A commitment to learning drives career

With the community at heart, Rabobank’s Geraldton branch has been proudly contributing to the region for over two decades.

Boots on the ground

As a bank focused solely on agriculture, Area Manager Kathy Brown said much of Rabobank’s community endeavours supported local farmers, namely through partnerships with local grower groups. Rabobank has long supported four grower groups, the Morawa Farm Improvement Group, Mingenew Irwin Group, Northern Agri Group and Yuna Farm Improvement Group. The bank is also a strong supporter of the Mingenew Midwest Expo.

“These grower groups and their farm walks, field days and networking opportunities represent a valuable resource for our region’s farmers, and we believe a meaningful investment for Rabobank, allowing us to inject support directly into the region’s agricultural community.”

A proud team, all Rabobank’s Geraldton staff have a rural and regional background, and are united by their passion for agriculture. Senior Rural Manager Ross Jones has held his position for 18 years, while Rob Melville, also a Senior Rural Manager, has just clocked up over 10 years in the branch, reflective, Kathy believes, of the team’s camaraderie and positive work culture.

A global network

“We’re also in a fortunate position to have access to global insights and research, thanks to our national and global team of RaboResearch analysts, complementing our strong local knowledge and genuine relationships with our clients that we so enjoy.“ Kathy said local field days also presented a further platform to share Rabobank’s unique global and local perspectives.

“We’re always looking for opportunities to share knowledge and help support clients on their farming business journey.”

“Over the years we’ve contributed a number of presenters to local grower groups, and it’s extremely rewarding knowing that we’re providing local farmers with access to the latest insights into farming opportunities and challenges, helping them think differently, plan for the future and hopefully inspire innovation.”

Community spirit

“Whilst agriculture is at Rabobank’s core, ensuring a thriving local community is just as important, with staff encouraged to give back at every opportunity.” In the wake of cyclone Seroja last year a number of staff members partnered with the Country Women’s Association to deliver care packages to those in need. Staff members Nick Mihura and Liam Campbell volunteered time during the cyclone aftermath to BlazeAid, helping Nabawa farmers clean up and repair fences so stock could return to paddocks. “It’s this sort of community spirit that makes our rural and regional towns so vibrant, and while our team consists of dedicated rural managers, we’re also all proud Geraldton community members - happy to step in and lend a hand at any opportunity.”