Nine volunteer community groups events and clubs have shared more than $22,200 in Drouin and District Financial Services Ltd's, the local shareholder body of Drouin Community Bendigo Bank, first round of sponsorships for the 2024-2025 financial year.

The figure brought the bank's local contributions through grants, donations, community investments and dividends to shareholders beyond $7.1 million since it opened.
The latest recipients were:
Hallora Marathon - continuing support for the soon to be held 2024 event, the 10th year it has been staged, to promote physical activity and engagement as well as raising funds for the Peter McCallum cancer centre.
Warragul Football Netball Club - season sponsorship to promote the club's family values, player development and team pride. The club was congratulated on its under 18 football team winning the Gippsland League premiership and the A grade netball team on reaching the grand final.
Drouin Combined Churches Committee - to continue the tradition of staging the annual free Carols by Candlelight in Drouin's Civic Park.
U3A Baw Baw - support for this year's Senior Week Literary Lunch on October 11 at Drouin's Royal Hotel where, in partnership with Off the Leash Theatre Group, there will be a presentation of the works of Australian poet Banjo Paterson.
Drouin Bowling Club - sponsorship package for a number of initiatives to continue to grow the club including its barefoot bowls and weekly coaching program that has attracted new members.
Drouin Hawks Netball Club - for programs for juniors ranging from five to 11 years of age including learning basic skills, a Set 7 program and an twilight competitions.
Baw Baw Big Blokes BBQ - continued major sponsorship of the biggest fund-raising event in the community that supports the Prostate Cancer Foundation and first aid training and mental health programs in local schools.
Grants that also were approved for Longwarry Junior Football Club and Drouin Cricket Club will be formally presented in December.