By GARY FRY
THE Newcastle Permanent Building Society celebrated five years in the Armidale finance sector last week.
The “Perm” joined the Armidale community in June 2008, when it opened its branch in Dangar Street, bringing award winning banking and significant financial support to the local community. A branch was also opened in Tamworth at the same time.
“I’d like to thank the Armidale community for its support as we celebrate the fifth birthday of our Newcastle Permanent branch,” Armidale branch manager, Judi Hansen said, when marking the half-decade anniversary, with the cutting of a birthday cake.
“We have a small, dedicated team in our Armidale branch, supported by specialists in home lending, financial planning and business banking,” she said.
“It’s a privilege to lead John, Sandra, Caroline and Leanne as we strive to provide the best service we can, to our local members.”
The Perm has done a great deal to establish itself as a community contributor. It sponsors Northern NSW Junior Football, reducing junior football registration fees.
It has supported Armidale Dumaresq Council’s Get Active campaign and has brought families together, through atmospheric movie nights.
“I’m really proud of the things we’ve achieved during the past five years, and of the fantastic community initiatives Newcastle Permanent has brought to town,” Mrs Hansen said.
“We were disappointed that this year’s Cinema under the Stars was rained out after it started. We’re looking forward to seeing another huge community turnout next year.
“Armidale is a fantastic place to live and I’m proud to be able to represent Newcastle Permanent in my own community.
The Perm’s accolades have shown it has a lot to offer the New England.”
Newcastle Permanent leads the Australian home lending industry after winning the 2013 Money Magazine Home Lender of the Year Award. This is the first time a major bank has not won the award
The Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation has donated almost $500,000 in grants to not-for-profit community projects in Northern Inland NSW, including Life Education, Armidale PCYC and the refurbishment of the Armidale Hospital Auxiliary Kiosk.
Newcastle Permanent is Australia’s largest building society, with over $7.5 billion in assets.
