2025 REINSW Awards for Excellence winners announced
Last night, the 2025 REINSW Awards for Excellence once again set the stage for recognising the highest standards of professionalism, celebrating the winners who embody excellence across New South Wales real estate.
Now in its 28th year, the Awards for Excellence continues to stand as the premier program recognising outstanding achievement, with last night’s Gala Dinner at Doltone House Darling Island in Sydney shining a spotlight on the finalists and winners who lead the way in professionalism, innovation and service.
REINSW President Thomas McGlynn said the event was a fitting celebration of the strength and talent within the industry.
“Last night REINSW was proud to honour the incredible dedication and diverse achievements that continue to shape our industry. We welcomed over 500 members and esteemed guests for a lively evening that allowed us to come together, celebrate, and reflect on the meaning of excellence.”
“It was one of the best Awards for Excellence we’ve had in years – the energy in the room was electric. That reflects the joy and pride we all share in together – not only for our winners, but for all our finalists, and those who we hope to have inspired to return and compete again next year,” said McGlynn.
He acknowledged the challenge faced by the judging panel in selecting winners from such an impressive pool of entrants.
“With so many outstanding nominees, it’s no secret that selecting the top professional and agency in each category was a challenging task. We hope those who took home a trophy take immense pride in their achievements,” he said.
Reflecting the high calibre of entries, awards were presented across 10 agency categories and 16 individual categories, recognising excellence across every facet of real estate.
Among the individual winners, Paul Hancock of McGrath Estate Agents was named Auctioneer of the Year, while Eddie Toubia from LJ Hooker Belmont took home the Property Marketer of the Year title. The Tim Anderson OAM Residential Property Manager award went to Leigh Anderson of Pulse Property Agents, and the Residential Salesperson of the Year award was presented to Joel Hollings of McGrath Estate Agents Blacktown.
It was this spirit of dedication and excellence that McGlynn highlighted on the night.
“The achievements we’ve seen through this year’s Awards for Excellence reflect the dedication and resilience of our members,” McGlynn said. “Despite the challenges faced by our profession, the calibre of our finalists and winners demonstrates just how strong and forward-thinking our industry truly is. Tonight, we proudly recognise those who set new benchmarks for excellence in NSW real estate.”
The highlight of the evening came with the presentation of the most prestigious honour, the Woodrow Weight award, for outstanding contribution to real estate agency practice. This year, it was awarded to Leanne Pilkington, President of the REIA and CEO of Laing+Simmons.
REINSW President Thomas McGlynn said Leanne’s career has left an indelible mark on the profession.
“Leanne is an exceptional leader whose vision, integrity and passion for progress have shaped not only her own business but the industry as a whole,” McGlynn said. “Her influence extends well beyond her immediate role — she has been a tireless advocate, mentor and trailblazer who continues to inspire those around her.”
“The Woodrow Weight Award is reserved for those who have made a profound and lasting contribution to agency practice, and Leanne embodies that spirit completely. Her leadership is both inspiring and pragmatic, and her ability to champion positive change has earned her the respect of colleagues across the country. She is a truly deserving recipient of this honour.”
