Cade Lucas
Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club (WSLSC) has received an early Christmas present with a $20,000 donation from the Commonwealth Bank (CBA).
WSLSC joined community organisations from across Victoria in receiving the donations as part of the CommBank Staff Foundation’s 2024 Community Grants program.
The 2024 community grants program has provided funding to a diverse array of community organisations in Victoria supporting mental health, homelessness, survivors of domestic violence, Indigenous education, children’s health and more.
Donations from the 2024 grants program have doubled compared to previous years, with the CommBank Staff Foundation raising $3.5 million to fund these grants through regular salary donations from staff which are then matched by the bank itself.
WSLSC was nominated for this year’s program by CBA staff member Samantha Pearce.
Club spokesperson Elizabeth McFarlane explained what the money would go towards. “The funds will be used to purchase equipment necessary to support lifesaving
activities and water safety education programs,” she said.
“A broad range of equipment is required to provide lifesaving training and beach and surf patrols during the summer months at Williamstown Beach.”
Along with protecting swimmers and beachgoers, WSLSC clubrooms also act as community space, hosting community health programs, such as yoga, library and fitness classes.
Head of community investment at CommBank, Nathan Barker said organisations that provided tangible benefits to their communities were exactly who they wanted to reward.
We are thrilled to support these organisations as they drive positive change across the country,” said Mr Barker, adding that the grants program also represented the values and dedication of the bank’s employees.
Our staff don’t just work here; they live in these communities. By nominating charities and contributing through salary donations, they directly uplift the causes that matter most to them,” he said.
We believe in the power of local leadership and community-driven solutions. These grants are not just a financial support; they are a way for us to stand alongside these communities and amplify their vital work.”
