Property Powered by Passion
with Brandi Murphy, Founder of Holiday Hosting
It was a decade ago that Brandi Murphy found herself at something of a crossroads. Although working as a financial planner, she always knew her heart lay in property and wealth creation. After years of putting that true calling on hold, in 2015, she finally listened to what it had to say.
With that, one of the most respected property management companies in North Queensland was born.
It wasn’t always the powerhouse it is now, though.
Holiday Hosting began in Townsville, with North Queensland local Brandi renting out rooms in her own home to medical workers just to get by; times she admitted tested her resolve.
She would pass those tests with flying colours, learning lessons that would form the blueprint of the company’s rapid trajectory.
“Resilience is everything,” she said.
"I learned the hard way that growth often comes from challenging times. Those humble beginnings taught me the value of service and the importance of just starting, even when it feels small.”
The company has since evolved to boast a staggering 70-property portfolio, offering a full suite of services, including Holiday Hosting, House to Home (sales and long-term rentals), and Holiday Hire car rentals.
In the meantime, Brandi would become the first ever Airbnb Superhost in Townsville, a product of her background in financial planning and her attentive, hands-on approach across everything from styling and professional listings to guest support and maintenance coordination.
“I want every guest to feel special,” she said.
“What makes us unique is our local knowledge and the fact that we handle everything to ensure a seamless, affordable experience for visitors to our region.”
It’s this care that bore fruit in the form of becoming a REIQ finalist in 2025, attending the Airbnb conference in Los Angeles for inspiration, and the business moving into its new Holiday Hosting HQ on Flinders St in the heart of Townsville.
Her secret to this long-spanning success?
“Determination and empathy,” she says.
“You need the grit to keep going, but you also need to genuinely care about the people you serve. I nurture these qualities by staying connected to my ‘why'—providing a home-away-from-home—and by staying active to keep my mind sharp.”
Looking ahead, Brandi has no intention of slowing the pace. Alongside spending time with her two daughters, Ava Rose (3) and Sofia Rose (7), her focus is firmly set on deepening Holiday Hosting’s footprint across Townsville while mentoring and inspiring other women in the industry.
“My message to young women is to be fearless in pursuing your passions,” she said.
“Whether it’s property, finance, or fitness, your unique perspective is your greatest asset. Stay consistent, stay positive, and remember that building a business is a marathon, not a sprint, so make sure you’re enjoying the run!”
