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The process of buying a home can be stressful, and an auction process can seem quite daunting… but it doesn’t have to be! Auctions are often a common rite of passage to owning your first home, going into it prepared with forethought and strategy can help maximise your chances of success (without having to pay too much). If this is your first home buying experience, we’ve got 10 tips for you to help you on your journey to acing your first auction, not missing out or paying too much and getting that dream home! 1. Do your homework. When preparing for a real estate auction, research is key! Here are a few things you can do: Take a look online at recently sold listings in the area so you can better understand the prices at which similar properties have sold for.  Walk around the neighbourhood and if you have the opportunity, speak to some of the neighbours about the area.  Attend other open homes for nearby properties. These sorts of activities can help you better understand the home's location and market value and assist in deciding a suitable bidding range for the auction.  2. Obtain a professional building report.  It's important to fully understand the condition of the property and what you’re bidding on, so getting a thorough onsite inspection of the property as well as obtaining a professional building report is a must. If the building report doesn’t come back as favourable, you’ll be able to walk away before the bidding begins. Alternatively, you could use this information to set a lower bidding limit. 3. Set a budget. Establish a clear budget before stepping into the auction. Remember, you need to consider more than just the bidding price. There are additional expenses such as stamp duty, conveyancing costs, furnishings and any renovations that need to be taken into account. It’s very easy to get over-excited at an auction, so it’s key that you set a maximum bid amount that aligns with your financial capabilities … and stick to it. 4. Apply for financing pre-approval and pull your deposit together. Pre-approval for a home loan is a type of preliminary approval from a lender. Before you start bidding at an auction, you need to approach your lender to get pre-approved for a loan so that you can be confident in knowing you have finance to pay for your new home should you become the successful bidder. This will show you how much you can comfortably afford based on your income and expenditure.  You will also need to ensure you have your deposit saved and ready to transfer if you are the winning bidder at the auction. Get fast pre-approval with Horizon’s quick loan application turnarounds! Enquire with your local lender now. 5. Understand the auction process. Auctions are typically carried out by a real-estate agent, who will act as the auctioneer, and are subject to strict rules. Before an auction, the seller of the property will nominate a reserve price, this is not usually made public. During the auction the hopeful buyers will compete to put in the highest bid for the property. Auctions are fast paced so it’s important to make sure you’re keeping track of the competing bids being placed and stick to your budget. If the reserve price is met and bidding continues, the home will be sold at the end of the auction however, if the bidders don’t reach the reserve price the auctioneer might ‘pass in’ the property, which means it is not sold. Another important piece of information you need to consider before diving into an auction is that if you are the successful bidder, there is no cooling off period or time to change your mind about the sale. 6. Familiarise yourself with the auction rules. As mentioned above, some auctions will have specific rules or procedures. Things such as requirements for registration, bidding increments and payment methods. Make sure you get a copy of the auctions terms & conditions to review, that way you can be prepared to follow the rules. 7. Thoroughly examine the sale contract. In order to protect yourself against any potential risks that come with buying the property, obtain a copy of the sale contract and show it to your solicitor or conveyancer for review prior to the auction. They can review the contract and explain any risks that may come with purchasing the property. 8. Attend other auctions as an observer. If you want to try to understand the dynamics and pace of an auction process, it’s a good idea to attend some auctions just to observe. This will help you get a feel for the auction process before you go in as a bidder. 9. Bid strategically. There are a few tailored bidding tactics that you can use to maximise your chances of success at an auction, such as establishing dominance by bidding early, bidding incrementally so you can scope out the competition or waiting until the last minute to jump in with a decisive bid. You may need to adapt your strategy based on the behaviour of the other bidders or the dynamics of an auction on the day. 10. Enjoy the experience. Although it’s important to be prepared, strategic and level-headed at an auction, you should also try to enjoy the experience! Auctions are exhilarating and whether you win or lose, each time you participate in an auction you will gain valuable insights and lessons for the next time. Every bid you make brings you closer to owning your own home or investment property! Celebrate your successes and learn from your mistakes. We know you’ll get there!   Although it can seem daunting participating in your first auction, it can also be an exhilarating and rewarding experience as long as you go in with the right mindset and preparation. It’s important to remember that success at an auction isn’t just about winning, it’s about securing the right home at the right price and time for you. By following the tips above and doing all the right preparation, setting your budget, staying calm under pressure, and observing auction protocol, you’ll be on the path to acing your first auction! These strategies will enhance your chances of success. As you step into the world of auctions, remember that financial readiness is critical. Horizon Bank ensures you have all the financial support and advice you need to make confident bids. Whether you're looking into securing a loan for that must-have item or seeking advice on managing your finances post-auction, our team at Horizon Bank is ready to assist you. Don't let financial uncertainties hold you back from acing your first auction. Visit us online or drop by your nearest branch to discover how we can help you make your auction experience seamless and financially sound. Let Horizon Bank be your partner in navigating the exciting world of auctions. Start your journey with us today! Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong.

Planning Ahead: How to Discuss and Document Your Final Wishes Are you planning ahead and preparing for the future? End-of-life planning is a topic that may seem daunting and many shy away from, but it’s an essential part of life. By discussing and documenting your final wishes, you can ensure that your desires for your life celebration are fulfilled, and in turn ease the burden on your loved ones in a difficult and challenging time. At Horizon we have created a Final Wishes Worksheet, that will be introduced through this post, which can help you facilitate this important conversation and provide guidance on how you would like your life celebrated. The Importance of Discussing Final Wishes Being able to discuss your final wishes with your loved ones is very important as it can provide clarity and peace of mind for both you and them. End-of-life planning is often overlooked in life planning although such an important aspect. It is especially reassuring that in a time of grief, after having these conversations, your family or friends can avoid the stress of having to try make all the decisions in preparing your final arrangements during challenging times. Overcoming the Challenges We understand that bringing up the topic of end-of-life planning with your family and friends can be a challenging conversation to start. Start by choosing a calm, comfortable setting and be open about your intentions. It helps in starting this conversation to acknowledge the discomfort that may come with it, to make your family and friends feel at ease that is difficult for all parties, then go on to emphasise the practicality and emotional benefits of you all having this discussion. Documenting Your Wishes As previously mentioned, we have a Final Wishes Worksheet that we have designed to make documenting your wishes straightforward and easy to interpret for your loved ones. The worksheet is thorough and covers many aspects that if not provided, your loved ones may struggle making decisions about. By having your wishes in writing, it removes any ambiguity about your preferences for your end-of-life arrangements and provides a straightforward reference for your loved ones when they may need it most in their time of grief. A Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Worksheet The worksheet covers various aspects of end-of-life planning, ensuring the majority of what your loved ones are required to provide information on, they will have. As you fill it out, it’s important to take your time and reflect on each section. It may be overwhelming to be putting thought into each topic in such detail, so take your time and ensure you are comfortable with your preferences for your final arrangements. If needed, it may be helpful and less daunting to have your loved ones assist you with the worksheet or even all of you do your own at the same time. It’s likely to spark some interesting insights. The ability to be thorough and thoughtful is crucial in ensuring your wishes are clearly articulated and easy to understand.  Sharing with Loved Ones Once you have gone through and completed the worksheet, it’s time to share it with your loved ones. You may want to go through the worksheet together so you are able to answer any questions your family and friends may have, which ensures that in the future they are clear with your final wishes. Storing the worksheet in a secure yet accessible location is very important. A suggestion is to keep it with your important documents file along with your Will, passport, birth certificate etc. You may wish to also share the worksheet with your attorney in addition to your family and friends. The worksheet needs to be located, in the event your loved ones require it. Having this worksheet accessible will bring you peace of mind knowing your family can easily access this information when needed without having to worry about where to find it. Supporting Your Plans Financially The best way to ensure your final arrangements are carried out as you’ve planned for, is to support them financially. Financial planning is an integral part of end-of-life arrangements, so you will need to think about ways you can provide this support for your final plans. Some ways to do this is to consider a special rainy day savings account that could be used for any kind of emergency or having an insurance policy that will be able to financially support your plans, easing the burden on your loved ones. Although often an overlooked part of life planning, it is crucial that you document your final wishes and have the conversations with your family and friends. Don’t leave your final wishes to chance and ease the burden on your family and friends when it comes to the difficult time of planning your life celebration. Our Final Wishes Worksheet provides you with a straightforward tool to assist in facilitating these important conversations. One of Horizon Values is we’re all about our customers. We’re here for you. At the most difficult time for you and your loved ones, we believe the Final Wishes Worksheet takes some of the pressure off decision making. You can access our Final Wishes Worksheet here and start the conversation. Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the Illawarra and South Coast with offices at: Thirroul, Wollongong, Albion Park, Berry, Nowra, Ulladulla, Moruya, Bega, Bermagui and Merimbula.  

Fixed vs Variable: Pros and cons of fixing your interest rate Are you in the market for a loan but aren’t sure whether to take out a fixed of variable rate? Choosing between fixed and variable interest rates can be complex, especially for first-time borrowers. This blog aims to simplify this decision-making process by providing in-depth insights into both options, which will help you understand how these interest rates work and which best fits your financial situation. Understanding Interest Rates Interest rates play a crucial role in determining the overall cost of your loan. Banks will normally offer a fixed rate of a period of 1, 2 , 3 or 5 years. So the interest rate remains unchanged throughout whichever period you choose. This offers you stability and predictability in your repayments. Your repayment stays the same regardless of market changes. At the end of the fixed period, the rate normally reverts to a variable rate or you can choose to re-fix.Conversely, variable interest rates can fluctuate in response to market conditions. This could mean that your repayments decrease when market rates fall, but they also could increase if market rates rise. The Pros and Cons of Fixed Interest Rates Choosing a fixed-interest rate loan means that you’ll know exactly what your repayments will be for the fixed period you choose; this is normally less than or equal to 5 years. This can make it easier for you to budget and plan for your future. However, a major drawback of a fixed rate is their lack of flexibility. This means if the market rates fall, you will still be required to pay the higher rate. Additionally, fixed-interest rate loans may have restrictions on whether you are able to make extra repayments or pay off the loan early. It is likely to have a fee to break the fixed rate contract. The Pros and Cons of Variable Interest Rates A variable interest rate offers more flexibility than their fixed counterparts. If market rates decrease, so will your repayments, potentially saving you money. Many variable-rate loans will also allow extra repayments, allowing you to pay off your loan faster. On the downside, variable-rate loans are unpredictable. If the market rates rise, so will your repayments, potentially stretching your budget. Fixed Interest Rates with Horizon Bank At Horizon Bank, we offer competitive fixed-rate loans. By choosing a fixed-rate loan with us, you can effectively manage your finances by knowing exactly what your weekly, fortnightly or monthly repayments will be. Our team of experts are always available to guide you through the process and present the loan options that best suits your needs. Horizon allows up to $30,000 in extra repayments each loan anniversary year, which helps reduce the term of the loan. For extra repayments made on a fixed-interest rate loan, Horizon allows you to redraw on those funds if you require to do so down the track free of charge. Variable Interest Rates with Horizon Bank At Horizon Bank, our variable-rate loans are designed to provide you with flexibility and potential savings, which is ideal for both experienced buyers and first-home buyers. Benefit from a variable interest rate and take advantage of flexible weekly, fortnightly or monthly repayment options – whichever suits you best – as well as the allowance of extra repayments without penalty. Making Your Decision The choice between fixed and variable rates depends heavily on the current Australian economic climate. For example, a variable rate might save you money in a falling market, but in a rising market a fixed rate could offer you more stability. Your personal finance goals should be the primary driver behind your decision of whether you value stability or flexibility. We understand that choosing between a fixed and variable interest rate is a significant decision that can greatly impact your financial future. By considering the pros and cons of each option you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and circumstances. Contact us to explore your loan options, you can have a chat with one of our experts today. We’ve got the Illawarra and South Coast covered with branches located in Thirroul, Wollongong, Albion Park, Berry, Nowra, Ulladulla, Moruya, Bega, Bermagui and Merimbula. Regardless of where you live, reach out to us by filling in an online loan enquiry form and we’ll assist you over the phone and email.

In this post we’ll look at the steps you can take to creating a personal budget. Creating and sticking to this will teach you discipline with your money and help you to reach your savings goals sooner. It will also enable you to view your income differently which could see you with a surplus of funds rather than living paycheck-to-paycheck. Putting your budget together This can be done simply in an excel spreadsheet. List your income at the top, then list all of your expenses in categories where possible. Total up your expenses and minus this cost from your total income. If you have money left over, great work. If you find yourself in a minus, keep reading for tips on how to get back in the green. Anticipate Changes – before making a budget, think ahead for any large changes that you can reasonably anticipate, like taking out a new mortgage or other personal finance expenses  and incorporate it into your plans as early as possible – even if you do not know what the value will be.  Don't forget to include extra income as well – for example, any anticipated raises or money from a tax return. Make educated guesses – When you don't know the future value of something, make conservative estimates. Make expenses that bit higher, and income a bit lower. This provides a cushion in case things do not go as planned.  Review Your Spending  As previously mentioned, making a budget starts with creating a list of all your expenses and their costs. This includes loan repayments, credit card payments, money spent on groceries and bills plus any entertainment expenses. You can use our budget planner calculator to get started. Look for ways to cut back. This is the hard part! The easiest way to cut back on your expenses is to list them in priority order. Which ones are needs versus a want? If they’re all needs, consider cheaper alternatives. For example, look for a cheaper plan with another internet provider or share the cost of streaming services with a family member or friend. Be Accountable  Good financial management is all about ownership. A budget is only useful if you stick to it. Share your success and setbacks with your significant other, family member or close friend who will encourage you to stay on track with your spending. Make it easy for yourself by printing out your budget table and keeping it close by to refer back to. Sometimes a hard copy is easier than starting up your computer and loading your budget software. If you use a budget planner app even better. Our phones are always within easy reach! Have a purpose and goal in mind  This will help you determine how much you may need to save for and how quickly. Decide if you’re saving for something specific such as a holiday or a new car, or if you’re just trying to cut back on excess spending. Helpful budgeting tools  Our budget planner calculator is a free online tool that is convenient to access and easy to use. Once you’ve got your list of expenses, put them into the calculator which will tell you if you will end up with a surplus or shortfall after considering the income details you provide. This can also be accessed from your smartphone or tablet. Have a plan for any excess funds you find yourself with. It is quick and easy to open a savings account or term deposit online where you can deposit your money into straight away to avoid temptation. If you are still finding yourself in the red, make sure you have all of your expenses properly listed. Get someone to check over your budget for accuracy. If you are still experiencing issues, seek help from a financial counselor about managing debts. Get in touch with the friendly team at Horizon Bank today and let us help you on your savings journey. Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the Illawarra and South Coast with offices at: Thirroul, Wollongong, Albion Park, Berry, Nowra, Ulladulla, Moruya, Bega, Bermagui and Merimbula. The content in this article has been prepared by Horizon Bank for general information only and it is not intended to be professional advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should seek your own legal, accounting, financial or other professional advice where appropriate, and consider the relevant General Terms and Conditions before deciding whether to acquire any products or services offered by Horizon Bank and/or its affiliated partners. We do not recommend any third party products or services referred to in this article unless otherwise stated and we are not liable in relation to them. Any links to third party websites are for your information and we do not endorse any content on those sites. Horizon Credit Union Ltd ABN 66 087 650 173 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence Number 240573 trading as Horizon Bank. 

Money has a way of intertwining with our most cherished relationships, and it can be a delicate topic to broach. During the early days of a romance, the last thing you might want to discuss over a coffee date is debts, credit scores or mortgage repayments. However, as your lives become increasingly entwined, addressing your financial matters with openness and honesty is essential. Your partner's financial situation can significantly impact your own, and being proactive is key. Financial discussions can come to the forefront at various stages in a relationship – when you decide to move in together, purchase property jointly, add a pet to your family, welcome children, prepare for retirement, or even when facing the possibility of separation. Therefore, it's crucial to address and resolve financial issues effectively. To ensure your discussions are both respectful and positive, here are eight essential tips from Horizon HQ for approaching financial conversations with your partner: Open Communication: Initiate honest and open conversations about finances with your partner. Share your goals, aspirations, and concerns. Stay Calm: Keep emotions in check during financial discussions. Avoid blame and finger-pointing to foster a more constructive dialogue. Collaborate on Goals: Work together to establish both short-term and long-term financial objectives that align with your shared vision for the future. Face Challenges Head-On: Address financial challenges promptly instead of procrastinating. Openly discuss how to adjust your budget during tough times. Schedule Money Talks: Dedicate regular, uninterrupted time for discussing finances. Consistency ensures focused and productive conversations. Transparency Is Key: Be open and honest about your financial situation. Hidden spending and debts can erode trust over time. Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your financial milestones and achievements together! It will keep you going and motivated to keep hitting those goals. Appreciate Uniqueness: Understand that every financial situation is unique and we all come from different directions when it comes to talking finances. Avoid unhealthy comparisons with other couples or your partner's finances. Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong.

Are you ready to embark on a journey to one of the most captivating destinations along the south coast? Merimbula, nestled on the Sapphire Coast, is calling your name. In this updated guide, we will take you on a tour of what this charming town has to offer.   Where is Merimbula? Merimbula is situated on the enchanting Sapphire Coast, approximately a 5-hour drive south of Wollongong. Alternatively, you can opt for a scenic flight into Merimbula, soaking in breathtaking aerial views as you approach this coastal paradise.   Local Attractions Mitchies Jetty: A picturesque spot where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while strolling along the waterfront. For the more adventurous, dip your feet in the serene waters of the lake or go for a SUP. Merimbula Main Beach: Boasting a 5-kilometer stretch of golden shoreline, this beach is a haven for surf enthusiasts. When the wind picks up, it becomes the ultimate location to witness thrilling windsurfing and kitesurfing or to try it out for yourself. Whale Watching: Winter and early spring is when whales gather off the coast, nurturing their young before continuing their journey south to Antarctica. Don't miss the opportunity to witness this natural wonder; book a whale-watching tour to see these magnificent creatures pass by. Merimbula Golf Course: Golfers can work on their swing at this scenic course. It's also a prime spot to observe kangaroos that often make appearances. Merimbula Lake: This pristine waterway perfectly embodies the beauty of the Sapphire Coast. Child-friendly and featuring a glassy surface, it's an ideal spot for stand-up paddleboarding. Merimbula Classic: This annual event draws water sports enthusiasts from all over, featuring thrilling competitions and showcasing the area's natural beauty. Mitchies Jetty   Best Places to Eat in Merimbula Here are some of the local dining establishments that are sure to tantalize your taste buds: Fishpen Takeaway: Located on Marine Parade, Merimbula, it's the go-to place for the best fish and chips with a beachfront view. Merimbula Fresh Seafoods: Ideal for seafood aficionados looking to cook their own meals or enjoy a delicious pile of fresh prawns. Merimbula Fish and Chips: Grab a quick meal to take away and enjoy it at Main Beach, which offers stunning picnic spots and beautiful lake views. Seabreeze Diner: Renowned for its delectable fish and chips and mouthwatering chicken schnitzel burgers. Waterfront Café: Situated on the boardwalk, it's the perfect spot to relax and soak in the tranquility of the lake while savoring a fantastic meal. Market Street Coffee: Delicious coffees and treats can be found here. Superette: Our next door neighbours! A trendy wine bar with a great selection. Merimbula Ice Creamery: Treat yourself to a sweet delight and indulge in delectable ice cream. Nourish Wholefoods and Café: For healthy snacks and quality coffee, you can't go wrong with the vegetarian-friendly Nourish Café, conveniently located on the boardwalk. The Wharf Restaurant & Aquarium: Dive into a unique dining experience surrounded by sea creatures. Enjoy a relaxing meal, whether it's for lunch, dinner, or a delightful coffee and cake break. Dulcie's Cottage: An excellent addition to Merimbula's dining scene and occasionally featuring live music, Dulcie's offers a charming experience for those looking for a delicious cocktail or something special in a picturesque setting.   Shopping Merimbula offers a delightful shopping experience, with numerous boutique stores to explore. Some of our favorites include The Essence of Merimbula, Boardwalk Fashion, Wanderlust and The Muse, Lorikeet Lane, Raging Bull Surf and Koko Maia. Take a souvenir of your time home with you! We hope this updated guide helps you plan your visit to Merimbula and immerse yourself in all the beauty and experiences this coastal town has to offer. By supporting local businesses and the community, you can make your trip to Merimbula a memorable one. To get in touch or find additional information, visit our Merimbula branch page for contact details.   The content in this article has been prepared by Horizon Bank for general information only and it is not intended to be professional advice. It is relevant at time of printing and information could change without notice.

How a Horizon Bank Community Grant Enhanced CareFlight's Training Program In times of crisis and emergencies, the importance of well-trained first responders cannot be overstated. These dedicated individuals are often the first on the scene, providing crucial assistance that can make all the difference in saving lives. CareFlight, a non-profit organisation committed to enhancing pre-hospital and critical care services, understands the significance of equipping first responders with the best tools and training. With assistance from a Horizon Bank Community Grant, CareFlight was able to take a significant step forward in achieving this goal, acquiring state-of-the-art Ferno Carbon Fibre Spineboards to enhance their training programs. Matt Stephenson, Equipment Manager at CareFlight, emphasised the impact of the grant by saying, "The Ferno Carbon Fibre Spineboards are the best on the market. They are lightweight, durable, have plenty of handholes, and are extremely user-friendly. They sit easily on ambulance stretchers and are perfect for extricating a simulated or live patient from a vehicle. For all these reasons, they are our preferred spineboard to use while conducting community training for first responders." The Power of Community Grants Community grants play a pivotal role in supporting organisations like CareFlight that are dedicated to improving the communities in which they operate. These grants can help to provide vital resources that enable the investment in essential equipment, infrastructure, training, and services. In the case of CareFlight, the Horizon Bank Community Grant assisted them in enhancing their training program, ultimately benefiting the entire community by ensuring first responders are well-prepared to handle emergencies effectively.   Apply Today! If you're part of a NSW South Coast-based organisation or initiative striving to make a difference, join us in shaping a better future for your community. Apply now for a Horizon Bank Community Grant and turn your ideas into sustainable actions! To learn more, click here.   Horizon Bank serves the NSW South Coast with branches located in Wollongong, Thirroul, Albion Park, Berry, Ulladulla, Bega, Moruya, Bermagui, Moruya and Merimbula. 

Nestled in the heart of New South Wales, Bega is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and rural charm. When you think of Bega, you likely think of cheese! But did you know that Bega has much more to offer than just dairy products? Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or food lover, this town has something special for everyone. Join us as we explore the top 8 things to do in Bega, inviting you to experience the fun of this Sapphire Coast hub city. Visit the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre: Your trip to Bega wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre. Discover the fascinating history of this iconic Australian brand, learn about the cheese-making process, and, of course, sample some of their delectable cheeses. Explore the Bega River: Stroll along the banks of the tranquil Bega River, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a relaxing picnic. The lush greenery and serene atmosphere make it an ideal place to unwind and connect with nature. At Glebe Park, there are picnic tables under the shade of trees for anyone to use. Biamanga National Park: Just a short drive from Bega, the Biamanga National Park offers a glimpse into the rich indigenous culture of the area. Explore ancient rock art, walk scenic trails, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this park. Take a Cheese Tasting Tour: Dive deeper into Bega's cheese culture by booking a cheese tasting tour. You'll have the chance to savor an array of cheese varieties, each with its own unique flavor profile. Bega Pioneers' Museum: History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Bega Pioneers' Museum, which showcases the heritage of the region. You can learn about early settlers, indigenous history, and the development of the town over the years. Tathra Beach: If you're a beach lover, a short 15 minute drive to Tathra Beach is a must. Enjoy swimming, surfing, or simply lazing on the sandy shores of this picturesque coastal destination. Bega Lookout: Head to the Bega Lookout for panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. It's a great spot for taking panoramic photos and appreciating the Valley's beauty. Sapphire Coast Wineries and Microbreweries: Bega is situated in the heart of the Sapphire Coast wine region. Explore local wineries and savor award-winning wines amid scenic vineyards. Award-winning micro-distillery North of Eden is nestled deep in the emerald hills just north of Bega and on the weekends you can BYO picnic and indulge in a tasting! Sip your delicious drop on the lawns whilst taking in the glorious vista of Mumbulla Mountain under the ever changing big skies of the Sapphire Coast hinterland.  Bega is a captivating destination that offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Whether you're interested in learning about cheese-making traditions, exploring the great outdoors, or immersing yourself in local culture, Bega has something to offer every traveller. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the charming town of Bega, where unforgettable experiences await around every corner.     *Images on this web page have been supplied by Robert Hayson The content in this article has been prepared by Horizon Bank for general information only and it is not intended to be professional advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should seek your own legal, accounting, financial or other professional advice where appropriate, and consider the relevant General Terms and Conditions before deciding whether to acquire any products or services offered by Horizon Bank and/or its affiliated partners. We do not recommend any third party products or services referred to in this article unless otherwise stated and we are not liable in relation to them. Any links to third party websites are for your information and we do not endorse any content on those sites. Horizon Credit Union Ltd ABN 66 087 650 173 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence Number 240573 trading as Horizon Bank.

Benefits of Loan Pre-Approval   Making big purchases, like a new car or home is exciting! It also requires thinking about your situation and choices carefully. You may also need to act quickly when necessary, which can be tricky. A fast loan pre-approval is a helpful tool that can make this process easier. It increases your chances of buying what you want before someone else does and takes some of the stress out of these monumental decisions!   What's Conditional Pre-Approval? Conditional pre-approval is like a signal from a lender. It tells you that you can ask for a loan up to a certain amount. But you don't have to take the loan, and the lender doesn't have to give you that much money. However, it tells a seller that you're serious about buying and that you're sure you can pay for what you want. To figure out how much you can borrow, the lender looks at your financial situation and the price range of whatever it is you want to buy.   Why Consider Pre-Approved Loans? Conditional pre-approval not only shows sellers that you're serious about buying, but it also helps you with your finances and budgeting once you find what you want. If you're just starting to think about buying a home for example, getting a swift pre-approval helps you look for homes that you can more likely afford. It gives you an idea of how much money the lender might lend you. If something changes while you're looking – like your money situation – you can update your pre-approval.   How to access Fast Loan Pre-Approval from Horizon Bank? You can apply for a loan online, pop into your local Horizon branch, or give us a call and talk to a lender. Here's what you should know: The price range of what you want to buy If you've saved money for part of the purchase How much you earn How much you spend on living expenses   How Long Does Loan Pre-Approval Last? When pre-approved for a loan, the pre-approval generally will last for two months. Need longer? No stress! We just need to revisit your documents to give you more time. Speak to your lender to learn more about the duration of your individual pre-approval.   Time to Buy, What Happens Next? Once you find what you want to buy you just provide the details to the lender and seek formal approval. This significantly reduces turnaround time in order for you to make your purchase quickly.   With 10 branches located in Thirroul, Wollongong, Albion Park, Berry, Nowra, Ulladulla, Moruya, Bega, Bermagui and Merimbula, we have got the NSW South Coast covered. Not a local? Not a worry! Reach out to us by filling in an online application form and we’ll assist you over the phone and email.

With a growing number of networks and sellers, finding comprehensive mobile phone deals is becoming much easier without paying a hefty monthly fee. If you’re coming to the end of a contract or want to get a better-prepaid deal, here are a few ways to reduce the price.   Think about what you need Modern mobile phones come with many bells and whistles, which come at a premium. Often the cost of the device and its internal capability is rolled into the plan, meaning you’re paying for features you don’t need or use. Before speaking to retailers, think about how you use your phone. Often, that will dictate things like the camera quality, data capacity and model of phone you need. If your usage and needs are more limited, you may save significantly by choosing an older device model. If you have a device you are happy to continue using, it may be worth considering a SIM-only plan.    Research the best price for the model you want Once you’ve identified what you need, check the price different retailers and network providers charge for that model. You may need to survey friends and call a few different stores to ask about the specifics, then keep a log of the lowest prices offered.  It could also be worth waiting a few weeks to a month to see if any specials emerge through the phone networks you’ve got an eye on.   Be prepared to haggle and use comparison websites When you’re armed with the information about how much the model you want typically retails for, speak to a few providers about what they can offer. Some networks give discounts to students, retirees and long-term customers, as well as trying to entice new customers with sign-up deals. It never hurts to ask. Comparison sites such as Canstar, can also provide insight into the different options available.   Consider a second-hand or "hand me down" device As with many things, second-hand phones tend to retail at a significant discount. Hit up your friends and family to see if anyone has upgraded recently and is looking to offload an unlocked device. Some major retailers offer second-hand phones for sale – again, at heavily reduced prices.   Weigh up the cost of long-term plans At a headline level, longer-term plans often appear cheaper. For example, if you’re offered $50 a month for two years or $35 a month for three, the latter sounds more enticing. However, it’s worth considering whether there are any hidden costs or downsides, such as the inability to get a new device if yours is lost, damaged or stolen. Be sure to ask about additional fees, such as activation fees, administrative charges, or roaming fees when you travel, before signing up for a plan. It’s important to read the fine print – including the costs to pay out the plan if necessary. If something unexpected happens – like losing your job – you don’t get a big surprise if you need to end your contract early. A pre-paid SIM can also be something to look into if you want to pay upfront.   In conclusion, getting a better phone deal involves careful consideration of your needs, thorough research, negotiation skills, exploring second-hand options, and understanding long-term plan costs. By following these tips, you can find a phone deal that offers great value and meets your requirements without putting a strain on your finances. Ready to start hunting for the best phone deals? Remember these tips as you explore your options and make an informed decision. Your perfect phone and plan await you, so get started today and enjoy the savings! Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong.