COLIN Walker’s shining smile greets customers at Port Macquarie’s Commonwealth Bank branch, where he has worked for last 17 years. Colin moved to the area about two decades ago following stints in Sydney and Melbourne.
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His experiences running a hospitality business in Victoria showed Colin the smarts and sensitivity needed to be successful in the community.
On a regular day Colin’s face lights up when he is greeted and thanked by those wandering past with their daily business. He uses devices and ever-upgraded software to help customers, but it’s the personal touch which is remembered.
Colin’s assured gaze and steady handshake help the curious or nervy easily resolve their concerns, and will continue for years to come.
The father-of-eight tells Ben Cooper about life among the busy bodies of Horton Street, as well as the highlights of travelling the world with his wife Fay.
How often do people hug you at work? I’ve had 14 hugs this week. I’ve even had one lady in her 80s who dared me to dance with her in the foyer, and we did the waltz together. It’s quite hilarious, but quite nice because it means people know me.
What kind of commitment does such a fine moustache take? You have to grow it for years and years, so it becomes part of your identity. I’ve always had a moustache but shaved it off last year for prostate cancer research.
Did people recognise you after the trim? Yes, but lots of people said they preferred the moustache so I grew it back straight away. It’ll never come off again. When I was younger moustaches were very popular. I’ll be keeping it, even though it’s very grey now. And I can tell you now I’m not growing a beard.
What have been some of your and Fay’s favourite travel destinations? Venice, Rome and Paris, with France my absolute favourite. The history and the culture and the food are great, but it’s the people that really make a place. They’re very well-dressed over there. Even the blokes wear scarves all the time. You can’t walk down the Champs-Élysées without looking the business. Apart from that we always enjoy visiting small villages and small towns in France and Italy and staying with people. Being in those small communities is just fabulous because it reminds you it’s not just the icons that make a place, but the people.
Will you continue to welcome people in your concierge role? I’ve been here 17 years, I’ve got to know half the town, and I absolutely enjoy it more all the time. I really do love the people. I’ve been very grateful for everything so I’ll be keeping on going, don’t worry about that.
