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Horizon Bank aims to support local organisations and initiatives that make a difference in the South Coast community. We have recently launched the Horizon Bank Community Grants Program in line with our continued commitment to supporting those who make our region a great place to live, work and raise a family. We're pleased to announce grants of up to $5,000 are available to local community groups, incorporated not-for-profit organisations and registered charities working in the areas of environment, arts, health and wellbeing, youth, education and sport. Community grants have the power to make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. We're delighted to be able to play a role in supporting the amazing work being done by these local organisations. What impact will the Horizon Bank Community Grants have on the South Coast community? Grants provide much-needed support and funding to local organisations, helping them to achieve their goals and improve the lives of those living in our community. When these goals are achieved, they can have a transformative effect on our community, allowing us to thrive and grow together. By investing in the well-being of our local area, we are strengthening the bonds that connect us all and ensuring that we continue to support each other, now and in the future.   How does the Horizon Bank Community Grants Program work? At Horizon Bank we recognise the importance of supporting our local communities and improving quality of life for all residents. Our Community Grants Program aims to provide funding and resources to community groups, non-profit organisations, and registered charities that are working to achieve various goals in their local area. Whether you’re working on initiatives related to education, healthcare, arts, sport or the environment, our grant programs can provide you with the support you need. We evaluate grant applications based on a variety of criteria, including the project's impact and alignment with our organisation's values and the positive and sustainable impacts it will bring to the community. If you’re looking for ways to contribute to your community and make a positive difference in your local area, we encourage you to apply for one of our grant programs within the designated application periods. Application periods are open for four weeks at a time. What do I need to do to apply for a Community Grant from Horizon Bank? To apply for a Community Grant from Horizon Bank, you must first access the online application form. Your application must be submitted during the specified application opening time and before the designated deadline in order to be considered. Candidates must fall into one of the following categories in order to qualify: community groups, incorporated not-for-profit organisations, or registered charities. To be eligible to apply for a grant from Horizon Bank, you will need to demonstrate that your organisation meets all of the relevant criteria. This includes showing that your group is an official community group, non-profit organisation, or charity that is incorporated and registered according to local laws and regulations. You will also need to include information about your project or cause, including its purpose, goals, and projected outcomes. Additionally, you must provide details of your organisation’s plan, demonstrating your ability to manage grant funds effectively. The project will need to benefit a community on the South Coast; such as the Bega Valley, Eurobodalla, Shoalhaven or Illawarra. If you can demonstrate these qualities along with meeting all other eligibility requirements, you could be a strong candidate for a grant from Horizon Bank.   What happens now? We’re so excited to be able to give back to the community through our Community Grants program and see all the exciting things that can grow from it! If you have a project that you think would benefit from some additional funding, we encourage you to apply today. It takes 15-20 minutes to apply and you could be on your way to making your vision a reality. Visit Horizon Bank online to apply now. We look forward to hearing from you! Applications are currently closed, check back here for updates.  About Horizon Bank Horizon Bank is a customer owned financial institution serving the communities of the South Coast since 1964. Horizon has a branch network spanning the South Coast with locations at: Merimbula, Bega, Bermagui, Moruya, Ulladulla, Nowra, Albion Park, Wollongong and Thirroul.

It's important to be mindful of your banking choices and ensure that they align with your personal values. Banks can provide both great convenience and peace of mind, but it's important to do your research before signing up. Whatever route you choose, be sure to take the time to understand what makes the bank tick - so you can feel good about where your money is going. Here are a few tips on how to make sure you're banking with integrity. Figure out what's important to you When it comes to your money, it's important to align your values with your banking. Find a bank that shares your commitment to things like social responsibility, environmental sustainability and ethical business practices. There are a number of ways to figure out what's important to you. Start by thinking about the causes and issues that you care about most. Then, research banks and credit unions that have policies and programs in place that support your values. Consider the day-to-day convenience of things like online and mobile banking, ATMs, and customer service when making your decision. By taking the time to align your values with your banking, you can ensure that your money is working for you – and for the world. What to look for in a bank Personal banking is more than just a place to keep your money – it’s a personal relationship that should align with your values. The same goes for business banking. When you’re looking for a bank, here are some things to consider to make sure your values are aligned: Does the bank have a personal relationship with its customers?This is important for both personal and business banking. You want to be able to trust your bank and feel like you’re more than just a number. Does the bank support local community, businesses and causes?If you value supporting your community and local businesses, you’ll want to make sure your bank does too. What are the bank’s environmental policies?If you care about reducing your carbon footprint, you may want to choose a bank that offsets its carbon emissions or invests in renewable energy. What are the bank’s social responsibility policies?If you want to make sure your money is going towards making the world a better place, look for a bank that donates to charitable causes or has a focus on social responsibility. Find a bank that aligns with your values When it comes to banking, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best bank for you will depend on your unique financial needs and goals. By doing your research and taking the time to find a bank that aligns with your values, you can ensure that your money is being used in a way that supports your beliefs. Here are a few tips to help you find a banking institution that matches your world view: Do your research - Start by identifying which banking values are most important to you. Ask around - Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues to see if they have any recommendations. Read reviews - Once you've narrowed down your options, read online reviews to get a sense of what other customers think about the banks you're considering. The benefits of banking with a values-aligned institution There are many benefits to banking with a values-aligned institution. When you bank with an institution that shares your values, you can be confident that your money is being used in ways that align with your beliefs. This gives you a greater sense of control over your finances and helps you to support causes that are important to you. This can make banking feel more personal and supportive, rather than just transactional. If you are looking for a bank that shares your personal values, Horizon Bank may be the perfect fit. Check out Horizon's values and see if they resonate with you. We offer a variety of products and services to meet your needs, as well as a commitment to community involvement. Contact our local team today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your financial goals. 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 looking for a different way to save for retirement?A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) may be something you should consider as a way to plan for retirement. You can choose your own investments and manage your own super fund. This gives you more control over your future and allows you to make the most of your retirement savings. What is a self-managed super fund (SMSF)?A self-managed super fund (SMSF) is a type of superannuation fund where the members are also the trustees. This means that the members have control over the investment decisions made and are responsible for complying with the relevant legislation. SMSFs can be established by up to four trustees, who can either be individuals or corporate trustees. The trustees must also be members of the fund. One of the benefits of an SMSF is that it offers flexibility in terms of investment options. Trustees can choose to invest in a wide range of assets, including shares, property, and managed funds. This can provide greater control over the retirement savings and allow the fund to be tailored to individual needs. Another advantage of an SMSF is that it may offer cost savings compared to larger superannuation funds. This is because SMSFs have lower administrative costs and can benefit from economies of scale. Ultimately, an SMSF can provide greater control and flexibility when it comes to retirement planning.   How do self-managed super funds (SMSFs) work? A self-managed super fund (SMSF) is a trust fund established for the purpose of providing retirement benefits for its members. It is managed by its members, who are also trustees of the fund. SMSFs are unique in that they allow individuals to have direct control over their retirement savings. As such, SMSFs are subject to stringent regulations designed to protect the interests of members. One of the key requirements of an SMSF is that it must have a compliant investment strategy. This means that the trustees must consider factors such as how the fund will generate income and how it will grow over time. Additionally, SMSFs must maintain detailed records and comply with reporting requirements. While this may seem like a lot of work, many people find managing their own super fund is a rewarding experience. What are the benefits of self-managed super funds (SMSFs)?Self-managed super funds have become increasingly popular in recent years and for good reason. SMSFs offer a number of benefits that traditional super funds simply can't match. SMSFs give you a high degree of control over your investments. With an SMSF, on the other hand, you have the final say over where your money is invested. This means that you can tailor your portfolio to your unique financial goals and risk tolerance. In addition, SMSFs typically charge lower fees than traditional funds. This is because you're not paying for expensive fund managers or other middlemen. As a result, more of your money stays in your pocket, where it can compound over time and grow into a sizeable nest egg. SMSFs offer greater flexibility when it comes to withdrawals and benefits. This flexibility can be especially beneficial if you need to access your funds for unexpected expenses or opportunities. All things considered, it's no wonder that self-managed super funds have become such a popular choice for savvy investors. Things to consider before setting up an SMSFThere are a few things to consider before setting up a self-managed super fund (SMSF). First, you need to be sure that you are able to meet the SMSF administration requirements. This includes: maintaining records; preparing financial statements; and lodging tax returns. You also need to have an understanding of investment strategies and SMSF fund rules. Additionally, you need to be comfortable making decisions about your own finances and investments. If you’re not confident in your ability to meet these requirements, it would be best to seek professional advice. Another thing to consider is whether you have enough money to comfortably invest in an SMSF. This type of fund typically requires a larger initial investment than other types of super funds. Finally, you need to be aware of the risks involved in investing in an SMSF. As with any investment, there is always the potential for loss. Contact us todayLook to Horizon Bank to open a Self-Managed Super Fund Saver account. Get in touch with one of our friendly local team 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. Note: The article above is not financial advice. You should consider your own financial circumstances. Before acquiring the financial product, you should consider whether or not the product is appropriate for you. You may wish to seek financial advice from a professional financial adviser. A Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) is available from any Horizon branch. You should consider the relevant PDS in deciding whether to buy or hold the products.

Are you tired of getting your bank statements in the mail? Switching to online statements can save you time and money. You’ll no longer have to worry about losing or misplacing your bank statement, and you’ll also help the environment by reducing paper waste. Plus, online statements are more secure than paper statements. You won’t have to worry about your personal information going missing from your mailbox. Sign up for online statements today and start enjoying the benefits! Are you still receiving your bank or credit card statements in the mail? If you are, you're missing out on a lot of benefits by not switching to online statements. In this post, look at the benefits of making the switch. Switching to eStatements is easy. Simply log in to Online Banking from a desktop computer, go to Accounts Options > eStatements option > select online statement then click ok. 5 Reasons To Switch To Online Statements  1. Get your statements faster – you’ll get an email notifying you as soon as they’re available For many people, paper statements are a thing of the past. Thanks to online banking, you can now view your statements anytime, anywhere. In fact, online statements are becoming the norm for many banks and financial institutions. E statements are more environmentally friendly than paper statements, and they're often more convenient for customers. With online statements, you don't have to worry about losing or misplacing your statement. And if you need to access your statement quickly, you can find it right in your E statement list in Online Banking. So if you're tired of waiting for the mailman to deliver your statement, switch to online statements today. 2. Secure statement delivery When you are registered for e statements, you will receive an email notifying you that your statement is ready to view in Online Banking. Your statement is not delivered by email. Your statement is securely delivered and waiting for you in Online Banking which is more secure than having paper statements sitting in your mail box. 3. Easy access - access your statements from anywhere, anytime from Online Banking on your computer In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to keep track of your finances Thankfully, we offer electronic statements, which allows you to access your bank statements from anywhere, at any time. This can be incredibly convenient if you're constantly on the go. All you need is an internet connection and you can check your bank balance, view recent transactions, and more. Plus, electronic statements are typically much easier to organise than paper statements as they are displayed in date order. This becomes useful around tax time if you need to check your statements to check the calculation for how much interest you’ve earnt. If you're looking for a way to streamline your finances, switching to electronic statements is a great option 4. Stay organised and keep track of your finances by downloading all your past statements Many people choose to go electronic with their statements these days. This means that you will be able to access your past statements with only a few clicks. It is very important to keep track of all your finances and spending, especially if you are running a business or organising an event. Electronic statements can help you do just that. Not only will you be able to see your spending for the month in one place, but you will also be able to see any discrepancies right away. 5. Help the environment by reducing paper waste One of the simplest ways you can help the environment is to reduce paper waste by switching to online statements. Online statements can be viewed and downloaded as PDFs from within Online Banking, so make the switch today and help the environment by reducing paper waste. If you're still receiving your bank or credit card statements in the mail, it's time to switch to online statements. Online statements offer a lot of benefits over paper statements, including security, convenience, and organisation. Contact us today for assistance making the switch, or alternatively follow the easy steps at the beginning of this article. Switch to E statements and start enjoying the many benefits. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Why are e statements better? E statements are fast, secure and the environmentally friendly option. 2. Can you get bank statements online? Yes you can! You must first be registered for Online Banking. You can apply to register online or get in touch with us for assistance. 3. How do I change from a paper statement to an online one? Switching to eStatements is easy. Simply log in to Online Banking from a desktop computer, go to Accounts Options > eStatements option > select online statement then click ok. 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. 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.

The end of the current financial year is 30 June with the new year beginning on 1st July. With End of Financial Year or EOFY quickly approaching, it’s important that you get your tax return checklist together and have the correct documentation to complete your tax return. Here are 5 key things that are required when you lodge your tax return: Payment summaries or Income statements – provided by your employer Bank statements showing interest earnt - if you lodge your tax return online using myGov, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) may prefill these fields already for you. Records and receipts of work related expenses Records and receipts of expenses and maintenance incurred on investment properties Any other documentation showing forms of income We’ll discuss some key practices to get into the habit of to keep you on top of you affairs during tax time. Record keeping Good record keeping is a must and is a continuous job that has no real end date. Having folders or an organised filing system that clearly labels the financial years containing expenses, deductions and income earnt will make it much easier to find what you need when doing your tax return. The ATO has a myDeductions tool, which is free to use and is available through the ATO app. Income tax deductions you can claim Are you aware of the deductions you can make at tax time? Visit the Australian Tax Office website to see what you can claim. Do you research so that you are not missing out on income tax deductions you could be entitled to. Keeping receipts for work and self-education expenses will ensure you don’t miss out on any deductions. EOFY deals At this time of year, there are lots of sales and specials to entice you into buying things with your tax refund. Cars, technology and whitegoods are some of the popular items going on sale. Before hitting the shops, be sure to check that these are things you need and not just want, otherwise you might be spending dollars you don’t actually have. It might be a good idea to wait until you’ve done your tax return to see if you’re entitled to a refund. Set yourself up for tax return success If you are using a tax agent ask them ahead of time what you need to bring to help them complete your tax return. Keep this in mind for the following year so you are organised and have all your paperwork ready to go. This will greatly help you with your tax return submission and can even save you time with your tax agent. The tax season runs until the 31st October each year. You have until this date to lodge your tax return. If you owe money, your notice of assessment will tell you how long you have to pay. How to best manage tax refunds It can be exciting to see a big lump sum payment hit your account. If you’re expecting a refund, have a think about what that extra money can go to. You may want to put it into a savings account, or contribute to a loan repayment. Be sure to manage your refunds wisely, and plan for the next financial year ahead. Are you planning for the EOFY and need some extra help with your banking needs? Get in touch with the friendly team at Horizon Bank today and let us assist you. 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. 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.

Tips for preparing for a change in interest rates Why do interest rates change? To understand why interest rates change, we'll first talk about the cash rate. The cash rate is a rate set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) representing the interest that banks and lenders have to pay on the money that they borrow. This rate will rise to try and slow the economy down, or fall to promote economic growth. The RBA's objective is to promote a stable currency, full employment and economic prosperity, ensuring that price growth, or inflation, remains relatively low and stable. Interest rates on the other hand, are what determines the cost of borrowing or lending money. If the RBA raises the cash rate, then it will cost more for banks to conduct business between themselves. Banks and lenders may pass these costs on to consumers in the form of rate rises, meaning anyone who has borrowed money from that institution will be charged more interest. What does an interest rate rise mean? The cash rate has a flow on effect to financial products with variable interest rates, such as savings accounts, variable rate mortgages and personal loans. Learn more about the different types of loans. It also impacts cost of funding for the banks. An interest rate rise means the cost of funding a loan has increased. This can lead to higher repayments, which can leave borrowers with less disposable income, meaning many people may need to look to make savings elsewhere. Interest rate rises can be tough for families and small businesses, as increased mortgage and debt repayments can make life more expensive. On the flip side, depositors enjoy an interest rate rise as they will see a greater return on their savings and term deposits. What is the impact of interest rates rise on mortgages? A rise in interest rates will see your minimum monthly repayment increase. If you’re not sure what this is, you can find out by checking the loan details in your online banking or by asking your lender. If you're on a standard variable rate loan, you'll probably see your rate go up in line with any interest rates rise. It is important to check your loan contract and any other relevant terms and conditions when you first receive your loan offer. Fixed-rate mortgage holders are likely to be affected when they reach the end of the current deal. A rise in interest rates could make a re-mortgage more expensive. It’s important to remember whilst a small rise may not affect your repayments too much, a few consecutive rises could have a significant impact on repayment costs. How do I prepare for an interest rate hike? It’s important to have a financial plan to deal with any potential changes in interest rates. If you’re following the market and have noticed interest rates rising, you can always speak to us about your home loan to see if making extra repayments or switching from variable to a fixed rate would be in your best interest. If you don’t have a home loan with us, get in touch to see if refinancing to Horizon makes good financial sense. Making a plan to cover the next three to six months is a good idea to make your money go even further. Setting a budget and reducing unnecessary spending is a great place to start. Putting extra money towards other debts like credit cards and personal loans will also put you ahead if interest rates rise. Tips for managing an interest rate rise on your mortgage Calculate the impact the interest rate rise will have on your mortgage. Use our loan repayment calculator to get an idea of how calculator to work out the impact. Calculate what you can afford If your mortgage repayments are likely to go up, work out if you're able to afford them. As discussed earlier, you may need to cut unnecessary spending to make up this extra cost. If you think increases are expected to happen in the future, then start saving up enough money now to cover your mortgage payments when they occur. Are you on the best deal? If you have a fixed rate home loan with us, we will be in touch before your fixed term ends to discuss your options. At this point you can lock in a new rate or switch to a competitive variable rate. It’s important to speak to your financial institution first to see if the savings are worth it before switching. Make more mortgage repayments if you can Taking advantage of the lower interest rate environment while you can and paying extra if possible will put you in a better position during a rate hike. It’s important you always check with your mortgage provider before you pay any extra repayments as fees may apply, especially on a fixed rate loan. What happens when interest rates fall? Low interest rate environments tend to benefit borrowers rather than savers. The goal is to stimulate economic growth by making it cheaper to borrow money for large purchases like property. People are willing to make larger purchases and will borrow more, which increases the demand for household goods. A low interest rate environment is great news for homeowners because it will reduce their monthly mortgage payment. This also sees potential homeowners be drawn into the market because of the cheaper costs. The flow on effect is that low interest rates mean more spending money in consumers' pockets. Lower interest rates gives borrowers a break in terms of lower debt repayments and it can also provide an opportunity to get ahead on your mortgage. Unfortunately, people with large deposits in the bank don’t see much of a return on their investment when interest rates fall. To view our current interest rates on our loans and savings products, visit our interest rate page. Horizon Bank is here to help you with your banking needs. If you have any questions or would like us to discuss your needs further please get in touch with our friendly local team 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. 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.

Over 50 & Buying Your First Home For many people, buying a home is a major financial commitment. Have you considered buying a house later in life?Are you looking for a way to get out of renting? Are you trying to get into the market before interest rates increase? Whatever your reason, a mortgage could give you the stability you are looking for and get out of the renting cycle. Speak to our friendly team at Horizon bank today. Buying a house at any stage of life is an exciting time. In this blog, we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of being a first-home buyer in your 50s, plus some other key tips for property buying in general. Advantages of buying a home in your 50s By this stage of life, you will hopefully have money saved up from years of employment. Savings are essential to put towards a deposit for a home loan and a stronger deposit could potentially enable a higher purchase, opening up your options on the property market. Years of experience will give you more confidence in price and contract negotiations, and a clearer view of the type of property you want. Knowing what you want will also help you plan for the future and give a better idea of future needs concerning mobility and accessibility. Not only will you have secured an asset that can grow in value over the longer term, but you will enjoy the emotional and physical security that comes with owning your own home, as the vulnerability of being a tenant is gone. Disadvantages of buying a home in your 50s If you're looking to buy your first property now, there are some disadvantages to consider before making a decision. This may include reviewing how you live your life and making significant changes that may require some time to get used to, but which could be beneficial for your future. This may leave you feeling out of your comfort zone, however, it is important to remember that everyone leads a different path, and purchasing property is a positive venture. There may be pressure to pay your home loan down quickly if your projected working years is less than the standard 25 or 30-year loan term. It is best to speak with a lender about your options in this regard. If your budget or savings don’t allow for you to purchase in the area you have become accustomed to living in, you may need to evaluate if buying property right now is the right move for you, or if you are better off waiting to purchase where you want to live. If you still have adult children living at home, or elderly parents you care for at home, you may need to work around their needs as well which can be another challenge. First Homeowner’s Over 50 – Essential information Consider how much you can afford The first step is to determine how much you can borrow. Using our borrowing power calculator is a great first step. You should only purchase a home if you can afford the repayments, legal fees, bank fees and any applicable government fees like stamp duty. If you can demonstrate a good savings history, this will help when applying for a home loan. If you’re currently renting, take a look at your budget and see if repayments will be more or less than the rent you currently pay. Consider whether you will be better off making repayments on a home loan and consider where you can redirect any savings. Check your credit score Before you apply for a mortgage, check your credit score. If you find that it needs work, take the necessary steps to improve it. Checking your credit history and credit scores can help you better understand your current credit position. Checking your credit reports regularly can help you become more aware of what lenders might see. Checking your credit report can also help you detect any inaccurate or missing information. Think about how much maintenance you can handle If you’ve been renting, you’ll know it is the landlord's responsibility to fix any maintenance issues around the home. You may have only been responsible for maintaining a yard or small garden. When looking to buy property, think about what type of maintenance you can handle yourself as these expenses become your responsibility as a homeowner. Buying with a family member Plan for different stages and financial challenges in life and consider affordable housing opportunities like buying with a family member. 3 It may suit you and your lifestyle to choose to buy with your children or other relatives in a dual occupancy arrangement. You should do your own research on the pros and cons of buying a property with a family member to understand your rights and obligations. Getting a home loan at any age is a big decision and shouldn’t be taken lightly. This is why there are many things to consider when choosing to buy your first home. At Horizon Bank, we are here to help you with your banking needs. If you have any questions or would like us to discuss your needs further please get in touch with our friendly local team 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. Frequently Asked Questions What are the benefits of buying property when you’re over 50? Buying a home could give you the stability you are looking for and provides an opportunity to get out of the renting cycle. You also are securing an asset that will increase in value. What can I use to prove affordability? This includes proof of savings or investments, as well as evidence that you have enough income and assets to sustain yourself during the life of your loan and into retirement. What are the key factors in getting a home loan? Demonstrate a good saving history such as a share investment portfolio or other investments. Show a sound borrowing history and demonstrate proof of income. A bigger deposit will open up your options for finance. Consider different markets for affordability and be sure the mortgage suits your situation.  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.

Wollongong – the perfect mix of city and beach getaway all in one. Fancy a spending spree? On your trip to Wollongong visit Crown Street mall; this is where you’ll find over 100 specialty shops and major retailers. The Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC) is the focal point of Wollongong’s Arts Precinct. The IPAC hosts live theatre performances and its grassy forecourt is also a great place to catch live acts and relax with coffee from The Social or nearby Utopia. The Art Gallery is situated opposite the IPAC. It features two storeys of art and installations. A cultural must-see. From the Art Gallery take a walk down Burelli Street towards the beach. You’ll pass the impressive WIN Entertainment Centre. Home of the Illawarra Hawks basketball team and where Australian and International acts play. Right next door to the WEC is WIN stadium. Half home of the St. George Illawarra Dragons rugby league football team. The Illawarra Steelers football club is close by for refreshments or you might like to check out the brewery on the surf side of the WEC. Continue your stroll towards Wollongong city beach. If you walk south you’ll make your way to one of the best located golf courses on the South Coast. Its impressive 19th hole is a great place to meet friends for a meal, drink and a golf story. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the course, the ocean and Port Kembla. If you head north you’ll make your way along the path up to the lighthouse for more spectacular harbour and ocean views. You’ll see old cannons that once upon time were installed to protect the coast. Wollongong Harbour features Belmore Basin in the centre. It’s a protected bay and safe haven for yachts and commercial fishing boats. It has a children’s playground and lots of places to eat and drink. The walk we’re taking you is called the Blue Mile and along the way there are points of interest signs. It continues past an ocean rockpool and an ocean continental pool. You’ll make your way to beautiful North Wollongong beach. The Novotel on Cliff Road overlooks this beach. While you’re there keep going north and you may be lucky enough to see skydivers land in Stewart Park. Are you game to do the jump? The view would be worth it! At the end of Stewart Park you’ll discover the iconic Lagoon Restaurant. There are lots of other places in Wollongong to enjoy. The Science Centre is a fun interactive way for kids and adults to learn about science. It’s situated in Wollongong University’s Innovation Campus not far from Stewart Park. Nature lovers will enjoy a leisurely walk through the Botanic Gardens. Entry is free and includes a playground for the kids to enjoy. We hope this guide is helpful when deciding what to see and do during your trip to and around Wollongong. Be sure to check out the other NSW South Coast towns featured in our blog. Support the local business and community by visiting these coastal towns this year. 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.

Bermagui is a beautiful fishing hub on the Sapphire Coast with lovely beaches and coastal walks. It is 1 hour and 30 minutes south of Batemans Bay and 1 hour 10 minutes north of Merimbula. We’ve listed many local businesses that you can visit and support on your trip to Bermagui. Strangers in Paradise - founded November 2011, their overflowing lounge rooms morphed  into an emporium selling vintage & second hand furniture, clothes, collectables & photography. Really there is no place like it! Shop7 Artspace - is a gallery that showcases local art. Peruse high quality original art at reasonable prices. Nested on Wallaga - is a beautiful little gift shop in Bermagui They are a long standing business in town with something for everyone. The most gorgeous children’s wear and toys, nightwear, lovely linen and special gifts for all. Bermagui Country Club - Come and have a round of golf on the 18 hole Championship golf course. The club has a range of sporting facilities on offer including tennis, bowls and croquet. Visit the clubhouse where you can enjoy a delicious meal in the Terrace Restaurant for lunch or dinner 7 days a week or enjoy a beverage in the lounge area of the Club. Members and Guests welcome. Bermagui Visitor Information Centre - Make sure you go and see the staff at the Bermagui Visitor Information Centre who will assist you with information on attractions, things to do and accommodation in the local area and the Sapphire Coast region overall. Shop 7 Art Space Nested on Wallaga Strangers in Paradise Images provided by local businesses Bermagui Fishermen’s Wharf Here’s what you’ll see when you visit the wharf Asian Cuisine Restaurant Blue Wave Seafoods Pineapple House – house décor and apparel The Gelati Clinic Il Passaggio Italian Restaurant Marine Rescue Bermagui The Sundeck Café Julie Rutherford Real Estate   Surrounding areas of Bermagui Cobargo Situated just a 30 minute drive west of Bermagui is the country town of Cobargo. Devastated by bushfire in the Summer of 2019/2020, this town is getting back on its feet and is ready to welcome visitors and travelers. Colonial and early 20th century buildings dominate the main street. Enjoy an array of shops, cafes and galleries on whilst walking through town. The Cobargo Markets are held on Saturday. There’s also a self-guided Cobargo Historic Village Walk that has signposts guiding visitors around the village. Tilba You’ll find lush countryside and the striking Mount Gulaga in the National Trust-classified villages of Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba in the Eurobodalla region of the NSW South Coast. Visit the historic timber cottages, browse small shops and galleries, sample local produce and admire gorgeous gardens. If you’re a keen hiker, you can take on Mount Gulaga (formally known as Mount Dromedary) Gulaga is a stunning example of an extinct volcano that rises 797 metres above sea level. The trek up the mountain is a 5 hour, 14 kilometres return hard grade walk. Be sure to check out the other NSW South Coast towns featured in our blog. Support the local business and community by visiting these coastal towns this year. Visit our Bermagui branch page for branch 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 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.

Welcome to the Coastal Village of Thirroul … Shoes Optional Laid back, coastal, surfy vibe …. that’s Thirroul to a tee. In fact that could describe the stretch up the coast from Thirroul all the way to the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge and Bald Hill; where daredevils defy the confines of earth and take graceful flight in their colourful hang gliders. But back to Thirroul. Don’t let the busy main street fool you. There are jewels to be discovered along that road and beyond. The coastal village’s main road is divided by the train tracks. Both sides of town offer an enticing wander stopping to shop for home décor, marvelling at the organic artistry of the florist establishments, checking out the cool & chic at various surf shops, stopping for a java jolt at one of Thirroul’s hip coffee joints, or stopping for a bite to eat at one of the many great value restaurants. Thirroul’s Olympic pool and beach is just a short stroll from the main drag. The kids will revel in the interactive park complete with flying fox. Make a bee-line for Thirroul Kiosk. You’ll be hard pressed finding a kiosk/café that’s situated right on the beachfront esplanade. What a view! Living like a rock star. If you’d prefer a view of the magnificent escarpment just look in the opposite direction. Thirroul Beach Park is a wonderful place to picnic, play with the kids and relax. It’s surrounded by giant Norfolk Pines that provide natural sun-dappled shade. If you’re into lawn bowls, check out Thirroul Bowling & Recreation Club. This one is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s close to the railway station and football field. It features a floor to ceiling glassed veranda where you can enjoy a cold one of your choice and watch the strolling rolling athletes do their thing. This sleepy little town has a lot going on when the sun goes down too. There are plenty of drinking holes to choose from … two pubs, a club and trendy wine bars galore. If you’re after something to fill another hole there are Thai, Asian-fusion, Mexican, seafood and pizza restaurants just to name a few. If you’re planning an overnight stay you should really see what live entertainment is going on at the historic Anita’s Theatre. This is a gorgeous old girl that was restored to her former glory. It attracts sensational Australian and international acts. Thirroul has a lot to offer any time but it’s at its best on the first weekend of April when it celebrates THE event of the year … the Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival. The Festival features a prestigious art show, artisan markets, carnival rides, food trucks, petting zoo, moonlight movie, arts displays, live music and dance. It’s a colourful community cavalcade. Shoes optional. We hope this guide is helpful when deciding what to see and do during your trip to and around Thirroul. Be sure to check out the other NSW South Coast towns featured in our blog. Support the local business and community by visiting these coastal towns this year. 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.