Methods of Sale: Choosing the Right Path in Today’s Property Market

When it comes to selling a home, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Behind every successful sale is a carefully chosen strategy - one that reflects not only the property itself, but also the market conditions, buyer behaviour, and the seller’s goals.

This month, we explore the most common methods of sale and what they really mean for homeowners navigating today’s real estate landscape.

Understanding the Selling Strategy

At its core, selling property is about one thing: discovering what the market is truly willing to pay.

While that may sound straightforward, the reality is far more nuanced. Pricing too high can deter buyers before they even step through the door. Pricing too low may leave money on the table. That’s why selecting the right method of sale is just as important as presentation and marketing.

Each approach, whether it’s private treaty, or a no-price campaign, creates a different dynamic, influencing buyer behaviour in subtle but powerful ways.

Auction & ‘No Price’ Campaigns: Creating Competition Without a Ceiling

Few methods generate as much energy as an auction, where the focus shifts from setting a figure to discovering what the market is truly prepared to pay in a transparent time driven environment.

By removing a fixed price guide, this strategy encourages buyers to engage more openly, often creating stronger competition. In the case of auction, all bids are visible, giving buyers clarity and confidence while fuelling momentum.

Expressions of Interest (EOI) campaigns take a quieter approach, with offers submitted privately, but still benefit from the same sense of deadline-driven urgency.

A defined end date, whether it’s auction day or an EOI close, creates a powerful trigger for action. Buyers know they have a limited window, which can lead to more decisive behaviour and, in some cases, premium results.

However, this approach isn’t without its considerations. The process can feel intense, particularly in a public auction setting, and there is no absolute guarantee of a sale if expectations aren’t met. Campaign costs are slightly higher, reflecting the level of marketing required to generate strong interest.

‘For Sale’ or ‘New to Market’ also removes price ceilings and pre-determined value on a property, however there is no ‘transparency’ when negotiating.  In a tight market this will often lead to ‘multiple offers’ from buyers, who often feel like they are in a ‘Dutch Auction’

Private Treaty: Control and Flexibility

On the other end of the spectrum is the private treaty method - often referred to as a traditional “for sale” approach.

Here, the property is listed with a set price or price range, and buyers submit offers privately. This creates a more relaxed environment, allowing sellers to consider offers over time rather than making decisions under the pressure of a public bidding process.

One of the biggest advantages of private treaty is control. Sellers can negotiate on their own terms, adjust pricing if needed, and take the time to find the right buyer.

That said, this method can sometimes lack urgency. Without a clear deadline, buyers may take a “wait and see” approach, which can extend the time a property spends on the market. Pricing also becomes critical - if it doesn’t align with buyer expectations, interest can quickly fade.

When priced strategically, however, private treaty remains a reliable and widely used method, particularly for properties in more stable or balanced markets.

The Role of Pricing Strategy

Even in campaigns where a price is displayed, the goal isn’t simply to list a number - it’s to position the property effectively.

A well-considered price should act as a “take notice” signal, capturing attention and presenting the property as compelling value compared to others on the market. Done well, this encourages inspections, builds momentum, and ultimately drives competition.

Get it wrong, and the campaign can stall before it even begins.

Finding the Right Fit

So, which method is best?

Ultimately, the right method of sale is about more than just choosing a process - it’s about aligning your strategy with your goals, your property, and the realities of the current market.

At TAYLORS, our Property Specialists bring both experience and insight to every campaign, guiding you through the decision-making process with clarity and confidence. We take the time to understand your unique situation, ensuring the approach we recommend is tailored not only to your property, but also to the conditions at play and the outcome you want to achieve.

Our team is here to help you navigate the options and make informed decisions every step of the way.

With Rachael & Tyson Griffiths from Reef Side Buyers

Founders of Reef Side Buyers' Agent Rachael and Tyson Griffiths are a dynamic and forward-thinking team, abreast of the market and analytics, with a people-first approach. In 2025 they took 20 years of hands-on experience across building, property, and long-term investment and used it to launch their own company – all while raising a young family.

Already, the company is thriving, with the Griffiths established in the community as go-to advocates for property buyers, acting with insight, strategy and integrity to broker next-level deals for their clients.

Though going into business with your partner is not always for the faint-hearted, Rachael and Tyson went in with confidence and made family business look easy.

The pair complement one another, combining different strengths but the same shared vision to put their clients in a position to make confident decisions and negotiate outcomes that wouldn’t have been possible without representation.

Rachael is the people person. She focuses on relationships, client management, and operations – a highly detail-oriented and supportive presence keeping every client informed throughout the process. The strong relationships she builds – both with clients and local agents – often open doors to opportunities that aren’t publicly available.

Tyson’s strengths sit on the analytical side – breaking down the numbers, researching market trends, and identifying the right opportunities. He sources both on-market and off-market properties, assesses value, and structures negotiation strategies based on data and timing.

Everything they do, they do with integrity.

“We saw too many buyers overpaying, buying the wrong property, or missing out entirely because they didn’t understand how the local market actually works," Tyson said.

“The Whitsundays isn’t a 'plug and play' market—you’ve got lifestyle buyers, investors, short-term rental dynamics, and a lot of off-market deals. If you’re not connected, you’re already behind.”

Whilst building their business, Rachael and Tyson have seen an evolution in the way people buy.

“The biggest shift has been moving from people not really understanding what a buyers’ agent does to now actively seeking one out before they even start looking,” Rachael explained.

“A standout milestone has been consistently securing off-market and pre-market opportunities for clients—those are the deals that change outcomes, not the ones everyone is competing for online.

“Another highlight is seeing repeat clients and referrals grow. That’s usually the clearest sign you’re actually delivering results, not just talking about them.”

Those clients include investors seeking strategic, well-timed deals, as well as commercial clients and first-time buyers looking for structured, guided purchases.

Rachael and Tyson moved to the Whitsundays to give their kids a beautiful childhood, outdoors amongst some of the most stunning nature the country has to offer.

“We spend weekends fishing, camping, and spending time on the water,” Tyson said.

“That’s typical for the Whitsundays, but it’s a big part of why we chose to live here in the first place.”

Now, they now help others on similar journeys, seeking their dream homes by the sea.

If your business had a theme song, what would it be?

Thunderstruck – AC/DC.

What’s the most unusual place you’ve had a business discussion?

The bathtub.

What’s your proudest moment working together?

Building the business from the ground up while raising a young family.

reefsidebuyersagent.com.au

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Working with your partner isn’t for everyone—but for some couples, it just works.

Running a business together means you’re not only sharing life outside of work, but also the wins, challenges, and day-to-day decisions that come with building something of your own. It takes patience, clear communication, and a good sense of humour—but it can also be incredibly rewarding.

Of course, it comes with its challenges. There’s the balancing act between work and home life, knowing when to switch off (or at least trying to), and making sure each person has their own space to contribute. But on the flip side, there’s a level of trust and understanding that’s hard to replicate in any other business relationship.

For John and Paula Mottin, working together has been part of their story for over a decade. Since 2010, they’ve teamed up in rural property sales, combining their skills and building a strong reputation in the industry along the way.

In 2014, they took a big step forward and purchased a share in McCathies Real Estate T/A Nutrien Harcourts McCathies. It was a natural progression—moving from working in the business to helping shape its future. Then in 2021, they went all in, purchasing the entire business and taking full ownership. Since then, their knowledge and services have expanded well beyond rural sales.

Today, their business covers residential, rural and commercial sales, along with property management and strata management. What makes working together successful for couples like John and Paula is understanding each other’s strengths and backing one another. There’s a shared drive to succeed, but also a shared pride in what they’ve built together.

At the end of the day, being in business as a couple isn’t just about work—it’s about building something meaningful together. And for those who can make it work, it can be one of the most rewarding partnerships there is.

Nutrienharcourts.net

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In a world where everything from business to home life relies on staying connected, reliable internet is no longer a nice-to-have. It is essential. That’s why the Hinchinbrook region is getting a major upgrade.

Through a new partnership with Aussie Broadband, Logilytics is now delivering local NBN services across Hinchinbrook, including high-speed fibre where available. The result is faster speeds, stronger reliability and, importantly, support from a team that understands the needs of the local community.

For businesses, dependable internet underpins daily operations, from processing payments and running cloud-based systems to safeguarding data and communicating with customers. At home, it shapes how families stream, study, work and unwind. When it works well, everything flows. When it does not, it quickly becomes a source of frustration.

Logilytics is focused on removing that frustration. Rather than offering generic, one-size-fits-all solutions, the team works closely with each customer to tailor a setup that suits their specific needs. From choosing the right plan to ensuring WiFi and networks are properly configured, everything is handled with care and local know-how, so customers can rely on a setup that performs when it matters most.

As owner Ben Barbi explains, “People just want their stuff to work. They don’t want to have to lean on IT every time they want to do something. That’s our passion - technology that works.”

Beyond internet services, Logilytics also supports businesses and residents with WiFi, phone systems, cloud migration, cyber security and hardware setup, providing an end-to-end technology solution.

With fast internet, fast support and a local team behind it, Hinchinbrook now has access to connectivity that keeps pace with modern life.

What’s life like outside of work?

“I've got a small family, so we like to do things together. I’m also guitarist and an Air Force Cadets instructor.”

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With Liquaforce

For more than three decades, LiquaForce has been a pioneering force in North Queensland’s agricultural sector, delivering innovative liquid fertiliser solutions tailored to sugarcane, horticulture, and broadacre farming. Originally established as a trusted local partner, the company entered a new phase of growth in May 2024 through its partnership with RLF AgTech. This collaboration combined LiquaForce’s deep regional expertise with RLF AgTech’s global research capabilities, significantly expanding manufacturing capacity and broadening the product portfolio.

At the core of LiquaForce’s value proposition is a focus on efficiency and productivity. Its liquid application systems enable growers to cover substantially more ground – up to 60 hectares per day – compared to approximately 8 hectares using traditional granular methods. Among its key products are PlantStarter, a liquid fertiliser formulated to kickstart crop development in a wide range of conditions, including cold and wet soils, by promoting rapid root and shoot growth, and LQ Ratooner, a high-analysis, single-application solution that incorporates organic carbon to stabilise nitrogen release and enhance nutrient uptake.

Beyond its product offering, LiquaForce delivers comprehensive on-farm support. This includes specialised application equipment, professional contracting services, and on-farm storage solutions designed to reduce supply chain risk and improve operational efficiency. By integrating advanced chemistry with practical logistics, the company continues to support a more resilient and progressive agricultural sector.

LiquaForce’s manufacturing hubs in Queensland and Western Australia now produce RLF AgTech products in-house for national distribution, replacing previous third-party manufacturing arrangements. While LiquaForce has strong roots in the sugarcane industry, RLF AgTech is leveraging this foundation to expand into broader markets, including broadacre cropping, cotton, and horticulture. At the same time, RLF AgTech is introducing its higher-margin advanced crop nutrition products into LiquaForce’s established customer network.

Together, RLF AgTech and LiquaForce share a clear objective: to transform Australian agriculture by combining precision liquid nutrition with global research expertise, ultimately improving farmer profitability while advancing environmental sustainability.

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With Steve & Toni Ward from Whitsunday Boat & Jetski Licence Training

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Steve and Toni Ward have spent thirty years turning their lifelong passion for the ocean into a string of successful businesses. This year, the pair dived even deeper into the Whitsunday water scene, building on their legacy with a new venture: Whitsunday Boat & Jetski Licence Training.

Having owned and operated businesses like Whitsunday Jetski Tours, Daydream Island Watersports, Whitsunday Parasailing and Island Jet Boating, the husband-and-wife duo are now helping locals and visitors alike gain not only their marine licences but also something far more valuable: confidence.

“We don’t just teach people to pass a test,” Steve says.

“We teach practical skills for operating safely in real conditions. What makes us unique is the level of real experience behind the training.”

Steve has lived in the Whitsundays, championing marine tourism for over 30 years, owning and operating several successful watersports businesses. With experience that spans vessel operations, safety management, and training, passing on his skills to the next generation of boaties feels like a natural progression. 

“Mentoring people on the water has always been a passion.” Steve shared.

“What we both love most is seeing someone go from nervous to capable in just a day. It’s incredibly rewarding—it’s helping someone build skills for life.”

At Steve’s side is his business partner and wife, Toni, who balances his industry knowledge with strong business and operational experience through a background in administration, customer service, and business management.

“We have very complementary roles.” Toni said. 

“Steve is hands-on, delivering training and assessments with a strong focus on safety and real-world experience. I manage the business side—bookings, systems, marketing, and customer communication.

“Our biggest strength is clear communication and shared goals. Like any partnership, balancing work and personal life can be a challenge, but we keep things grounded by staying focused on the bigger picture and supporting each other.” 

Highlights of Whitsunday Boat & Jetski’s evolution have been becoming an authorised BoatSafe provider under Allstate Boat Licensing, bringing a locally focused training service to the region they love, and being met with massive enthusiasm.

Outside of work, the 'Wardys' – Toni, Steve and four big kids – have always been all about action and adventure. 

“We love anything on the water—boating, jet skiing, kitesurfing, wing foiling—you name it,” they said.

“When we’re not out on the water, we’re usually in the dirt on the motorbikes, enjoying enduro weekends and a bit of adventure riding. At the end of the day, it’s all about family time and making the most of the Whitsundays lifestyle.” 

That love of the Whitsundays is poured into everything Steve and Toni do – and it makes them the perfect teachers. Their courses are built on passion, integrity, and a drive to contribute to safe boating by providing high-quality training and a positive, supportive experience for every student. 

Q: What advice would you give to others looking to build amazing teams?

Our mantra has always been 'Your vibe attracts your tribe.'

 Never aim to be the smartest person in the room and always be willing to learn something new.

 Respect each other’s strengths, stay aligned on your goals, and don’t let small issues grow into bigger ones. 

 A strong team is built on trust, accountability, and mutual support. 

Q: Describe your partner’s personality in three words:

Steve: Driven, knowledgeable, dependable 

Toni: Organised, supportive, motivated 

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Astrid And Reece Finlay From Fly High Rope Access

High above the ground, suspended by rope and precision, Reece Finlay works where most people simply cannot go. But his true anchor is his wife and business partner, Astrid.

Together, the couple launched Fly High Rope Access, a locally owned company delivering rope access services across Mackay and the wider region. The business was born not just from skill and opportunity, but from a simple family goal.

“We wanted him home with the kids,” Astrid said. “I was trying to find a way for him to leave his job on offshore oil and gas platforms so we could build something better for our family.”

Before that, Reece had been working FIFO out of Mackay, where he met Astrid in 2017. “We actually met on a dating app when we were both working in Darwin,” she laughs.

What followed was a whirlwind chapter of life. Less than a year into their relationship, the couple were preparing for their first child.

“Ten months into the relationship I was saying I wasn’t ready for kids, and two weeks later I was pregnant with our first,” Astrid said.

When COVID arrived around the time their child was born, the couple relocated to Mackay after Reece was offered the chance to return to a previous job in the region. What was meant to be a temporary post, slowly began to feel like home.

“Every time we thought we might leave Mackay, something happened that kept us here,” Astrid said.

Originally from Brazil and raised in France, Astrid had come to Australia to study and spent the next ten years of her career working as a sound engineer in the music industry and travelling the country. Despite her global background, she said Mackay’s lifestyle and community quickly won her over.

And when the idea of starting a rope access business emerged, it unfolded rapidly.

“Within six weeks we went from just him to having ten people on board, and six months later we had twenty.”

Today, Reece leads operations on-site while Astrid manages the often-unseen side of the company, coordinating logistics, marketing, payroll and administration.

The company specialises in rope access solutions for challenging environments, supporting trades and industries across commercial and industrial sites.

“Our motto is that we go places where others can’t reach,” Astrid explained.

From high-rise maintenance and inspections to cleaning and signage installation, the method provides a flexible alternative to traditional access equipment such as scaffolding or lifts. The company’s technicians undergo internationally recognised training through IRATA standards and follow strict safety protocols and risk management procedures.

“One thing we don’t do, is compromise our standards,” Astrid said.

“At the end of the day, we just want everyone to come home safe, and that is our biggest priority.”

While the business continues to expand across Mackay, the Whitsundays and the Bowen Basin, the couple remain focused on building something meaningful for their family and community.

“Working with each other as husband and wife is tough at times, but we communicate and work through it together.

“We also quickly learnt to set boundaries between work and family,” she said.

For the Finlay’s, success comes down to trust, teamwork and keeping their standards high – both on the ropes and at home.

Advice to other couples in business?

Communicate, and allocate time every week to check in on both the business and the household. You must separate the two.

www.flyhighropeaccess.com.au

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With Steve and Lanie Marks of Explore Property

Steve and Lanie Marks have just celebrated their 20th anniversary – two decades of love; but also of building businesses together, in a partnership that has changed the property landscape of the Whitsundays.

The pair began in hospitality, running Beaches in Airlie Beach, before entering real estate. Now they have three businesses – Loan Market, Accom Whitsundays, and Explore

Property rentals and sales.

Steve is a company director, a leader who strategizes, builds business and dreams up ideas - he shoots for the stars. Lanie, on the other hand, keeps her feet on the ground, and helps turn those grand ideas into concrete plans. She is a mortgage broker, property manager, and more, all whilst being the CEO of the Marks’ family life. Together, they’re a humble and hardworking team.

The couple transitioned into property after the birth of their first of two sons. Looking to pivot out of the unsociable hours of hospitality, the pair sought work that allowed them to make a change, and build something new.

“Steve was always looking at the real estate section of Airlie Beach. He fell in love with Hamilton Island and Airlie Beach the minute he got here, always following the growth of the town.” Lanie said

“And I was always really interested in real estate, and saw an opportunity to join Ray White, 20 years ago. I worked as a Property Manager and BDM before becoming a mortgage broker and opening Loan Market Whitsunday in 2018.”

Whilst Lanie grew Loan Market, Steve revelled in Project Marketing and became hooked by the satisfaction of seeing his impact growing the town he loved, naming streets and adding development housing.

Four years ago, the pair opened Explore Property, beginning in a small office in Cannonvale before upgrading in 2025, turning an old panel beater’s workshop on Shute Harbour Road into a gorgeous airy space, and growing a team of three to a team of twenty through hard graft and a clear vision.

Just six months ago, the pair further expanded their company and reach with the acquisition of the PRD Rental Business including Residential, Commercial, Storage and Holiday Let Business Accom Whitsunday  – their biggest challenge; but also, their biggest success.

With Lanie and Steve combining their skills, the business has become a unique multi-service agency offering bespoke, one-stop service for their clients.

“I think a lot of real estate agents can be very transactional.” Steve explained.

“So we always ask: How can I help? Every single transaction is different. We collaborate with our owners and tenants and vendors depending on their exact needs and wants- whether they’re moving overseas or interstate, buying an investment property, or holiday home – we give them suggestions and advice in-house, without referrals or extra fees.”

For Lanie and Steve, leading a business as a couple means some of their best strategy meetings pop up unexpectedly.

“We have a theory.” Steve confessed.

“We were on Hamilton Island last week for our wedding anniversary, drinking wine, and we come up with a really good strategy; we went: That's brilliant!

“The best ideas come when you are relaxed, when you step back, and have capacity for them.”

Their top advice to other couples is to maintain clear and independent roles within the business.

“We don't step on each other's toes in in the workspace.” Lanie said.

“He's got his things he excels at. I have mine.”

Lanie highlighted Steve’s business acumen, strategic planning, and quick thinking.

Steve says Lanie has incredible patience and can filter out the best ideas from the crazy ones.

Steve and Lanie have dream-teamed their way to success, with four businesses now growing independently and together, interweaving and creating a new way of approaching retail. After dedicating themselves to the growth of their business, they’ve reached a stage where they can enjoy the dividends.

“You’ve got to take the time to appreciate the accolades of owning a business; pressure is a privilege,” Steve said. “You’ve got to remember that you can't work all the time. You can't lose yourself in the business.”

The pair are now enjoying a rich family life earned through decades of hard work, spending time together and with their boys, finding work life balance and building the team.

And if they get hit with a genius business plan in a spa, at the bar or on the beach? That makes it even better.

What advice would you have for any other couples thinking of going into business together?

Define your roles and trust one another completely to do their job. Understand that there will be mistakes made and find solutions together.

What's the most unusual place you've had a business discussion?

Lanie: On a chairlift, snowboarding in Canada!

Steve: I actually had a really big idea when face down in the snow.

explorepropertywhitsunday.com.au

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With Amy Savage from the Grow As I Go Podcast

Your Wednesday commute just got interesting. Why? Because Amy Savage has launched her passion project.

Driven by a desire to help people feel less alone in the messy middle of life, that universal space where we’re all still figuring things out with every new chapter, Amy has created a podcast called Grow As I Go.

Released every Wednesday at 6am, episodes are designed for people who feel like they haven’t quite cracked their goals yet – but want to grow, learn, and get the most out of life as they live it.

“It’s a space for honest, vulnerable conversations about learning as we go, without pretending we have it all together,” Amy explained.

“It’s for the messy middle part of life that we rarely feel comfortable showing. Most stories get told in hindsight, after the lessons are clear. But life isn’t lived that way. We’re figuring things out in real time, and I wanted to create something that reflects that.

“I’ve had quite a bit of personal adversity over the past decade which really sparked a deeper urge to share. I really think there is so much power in being vulnerable and sharing your experiences because the reality is, hard things happen to all of us, and no one should have to navigate that alone.  

“We all are so busy on this constant treadmill of life, to the point where we don’t often make time for ourselves to pause, reflect, process, and learn lessons. This podcast is an invitation for people to jump off the treadmill for 15-20 minutes each week, to do exactly that.”

Amy has plenty of experience to share.

In her career she has gone far, working with the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning for 15 years, where she has held roles including Manager of Economic Development, all while running a successful MC business hosting private events.

“I feel very lucky to say that I genuinely love my job,” Amy shared.  

“It allows me to contribute to regional growth while being part of forward thinking projects that shape the region’s future. Creating a space where people feel safe to grow, learn and be themselves is something I care deeply about. This podcast is really a natural extension of that passion.”

The idea for Grow As I Grow had been on Amy’s mind for over three years, stuck there by a fear of failure we can all relate to.

“I thought that it needed to be perfect and that I needed to have everything figured out before I began,” Amy said.

“Eventually I realized it shouldn’t be about having all the answers or creating something flawless, but more about showing up, being authentic, creating something meaningful – which is the whole vibe this podcast is built on.  

“I’ve always been someone who brings a fun, vibrant energy into everything I do, and I want this podcast to feel the same. Even though we’re talking about real and sometimes heavy stuff, we can also see the light and human side of it all.” 

Describe your personality in three words: 

 Warm, vibrant and authentic

What Advice would you offer young business people?

Stop waiting for the ‘right’ moment and take the leap. It’s not about perfection, it’s about being willing to give things a shot. Every experience, good, hard and unexpected, teaches us something. Life is meant to be lived, not held back from.  

Find Grow As I Go on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to your podcasts, and hit subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. Find updates on Instagram @growasigopodcast

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With CANEGROWERS Proserpine

For 100 years, CANEGROWERS have provided a professional and cohesive voice to growers across  Queensland’s sugarcane regions. The not-for-profit public company has dedicated a century to supporting the best possible outcomes for cane growing business and industry, providing advocacy and advice to individual growers, family businesses and corporate enterprise, whilst affecting larger policy change across the country.

Locally Proserpine CANEGROWERS Co-operative will be celebrating the special occasion, commemorating its own unique past as a major tropical agricultural player, where cane growing is woven into the fabric of history, culture and lifestyle.

State-wide, CANEGROWERS have presented commemorative initiatives to celebrate the wonderful work that has been done over the past century. Legends of Cane Country celebrates the contributions of farmers throughout CANEGROWER’s history, inviting community nominations to recognise individuals whose leadership and commitment have made a real difference in their district.  

The organisation has also produced ‘Voices of Cane Country’, a series of filmed conversations with long serving growers, as each share what a life in cane has meant to them with the first videos already available online.

Proserpine’s own rich history of sugar farming dates back to 1897, when the Proserpine Mill was constructed. In 1926 Queensland CANEGROWERS Council formed, marking the beginning of the CANEGROWERS organisation.

In 2004, Proserpine’s own independent CANEGROWERS Co-Operative formed. This move made all regional sugarcane farming offices independent, but every co-op will join together to celebrate the centennial, paying homage as a community to the incredible work that’s been done over the years by regional cane farmers.

As part of celebrations, Proserpine CANEGROWERS Co-Operative are putting on a special historical display at the 2026 Show Whitsunday. The display will feature an array of historical photos and machinery, demonstrating a timeline of evolving technology and dedicated hard work.  

The celebrations will highlight the significance of local industry, and demonstrate that advancements made in Sugarcane farming here in Australia have always rippled outward, and had global influence.

“The big thing was harvesting,” explained Proserpine Manager Brendon Nothard.

“The Australian sugarcane industry was the world leader when it came to mechanisation of harvesting. They came up with the designs for the first sugarcane harvesters.”

Such advancements and adoption of technologies occurred  across Queensland, including Proserpine, where a fruitful sugarcane industry has endured despite challenging conditions.

“We have a highly variable weather system up here. This is one of the most variable climates in Australia and Australia is one of the most variable climates in the world.” Brendon shared, assuring that despite such challenges, Proserpine continues to work hard to produce sugarcane.

“We are a grower owned organisation. Run by growers and owned by growers. Everything we do here is informed by what growers need most.”

Looking forward, a big theme concerning sugarcane farming’s future is renewable energy.

“The industry is currently focusing on the use of both ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel.” Brendon explained

Ethanol is a renewable biofuel produced from biomass (corn, sugarcane, waste) which reduces greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 44-52% compared to gasoline.

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is an alternative fuel made from non-petroleum feedstocks that reduces air pollution from air transportation. It can be blended with other fuels. These sustainable fuels present huge potential for the industry, decreasing the reliance on externally imported oil.

From the past, looking into the future, CANEGROWERS exists for one simple reason: to give Queensland sugarcane growers a strong, united voice.

canegrowers.com.au

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With Hayley and Paul Moran from Airlie Health Hub

There's a new team member about to join the Airlie Health Hub team, only this time it’s growing from within, as husband and wife business owners Hayley and Paul Moran are expecting their first child.

Hayley's motherhood journey is closely entwined with the creation of her business, as she and Paul launched the organic, health-focused food store after Hayley experienced trouble conceiving.

"I had massive fertility issues in my early 20s." Hayley shared.

"I thought, but why- I shouldn't? So I asked: what's in the products that I'm putting on my skin? What's in the food that I'm eating, the water that I'm drinking?

“There was no access to eating chemical- and toxin-free at that time, so I really had to start my own store to be able to turn my own life around. Now, I'm pregnant… It's something that we had pretty much given up on."

Upon discovering the power of how changing your diet can change your life and transform the way you feel, Hayley and Paul committed themselves to helping others feel their best.

"Sometimes, people come to us not just to eat cleaner and eat fresher, but because they have health problems that they know they can't deny anymore because it's really impacting their lives." Hayley said.

Airlie Health Hub offers a new way of fuelling your body, one that is connected to nature, and mindful of the impacts of chemicals on the body; chemicals that often find their way onto supermarket shelves.

Along the way, Hayley and Paul have been building community, supporting producers in the region and looking for new ways to find a natural way of living. They are currently heading into their growing season, heading out to farms in Bowen twice a week to harvest fresh, seasonal produce.

"When you see out-of-season produce in the supermarkets it's from overseas, or chemically stored, which never tastes as good. Ours, you can just smell the food, you can taste it. It's so much different," Hayley explained.

With a little one on the way, Hayley and Paul are continuing to grow the store's offering, as they learn about new products that keep both baby and Mum healthy and toxin-free.

"I've started to implement things in the store now," Hayley said.

"For instance, there are a lot of chemicals in typical nappies that go straight onto a newborn's skin. And your skin's your biggest organ. So, we’re finding alternatives.

Hayley and Paul have always led the business as a duo, but as they step back a little to prepare for parenthood, they have been growing a team of passionate, beautiful staff who carry their warm, welcoming energy and passion for good food. The transition has been made easy for Hayley by Paul's unwavering support.

"He does everything for me at the moment, whether it be cooking, or putting my shoes on. Paul is my best friend," she said.

With four years spent running the business, Hayley and Paul have long since found their flow, and complement each other – but it took a little adjustment to find their groove. The secret, they say, is honest, open communication.

The couple’s proudest achievement along the way has been seeing the store grow, adding fresh produce, dairy, organic meat from the Atherton Table Lands, and fresh sourdough bread, to the bulk wholefoods they began with. They've grown a network of similar minded, organic producers, curating small-batch products from all over the Whitsundays; and on the horizon they only anticipate further expansion.

Q: What makes you feel successful?

A: That we actually, genuinely love what we do.

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Inside the collective mindset that drove Townsville to a WNBL championship

Kick-ass Women’s Basketball Team Townsville Fire has shown the world it means business, with players still riding high following their win at the WNBL on March 1st.

Success rarely comes in a straight line, and for the Townsville Fire WNBL26 champions, the path to glory was winding. But what accelerated them forward was the supportive collective mindset that had them cheering one another on toward their goal.

Under the guidance of head coach Shannon Seebohm, a five-time WNBL Coach of the Year, the Fire entered the season as championship favourites with the youngest roster in the league.

Expectations were high, and early victories reinforced the hype, but the journey was anything but smooth.

By mid-season, injury struck, causing the season-ending loss of star centre Lauren Cox, and the team faced moments of doubt after several tough defeats. Rather than crumble, the Fire recalibrated, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to one another and to the game.

Their final win over the Perth Lynx was a tight battle, a see-saw game taken back in the second half through a display of teamwork and mutual trust. Resulting in a 108 over 105 win.

The MVP of the Grand Final game was named as Courtney Woods, whose leadership on and off the court has become a cornerstone of the Fire’s culture.

Lead coach Shannon Seebohm expressed his pride following the game.

“I’m trying not to get emotional here, but she has played every single role for me that you could imagine.” The lead coach told Basketball.com.au.

“From not playing a second to playing 40 minutes a game. From me telling her she needs to pass the ball more, to she needs to shoot more threes, to we need you to do this in this game.”

“We’re so lucky to have Courtney on our team, at our club.”

Overcoming the disappointment of last year’s finals where they lost to Bendigo Spirit, Courtney returned stronger this season, both physically and mentally. Her ability to rise to the occasion, making decisive shots, locking down key opponents, and inspiring her teammates, played a huge part in the winning performance.

Her game was a show of persistence, and demonstration of the quiet power of mentorship; she attributes much of her growth to the support and guidance of Seebohm and the club’s leadership.

Across the roster, the Fire women excelled. Young stars like Abbey Ellis, Lucy Olsen, and Miela Goodchild stepped into pivotal roles when needed, demonstrating that teamwork, trust, and shared responsibility can achieve results even against the strongest opponents.

“It’s never been a team that snapped at each other or pointed fingers.” Courtney explained.

“We’ve always had massive respect for each other as basketball players.

“I know I said it in the semi-final, but it’s the power of friendship. That’s what keeps us connected. If we had lost that game, we would have been in the locker room like, ‘Guys, we’re okay. We’ll go out and play in Game 3.’ When you have the support of all your friends and your coaches, you feel like you can do really hard things.”

The Fire’s championship win comes alongside a broader evolution of women’s professional sport in Australia. With new ownership, increased investment, and growing fan engagement, the WNBL is entering a new era.

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Erin Ryley, Branch Manager of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, left corporate banking and found purpose, leading a local branch that makes a tangible impact in customers’ lives.

Erin didn’t set out to build a career in banking; she fell into it.

“I started as a teller at 17, and what began as a job quickly became something much bigger,” she explains.

“I realised I loved the pace, the people, and the impact you can have on someone’s financial future. Early on, I had a young male manager who showed me what leadership shouldn’t look like. Instead of being discouraged, I set a goal: I would become a branch manager by 24 – and I achieved it.”

Now, Erin spends her days leading and building strong teams that genuinely help people make confident financial decisions.

“Yes, there are the numbers but really, it’s about people,” she affirms; “It’s trust, relationships and community.”

During her years in the industry, Erin has seen banking shift from transactional to relationship-driven. She’s learnt that what customers want is authenticity, trust and businesses that genuinely deliver on their promises.

So that’s what Erin and her team do; they deliver professional financial services that have genuine local impact, reinvesting profits back into community grants, sponsorships and local initiatives – creating a flow of support that benefits everyone.

“What makes it special is the shared ownership mindset,” Erin explains. “Customers aren’t just customers – they’re part of something bigger. Every home loan, deposit or account contributes to supporting local projects, students, sporting and community groups.

“It’s banking with purpose – where financial success and community success go hand in hand.”

Erin’s career has taken her all around Queensland, and she managed many branches before settling in Sarina. Her family even recently lived in Seattle, USA, for 2 years – before moving back to the Mackay Region – which she now considers home. Outside her career she spends every moment with family – her mum, her loving husband and 3 beautiful kids – swimming, kicking the footy and walking their 2 dogs.

Looking ahead, Erin sees herself continuing to grow within the organisation and deepening the impact she has on the community she serves.

“I’m passionate about strengthening relationships and ensuring we consistently deliver on what we promise,” she says.

“For me, success is about sustainability – building something meaningful, earning trust, and creating lasting impact for both our customers and our community.”

When asked about the wisdom she would offer future businesswomen, Erin’s advice was clear:

“Self-belief is non-negotiable. If you don’t back yourself, no one else will. Long-term success starts with deciding you’re capable – even before you feel ready.

“Have the courage to set clear goals, to speak up, to walk into rooms where you might feel out of place – and to treat senior leaders as people, not titles. When you stop being intimidated, you start building real relationships.

“And finally, consistency is key. Success isn’t built in big moments. It’s built in the quiet discipline of showing up, following through, and staying focused on where you’re headed.”

What are your top tips for leadership?

Back yourself. Be intentional. Stay in the room.

Describe your personality in three words.

Energetic. Ambitious. Outgoing.

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With Barb Blackhall from White Picket Real Estate

When Barb Blackhall launched White Picket Real Estate in 2022, it was the cherry on the top of a lifelong real estate career.

Barb believes that in business, you should find what you love and stick with it; for her, that happened at the age of seventeen.

When she entered real estate, she immediately knew that it was the career she wanted to pursue, and so she committed to learning the industry inside out. Barb worked across sales, property management, commercial and business management until she had the versatility and know-how she needed to launch her own operation.

Now, White Picket Real Estate just keeps growing.

“Starting an independent business from scratch is no easy task," Barb says.

“Initially, I just focused on sales from a home office. I shortly branched out into rentals and moved into a shopfront office in town.”

With the move came the acquisition of a talented team.

“I’m proud to have Mary-Ann Said—undoubtedly the best property manager in Mackay—working alongside me and heading the rentals division of the business,” Barb states.

"Our rent roll has grown organically and now supports a small property management team. Last year, we further branched out into commercial leasing with Melanie Hartmann, who has many years’ experience in this area leading the commercial division.”

As the business grows, Barb is intent on keeping each division attentive and focused.

“We are proud to be a small, locally owned company,” she says.

“It means all our clients receive personalised service individual to their needs. Our reputation is everything, and we are proud of the positive feedback and referrals we constantly receive from our clients."

Barb’s personal focus is mainly directed towards sales, thriving on the challenge of achieving the best possible outcome for her clients. It’s a goal she routinely smashes, having set record prices in several suburbs of Mackay and the district.

The region is one she holds in high regard, having been born and raised in Mackay, growing up on a cane farm in Palmyra. Barb particularly loves the Pioneer Valley, where she raised her boys, Brady and Jed, who are now adults and have remained in the region.

In a testament to how much Barb loves what she does, when asked where she wanted to be in 5 years, she replies, “I’ll stick with what works and continue to do what I have been doing for the last four years."

As to the secret for her success? Barb advises that the best thing to do is to just be yourself. If you are honest, driven and have your client’s best interest at heart, you will succeed.

White Picket Real Estate stands as proof of that.

What is one piece of wisdom you learned the hard way that you now pass on to aspiring businesswomen?

If you are in a job that you aren’t enjoying, don’t waste your time. Don’t be scared to venture into different career paths until you discover exactly what it is you enjoy. Once you’ve found your chosen profession, learn every aspect of that industry. Being versatile within a business is priceless.

What support underpins your success?

My friends and family have been wonderful support to me, from referring clients to sharing, commenting on and liking our social media posts.

Describe your personality in three words:

Honest, fun-loving and down-to-earth.

whitepicketrealestate.com.au

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Jessica Gilmore From Poppy’s Pizza Place

At Poppy’s Pizza Place in Walkerston, every slice tells a story, and behind the oven is Jessica Gilmore, the woman whose passion, creativity, and grit have shaped one of the region’s most beloved pizza places.

After 20 years in the pizza industry and 17 years running her own business, Jessica has proven she can not only toss a perfect dough but also serve up leadership, resilience, and integrity in equal measure!

“It wasn’t really a decision, it kind of just happened,” Jessica laughs when asked about her career path.

Yet for someone who works a minimum of five nights a week, overseeing everything from catering to social media, it’s clear that this “accidental” career is a calling.

“I love the fast-paced environment, thinking on my feet…it’s a thrill. Working with my incredible team and seeing them grow from quiet little kids to confident young adults is the biggest reward.”

Jessica’s path to success, however, has been paved with both triumphs and tough lessons.

Speaking candidly about the hurdles she’s faced, she reflects that, “Not everyone has you or your business’s best interest at heart,” encouraging others to trust their intuition.

“Really listen to your gut… With a strong foundation of support, the skies are not limited on what you can achieve and succeed in. But most of all, you have to believe in yourself. You have to be your own biggest supporter.”

Her approach to business balances rigor with heart.

From crafting a menu that ensures no one misses out, including options for lactose intolerant or coeliac diners, to leading a team that has grown from 10 to 30 staff, Jessica has made it her mission to never compromise on quality.

“We make our pizzas up to a standard, not down to a price like our competitors. We do not sacrifice on quality.”

Jessica’s unique talents shine brightest in the heat of service.

“My staff always tell me I have this weird talent of being able to hear 10 different conversations going on, replay back to each one correctly and problem-solve whatever the issue is in the middle of a Friday night rush…and not break a sweat haha.”

Looking to the future, Jessica keeps it grounded yet extraordinarily ambitious.

“Honestly, who knows what the future holds, but I hope I’m still making pizzas or maybe evolving the business into bigger and better things… as long as I’m loving it and having fun doing it, that’s all that really matters.”

“Without the constant love, support and encouragement, I would not be the businesswoman I am today.”

Beyond the business, Jessica treasures family and friends. She also loves coffee, travel, board games, and discovering new food adventures.

Through a wonderful mix of creativity, grit, and a sprinkle of determination, Jessica Gilmore has cooked up a recipe for success in women-led business, serving it with a triangle-shaped heart for every pizza and every person.

Describe your personality in three words:

Bubbly, passionate, Outgoing

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