Hugh Reilly Real Estate Celebrates 80 Years of Trusted Service

It was a night of celebration, nostalgia, and laughter on October 11, as Hugh Reilly Real Estate marked its 80th anniversary at Ocean International in Mackay. The milestone event brought together former staff, key leaders, and the wider community to honour the legacy of one of Mackay’s most enduring local businesses.

Among the guests was Steve Reilly, son of the late Hugh Reilly, who shared heartfelt reflections on his father’s passion for real estate and his commitment to building a business grounded in trust and integrity.

“Dad believed in treating people fairly and putting the people first,” Steve said, drawing smiles and nods from the crowd.

Other leaders in attendance highlighted the enduring values that have guided the agency through eight decades.

“Integrity has always been at the heart of Hugh Reilly Real Estate,” Josey said.

“It’s why families keep coming back, generation after generation.”

Guests enjoyed reminiscing about the “good old days,” sharing stories of typewriters, manual filing systems, and lively weekend auctions where almost anything from chooks to household items went under the hammer. Laughter filled the room as past and present colleagues reflected on how far the business has come.

Hugh Reilly Real Estate’s history is deeply intertwined with the growth of Mackay. Since Hugh Reilly returned from World War II in 1945 and founded the agency, the business has played a central role in the region’s property market, from helping families purchase their first homes, to assisting investors with commercial projects and leasing opportunities. With only two office locations in its 80-year history, the agency has remained a stable and recognisable presence in the city.

The anniversary celebration also served as a reminder of why the agency remains the trusted choice for property buyers, sellers, and Investors.

“When you choose Hugh Reilly Real Estate, you’re not just working with an agency, you’re working with people who care, who understand the market, and who value honesty above all else,” Josey added.

After eight decades of service, Hugh Reilly Real Estate continues to blend experience with innovation, navigating market shifts and technological changes while maintaining a steadfast commitment to community and integrity. The anniversary event was not only a celebration of the past but also a toast to the future, affirming why so many Mackay families have trusted Hugh Reilly Real Estate for generations.

Steve Reilly noted his father’s integrity as both a businessman and a man of character.

"If my mum and dad argued, I never heard it. My dad loved his work… he would be whistling as he got ready in the morning!”

"One of the things my dad taught me was, if you’re in a deal, always leave something in it for the next fellow.

“At first, I didn’t understand it, but over time I realised that doing so builds a reputation as a fair and honest trader… and that reputation is everything.

“This is what Hugh Reilly Real Estate is built on.”

‍