and engage with their community.
"We know that it is getting harder for students to make ends meet so we are delighted to congratulate Jennifer on being selected from a number of applicants," Mr Johnson said.
The Sarina Community Bank® Branch has distributed in excess of $350,000 to the local community so far.
To find out more about the scholarships, please contact the CQUniversity scholarship department on 4923 2786 or the Sarina Community Bank® Branch's Roanna Brady on 4943 2634.