Two of our local Macarthur Credit Union employees have been selected to represent Australian and New Zealand Credit Unions by going to Fiji! Help us to extend our concept of helping community by sending Laurel Philpott and Natalie Symkowiak to share MCU’s knowledge and expertise!

The two week visit takes the form of a Leadership Challenge - physical, intellectual, emotional and cultural challenge.

Laurel & Natalie will kayak 60 kilometres around Kadavu Island and visit local financial co-operatives in Suva and outlying areas. They will learn about some of the local peoples’ aspirations; perhaps a new foot path, a new church, building a community hall or paying for their children’s education.

In Fiji, credit unions and saving clubs have been established since 1953 and the peak body in the Pacific is Oceanic Confederation of Credit Union Leagues (OCCUL). OCCUL is funded by Credit Union Foundation Australia (CUFA), an Australian non-government organisation. Until OCCUL becomes financially independent in the near future, monies raised from fundraising efforts by Australian credit union leaders, support them.

“The Credit Union movement gives profits back to its members and on the village level this money is used for schools and local projects. Our Australian visit is invaluable for the locals who learn and discover more creative and interesting ways to benefit their communities. It is also a life changing experience for us.

Macarthur Credit Union has fully funded our participation and fares. But, to be eligible to participate we must raise $3,300 each, which we donate to OCCUL. This is our first challenge!

We would dearly appreciate your support - your tax deductible donation will help us on this very important journey.”

- Laurel & Natalie.

There are a few possible ways to donate:

In Person -

Visit one of our four branches to make your donation to Laurel & Natalie’s Leadership Challenge.

Electronic Transfer -

Simply transfer from any account your donation into the following account:

BSB: 802-388 Account Number: 100026718

Account Name: CUFA Leadership Challenge

Reference: Your name (so that we can arrange your tax receipt).

Cheque -

Write a cheque made out to "CUFA Leadership Challenge” and mail to:

Laurel & Natalie’s Leadership Challenge

PO Box 121, Camden NSW 2570

More Information

• Visit CUFA's website
• Visit OCCUL's website