Community
11 September, 2025
Cripps steps down from bank board after five years
AFTER five years of voluntary service – including three as chairman – Andrew Cripps has stepped down from the board of the Mission Beach Community Bank, marking the end of a chapter defined by growth, resilience and community spirit.
Mr Cripps’ final board meeting last month concluded a tenure that oversaw the bank’s strongest performance in its 16-year history. Under his leadership, the branch achieved record results that enabled strategic reinvestments such as security upgrades, branch refurbishments, and the renewal of both its building lease and franchise agreement with Bendigo Bank.
“It has been an honour to contribute to such an important local community asset,” Mr Cripps said. “Mission Beach is more than just a place, it is a community with heart and the bank embodies that spirit.”
Mr Cripps acknowledged the role of long-time board member Kelly Cavallaro, describing her as “the cornerstone” of the Mission Beach Community Bank, and extended his best wishes to branch manager Stefanie Raiti and staff.
Despite widespread regional branch closures across Australia, the Mission Beach Community Bank has continued to buck the trend. It now maintains the longest trading hours of any bank in the Cassowary Coast region and remains community-owned – a source of pride for Mr Cripps, who is also a shareholder.
“For several years, it has been the only bank left in Mission Beach,” he said. “If you live in the Cassowary Coast region, I urge you to support the bank that continues to support you.”
As he steps away from the board, Mr Cripps said he was looking forward to future opportunities to share his knowledge and contribute to other businesses and organisations.
Since opening in 2008, the Mission Beach Community Bank has reinvested profits into local projects and groups. Earlier this year, 17 community and sporting organisations received $500 donations and certificates to mark the bank’s 17th birthday.
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