Lauren Polkinghorne, a prominent figure in the Barham real estate market, has announced her agency’s integration into the Ray White network after two decades of independent operation. This move, which aims to enhance local expertise with national resources, is expected to create new opportunities for the community surrounding the Murray River.
With a focus on maintaining family values, Polkinghorne expressed her enthusiasm for joining Ray White, stating, “What drew us to Ray White was the real family connection.” Her agency, known for its commitment to community service, has been a family-run business since its inception. The partnership aligns with her vision of continuing to serve the community while leveraging the strengths of a larger network.
Strengthening Community Ties
Polkinghorne’s agency, which operates with a dedicated team of six, including three salespeople and property management specialists, manages approximately 300 properties across the New South Wales-Victoria border. Her husband, Lloyd Polkinghorne, who owns a local newspaper, supports the business through photography, advertising, and operational assistance.
“The transition to Ray White allows us to enhance the service we provide,” Polkinghorne noted. She emphasized that the core values of transparency and honesty will remain integral to their operations, with the same staff continuing to serve their loyal clients. As the agency expands, recruitment opportunities are anticipated within the next six months.
The Golden Rivers region, primarily known as a retirement destination, is witnessing a resurgence of young families. Polkinghorne highlighted the area’s low crime rates and strong tourist appeal, thanks in part to its scenic Murray River location. “We are so excited to be part of the Ray White team,” she remarked, noting the enthusiasm shared among her staff for the new chapter ahead.
Community and Corporate Collaboration
The partnership marks a significant milestone for both the local agency and the broader community. Tim Snell, CEO of Ray White NSW & ACT, expressed excitement about welcoming Polkinghorne and her team. He stated, “This partnership represents exactly the kind of alignment we value most – a well-established, community-focused business with deep local roots and an outstanding reputation.”
Snell praised Polkinghorne’s two-decade commitment to exceptional client service, noting that her values align closely with those of Ray White, which was founded over 120 years ago. By merging local expertise with Ray White’s national resources, technology platforms, and marketing capabilities, the partnership aims to create significant opportunities for both the business and the community it serves.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Lauren Polkinghorne’s agency and Ray White represents a promising evolution for the Barham real estate market. As they embark on this new journey, the focus will remain on providing reliable service while embracing growth and innovation within the community. This announcement was originally featured in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper on 30 October 2025.
