THE Building Active Connected Communities (BaCC) celebrated raising more than $1million for local organisations at the Clink Theatre in Port Douglas last night.

The BaCC initiative, which began in 2009, provides a simple model for local not-for-profits to generate consistent income streams by meeting their banking needs through the Bendigo Bank.

A number of cheques were presented to Douglas Shire community groups last night by BaCC Board Member Sam Cullen and Chairman Stephen Devenish, along with members from the Port Douglas Bendigo Bank branch.

Devenish said reaching the $1 million milestone was a great achievement.

“Really it’s about helping local not-for-profit organisations generate money for their business or clubs with no effort on their part, and there is no cost to the organisations or their supporters to be part of BaCC,” Devenish said.

“It’s no different to a local club raising money through selling raffle tickets on a Saturday afternoon, only you don’t need people giving up their weekend to do it.

“The amount we have reached reflects our growth, and I’d like to thank our Board, Bendigo Bank and their customers for supporting our not for profit groups and community initiatives.”

If you would like to know how your organisation can get involved visit the website, Facebook page or your local Bendigo Bank Branch.