Three newcomers to auctioneering stepped into the spotlight this week, competing in the final of the 2026 REINSW Novice Auctioneers Competition following professional training with Chief Judge and REINSW Board Member, Ricky Briggs of Advantage Group.
The finalists were:
- Rebecca Shepheard – Elders Real Estate, Batemans Bay
- Panal Boustani – Manor Real Estate, The Hills District
- Harrison Double – MMJ Real Estate, Wollongong
After a strong showing from all competitors, Panal Boustani was named the 2026 winner, earning the opportunity to represent New South Wales at the REIA Novice Australasian Auctioneering Championships (Novice AUSTROS) in Melbourne this May.
The competition, held at Ray White Corporate Head Office in Martin Place, Sydney, saw the finalists auction a five-bedroom home in Mandalong, demonstrating their skills in a high-pressure, simulated auction environment.
Reflecting on the experience, Boustani said the competition accelerated his development.
“The competition was great - it really pushed me out of my comfort zone,” he said.
“There were pressure points that felt very different to the auction floor, which forced me to think in new ways. It helped me identify some weak points I didn’t realise I had, which is a great outcome.”
“Overall, it was very nerve-racking, but I’m super glad I did it.”
Boustani also highlighted the importance of structured learning opportunities in the industry.
“It’s great to see an organisation like REINSW that actually takes the time to nurture people at the beginning of their careers,” he said.
“There aren’t many platforms in auctioneering where you can truly learn, grow and get proper training. The training beforehand really set the pace and gave us tools we can take into the field.”
He encouraged others considering the competition to take the leap.
“Just enrol - you’ll learn from there.”
Chief Judge Ricky Briggs praised the calibre of this year’s competitors and the value of the program in developing future talent.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for upcoming auctioneers to step into the spotlight and build their skill set in a competition-style environment - something that translates directly into stronger performance in the field,” he said.
“The growth we’ve seen from competitors between the heats and the finals has been exceptional, and every one of them will walk away a better auctioneer for the experience.”
Briggs said Boustani stood out on the day with a polished and well-rounded performance.
“Panal delivered a standout performance - strong on numbers and sequence, with a well-rounded call that saw him take top points across all three judges,” he said.
“Whether you’re looking to improve auctioneering, public speaking, or simply gain confidence in front of a crowd, I’d encourage anyone ready for the next step to give this competition a go.”
Seniors set for Melbourne showdown
Seasoned auctioneers also competed in the REINSW Awards for Excellence Seniors Competition this week, with Clarence White of Menck White Auctioneers, Emanuel Comino of McGrath Estate Agents Inner West, and independent auctioneer Emma Brown-Garrett all delivering strong performances in the final. Clarence White and Emanuel Comino progressed through to the Australasian stage in Melbourne.
The competition was judged by a panel of experienced REINSW members and auctioneers, including Ricky Briggs (Advantage Group), Peter Matthews (Century 21 UAE & India), Stuart Ritchie (McGrath Estate Agents), and Sam Green (Advantage Buyers Agents).
Tickets to the AUSTROS are available for those interested in watching both novice and senior competitors compete for the industry’s top honour. The event will take place from 19-21 May in Melbourne.
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About REINSW
The Real Estate Institute of New South Wales (REINSW) is the peak industry body for real estate and property professionals in NSW. It represents more than 2000 agencies across residential sales, property management, commercial, strata management, buyers’ agency, agency services and auctioneering. Established in 1910, REINSW works to improve the standards, professionalism and expertise of its members to continually evolve and innovate the industry. It lobbies the government and industry on behalf of members, develops new products and services to benefit agencies and professionals, and offer training and ongoing professional development. For more information, visit reinsw.com.au.