A trip down memory lane with Tina Michael
Tina Michael joined BankVic in 1976, when it was the Police Association Credit Co-operative. Fifty years later she works as an IT Support Analyst, and still counts colleagues from her first week among her closest friends. She takes us through her journey with BankVic.
One particular day in 1976, two people started new jobs at the Police Association Credit Co-op. They were given employee numbers 10 and 11.
"Sandra Hardy and I started on the same day," Tina says. "She got employee number 10 and I got 11. We had a laugh about that, as I walked in first and should have been 10, but it was funny the way it happened.” Fifty years on, the two are still friends.
Ask Tina what has kept her here that long and the answer arrives without hesitation.
"Without doubt, the people we work with and the members," she says. "Over a long period of time, lots of friendships have been made with staff and members."
The second reason is the work itself, which has rarely stood still. "The variety of work has been amazing."
Tina has held a number of roles including teller, loans officer, and data input. She worked the switchboard, "back in the days when we had one". She also managed Telepay, the first phone-based transaction service, which she describes as being "from days gone by". Today, Tina is an IT Support Analyst.
One common thread for Tina and BankVic is the evolution of technology and service.
"I was here for the installation of our first in-house computer, and the installation of the banking platform that replaced hard copy records”, she says. "It was an exciting time back then, but of course it has been surpassed by so much new technology since.”
Honouring the past while embracing the future is something Tina feels is a strength.
"I really love how we continually move, or try to keep up with the times and what our members need."
Tina has been part of nearly every office move the organisation has made. "I have been involved in every relocation of Head Office except the last time in 2023. They’re challenging projects and times, but mostly enjoyable. I took leave on the last one, as it was time for others to have that pleasure."
Three names come up when Tina talks about the people she has worked alongside, and she is still in touch with all three more than forty years later.
Sandra Hardy, her first day buddy, is one. Margaret Robson, who was with the organisation from the start, gave Tina the best advice she ever received.
"She always taught me to save money. I knew to do this, but she made it real. Absolutely amazing lady, and her advice shaped how I work and live today," Tina says. "Huge influence.”
As a result of Margaret’s advice, Tina was able to buy her first unit and had paid it off before she turned 30. "This helped set me up for life."
The third is Anita James. "Anita was always so easy to work with, she’s very thoughtful and caring. She always had BankVic at heart."
Two big, personal milestones for Tina both occurred in 1994: she got married, and bought a house.
"When I got married, the staff filled my car with balloons and confetti, and really celebrated with me. It was lovely.”
In the years since, Tina’s family has expanded.
"My grandkids are the love of my life," she says, "along with my husband David”, she quickly adds.
For anyone weighing up BankVic against another employer, Tina's advice is simple:
"Do it and apply yourself. The opportunities are endless. BankVic has a bright future, as we continually look for improvement and move with the times in technology."
Fifty years after she walked through the door with Sandra Hardy, Tina is still applying herself to work she enjoys.
