LJ Hooker has recognised its top performers across Australia and New Zealand at its annual International Awards Night, held virtually this year.
LJ Hooker Network Chief Graeme Hyde said the awards night is the most important event of the year, especially during these unprecedented times.
“With the year 2020 has proven to be, recognising the successes and efforts of our people has been a breath of fresh air,” he said.
“Despite the uncertainty posed by COVID-19 and the challenging time in property markets, many of our offices have been resilient and pushed through and continued to achieve outstanding results.
“The purpose of our annual awards night is to give our people the recognition and value they deserve – the sheer volume of awards this year demonstrates their ongoing commitment and dedication.”
The Sir Leslie Hooker Award – the most prestigious award of the night that is named in honour of the company founder – was awarded to Shane Colquhoun, owner of LJ Hooker offices Nerang, Pacific Pines, Helensvale, and Coomera in Queensland.
The award recognises the contributions of a business owner to mentorship and office culture, leadership and support to the real estate network, and giving back to the community.
“Shane’s dedication to his teams, community and industry are nothing short of astonishing,” Mr Hyde said.
“He seamlessly made the transition from a top performing sales agent to business ownership in late 2003 and has worked tirelessly to grow his businesses to six offices and over 110 employees.
“The majority of his offices are ranked amongst the top in the network; that in itself is astounding, but what sets Shane truly apart is the compassion, energy and empathy he has for his team and community.
“Real estate is a passion for Shane, and it has most definitely shown in the consistent results he has achieved with his teams over his 17 years in business, which is why this award is greatly deserved.”
Speaking on the award, Mr Colquhoun said he was grateful and humbled.
“But we don’t do what we do for the glass trophy, we do it because we love what we do,” he said.
“When you are passionate about your career and the people that you work with, this is the outcome.”
Paul Vujnovich from Harveys Te Atatu | Titirangi | Kumeu | Glen Eden was inducted into the Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame recognises the outstanding achievements of an individual for eight consecutive years or more.
“Paul is an exceptional business owner, and his list of achievements is truly remarkable,” Mr Hyde said.
“A previous Sir Leslie Hooker Award winner in 2017, he has also been crowned World Champion Business Leader, Franchise Owner of the Year, and World Champion Most Productive Office, some awarded to him more than once.
“He is a committed and innovative leader, and this induction into the Hall of Fame is in recognition of that.”.
A major winner on the night was LJ Hooker Sunnybank Hills, which took home the World Champion Office award for another year.
“The Sunnybank Hills office is consistently a top performer across the group’s Australia and New Zealand network.
“To win the coveted LJ Hooker World Champion Office title is a stunning achievement, but to win it again illustrates the team’s passion and unrelenting drive,” Mr Hyde concluded.
Other major awards
- Rosemary Auricchio from LJ Hooker West Lakes | Henley Beach was named World Champion Top Residential Salesperson
- Cheryle Cox from LJ Hooker Victoria Park | Belmont was crowned World Champion Property Investment Manager
- LJ Hooker Adelaide City | St Peters | Glynde | Walkerville was awarded World Champion Property Investment Management Office
- LJ Hooker Nelson Bay took out World Champion Community Relationship
