Welcome again to another week of Movers & Shakers, where we bring you a round-up of the big moves shaping the local real estate industry .

This week, we spotlight Maclay Longhurst and Emily Davidson, who have launched a new Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty office. We also reveal how First National Bowral’s ultimate resilience test led to a powerful acquisition and more.

Don’t forget to scroll all the way to the end for our new ‘polls’ section, where we ask your views on current events, trends or specific topics. Every vote goes into the draw for a ticket to Elite Retreat Hayman Island to be drawn on June 30, 2024.

And now… on with this week’s Movers and Shakers!

Dynamic Sydney duo branch out on their own

After working together for almost a decade, Maclay Longhurst and Emily Davidson have opened a Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty office in Woollahra to match the most compelling buyers to their high-end listings in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. More here.

First National Bowral’s remarkable resilience

In 2021, Allan Falvey and his team lost everything in a fire. But with a true fighting spirit, they’ve fought back and acquired another local agency in their quest for growth. More here.

Repositions and reshuffles

This week, we’ve rounded up more new beginnings, including new offices, hires, partnerships and even a couple of big brand refreshes.

• The Agency Grows in Williamstown: Leigh Melbourne, Mark de Brabander, and Noah Lautman-Wurt are ready to make their mark. More here.

• Aurelia Rogato Makes an Impact: The Mareeba agency owner and her team have rebranded to RE/MAX Impact and are looking to grow in Far North Queensland. More here.

• Sean Stratton Takes Over: Ray White is expanding in New Zealand with Sean acquiring multiple offices in Northland. More here.

• Knight Frank’s Diversity Partnership: The leading commercial brand is partnering with the Property Council of Australia NSW on diversity, equity and inclusion. More here.

• Chris Shine and Justine Dill Return Home: The duo are headed back to Raine & Horne to lead the new Toowoomba office. More here.

• A ‘Quantum Leap’ For Benjamin Dax and Ruth Roberts: The team from Woodard’s Carnegie have acquired the nearby Bentleigh office. More here.

• Angie Keegan and Janice Cox Take The Reins: Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate is expanding to Plainland and Caboolture led by Ms Keegan and Ms Cox. More here.

• Big Brands Are Looking Good: McGrath and Raine & Horne have unveiled fresh redesigns as they look towards the future. See McGrath’s new look here and Raine & Horne’s here.

• Brooke Hawthorne’s Strategic Move: The Belle Property Ascot Principal is opening a second office in Nundah and has more than 20 team members. More here.

The right to disconnect…

One of our top news stories this week was about the potential impact new ‘right to disconnect’ legislation could have on the real estate industry if employees can opt out of after-hours contact from their employer and related third parties.

Our question to you this week: How do you anticipate the new ‘Right to Disconnect’ legislation will impact your business or how you work? Choose your best answer below (and don’t forget every vote is an entry to win our Elite Retreat Hayman prize valued at $3,897 to be drawn on June 30!)

And finally…

Do you know of any upcoming moves we should know about? Tip us off by emailing [email protected].