TWO banking institutions have thrown its support behind the Port Stephens netball community for the 2016 season and beyond. The Mutual has signed a three-year partnership with the Port Stephens Netball Association, which will include providing financial support to the Raymond Terrace-based association through to the end of the 2018 season. Additionally, the Mutual will take on the naming rights of the association’s winter competition. “Our association has a long-standing relationship with the Mutual, especially with the team at the Raymond Terrace branch,” Jodi Cassar, president of the Port Stephens Netball Association, said.  “We are excited to be working with an organisation that is so heavily ingrained in the local community.” Port Stephens Netball Association has a membership base of more than 600 players, volunteers, managers, and coaches across its junior and senior competitions.  The Mutual’s general manager, Geoffrey Seccombe, said the partnership with Port Stephens Netball Association will deliver exciting opportunities for all involved.  “Team sports are a great way to bring people together,” he said. “For us, community is key, so the fact that we have an opportunity to get involved with such a recognised community organisation means a lot to the Mutual.” Meanwhile, the Greater Building Society has renewed its support of the Nelson Bay Netball Association for another year. On Saturday, April 30, all 374 players registered with the Nelson Bay association will receive a gift from the Greater – a water bottle and $5 in a LifeSaver savings account with the bank. It will also provide a marquee for the association to use at games and events. Ryan Palmer, manager of the Greater’s Nelson Bay branch, said supporting the Tomaree Peninsula’s netballers was part of the bank’s push to help players, clubs and associations in regional NSW. “The Greater supports netball because it is a popular, grassroots sport that keeps women and girls active and gives them skills but it doesn’t always get the same funding or attention as male sports,” Mr Palmer said. “As a customer-owned banking organisation we exist for our customers and the local community, not shareholders.” The netball season runs between March and September.
