04 HANNAS

THE Hanna family has been synonymous with service and style across the Darling Downs for generations.

From humble beginnings with a red Bedford truck to its dominance of Ruthven St, the clothing store has a long and proud history across the region.

And behind the counters to this day remains a member of the Hanna family.

What the Toowoomba of today knows as a department store got its start in 1946 when founder Norman Hanna became a travelling draper, going around to family farms with his Bedford truck loaded with fabrics and goods, taking convenience to farmhouses and his services with a smile.

He would visit then-remote areas such as Crows Nest, Bowenville, Pittsworth, Felton and the Gatton districts, navigating dirt roads with a watchful eye on the region’s unpredictable weather at all times.

The practice continued for 10 years until, in 1956, Norman opened the doors of what remains to this day as Hannas on Ruthven St.

Three generations have since been involved in the store which remains grounded in its family values and commitment to the region.

The next generation, which will be the fourth, is also playing a role in keeping the enterprise in the family.

“There are currently 12 family members who work in the store and John, Jimmy and Anthony are the current partners in the business,” the Hannas website proudly states.

Over the past 62 years, the Hanna family has solidified its commitment to the community which is evident through the sponsorship of various sporting and social events and causes.