First National has welcomed a long-term independent Townsville agency into the network, as the brand expands its presence into the Far North Queensland property market.
The former Helen Munro Property office has rebranded under the network's banner as First National Townsville, led by director Tracy Crome.
The office, founded by Crome’s mother Helen Munro three decades ago, will continue to provide residential sales and property management under the First National brand.
While operating under a new name, Crome said the office still services its client base while benefiting from the network’s greater support and technology.
“This is still the same local business, with the same people and same commitment to our clients and community,” Crome said.
“We are not trading our independence for a corporate franchise. We are joining a cooperative that respects local ownership and understands that every community is different.”
After taking the reins of the family business when Munro retired seven years ago, Crome said she began rethinking the agency’s long-term plans as the demands of the role grew.
Crome said the industry faced significant change across legislation, compliance, marketing and technology.
She said her decision to align with First National was influenced by former First National Townsville principals Wayne Nicholson and Terry Godde, who combined for more than four decades leading the brand’s Townsville branch.
According to Crome, Nicholson’s respect for the brand’s cooperative model said a great deal about the business.
“After meeting First National CEO David Edwards, I knew we had found the right fit,” she said.
“The people we have met genuinely care about our business, our team and our success.”
Edwards said the return of the office restored the network’s position in a key regional property market.
With a deep connection to the local community, he said Crome’s decision to align with the network reflected the strength of its business model.
“Her decision reflects what First National’s cooperative model is designed to provide – national resources and shared knowledge while keeping ownership and decision-making in local hands,” Edwards said.
In addition to serving clients in the region, the office also plays a significant role in various community events, sponsoring local sports teams and the Christmas event, Stable.
“Stable is very close to our hearts because it gives us the opportunity to genuinely give back to the community that has supported our family and our business for 30 years,” Crome said.
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