General News
31 October, 2025
Bendigo Bank, Honda set to support EB
One of Maryborough’s most high-profile events has received a major partnership boost as Bendigo Bank and Honda will power the volunteers and students taking on Energy Breakthrough.
Energy Breakthrough’s over 700 volunteers will again be backed by the Community Bank Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud for the fourth year running.
Central Goldfields Shire mayor Grace La Vella said Community Bank Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud have become an integral part of the event.
“We are incredibly grateful for their ongoing investment. Since its inception, the partnership has boosted the volunteer experience, making it one to remember,” she said.
“Their involvement and passion for volunteerism have helped us attract potential new volunteers, support current volunteers, and recognise the efforts of our long-standing volunteers.”
Assistant branch manager of Community Bank Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud, Aley Earl, said it’s the bank’s customers that make this happen.
“Every account, every loan, every bit of banking with us helps fund amazing local events like Energy Breakthrough,” she said.
“We’re constantly inspired by the incredible volunteers who make this event possible. They give so much of their time and energy, and we’re proud that our support helps ensure they’re well looked after with food, uniforms, and the essentials they need to keep things running smoothly.”
Volunteers play a critical role in the success of Energy Breakthrough, working across a range of areas including communications, social media, judges for display and presentations, design and construction and track marshals.
Volunteers also contribute through local community groups who provide support through site set up and pack down and provision of food.
“It’s a real community effort and we’re so proud to be part of it. More than $2.6 million has already been returned to local projects and organisations, proving that when you bank local, everyone benefits,” Ms Earl said.
Honda also announced a two-year partnership with Energy Breakthrough yesterday, becoming a lead partner in the event.
The partnership is a direct investment in powering the work of over 3500 students who will design, build, and test the next wave of innovative vehicles.
Honda’s general manager of brand, marketing and customer experience, Eva Barrett, said the partnership is an active collaboration to inspire and enable future problem-solvers.
“It reflects Honda’s core belief in the Power of Dreams and our mission to help people achieve their potential,” she said.
“By providing a platform for hands-on learning, we are investing in the young minds who will shape Australia’s future.”
The partnership will see Honda branding featured throughout the event precinct, including track signage, volunteer uniforms, and the popular event guide.
Honda will also have an on-site activation, providing students and spectators the opportunity to explore Honda’s latest technologies and meet members of its teams.
Those interested in becoming an Energy Breakthrough volunteer will not be required to commit to every day of the event.
Volunteers are welcome even if they can only contribute a morning, afternoon, or one full day.
There is a wide range of volunteering roles available, with the community invited to match their skills and experience with areas of interest.
For those interested in registering to be a volunteer, visit www.eb.org.au/volunteer, contact 0408 326 157, or email enquiries@eb.org.au
Energy Breakthrough 2025 will be held from Wednesday, November 19 to Sunday, November 23 at Princes Park, Maryborough.