Star performer Nikki Katz recognised in historic industry first

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Business broker Nikki Katz has made history at the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s annual Awards for Excellence by becoming the first woman to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Ms Katz was inducted into the Hall of Fame for business broker of the year – along with Harris Real Estate for large residential agency of the year – for winning the coveted award three years in a row, 2022-2024.

She has, in fact, won the award a total of five times now.

Business broker Nikki Katz. Supplied

“This Hall of Fame award means so much to me,” Ms Katz says.

“It is a symbol of more than just success – it marks a shift in who leads, who innovates, and who defines the future of business broking in Australia.”

REIA President, Leanne Pilkington said Ms Katz’s induction into the REIA hall of fame was a landmark moment for the industry.

“Nikki’s success demonstrates the power of challenging convention, and she now stands as an inspiration for the next generation of leaders – especially women – across the real estate and business sectors,” she said.

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Ms Pilkington said the calibre of competition was the strongest she had seen it.

“These awards celebrate the very best in our profession – those setting the benchmark nationally,” Ms Pilkington said.

“It’s a testament to the strength and diversity of the real estate industry across Australia.”

Real Estate Institute of Australia president Leanne Pilkington. Picture: Supplied

The awards – an annual event recognising the highest-performing individuals and agencies across the country – held on Thursday night at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, also saw another industry icon reach legend status, when South Australia’s Matt Smith of Klemich Real Estate was crowned the national residential salesperson of the year.

Real Estate Institute of South Australia chief executive Andrea Heading said the awards were a clear indication the industry is heading in the right direction.

Klemich Real Estate director Matt Smith. Pic: The Advertiser/Morgan Sette

“They acknowledge and celebrate everything that is good about the real estate profession,” she said.

“Everyone here last night – all the finalists and winners – are worthy ambassadors for the entire profession.”

New Zealand proved to be the country to beat when it comes to auction talent, with the winners of both categories of the Australasian Auctioneering Championships – which was held over the past two days – both coming from the Land of the Long White Cloud.

Mark McGoldrick was crowned the overall winner, with Tama Emery taking out the Novice Championships.

Auctioneer Mark McGoldrick. Supplied.

Chief judge Matt Smith said the calibre of the field was outstanding, with the New Zealanders showing they were the clear leaders when it comes to the art of auctioneering.

“They set the standard and are so very good at what they do and they are just phenomenal in their numbering.

“Beating them – that will be the challenge ahead but we’ll certainly be there trying our best.”