Friday, July 25, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Meet Erin Ryley

Branch Manager at Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank

Stepping into the role of Branch Manager at Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has felt like the perfect next chapter in my career – and a return to what matters most.

I started in banking when I was 17, beginning in a customer service role. I didn’t have a set plan at the time (in fact, my mum, who also worked in banking, advised me not to do it!). But I applied for a role, got the job and quickly found I loved it.

Over the years, I worked my way through a variety of positions, eventually becoming a Branch Manager by the time I was 24. Now, more than 20 years into my banking career – and with over a decade in leadership – I still genuinely enjoy helping people, problem-solving and building strong customer relationships.

After spending the past two years living in the United States with my family, I was excited to come back home specifically to the Mackay region and reconnect with the community we’ve loved being part of for the past eight years. When this opportunity came up, I knew it was where I wanted to be.

A profit for purpose organisation like Community Bank Sarina has been incredibly rewarding. It’s meaningful to know that the work we do supports not just individual customers and businesses to achieve their goals, but the wider community through initiatives like community grants, sponsorships and scholarships.

I joined Community Bank Sarina as it marks 20 years of contributing to the broader Sarina district – a milestone that reflects just how deeply embedded it is into the community. What’s impressed me most is the team – passionate, experienced and genuinely committed to making a difference. I’m grateful to be working alongside them and excited for what we can achieve together in the months and years ahead.

Come in and say hello at 37 Broad Street, Sarina or give us a call on 4943 2634 – I’d love to meet you.

L-R: Luke Sheppard (Bendigo Bank), Community Bank Sarina (CBS) Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich, CBS Branch Manager Erin Ryley, Bendigo Bank Chief Economist David Robertson (Robbo) and CBS Board Chair Karen May

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