Where Property Dreams Come True At Mackay City Property

Leading With Heart, Building With Purpose
With Tammy Laval From Mackay City Property

Tammy Laval has cemented her place in the real estate industry, with integrity, humility and heart during her 17 years working behind the scenes with a highly prominent team.  

As the heart of Mackay City Property, she manages the essential and support tasks that often go unnoticed, working 'under the radar' to drive the team's success. Notably, the team recently secured the Rate My Agent awards for No.1 Property Management Team and Top 5 Property Sales Team for Mackay 2025.

Tammy believes this success stems from three key pillars: people, passion, and purpose.

“I love our team, and the people within it,” she says with a smile.

“We’re like a family, within a family.”

In 2007, Tammy and her husband, Chris, made the bold decision to split from a business partnership and relaunch as a family-run agency. In 2021, they transitioned from a franchise group to an independent business, giving them the freedom to create something unique of their own.

Interestingly, Tammy’s entry into real estate wasn’t exactly planned. Following her family's sudden heartbreaking loss of her mother to cancer, she stepped up and into the business to assist with its operational and administrative setup.

“I had no experience in real estate – I just winged it,” she laughs. But her background in hospitality, event management, marketing, and small business operations later laid the foundation for success.

“Currently, the scope of my work centres around an operational role, collaborating with bookkeepers, accountants, advertisers, computer technicians, and other like professionals to ensure the effective delivery of our team's services.

“The diversity makes each day slightly different, and I love that,” she says.

“When things go wrong, it keeps me on my toes and it helps me to stay creative in solving problems.”

Whether it’s watching her children thrive, or celebrating milestones with her team, Tammy believes challenges ultimately pave the way for greatness.

“Every challenge comes with a reward,” she says.

“They circle each other, and that’s how I see it.”

Above all, Tammy loves working within her community. In fact, recently, she had the honour of helping revive Mackay’s art trail with The Bee Mindful Mural, and even led the Chinatown project with Mky City Heart Collective as project leader.

“It was lovely to bring back some of Mackay’s history that many weren’t aware of,” she says.

“The project had so much heart and soul.”

It’s no surprise her name was nominated for the Just Saying Project’s Magic Muse Awards 2025, set to take place in March.

Tammy sees life as a beautiful cycle of growth, giving back, and discovering new adventures.

“I think you go through stages – finding yourself, building your career, then focusing on family – and eventually, you reach a point where you can give back.

“When you give to the community, you feel that love return, and to me, that’s interchangeable… that’s where you’ll see the shine in me.”  

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Solving Problems and Celebrating Success
With Sandra Macklin From Mackay City Property

It’s true what they say, no two days are the same, and for Mackay City Property Principal, Sandra Macklin, she wouldn’t have it any other way!

Sandra’s position sees her manage and mentor both staff and office operations within the property management department of Mackay City Property. Day to day, Sandra finds great fulfilment in solving problems as they arise and tailoring her approach to real estate to suit the specific needs of each client from experienced landlords to first-time homeowners.

“There’s a lot of variations in my job, and I love the diversity of it all,” explained Sandra.

“Being a part of these exciting life transitions is really rewarding and heartwarming!”

Whilst she wears many hats in and outside the office, Sandra notes witnessing the growth of her colleagues as a career highlight in both professional and personal endeavours.

“I love watching our staff succeed, I feel like a proud Mum,” Sandra shared.

“I want success for them, and it’s wonderful to watch the journey.”

Uncovering the perfect work life balance has led Sandra to enjoy plenty of quality time with loved ones as well as an active lifestyle where she’s often exploring the great outdoors, meeting new people, trail running, and cycling.

“I always make sure I have something to look forward to, being a marathon, trail run event, or family holiday as it gives me the drive to do well at work so I can reap the rewards of hard work in the office.”

Consistency and resilience are values Sandra intertwines into her professional duties and describes her position with Mackay City Property as dynamic, challenging and rewarding.

“We all genuinely enjoy what we do and it’s rewarding to receive consistent feedback that our clients are happy,” added Sandra.

“Consistency is key, and honesty is invaluable.”

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Honest Advice And Exceptional Service
With Angela Pietzner From Mackay City Property

With 26 years in the industry, Angela Pietzner has navigated the ever-changing, challenging, and rewarding landscape of real estate.

"In the past 26 years of my real estate career, there have been so many memorable moments that it's hard for me to mention just one," Angela shared.

As a sales agent at Mackay City Property, Angela thrives on helping clients achieve their property dreams. She takes the time to truly understand her clients’ needs, working tirelessly to match them with the perfect property or the ideal buyer.

"Assisting people achieve their goals, whether buying or selling their property, is what continues to drives me," she said.

Among the highlights of her career is witnessing the joy of first-time homebuyers.

"I love seeing the excitement on the buyers' faces, especially first-home buyers, when they move into their home."

Angela also values the community-cantered approach of working within a family-owned business.

"Being a family-owned business encourages a community mindset, where our clients are members of our community, and we want to do the best we can to help them achieve their real estate goals," Angela explained.

Recognising the demands of today’s market, Angela knows that honesty is essential.

“I believe in honesty and integrity – not telling people what they want to hear," she said.

As a reputable agent at Mackay City Property, Angela knows the importance of balance.

Whether it's enjoying her oceanfront views, strolling along the beach, or cooking a homemade meal, she ensures she’s refreshed and ready to bring a fresh perspective to serve both buyers and sellers in the region like no other.

“Always go with your inner voice.”

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Going Above And Beyond
With Toni Payne From Mackay City Property

Positivity, motivation, and communication underpins Toni Payne’s success in her role as a Sales Consultant with Mackay City Property where she strives to support clients buy and sell property as stress free as possible.

“It’s extremely rewarding helping people find their dream homes as well as achieving great results for sellers and beating their expectations,” shared Toni.

Toni’s interests in architecture and design shines through in her commendable abilities to present client’s homes for sale and she never fails to offer her honest advice on how clients can achieve the best possible outcomes across the selling process.

“I love homes in general, and real estate is a job where you need to create your own business as you need to be motivated at all times to obtain listings,” added Toni.

“You need to have fantastic communication and people skills and to be able to read people and deliver personalised service for different individuals – confidence and keeping up to date with local market trends are a must!”

Over the course of her career, Toni reflects on one experience in particular with an elderly client who felt as though the sale of his home would not cover the expenses of moving into an aged care facility.

“I reassured him I was going to sell his home for more than enough to cover his concerns, and to be able to bring him some peace in his later years and see him happily set up and being looked after was extremely lovely to see,” Toni explained.

“There is no place for negativity in real estate, and with a positive mindset and knowledge, business will come your way.

“I’ve always said you should leave a little sparkle wherever you go”

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Precision And Passion
With Bridget Lamb From Mackay City Property

Specialising in everything from legislation to tenant agreements, Property Manager Bridget Lamb navigates the complexities of real estate with precision and passion at Mackay City Property.

Bridget loves the flexibility to manage her own schedule along with the rewarding challenge of seeing a problem through to resolution. Whether it’s ensuring a property is returned to an owner in pristine condition or supporting investors through their journey, Bridget takes pride in her role as a trusted advisor.

One of the more complex aspects of her role is rectifying errors caused by previous agencies, but Bridget handles it with professionalism. She knows that patience and a sharp eye for detail are essential to getting the job done right.

The satisfaction of managing warrant of possession cases has been a particular highlight for Bridget so far – because sometimes, the most high-stakes moments are the ones that truly stand out.

Bridget's reputation for providing exceptional service is built on her proactive communication, problem-solving abilities, and strong commitment to her clients’ needs. She works tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome, even in challenging situations, earning the trust and respect of both property owners and tenants alike.

Outside of work, Bridget is a busy mum to three daughters, all of whom keep her on her toes with their sports activities. When she does find time for herself, she enjoys reading, relaxing and catching up with family and friends.

Her advice to those seeking a similar career is to “Understand the legislation, but know that every situation is unique.

“Flexibility and problem-solving are key.”

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Excellence, Integrity and Transparency 
With Eleni Karambasis From Mackay City Property
 
Eleni Karambasis’ passion and professionalism as Mackay City Property’s Licenced Agent draws from decades of experience in neighbouring positions in housing design, building, and project management. 
 
“Seeing homes come to life and recognising their potential inspired me to assist others find spaces they truly love,” explained Eleni. 
 
“That passion continues to drive my commitment to personalising each client’s journey, offering a unique perspective as I guide clients to navigate the market.” 
 
Operating as an independent professional, Eleni works with flexibility and autonomy to meet the needs of and build personal relationships with her clients. 
 
“What I love most about my role is the opportunity to connect with people, make a positive impact on their lives, enjoy the personal interaction and seeing them settle into a space they can truly call home.” 
 
Eleni believes her success stems from her genuine passion for supporting others, ability to problem-solve, a deep understanding of the market and her focus on building meaningful relationships. She remains dedicated to the rewarding aspects of her role and always willing to work around the clock.  
 
“Equally important is setting personal goals, celebrating small and large wins equally, continuing to learn and surround myself with supportive colleagues all of which keeps me inspired and energised.” 
 
“By maintaining a positive mindset, I focus on the fulfilling aspects of my work, engage with each client’s unique needs, and strive to help them achieve their goals. My aim is to consistently deliver excellent customer service and value,” added Eleni. 
 
One of Eleni’s most memorable experiences was when selling a Stately Queenslander brimming with charm, grandeur and timeless elegance. The family who owned the property wanted to find a buyer who would truly appreciate and treasure its charm and history.

It was an incredibly special time when matched with a beautiful couple who shared a deep connection to the property’s history and character and felt the same deep connection to the property, ensuring the home’s legacy would continue to be cherished. 
 
“Clear Communication and Transparency, will lead to the best” 

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Solving Problems And Building Relationships
With Vanessa Allan From Mackay City Property

Vanessa Allan sees herself as a trouble shooter, time management expert and mediator within her position as Portfolio Officer with Mackay City Property.

Although managing and maintaining a plethora of residential rental properties comes with a vast range of responsibilities, Vanessa works tirelessly to ensure her tenants secure a place to call home and explains she couldn’t do it without the support of her colleagues.

“The team I work with play a massive role in keeping my positive mindset, and if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be able to do it – we are like no other,” explained Vanessa.

“Being a part of a team that works so well together, and being able to assist both tenants and landlords through the process is what I love the most about my job.”

Vanessa intertwines both resilience and conflict resolution into her day-to-day duties to navigate instances where she may need to deliver difficult information to clients in the areas of repairs, maintenance or in the most unfortunate circumstances, advising tenants to vacate a property.

However, in leaning on her colleagues, family and friends, Vanessa practices patience to continue working towards a successful outcome for each and every tenant.  

When the workday concludes, Vanessa often sets aside plenty of time to make memories with her loved ones and particularly favours mini adventures as her go to activities.

Vanessa’s career continues to reward her in new and exciting ways each day, and one moment she reflects on fondly was when she gratefully received her first online review, a feeling she hopes to continue replicating.

“Trust the process.”

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mackaycityproperty.com.au

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