Our team

Rob Westwood
Director / Licensed Estate Agent / Auctioneer
Rob Westwood's career path was predetermined well before he knew it. Rob’s father Bob has operated the family business since the early 1970’s and finally convinced him to join the family business 21 years ago after 20 years in the building industry. Rob is a Licensed Agent, accomplished Auctioneer and Member of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria for 20 years. He is 'hands on' with all aspects of our Company which covers residential sales and property management along with commercial sales and leasing. Rob is passionate about First National and loves giving back to the Network that has given the family and business so much. First National Real Estate is one of only 2 member owned marketing co-operatives in Australia therefore the members are the decision makers. Rob is currently the Victorian State Chairman and the Vice Chairman to the National Board where they represent their members with pride. “Some of our best friends are fellow First National members and we consider them as family”. Rob is a Licensed Agent and accomplished Auctioneer. He is 'hands-on' with all aspects of our Company which covers residential sales and property management along with commercial sales and leasing. “Being a member of the First National network provides up-to-date, comprehensive team training and exciting and innovative marketing resources to ensure the best possible results for our clients,” says Rob, “and we can work in tandem with more than 550 other members for exchange of information, listings and referral of vendors and purchasers”. When not working, Rob loves tinkering with cars or his motor bikes, relaxing with the family, travelling and spending time at Anglesea, enjoying time with his children, golf, football and commitment to conducting charity auctions for local fundraising groups. Our advertising says, "we put you first" and that's exactly what we do.
Rob Westwood's career path was predetermined well before he knew it. Rob’s father Bob has operated the family business since the early 1970’s and finally convinced him to join the family business 21 years ago after 20 years in the building industry. Rob is a Licensed Agent, accomplished Auctioneer and Member of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria for 20 years. He is 'hands on' with all aspects of our Company which covers residential sales and property management along with commercial sales and leasing. Rob is passionate about First National and loves giving back to the Network that has given the family and business so much. First National Real Estate is one of only 2 member owned marketing co-operatives in Australia therefore the members are the decision makers. Rob is currently the Victorian State Chairman and the Vice Chairman to the National Board where they represent their members with pride. “Some of our best friends are fellow First National members and we consider them as family”. Rob is a Licensed Agent and accomplished Auctioneer. He is 'hands-on' with all aspects of our Company which covers residential sales and property management along with commercial sales and leasing. “Being a member of the First National network provides up-to-date, comprehensive team training and exciting and innovative marketing resources to ensure the best possible results for our clients,” says Rob, “and we can work in tandem with more than 550 other members for exchange of information, listings and referral of vendors and purchasers”. When not working, Rob loves tinkering with cars or his motor bikes, relaxing with the family, travelling and spending time at Anglesea, enjoying time with his children, golf, football and commitment to conducting charity auctions for local fundraising groups. Our advertising says, "we put you first" and that's exactly what we do.
Bob Westwood
Bobs interest in the Werribee area and his involvement in Community groups, his passion for cars and his long affair with travel have introduced him to a wider range of residents, business people and Company representatives than he might have met had he worked out of his office day after day. Positions on committees and participation in focus groups introduced Bob to the local Investor market and Commercial Over the 20 years Bob has chosen to specialise in Commercial & Industrial developments and more recently his growing contacts and extensive knowledge has established him as an important source of information for intending developers. In Bob's own words "the art of selling" has not changed for centuries, "the packaging might change, but the principles have not". To Bob’s credit… He has won numerous state and national awards and continues to do so. In 2010 he was awarded Salesperson of the Year. He has served as a Member of the Victorian Council for First National for 4 years, Chairman of Victoria for First National for 2 years, National Board Director for First National for 2 years, held portfolios in First National for training and membership and chaired the networks’ Membership task team. Adamant that fresh blood and new ideas are a necessity, Bob has taken a back seat in recent years to let new people assume those roles. Today after 40 plus years of service to his industry and his community,, Bob continues as the Managing Director of First National Westwood and First National Westwood Commercial. These businesses operate under the direction of a management team that includes his son Rob Westwood, current Victorian Director on the First National Board of Directors.
Bobs interest in the Werribee area and his involvement in Community groups, his passion for cars and his long affair with travel have introduced him to a wider range of residents, business people and Company representatives than he might have met had he worked out of his office day after day. Positions on committees and participation in focus groups introduced Bob to the local Investor market and Commercial Over the 20 years Bob has chosen to specialise in Commercial & Industrial developments and more recently his growing contacts and extensive knowledge has established him as an important source of information for intending developers. In Bob's own words "the art of selling" has not changed for centuries, "the packaging might change, but the principles have not". To Bob’s credit… He has won numerous state and national awards and continues to do so. In 2010 he was awarded Salesperson of the Year. He has served as a Member of the Victorian Council for First National for 4 years, Chairman of Victoria for First National for 2 years, National Board Director for First National for 2 years, held portfolios in First National for training and membership and chaired the networks’ Membership task team. Adamant that fresh blood and new ideas are a necessity, Bob has taken a back seat in recent years to let new people assume those roles. Today after 40 plus years of service to his industry and his community,, Bob continues as the Managing Director of First National Westwood and First National Westwood Commercial. These businesses operate under the direction of a management team that includes his son Rob Westwood, current Victorian Director on the First National Board of Directors.
Cheryl Carlton
General Manager
Meet Cheryl The thing that distinguishes a great real estate agency from a good real estate agency is attention to detail, commitment to innovation, and an emphasis on quality. As First National Real Estate Westwood and Truganina’s General Manager, Cheryl Carlton assures the outstanding performance of our property management and sales teams through her diligent office management skills, marketing and trust accounting experience. Cheryl is involved right across the business, making sure that our team’s sale of your home or management of your residential or commercial property is in the safest of hands. Quality only happens when people care It’s a critical role supporting First National Westwood’s team and Cheryl has recently celebrated her 13th year of doing so. Her management experience assures that all our sales and rental marketing campaigns are executed with care and attention to detail. If she’s not deeply involved with administration, she’s most likely making sure the wellbeing of our staff is 100% looked after – her motto being that she will never ask her staff to do something that she would not do herself. She’s completely aware of the importance of each link in the chain that leads to a successful sale and plays a pivotal role in the customer experience we deliver. Staying at the cutting edge Cheryl is continually furthering her knowledge when it comes to agency practice, ever-changing legislation and emerging technologies. Her watchful eye on the systems we use to sell, rent and manage real estate helps us stay at the forefront of Werribee and Truganina real estate, and that is genuinely to the advantage of our customers. Make the right move. Talk to one of First National Westwood’s staff about the management of your rental property or the purchase or sale of a home today.
Meet Cheryl The thing that distinguishes a great real estate agency from a good real estate agency is attention to detail, commitment to innovation, and an emphasis on quality. As First National Real Estate Westwood and Truganina’s General Manager, Cheryl Carlton assures the outstanding performance of our property management and sales teams through her diligent office management skills, marketing and trust accounting experience. Cheryl is involved right across the business, making sure that our team’s sale of your home or management of your residential or commercial property is in the safest of hands. Quality only happens when people care It’s a critical role supporting First National Westwood’s team and Cheryl has recently celebrated her 13th year of doing so. Her management experience assures that all our sales and rental marketing campaigns are executed with care and attention to detail. If she’s not deeply involved with administration, she’s most likely making sure the wellbeing of our staff is 100% looked after – her motto being that she will never ask her staff to do something that she would not do herself. She’s completely aware of the importance of each link in the chain that leads to a successful sale and plays a pivotal role in the customer experience we deliver. Staying at the cutting edge Cheryl is continually furthering her knowledge when it comes to agency practice, ever-changing legislation and emerging technologies. Her watchful eye on the systems we use to sell, rent and manage real estate helps us stay at the forefront of Werribee and Truganina real estate, and that is genuinely to the advantage of our customers. Make the right move. Talk to one of First National Westwood’s staff about the management of your rental property or the purchase or sale of a home today.
Eugene Bonanno
Commercial Sales & Leasing Manager
Coming from a large Italian family, Eugene Bonanno's grandparents arrived in Australia in the mid 1950's with no knowledge of their new surroundings and little in their pockets. Through hard work and the bond of family, they managed to build a home in Werribee, raise a family and begin what we know as 'The Great Australian Dream'. “I have been raised to understand the importance of family and culture” says Eugene “and to help anyone I can who needs it.” “Having always lived in Werribee, I thought there's no better place for me to work and achieve my aspirations than in my own community, and that's what brought me to the Real Estate industry!” Eugene started as a junior sales assistant learning the basics and is now working as a Sales Consultant helping people achieve their goals and dreams whether buying or selling Real Estate in his home town of Wyndham. “I meet people every day from different walks of life and take pride in being able to assist people with their most important asset - their home,” says Eugene “Along with my passion for Real Estate” says Eugene “I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I enjoy fishing and playing golf.” “ So whether buying, selling or simply browsing, I'm here to help with your Real Estate needs. You can reach me at the office or on mobile 0411 882 844 ” Eugene Bonanno.
Coming from a large Italian family, Eugene Bonanno's grandparents arrived in Australia in the mid 1950's with no knowledge of their new surroundings and little in their pockets. Through hard work and the bond of family, they managed to build a home in Werribee, raise a family and begin what we know as 'The Great Australian Dream'. “I have been raised to understand the importance of family and culture” says Eugene “and to help anyone I can who needs it.” “Having always lived in Werribee, I thought there's no better place for me to work and achieve my aspirations than in my own community, and that's what brought me to the Real Estate industry!” Eugene started as a junior sales assistant learning the basics and is now working as a Sales Consultant helping people achieve their goals and dreams whether buying or selling Real Estate in his home town of Wyndham. “I meet people every day from different walks of life and take pride in being able to assist people with their most important asset - their home,” says Eugene “Along with my passion for Real Estate” says Eugene “I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I enjoy fishing and playing golf.” “ So whether buying, selling or simply browsing, I'm here to help with your Real Estate needs. You can reach me at the office or on mobile 0411 882 844 ” Eugene Bonanno.
Andrew Cruickshank
Senior Sales Consultant
Andrew Cruickshank is a highly experienced and dedicated real estate agent with a passion for helping his clients achieve their real estate goals. With nearly 20 years of experience in the industry, Andrew has a deep understanding of the local real estate market and a proven track record of success. Andrew's commitment to his clients is unmatched, and he works tirelessly to ensure that every transaction is smooth and stress-free. He takes the time to listen to his clients' needs and concerns, and he uses his expertise to guide them through every step of the buying or selling process. Whether you are looking to buy your first home, sell your current property, or invest in real estate, Andrew has the knowledge, experience, and dedication to help you achieve your goals. He prides himself on his exceptional communication skills and his ability to build strong relationships with his clients, which has earned him a reputation as a trusted and respected agent in the industry. Andrew is also committed to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the real estate industry, which allows him to provide his clients with cutting-edge tools and resources to help them achieve their goals. He is a true professional who is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure his clients' satisfaction. If you are looking for a knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated real estate agent who will work tirelessly to help you achieve your goals, look no further than Andrew Cruickshank. Contact him today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving your real estate dreams.
Andrew Cruickshank is a highly experienced and dedicated real estate agent with a passion for helping his clients achieve their real estate goals. With nearly 20 years of experience in the industry, Andrew has a deep understanding of the local real estate market and a proven track record of success. Andrew's commitment to his clients is unmatched, and he works tirelessly to ensure that every transaction is smooth and stress-free. He takes the time to listen to his clients' needs and concerns, and he uses his expertise to guide them through every step of the buying or selling process. Whether you are looking to buy your first home, sell your current property, or invest in real estate, Andrew has the knowledge, experience, and dedication to help you achieve your goals. He prides himself on his exceptional communication skills and his ability to build strong relationships with his clients, which has earned him a reputation as a trusted and respected agent in the industry. Andrew is also committed to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the real estate industry, which allows him to provide his clients with cutting-edge tools and resources to help them achieve their goals. He is a true professional who is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure his clients' satisfaction. If you are looking for a knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated real estate agent who will work tirelessly to help you achieve your goals, look no further than Andrew Cruickshank. Contact him today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving your real estate dreams.
Darren Dodd
Senior Sales Consultant / Licensed Estate Agent Auctioneer
Darren has been a local resident to the City of Wyndham as a Real Estate Agent since 1991. During his time in the field, he has gained extensive knowledge of the area and surrounds, watching it grow from a country town to the bustling city it is today. He has played an integral role in successfully being involved in thousands of property transactions. His negotiation skills have been sharpened over many years starting in the early stages of his career in the recession of the 90’s, thus providing his services of lots of experience, and wealth of knowledge to serve the community with a great outcome to any real estate transactions. “I believe the key to the best Real Estate practise is honest and open communication. Motivation and success is doing the right thing and good will follow.”
Darren has been a local resident to the City of Wyndham as a Real Estate Agent since 1991. During his time in the field, he has gained extensive knowledge of the area and surrounds, watching it grow from a country town to the bustling city it is today. He has played an integral role in successfully being involved in thousands of property transactions. His negotiation skills have been sharpened over many years starting in the early stages of his career in the recession of the 90’s, thus providing his services of lots of experience, and wealth of knowledge to serve the community with a great outcome to any real estate transactions. “I believe the key to the best Real Estate practise is honest and open communication. Motivation and success is doing the right thing and good will follow.”
Jai Grant
Department Manager Residential Property Management / BDM
A born people-person, Jai has worked in Property Management since 1999. Combining his highly developed communication skills, friendly nature and his extensive knowledge and first-hand experience of dealing with property right across Melbourne, Jai has built a reputation on being able to offer excellent customer service and honest, reliable information for both landlords and tenants alike. Jai is proud to lead our mature, committed and highly driven Property Management team. In his spare time, Jai enjoys cheering on his favourite football team the Western Bulldogs, playing competitive basketball, and socialising with family and friends. Please call Jai anytime on his direct line 0439 845 895 if you would like to discuss your property or require any general advice on your investment property.
A born people-person, Jai has worked in Property Management since 1999. Combining his highly developed communication skills, friendly nature and his extensive knowledge and first-hand experience of dealing with property right across Melbourne, Jai has built a reputation on being able to offer excellent customer service and honest, reliable information for both landlords and tenants alike. Jai is proud to lead our mature, committed and highly driven Property Management team. In his spare time, Jai enjoys cheering on his favourite football team the Western Bulldogs, playing competitive basketball, and socialising with family and friends. Please call Jai anytime on his direct line 0439 845 895 if you would like to discuss your property or require any general advice on your investment property.
Mikhail Teklu
Mikhail is a driven and enthusiastic young professional. He has grown up in the city of Wyndham completing his high school education at MacKillop College. Mikhail is loyal, honest, hardworking and a true professional who communicates with his clients and puts their needs above all else. When he is not hard at work, he spends time walking his dog Lola and spending time with his friends and family.
Mikhail is a driven and enthusiastic young professional. He has grown up in the city of Wyndham completing his high school education at MacKillop College. Mikhail is loyal, honest, hardworking and a true professional who communicates with his clients and puts their needs above all else. When he is not hard at work, he spends time walking his dog Lola and spending time with his friends and family.
Kylie Jacobs
Senior Commercial Property Manager
Kylie has been in real estate since 2003. Her background in reception, admin, leasing, marketing and residential property management roles provided Kylie with a thorough knowledge of all aspects of real estate before taking on the Commercial Property Manager role with First National Westwood. Being dedicated, focused and highly organised are strong attributes which she believes have been her pillar for success as a Portfolio Manager. Kylie strives for Customer Satisfaction and takes pride in assisting her clients in achieving maximum return on their investments properties. Kylie’s friendly, prompt and honest approach builds great relationships with both landlords and tenants and ensures that everyone’s experience is a positive one. If you would like Kylie to be your Property Manager please contact her on 03 8734 5804 to further discuss your real estate needs.
Kylie has been in real estate since 2003. Her background in reception, admin, leasing, marketing and residential property management roles provided Kylie with a thorough knowledge of all aspects of real estate before taking on the Commercial Property Manager role with First National Westwood. Being dedicated, focused and highly organised are strong attributes which she believes have been her pillar for success as a Portfolio Manager. Kylie strives for Customer Satisfaction and takes pride in assisting her clients in achieving maximum return on their investments properties. Kylie’s friendly, prompt and honest approach builds great relationships with both landlords and tenants and ensures that everyone’s experience is a positive one. If you would like Kylie to be your Property Manager please contact her on 03 8734 5804 to further discuss your real estate needs.
Melissa Seear
Client Services Manager
With a rich background in accounts and 23 years of life in Werribee, Melissa is a deeply rooted community member who has raised four children and actively participated in local sports. Her extensive involvement in the community reflects her commitment and passion for supporting others. Since embarking on her real estate career in 2020, Melissa has seamlessly transitioned from a part-time receptionist to a vital role in client services. In her current position, she expertly supports both sales and property management teams with trust accounting and administrative tasks. Her blend of financial acumen, community spirit, and dedication to real estate ensures exceptional service and a personal touch in every client interaction.
With a rich background in accounts and 23 years of life in Werribee, Melissa is a deeply rooted community member who has raised four children and actively participated in local sports. Her extensive involvement in the community reflects her commitment and passion for supporting others. Since embarking on her real estate career in 2020, Melissa has seamlessly transitioned from a part-time receptionist to a vital role in client services. In her current position, she expertly supports both sales and property management teams with trust accounting and administrative tasks. Her blend of financial acumen, community spirit, and dedication to real estate ensures exceptional service and a personal touch in every client interaction.
Annette Hill
Compliance Manager
Annette has been with First National Westwood for many years, starting out on reception. Her communication skills partnered with her enthusiasm led her into property management which allows her to connect with tenants and landlords alike to provide a satisfying outcome for their most valued asset. Annette’s strong work ethic compliments her friendly nature and this is displayed in her delivery of service across the board. Annette enjoys the diverse nature of Real Estate, and loves matching people with their ideal property. If you would like Annette to be your Property Manager please contact her on 03 8734 5805 to further discuss your real estate needs.
Annette has been with First National Westwood for many years, starting out on reception. Her communication skills partnered with her enthusiasm led her into property management which allows her to connect with tenants and landlords alike to provide a satisfying outcome for their most valued asset. Annette’s strong work ethic compliments her friendly nature and this is displayed in her delivery of service across the board. Annette enjoys the diverse nature of Real Estate, and loves matching people with their ideal property. If you would like Annette to be your Property Manager please contact her on 03 8734 5805 to further discuss your real estate needs.
Amanda Colley
Property Manager
Amanda joined the team at First National Westwood in October 2014. With a background in real estate reception, sales administration and Property Management, she is certainly no stranger to the industry. Amanda enjoys the challenges and rewards of finding the right house for the right tenant, and loves dealing with all aspects of Property Management. In her spare time, Amanda loves baking and cooking up a storm in the kitchen for friends and family. If you would like Amanda to be your Property Manager please contact her on 03 8734 5816 to further discuss your real estate needs.
Amanda joined the team at First National Westwood in October 2014. With a background in real estate reception, sales administration and Property Management, she is certainly no stranger to the industry. Amanda enjoys the challenges and rewards of finding the right house for the right tenant, and loves dealing with all aspects of Property Management. In her spare time, Amanda loves baking and cooking up a storm in the kitchen for friends and family. If you would like Amanda to be your Property Manager please contact her on 03 8734 5816 to further discuss your real estate needs.