The Walcha branch employees nominated it in recognition of the much needed services it provides to the local community.

“We’re thrilled to be able to support organisations like Walcha Men’s Shed in the important work they do for our local community,” says Commonwealth Bank Walcha branch manager Anne Martin. 

“It’s especially meaningful that we are able to celebrate 100 years of employee giving, by nominating an organisation to receive a Centenary Grant in our local community.”

In celebration of a 100-year legacy of giving, Commonwealth Bank employees are giving $10 million to community organisations, with 1,000 Centenary Grants valued at $10,000 being distributed.

The inspiring and far reaching impact of the work undertaken by Walcha Men’s Shed was a crucial factor in it receiving the grant. The money will be used for a new shaded barbecue area at the local swimming pool.

In her presentation speech in the Walcha Men’s Shed headquarters last Friday Ms Martin said the group had helped the youth of Walcha learn to save.

“The CBA school banking tellers box was built by the Men’s Shed some five or six years ago,’ Ms Martin said.

“Our customer service officer Nathan Hoy attends Walcha Central School once a week to help the students with their banking. We thought it would be a great idea to build an old fashion teller box with bars at the window and the Men’s Shed designed and built this for us.”

Commonwealth Bank donated $10 million to the CommBank Foundation in celebration and recognition of 100 years of employee giving and this donation funded the Centenary Grants. More than 13,000 current and retired bank employees donate a portion of their income to the program, with Commonwealth Bank contributing up to $2m each year as well.

Right across Australia, Commonwealth Bank employees will be supporting local organisations that benefit youth wellbeing, access to education, and cancer research and awareness.

In total, 1,000 community organisations across the country will receive a Centenary Grant from Commonwealth Bank. Each of the 1,000 community organisations will be selected by Commonwealth Bank employees from right across Australia.