11/06/2026
From Richard, Ann, Andrew and Cath…
Twenty-five years ago, a young woman named Amanda Donaldson walked into our Shepparton office to apply for a position that Rba Financial had advertised in the local newspaper.
At the time, I had a good friend and peer from Melbourne, Theo, with me. Together, we interviewed Amanda, and we both agreed that even though she was just out of school with no experience, there was something special about her.
We invited her back in and told her the job was hers. Amanda replied, “Oh well, thanks for the interview,” and started to leave! I had to stop her and say, “No, Amanda, you have the job!”
That was 25 years ago.
The young woman who started at the front desk has now been our Office Manager for more than a decade and has become an integral part of Rba Financial. Over the years, I have often joked that Amanda would take a bayonet for me—and on some days, one to me as well!
When people think of our business, I hope they think of Ann and I, and now Andrew and Catherine. But I also think they always think of Amanda, because Amanda is Rba Financial.
What began as an employment relationship grew into something much more. Amanda has become part of both the Byrnes and Molyneaux families. She has shared in our lives beyond the office walls, including family holidays in Hawaii, countless celebrations, and many of life's important moments. She is not just a valued colleague, but a close confidant, trusted friend, and someone we all love dearly.
What has always stood out about Amanda is the genuine care she shows for people. Our clients don't just know Amanda—they love her. For many, she has been the reassuring voice on the phone, the friendly face that greets them at the office, and the person who always goes the extra mile to help. Over 25 years, she has built countless relationships and earned the trust, respect and affection of generations of Rba clients. The number of people who ask after Amanda, seek her out, or simply enjoy a chat with her is a testament to the impact she has had on so many lives.
In fact, Catherine and Andrew’s children spent so much time around Amanda that when they were young, they regularly mixed her up with their actual Auntie. I think that says everything about the place Amanda holds in our family.
Amanda, thank you for your loyalty, your friendship, your dedication, and the care you have shown our business and our family over the past 25 years. While Ann and I will eventually step aside, it is comforting to know that Rba Financial will continue to be guided by people like you.
We simply could not imagine RBA Financial without you, and we are incredibly grateful that we have never had to.