THE Bendigo Bank Spirit basketball club yesterday unveiled a new-look board of directors to be led by Bendigo business leader Margot Spalding.Co-owner of furniture company Jimmy Possum and a former Australian Businesswoman of the Year, Spalding is renowned for her passion, flair and business success.“I’m passionate about success in Bendigo and I’m excited about playing a part in ensuring the Bendigo Spirit plays an important role in our community,’’ Spalding said after yesterday’s annual general meeting.“Bendigo Spirit gives young women important role models and something to aspire to, as well as providing an opportunity for players from regional areas to play at the highest level without having to move to Melbourne or interstate.“It’s also a great example of what can be achieved in provincial Victoria.“Our main aim is to ensure the club has a strong financial and governance platform and we’re looking forward to working with the community to achieve that goal.’’Joining Spalding as new board members are lawyer Julian Peppinck (Beck Legal) and Anita Harrington (Tony Harrington Estate Agents).Existing board member Leanne Rosewall (City marketing and major events manager) is the new deputy chairwoman, and Nadine Anderson (Bendigo Bank) is the new secretary.Other directors remaining on the board are former chairman Jock Clark (owner of The Match), Rod Wee Hee (CEO, Bendigo YMCA) Sue DeAraugo (Bendigo Toyota), Ashley Donaldson (Basketball Victoria Country Council) and Jeremi Moule (Bendigo Spirit assistant coach and communications executive).Bendigo Spirit general manager Wendy James said the new board had a strong mix of business expertise and community leaders.It comes in at an exciting time as the club heads into its third season in the WNBL.“Everyone knows that times have been tough, but the Bendigo Spirit gives us a lot to be optimistic about and we’ll be working hard to earn community and business support,’’ James said.“We still have some key sponsorship opportunities available, including one remaining uniform branding position and our campaign to raise funds to secure Bendigo’s world renowned point guard Kristi Harrower back in Spirit colours this season.’’