FOR MANY who have banked with the Community Bank Hervey Bay, part of the Bendigo Bank network, a familiar face has been there since its inception.

19 years ago, Linda Brown heard of a community bank model that captured her interest, so she enquired about how to join.

“The idea that someone could come in to do their banking and contribute to the community… that got my attention”, says Linda.

“So, I became a member of their staff and a shareholder!”

The introduction of a community bank to Hervey Bay was an exciting time for her.

“Early years were crazy. We approached many of the not for profit organisations, we got to know the community people and of course everything was by hand. “

The introduction of internet banking has certainly changed their industry, but Linda embraced the technology as she could see the benefits for customers.

“The ability to do banking from home…. Real time banking. I think it is so much easier”, she says.

“But I do miss the cash counting.”

She recalls many highlights during her time including attending state and national conferences with Bendigo Bank.

“Meeting other people, bouncing ideas from other branches, guest speakers and the occasional good night out.” as Linda reminisces.

“My customers are my biggest highlight. I’ve seen the ups and downs... I will miss them dearly. They are the heartbeat of our community bank.”

Her passion for the community bank model is obvious. She recalls parents revisiting the branch many years after their child received support for sport uniforms and how they will never forget that support.

She will be missed by “the tight knit team,” being such a popular member of the staff.

Branch Manager, Tim Evans, says he will always remember her work ethic and motto of “there is one way to do things, that’s the right way.”

“There is nothing she doesn’t know. There is a warmth about her that everyone feels when you walk into the branch.”

Tim recalls the only concerns were during COVID.

“It was particularly hard to get her to stop hugging people, that was problematic,” says Tim.

“She is the world’s biggest social butterfly and will be missed by the staff and especially our customers.”

And the final word from Linda about her time with Community Bank Hervey Bay?

“Enormously satisfying for myself. A great sense of achievement what I could help the customers with… that’s the big one.”

“It’s easy when it’s from the heart.”