Back in 1964, when local Grafton retailers could not get finance for their customers for sewing machines, televisions, washing machines and other goods, locals Bill and Peter Dougherty established Westlawn to come to their aid.In 1972, Mike Dougherty joined his cousins and the decision was made to extend services to a full local finance company whilst also diversifying into the property sector with the acquisition and development of commercial real estate.
After serving as Chairman for many years, Mike retired from the Westlawn board in October 2017. A number of second generation Doughertys actively work in the Westlawn Group. Jim Dougherty, one of Bill’s sons, joined in 1993 and was Chairman of Westlawn Finance and Chairman of the Westlawn Property Trust until retiring in late 2023. Mark Dougherty, one of Peter’s sons, joined Westlawn in 1996 and is now Chairman of Westlawn Finance and has previously held the position of Managing Director of the Finance division. In addition, Chris Dougherty, one of Mike’s sons, is General Manager of Westlawn Insurance Brokers.
In the last 15 years, Westlawn has grown from strength to strength, expanding its services to include asset finance, and home loan broking .Our branch network has also been steadily expanding with offices opening all across the Northern Rivers.
