The Real Estate Institute of South Australia (REISA) held its annual Awards for Excellence on March 15, 2025, at the Adelaide Oval, celebrating the outstanding achievements of over 500 guests from the real estate sector. The event recognized exceptional performances across various categories, with numerous awards presented to both established and rising stars in the industry.
Among the highlights, Emma Slape, CEO of Turner Real Estate, received the prestigious Sir Robert Torrens Award, the highest accolade for a real estate professional in South Australia. This recognition underscores her significant contributions to the field and her leadership within the agency.
Brad Allan of Allan Real Estate was named the South Australian Residential Salesperson of the Year, triumphing over notable competitors such as Matt Smith from Klemich Real Estate and Tayla Taarnby of TAARNBY Real Estate, who both earned silver awards. In addition, Simon Noakes from Noakes Nickolas Real Estate and Thanasi Mantopoulos of LJ Hooker Mile End/Woodville were honored with bronze awards in the same category.
The evening was marked by several other notable recognitions. Amity Dry from OC won the Metropolitan Local Salesperson Gold Award, while Grant Schubert from Elders Real Estate Robe took home the title of Regional/Rural Salesperson of the Year. Furthermore, LJ Hooker Commercial Adelaide shone brightly with multiple gold awards, including for Future Leader – Property Manager and Commercial and Industrial Agency, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame for their achievements.
The REISA event celebrated the resilience of the real estate industry, especially in challenging times. Andrea Heading, CEO of REISA, commended the impressive talent across the sector, including a strong representation from regional South Australia. She emphasized the importance of teamwork and adaptability in achieving success, stating, “If there’s one word that captures the essence of this profession, it’s resilience.”
The full list of winners reflects a diverse range of categories and achievements within the industry. Notable awards included:
– **Gold Winner for South Australian Salesperson Regional/Rural**: Grant Schubert – Elders Real Estate Robe
– **Gold Winner for South Australian Salesperson Commercial/Industrial**: Andrew Wilson – McGees
– **Gold Winner for Future Leader – Sales**: Alicia Nickolas – Noakes Nickolas Real Estate
– **Gold Winner for Property Manager – Residential Metro**: Laura Walker – Gary J Smith Real Estate
– **Gold Winner for Residential Agency – Small Office**: TAARNBY Real Estate
The awards also recognized contributions in sustainability, innovation, and community service, showcasing the industry’s commitment to responsible practices and social impact.
As the night concluded, Heading inspired both established professionals and newcomers, saying, “Your energy, creativity, and drive remind us that the best is yet to come.” The achievements highlighted during the gala not only celebrate individual excellence but also reflect the collective strength of the real estate community in South Australia.
