Upper Yarra Community Enterprise Timeline
A Legacy of Local Banking and Community Impact
The story of Upper Yarra Community Enterprise Ltd (UYCE) began with a simple yet powerful idea: to keep banking services in the Upper Yarra and reinvest profits back into the community.
In 1998, faced with the closure of local bank branches, a group of passionate locals—led by the late Don Vickers—formed a steering committee to explore the idea of a Community Bank. After an initial public meeting at the Upper Yarra Arts Centre and strong local support, over $80,000 in pledges was secured by Christmas Eve that same year. This momentum led Bendigo Bank to invite a formal proposal and feasibility study.
By mid-1999, the Warburton Community Bank Steering Committee had unanimously agreed to proceed, and after months of dedicated planning and community engagement, Community Bank Warburton officially opened its doors on 25 February 2000, followed by the Yarra Junction branch soon after.
Since then, UYCE has remained proudly community-owned and operated, reinvesting over $5 million into the region through grants, sponsorships, scholarships, and donations. These funds have supported local projects, community groups, education, and social initiatives—helping to strengthen and enrich life in the Upper Yarra.
In 2025, UYCE celebrated 25 years of community banking, marking a major milestone in the organisation’s journey. The occasion brought together shareholders, community members, local leaders, and past and present staff to reflect on the impact of community banking and to acknowledge the contributions of those who made it all possible.
A highlight of the celebration was the recognition of Roslyn Caneva, who received a 25-Year Service Award. Ros has been part of the Warburton branch since day one and remains a valued member of the team. The event also honoured the legacy of original visionaries such as Don Vickers and Ian De La Rue OAM, the inaugural Chair.
To mark the 25-year milestone, UYCE announced an additional $50,000 in community support, including $38,000 in grants to 12 local groups and $12,000 in scholarships for Upper Yarra students beginning their tertiary education.
Today, UYCE continues to champion community-led banking, with its profits going where they matter most—back into the Upper Yarra. With a strong foundation built on local values, collective effort, and long-term vision, we’re proud to be investing in a vibrant and connected future for generations to come.
