Wagga's Wonder Women

Established on 21 September 1914 in a converted shopfront on Baylis Street, the CommBank Wagga Wagga branch has stood as a steadfast presence in the Riverina region for more than a century, evolving alongside the community through droughts, floods, wars and economic shifts.

As the branch approaches its 111-year milestone, it also offers a moment to honour its legacy and the remarkable individuals who shaped its history.

Wagga Wagga’s 111 years and the women who made it possible

Hilda Kathleen Crofton-Bradhurst was the first female staff member at the Wagga Wagga branch and a pioneering figure in Australian banking.

Born into the industry on the floor of the Bank of Australasia’s Marrickville branch, where her father was manager, Hilda's career began at a time when women faced significant challenges in the workforce. 

Her contributions extended far beyond banking, particularly during World War I where she actively supported wartime community organisations such as the Red Cross, the War Chest Fund and the Calliope Club.

In 1923, Hilda resigned from the bank and later married Henry (Harry) Bonfield Baylis, a returned soldier from Wagga Wagga whose family were prominent figures in the community. Harry was the grandson of Henry Baylis, after whom Baylis Street is named. 

Baylis Street’s bold beginnings

Today, Baylis Street is home to the CommBank Wagga Wagga branch, adding an extra layer to Hilda’s story and her deep roots to the local community.

The Wagga Wagga branch has long stood as a pillar of strength and connection in the Riverina region.

As the branch marks 111 years of service, its role remains as vital today as it was in 1914. From supporting local businesses and families through economic changes, we recognise the people and stories that have helped shape the Wagga Wagga branch and the community around it.

Joan’s Journey in Regional Retail

Another wonder woman shaping Wagga Wagga’s story is Joan, a loyal CommBank customer and the owner of Joan’s Shoes – a boutique shoe and accessory store that has been serving the local community for over 30 years.

Just like Hilda was born into banking, Joan was born into retail. Her journey began with a passion for fashion and a legacy of retail, having grown up in Mudgee where her parents ran a family shoe store for 32 years.

"I started in a tiny little shop down in the Neslo Arcade," Joan explained. "Then I moved into a bigger shop in the arcade, and now I'm in a bigger one in the Main Street. This is as far as I'll be going," she laughed.

Before opening her own store, Joan ran a mobile party plan shoe business, bringing shoes directly to homes across the Riverina from Lockhart to Tumbarumba. “I’ve still got customers coming in from that,” she said proudly.

Throughout her business journey, Joan has maintained a longstanding relationship with CommBank, dating back to her childhood years.

"I've never had a drama there. Whatever I've asked for, I've gotten," she shared, noting the consistent support she's received from the Wagga Wagga branch.

Joan’s story is one of resilience, style and service. From hosting mobile party plan shoe events across regional NSW to handpicking European footwear at national showings, she’s built a business that reflects both her personal taste and her customers’ needs. “People like my taste,” she said. “They say, ‘Oh, lovely shoes, lovely bags,’ so you know you’re on the right track.”

As she reflects on the last 31 years, she hopes the legacy of Joan’s Shoes will continue.

“I’ve built something up and it’d be nice to keep it going,” she said.

Just as Hilda broke new ground as the first female staff member at CommBank’s Wagga Wagga branch, Joan of Joan’s Shoes continues a similar legacy, while leading with resilience and style from her storefront on Baylis Street.