Tugun Set to Show its Creative Side

As an outcome of a successful Youth Forum in 2018 by the Tugun Community Bank® Branch, a focus of their community benefit funding has been on youth. Projects and initiatives have been supported in a range of ways and the board decided that a competition for a mural to grace the outside of the bank was a way to support local, talented young artists.

Artists were invited to submit their concept design in line with the theme ‘Tugun Now & Then’.

Co-Chair of Tugun Community Bank® Branch and herself a proud local, Lisa Fitz Gerald, says “The theme was derived to pay tribute to a bygone lifestyle but also to meld with the Tugun we all know and love today.”

“Tugun residents love their village.” adds Ms Fitz Gerald “Passionate about their lifestyle, beaches and all that comes along with that.”

The winning design won its artist a $2,000 Bendigo Bank account and up to $1,000 for supplies. Several amazing designs were received from individual artists as well as a collaborative effort from school students.

A panel of 5 locals had the difficult choice of selecting a winner – Currumbin Valley local, Caitlyn Taylor. Caitlyn has lived in the Valley all her life, visits Tugun often and also loves it. It’s the first mural Caitlyn has ever done but it’s truly worth waiting for.

“We can’t wait to show the local residents the mural.” Says Ms Fitz Gerald “We are sure everyone will enjoy its vibrant and colourful rendition of their local iconic features. It’s perfect for that ‘selfie’ to send to friends.”

The mural was unveiled on Saturday 15 June.

Tugun Community Bank® Branch has been operating for over 16 years and during that time, volunteer directors together with the staff have seen the branch grow from strength to strength. Thanks to the support of shareholders and customers, Tugun Community Bank® Branch has supported over 50 local community organisations with over $1.3m in community funding. This was achieved as the community banking model of Bendigo Bank allows up to 80% of profits generated from a wide range of products and services back to the community.

Originally posted on www.southerngoldcoast.com.au.