In a powerful show of support for local sport and women’s participation, Community Bank Keilor East – Bendigo Bank has awarded a $5,000 Community Grant to PEGS Soccer Club, allowing their senior women’s team to play for free in 2025.
The grant marks a revived partnership between PEGS SC and Bendigo Bank, following a long-standing relationship with the Strathmore branch that was paused during the pandemic.
“Originally, we had a partnership with them through their Strathmore branch in 2015 and 2016 for a few years, and then it disbanded over COVID,” explained PEGS SC President Chris Orlich. “This is the first year we’ve started back up with the Keilor East branch.”
The renewed collaboration reflects a shared commitment to fostering community, inclusion, and opportunity through grassroots sport.
“It was a massive help for our senior women’s team,” Orlich added. “We were able to get them to play for free, basically covered by Bendigo Bank. It’s a huge boost and shows how supporting the community and local business really makes a difference.”
At Community Bank Keilor East, giving back is a core value. As a community-owned bank, they return up to 50% of profits into local initiatives, including sport, education, and grassroots programs.
“Supporting women’s teams is not only aligned with our values of equity and inclusion, it’s an investment in the strength and future of our community,” said Zaina Kattan, Community Engagement Officer at Bendigo Bank Keilor East. “We’re especially passionate about backing local sporting clubs and are proud advocates of women in sport.”
The Keilor East branch recently marked a major milestone with the purchase of their long-time premises at 53 Wyong Street, where they’ve proudly operated for over 23 years. Backed by a dedicated team, including Business Development Manager Aggie Polifico and a committed board, the branch’s support goes beyond financial contributions.
PEGS SC and other local groups also benefit from Bendigo Bank’s free Community Bus, which helps reduce travel costs and encourages broader participation in competitions and events.
With the grant now in place, PEGS SC’s senior women will take the field in 2025 free of player fees – helping remove barriers and build a stronger, more inclusive future for the sport.
