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The Mutual Bank named Business of the Year at Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards

The Mutual Bank has been named as one of the Hunter Region’s leading organisations, winning both the prestigious Business of the Year title and the Financial and Real Estate Services category at the 2026 Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards. The dual recognition highlights the Bank’s longstanding commitment to delivering personalised, Member‑owned banking while supporting the financial wellbeing of local families, businesses and communities. Chief Executive Officer Mark Williams said the recognition was particularly meaningful given the Bank’s deep connection to the region. “This recognition reflects the trust our Members place in us every day,” Mr Williams said. “To be named Business of the Year, alongside winning our category, is an incredible honour and a testament to our people, our purpose and our connection to the Hunter. “Being recognised in a region like the Hunter – known for its resilience, strong relationships and community spirit – makes this achievement particularly meaningful for our organisation.” Established in 1888, The Mutual Bank has supported generations of Members, reinvesting profits back into better rates, services and local initiatives rather than paying dividends to shareholders. As a Member‑owned bank, its purpose has remained unchanged for more than 137 years: to champion the financial wellbeing of Members and contribute to stronger, more connected communities. Mr Williams said the awards belongs not only to the organisation, but to the people behind it. “This recognition is shared with our team, whose care and commitment show up in every interaction, and with our Members and community who continue to support us,” he said. Over the past 12 months, The Mutual Bank has delivered strong performance and community impact, alongside receiving national recognition for its home loan offering and continuing to make investment in local initiatives across sport, education, health and social support services. “Our focus has always been simple - to stand alongside our Members and back the region we’re proud to call home, and this award encourages us to keep doing exactly that,” Mr Williams said. As proud sponsors of the Business Woman of the Year Award, The Mutual Bank also congratulates Sarah-Jane Dunford, Founder of Riskology, on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates the outstanding contribution she is making to the Hunter business community.

Community

Helping local charities support people doing it tough this winter

The Mutual Bank Winter Appeal 2026 is now underway, inviting members, staff and the wider community to support local people doing it tough this winter. From 11 May to 19 June, donations can be dropped off at The Mutual Bank branches and Head Office to help local charities provide practical support where it is needed most. This year’s appeal supports seven local charities across the Hunter and surrounding region, helping individuals and families facing financial hardship, housing insecurity and other everyday challenges. From pantry essentials to warm winter items, every donation stays local and helps trusted community organisations offer care, dignity and hope.   Supporting local communities through winter Winter can bring extra pressure for households already juggling rising living costs. The Mutual Bank’s annual Winter Appeal gives the community a simple, practical way to help, whether by donating pantry staples, hygiene products or warm clothing for people who need support right now. For local charity partners, these donations mean more than everyday items. They help create comfort, relief and reassurance for people facing a difficult season. It is one more way The Mutual Bank continues to stand beside the communities it has proudly supported since 1888.   How to donate to the Winter Appeal Getting involved is simple. Add an extra item to your weekly shop and drop it into your nearest The Mutual Bank branch or Head Office collection point before 19 June. Most charity partners are requesting practical everyday essentials such as: Tinned and long-life pantry items Personal hygiene products Warm winter essentials such as gloves, beanies, jackets and blankets Donations collected through the appeal will support Dungog Shire Community Centre, Carries Place, Soul Hub, Our Circle Maitland, Maitland Region Community Support, Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Service, and Great Lakes Women’s Shelter. By supporting these local organisations, every contribution helps people across our region feel seen, supported and cared for. At The Mutual Bank, community support has always been part of who we are. As a member-owned bank, we are proud to back the people and organisations working quietly every day to make life better for others. This winter, we invite our community to be part of something simple, practical and genuinely meaningful. Visit your nearest The Mutual Bank branch before 19 June to support the Winter Appeal 2026. Find your nearest branch >>

Community

Experience a Piece of Regional History at Warbirds Over Scone | Proudly Supported by The Mutual Bank

The Mutual Bank is honoured to once again support Warbirds Over Scone, returning in March 2026 as one of the Hunter region’s most iconic and historically significant events. More than an airshow, Warbirds Over Scone stands as a powerful celebration of aviation heritage and the stories that have shaped our region’s identity.  Hosted at Scone Airport 28 – 29 March, and set against the backdrop of the Hunter Valley, this two-day festival brings history to life with one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most remarkable collections of vintage and wartime aircraft. Highlights for 2026 include: Australia’s largest gathering of Supermarine Spitfires since WWII  A spectacular assembly of Mustangs, Kittyhawks, classic trainers and heritage favourites  The world’s only flying F4U1D Corsair  Australia’s only airworthy Vampire and the legendary Sea Fury “Southern Cross”  Aerobatic displays from Paul Bennet Airshows  Dozens of aircraft on static display, including rare heritage jets and meticulously restored warbirds  Visitors can also explore the Hunter Warbirds museum, enjoy adventure and helicopter flights, browse market stalls, view classic cars and take in a festival atmosphere that blends history, community and family fun.    Preserving Heritage. Supporting Community. Strengthening the Region.  As a customer owned bank, The Mutual Bank exists to support the people and places that make the Hunter region unique. Our partnership with Warbirds Over Scone reflects our shared commitment to celebrating local heritage and preserving the stories that define our community owned bank, The Mutual Bank exists to support the people and places that make the Hunter region unique. Our partnership with Warbirds Over Scone reflects our shared commitment to celebrating local heritage and preserving the stories that define our community.  For more than 135 years, we’ve reinvested our profits into what matters most:  Award winning home and personal lending winning home and personal lending  Personalised, community focused service focused service  Partnerships and events that honour and strengthen our region’s character  Warbirds Over Scone captures the rich aviation history and enduring spirit of the Upper Hunter – a spirit The Mutual Bank has proudly supported since 1888.     

Community

Breaking Silence, Building Hope: The Mutual Bank Joins Forces with Lotus Asocsa to Empower Survivors

The Mutual Bank has announced a sponsorship of Lotus Asocsa, a local charity dedicated to empowering female adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse through healing, connection, advocacy, and recovery. The bank’s generous donation of $3,000 will fund essential resources such as stationery, journals, and equipment to help run Lotus Asocsa’s free eight-week support groups.  Founded by Jillian Rae after her own search for support revealed a gap in services – particularly in the Hunter New England area, Lotus Asocsa provides a safe, trauma-informed environment where women can connect, share, and deepen their healing journey. The organisation works collaboratively with survivors and their families, offering emotional support and practical assistance across health, legal, housing, and financial systems.  Jillian Rae, President of Lotus Asocsa, said:  “This support from The Mutual Bank means so much to us and the women we serve. Every dollar helps create a safe space where survivors can feel seen, heard, and supported. Together, we are breaking the silence and building hope.”  The eight-week program starts on 31 March 2026, and new referrals and applicants are welcome. As a newly established organisation, Lotus Asocsa is committed to expanding its services across the Hunter New England region and, with future growth and funding, aims to increase the number of weekly sessions to better meet community need.  Felicity Laczina, Chief Operations Officer, The Mutual Bank, added:  “We are proud to stand alongside Lotus Asocsa in their mission to support survivors. Community is at the heart of everything we do, and we believe in backing initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives.”  Women interested in joining future support groups or learning more about Lotus Asocsa can visit www.lotusasocsa.org.au or email la@lotusasocsa.org.au.  www.lotusasocsa.org.au 

News

Backing Future Surfing Stars

The Surfest High School Teams Challenge draws enthusiastic teams from across NSW, with growing female participation highlighting The Mutual Bank’s commitment to inclusivity and youth development.    For the fourth consecutive year, The Mutual Bank proudly sponsors this cornerstone event, reinforcing its dedication to community, grassroots sport, and the development of future champions.    This year’s challenge will be held at South Bar Beach on 19 and 20 February during Newcastle Surfest’s 40th anniversary celebrations, as part of six community events leading up to the World Surf League Challenger Series from March 9 -15, 2026. Open exclusively to NSW high schools, the competition features boys’ and girls’, divisions, with teams of up to five surfers showcasing their skills and teamwork.  Event Director Warren Smith said:    “The continued growth of this event wouldn’t be possible without the ongoing support of The Mutual Bank. Last year we saw more schools than ever take part, including 20 women’s teams – the highest number in the event’s history. Newcastle Surfest is proud to present The Mutual Bank High School Teams Challenge as part of our 40-year celebrations.”    The Mutual Bank’s sponsorship reflects its commitment to supporting local sporting stars while championing inclusivity and the rise of women in sport. Beyond surfing, the bank also backs youth female teams in netball, touch football, and Premier League football, reinforcing its goal of creating opportunities for young women to thrive.    Matthew Dunnill, Chief Member Officer at The Mutual Bank, said:    “The Mutual Bank High School Teams Challenge is a fantastic opportunity for young surfers to gain invaluable experience and demonstrate their talent. We are proud to support an event that aligns with our commitment to helping people thrive and fostering strong community connections.”    With no entry fee and prizes for finalists, the challenge offers an accessible and exciting platform for young athletes to shine. Surfest’s 40th anniversary reinforces its status as the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest surfing festival, where local talent meets international excellence.      Many competitors in the High School Teams Challenge progress to Surfest’s Junior Championship divisions and even the World Surf League, making this event a proven pathway for emerging talent. By supporting this grassroots opportunity, The Mutual Bank helps nurture the next generation of surfing champions while promoting inclusivity and community engagement.     

The Mutual Bank Partners with NRLW Stars

We’re excited to announce a new partnership with two of the biggest names in women’s rugby league - Yasmin Clydsdale and Olivia Higgins. Both are standout players in the National Rugby League Women’s (NRLW) competition, playing for the Newcastle Knights after being raised in the Hunter. They are proud Jillaroos representatives, and now they’re joining The Mutual Bank family. We’re proud to champion women in sport and strengthen our connection to the communities we serve. Yasmin, captain of the Newcastle Knights, is a force on the field in the second row. Her sporting journey includes representing Australia in Rugby Union before making her mark in rugby league at the Roosters, Knights and representing NSW in the Sky Blues and Australia in the Jillaroos. Raised in Cardiff South and now living in Scone, Yasmin is a qualified high school teacher who is currently devoting all her energy to sport. She’s also a co-founder of Future Fierce Academy, a program dedicated to empowering female players of all ages. Olivia, also a three-time NRLW premiership winner alongside Yasmin and NSW and Australian representative, brings her own impressive credentials. Olivia made her test debut in 2024 and was part of the winning national side again this year. A Raymond Terrace local and former All Saints Maitland student, Olivia now teaches at Newcastle High and shares Yasmin’s passion for developing the next generation of players as her business partner in Future Fierce Academy. We’re thrilled to have Yasmin and Olivia represent The Mutual Bank and can’t wait to share some exciting promotions and content featuring the duo in the coming months.

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