First National Names Boardroom After Inaugural Managing Director

First National Real Estate is the largest cooperative real estate brand in Australia and much of its early growth is attributable to Allan Hart, the network’s inaugural managing director.

Recently, a ceremony was held dedicating the national administration’s boardroom to Mr Hart with the unveiling of a plaque before two of Mr Hart’s children – Rebecca Hart and Jules Hart.

Chief Executive, David Edwards, delivered the following speech in honour of Mr Hart’s incredible contribution to First National Real Estate.

‘Ladies and gentlemen, Directors of the Board, and most importantly, members of Allan Hart’s family, thank you for joining us today as we honour a man who laid the foundation for everything First National Real Estate stands for today,’ said Mr Edwards.

‘Today, we officially name this space the ‘Allan Hart Boardroom,’ in recognition of a leader whose vision, passion, and commitment set the culture and values that would unite more than 450 independent real estate agencies by the mid-1990s, end their isolation, and create a camaraderie for which First National Real Estate would become famous.

‘Allan served as Managing Director of First National from 1984 until 1995. Together with network founders Bill Wood and Chas Heath, Allan took our brand from its first headquarters in Geelong and grew it into the national and international giant we now proudly call our own.

‘Allan’s belief in the power of collaboration was evident early on, as he criss-crossed Australia in the days before online applications, inviting the finest real estate professionals of each region to join our network. This personal touch not only expanded our membership but also established the culture of mutual support that differentiates First National from traditional franchise models today.

‘He wasn’t just instrumental in Australia; he crossed the Tasman Sea, alongside Townsville member Wayne Nicholson, to establish our New Zealand operations. It was on a boat in the stunning Bay of Islands that the vision shared by Allan, Chas and Bill truly became international.

‘Allan also brought together the key people who would for the first staff of First National. Alongside Anne Hecimovic, the network’s first administrative employee – who rose to become General Manager – Allan led the charge in creating the systems, branding, and training that evolved into our current approach to professional development. He developed our first logo – the distinctive rope and triangle – and hired Rex Ward of Sydney’s Knox Grammar School to create the network’s first training programme.

‘Allan was more than just a leader; he was a visionary whose engaging style and determination fostered a culture of excellence. Thanks to his tireless work, First National became a network where members share expertise rather than compete – for the benefit of shareholders. This spirit of collaboration remains one of our greatest strengths.

‘As we stand in this room today, it’s impossible not to reflect on Allan’s legacy. This boardroom will now bear his name as a reminder of the values and vision he instilled in First National Real Estate.

‘To Allan’s family, we hope this recognition honours his memory and his remarkable achievements. To all present today, let this boardroom serve as a reminder of what can be achieved through dedication, innovation, and a belief in community.

‘Thank you, Allan, for everything you gave to this organisation. You will always be part of its story.’