Perth Voice Interactive

The new WA multicultural services centre may be named the “Nick Catania Wellness Centre”.

Talks are underway between the multicultural service and the North Perth branch of Bendigo Bank’s North Perth community bank branch, which Mr Catania chairs.

The Voice understands the WAMSC is keen to name the Farmer Street seniors centre after the former Vincent mayor, or after the bank itself, in order to secure funding.

In a confidential item considered by Vincent city council last week—only part of which has now been made public—staff suggested that councillors consider the two names and allow CEO John Giorgi to broker the naming rights deal.

Appropriate

That suggestion was scribbled out, and instead the council authorised mayor Alannah MacTiernan to enter discussions with both parties, “as to the most appropriate way to recognise sponsorship”.

Ms MacTiernan says both the “Nick Catania” and “Bendigo Bank” names are being considered.

“The council is very aware that the Bendigo Bank has been an amazingly generous benefactor, they understand the amount of money they put into the area is quite extraordinary,” she said.

“Some councillors had concern about the use of a commercial name. To me it is quite commonplace now, giving naming rights in return for philanthropy.”

by DAVID BELL