How did your interest in auctioneering develop?
Even though I have a strong background in speech and drama, the thought of auctioneering as a career choice didn’t really occur to me until I was studying for my Real Estate Licence. When it came to the auctioneering module, I watched person after person get up to do their mock auction, full of nerves, voices trembling and hands shaking. But I got up there and had a ball. It must have been obvious, because the facilitator asked me if I had ever considered becoming an auctioneer.
I was working as a PA at the time and when I mentioned it to my boss, he encouraged me to enter the REINSW Novice Auctioneers Competition – which was only a couple of weeks later, so I really jumped in at the deep end!
I won my heat and then went on to compete in the State Final. That’s where I met Damien Cooley – and the rest is history.
What do you enjoy most about auctioneering?
No two auctions are ever the same and every day is different. I know that every time I stand up for an auction, there’s going to be a challenge in one way or another and I really enjoy striving to get the most out of the bidders for my vendor.
The other thing I love is that every time I auction a property, I’m helping create a real difference in peoples’ lives. A great sale price can be life changing for a vendor. And seeing the elation on a buyer’s face when the hammer comes down and they realise they’ve secured their dream home gives me a huge amount of joy.
What are the key skills needed to be successful as an auctioneer?
First and foremost, you need confidence. Getting up in front of a group of people is definitely not for everyone. I’ve always been comfortable in front of crowds. I started taking speech and drama lessons when I was about three years old – so, for me, the performance side of auctioneering is really second nature. A lot of people don’t know what to expect from me, because I’m female and there aren’t a lot of female auctioneers around. But when I start, I have the strong voice and strong presence people expect from an auctioneer.
You also need to be personable, because bidders feed off your energy and it can mean the difference between a good auction result and an outstanding one.
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
Without doubt, it was being the first female to ever be a finalist in the Auctioneers category of the REINSW Awards for Excellence. I’ve been auctioning for four years now and being named as a finalist was huge for me. It’s also really humbling because, let’s face it, auctioneering is dominated by men. Standing side by side as a finalist with a group of auctioneers who I’ve long admired was incredible.
What are your goals for the next 12 months?
I’ve just been appointed to the REINSW Auctioneers Chapter Committee. It’s a real honour. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to get more involved with the Institute and work closely with such an outstanding group of auction professionals, who are all at the top of their game and have a major influence on the direction of our industry.
When you’re not at work, how do you like to spend your time?
At the moment, it’s all about family. With a two year old and a newborn, there’s not a lot of spare time. But, somehow, my husband and I are also managing to squeeze in some renovations. Things can get a bit manic at times!
Is there a phrase of adage that you live by?
“Find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” I love auctioneering. For me, it’s the perfect job. I have the opportunity to grow and develop in my career, as well as the flexibility to devote the time and energy I need to my young family. I have the perfect work/life balance.
"Every time I auction a property, I'm helping create a real difference in peoples' lives."