CELEBRATING a second century is not just for cricket.

Westpac Bank are celebrating their 200^th anniversary for serving their communities with banking facilities.

Jason Russell, Bank Manager of the Nelson Bay branch, said, “We are local and continue to be invested within our community.”

“The Bump account is a great way for Westpac Bank to continue growth for our customers, we are proactive in supporting charities too, for instance, 2016 saw us celebrate 40 years of supporting Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.”

The Bump account is being offered throughout 2017 for babies born during this year.

Upon verification, the Trust account will receive a $200 deposit, and will be available from when the child turns 16 years old.

If the account is added to by $20 per week, it is estimated, based on 1.5% interest, that the child will have a nest egg of around $19,000 when they reach their 16^th birthday.

“I have already registered my interest in the Bump account, being 28 weeks’ pregnant and knowing how busy I will be after the birth it is one less thing to have to think about,”  Rebecca Nulty of Shoal Bay, told News Of The Area.

“I am ecstatic that I can be part of this celebration, and it will be a good start to her (baby) savings.”

With an estimated 300,000 babies expected to be born this year, this is a huge commitment from Westpac Bank.

George Frazie, Chief Executive Consumer Bank at Westpac Group, said, “The initiative reflects Westpac’s commitment to supporting the future of Australia, the Bump initiative helps Westpac to mark the beginning of our bicentennial year in the best way possible – by investing in the next generation of Australians and inspiring good savings habits with the potential to have a lifelong impact.”

For further information, contact your local branch or register your interest at: westpac.com.au/dearbump.

 

 

By Mandy ELLIS