ANZ today announced it will assume and expand Suncorp Bank's longstanding partnership with Ekka Beef Week, committing to support the iconic Queensland event through to 2028.
The announcement marks another milestone following ANZ's acquisition of Suncorp Bank and reinforces the bank's long-term commitment to Queensland communities, regional industries and the state's agricultural sector.
ANZ's involvement will build on the strong foundation established through Suncorp Bank's support of Ekka Beef Week, one of the largest stud cattle showcases in the Southern Hemisphere, as part of the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka).
ANZ Managing Director Queensland and Suncorp Bank CEO Bruce Rush said the partnership reflects the bank's commitment to supporting the communities and industries that help Queensland thrive.
"Queensland is an important growth market for ANZ and we're committed to supporting the communities, businesses and industries that contribute so much to the state's success.
"Ekka Beef Week is one of Queensland's most recognised and respected community events, bringing together people from across the state while shining a spotlight on the importance of agriculture and regional Australia.
"We're proud to continue this partnership and build on the legacy established by Suncorp Bank, ensuring ANZ continues to support the people and industries that help Queensland prosper.
"Queensland is incredibly important to ANZ's future. The Ekka is a celebration of the people, communities and industries that help make this state successful, and we're proud to continue supporting an event that plays such an important role in Queensland's identity.
"As Suncorp Bank becomes ANZ over time, this partnership demonstrates our long-term commitment to Queensland and our confidence in the future of the state."
The Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland Chief Executive, Brendan Christou, said for 150 years the Ekka had brought the country to the city in a rich celebration of agriculture, and thanked ANZ for its expanded support of Ekka Beef Week.
"Agricultural competitions are the heart and soul of the Ekka,'' Mr Christou said.
"They recognise and reward the best of the best, celebrate decades of breeding excellence, and provide producers with an opportunity to benchmark their achievements against the industry's highest standards.
"ANZ's support of Ekka Beef Week demonstrates a strong commitment to Queensland agriculture and the regional communities that play such a vital role in our state's success."
ANZ's partnership with Ekka Beef Week reinforces the bank's support for regional communities, agriculture and Queensland's primary industries. The partnership complements ANZ's broader investment in Queensland and its ongoing support for customers, businesses and communities throughout the state.
