A combination of hard work and study support has paid off for Dambimangari student Dolly Thomas – recently appointed lead teller at the Commonwealth Bank’s Kununurra branch. The former Derby Holy Rosary student was helped through school by Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation before securing a Commonwealth Bank Indigenous school-based traineeship position in 2015 at the start of year 11.

Working one day per week and some school holiday breaks until she completed year 12 at the end of last year, Dolly participated in paid work experience and on-the-job training;

The program developed her confidence, communication skills and business acumen. At the same time, she completed a Certificate II in Business Administration.

“Dolly’s confidence has soared and she’s really come out of her shell over the last 12 months,” says Adrienne Tutt, Branch Manager at Kununurra.

“We’ve had a really positive experience with the program and look forward to taking on another trainee in the future.”

Dolly believes that working with CBA has helped her communication and people skills. “Anything is possible if you believe in yourself,” she says

“When I got this position I felt really happy and excited – even my family couldn’t believe I got the permanent role.”

CBA has 60 school-based trainees working in branches across the country as part of the bank’s traineeship program. The program provides vital on-the-job experience and gives students the opportunity to gain valuable skills and confidence, setting them up for greater employment outcomes upon completion.

For more information contact

Peter McCumstie, Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation – 9191 2383
Adrienne Tutt, CBA, Kununurra – 9169 1511

Pictured left: Dolly Thomas with Kununurra Branch Manager Adrienne Tutt