Stawell beat 27 other branches in the region, which covers towns from Kaniva to Bacchus Marsh.

The formal ceremony, held in Ballarat, gave the bank the opportunity to recognise the work of its branches and outstanding employees.

``We've had a really good year,'' Branch Manager Jon Grant said.

Last year's Best Personal Lender winner Jill McInerney was again a finalist for this year's award, which is judged on an employee's performance in reaching targets and customer service.

Stawell Customer Service specialist Daniel Jones was also a contender for the Best Service award.

Mr Grant said the criteria for the award came down to two things, service and sales.

``We pride ourselves on looking after our customers,'' he said.

``If you look after your customers they'll keep coming back.''

Mr Grant said the staff at Stawell are extremely customer focused, from the telling line to customer service, to personal lending.

``This award is a nice little coup for us,'' he said.

``I'm very proud of the team.''