The awards are meant as a way of shining a spotlight on the excellent work and achievements of the agents and offices in every Australian State, Territory and nationally.

The Victorian Awards were first off the blocks, with Elders Real Estate Albury-Wodonga taking out the honours for Top Office. They also won gold for Top Property Management Office and office administrator Narelle Hamilton also had a back to back win for Sales Support/Administrator of the year.

Such accolades were welcomed by principals Dean Star and Jamie Maynard. 

“It’s exciting. There are a lot of other agencies in the network. It’s a nice reward for all of the hard work that the team does,” said Dean.

The accolades weren’t entirely unexpected as the Albury-Wodonga office has been a multiple award winner for the past few years. Last year, they won the top awards for ‘Office Settled Sales in Victoria’ and ‘Office Gross Commission Victoria’. 

“We have gone pretty well within the last few years, it’s good to see the consistency there in our work,” said Dean.

“Certainly, our awards are recognised amongst the landlords and groups locally who are looking for a quality property management department.”

He said the recognition, based on performances for the last twelve months, is the result of immense teamwork. The Albury-Wodonga team is a relatively large one, making it vital that they work together effectively and communicate well.

“You can’t work as individuals within environments these days, it has got to be an open-door policy. We pride ourselves on being approachable at all levels.”

Dean said the annual awards were a time at which principals and staff can reflect on how and why it’s very special to be a part of the widespread Elders Real Estate family:

“It really is special, we appreciate the connections that we have. We go to the conferences each year, it’s great to meet up with people from Western Australia, and South Australia, including Kangaroo Island agents. It’s quite unique.

“Over the years, I’ve found that different offices have been segregated within other franchise networks. Thankfully, the strong, interlinked community feel is very real when it comes to Elders.

“Elders is a strong brand, under one umbrella. That’s a strength that’s allowed this team to go further and achieve more. Hard work is key, but without our team, we are nothing. We are really lucky to have the team that we do have working for us and keeping the ship afloat.”