
26 minute read
Women in Business - Cath Fowler
by Focus

WOMEN
IN BUSINESS
with CATH FOWLER
FROM THE DIGITAL LANEWAY
THE SHORELINE
FIELD KERRIE
Can you tell us a little bit
about The Shoreline?
I’m very excited to talk about The Shoreline. The Shoreline Aged Care Home will offer premium residential aged care beds providing a comfortable senior living environment for those that are looking for tailored care and attention. Featuring spacious rooms, lounge and living areas, senior social activity areas and shaded landscaped gardens. Our residential aged care is specifically designed to create a sense of home through our commitment to a luxury custombuilt environment, engaging activities and professional staff.
What’s your favourite part of the work you do?
I thoroughly enjoy the interaction with residents and their families. It’s a very difficult and challenging time for a lot of people entering aged care and being patient and compassionate really is the key. I learn a lot from the families I meet and it is incredibly sad what some people are dealing with daily. Knowing at the end of the day that you have
helped a family in a time of need is really rewarding.
Who is your greatest influence in the work you do?
Personally, my biggest influence was my father who I sadly lost this year. He taught me patience, respect for others, a strong work ethic, to always think on the positive side, no matter what goes wrong, and to treat everyone the I’m excited with way you would like to be the team of treated. professionals we have Within my work at the employed, everyone Shoreline, my greatest is passionate, and this influence is the team creates a really nice vibe within which I work. We throughout the facility. are all very experienced in this industry, yet it requires the combined efforts of the whole team, including the executive team, the RNs, the clinical staff, concierge, waitstaff, housekeeping and the catering staff, to ensure the Shoreline delivers the quality experience we are hoping for. I’m excited with the team of professionals we have employed, everyone is passionate, and this creates a really nice vibe throughout the facility.
Have you always lived on the Coffs Coast?
I am originally from the Central Coast but have worked throughout Sydney as well as having worked in remote places like Young and Broken Hill. I moved to Coffs Harbour with my husband in 2002 and we soon started our family. My 2 sons are currently finishing their HSC whilst my daughter is studying at university.
We live near the beach and love the coastal lifestyle. I like to stay active and I’m always out walking or attending the gym.
What piece of advice would you give women making their way in their career?
Be true to yourself, always listen to your first instinct and learn and educate yourself on the brand, product or industry you work in. Knowledge is power, and when you feel confident in yourself the rest will fall into line. Also, be kind to each other, supporting other women in the workplace and building each other up is important.
Where can people find out more about The Shoreline?
Contact myself at The Shoreline kerrie@theshoreline.com.au or check out theshoreline.com.au. We have started tours of the home and are thrilled to show people around and sit and discuss your care needs. We want to know how we can improve this stage of life for you; we work around your care needs, social needs and the activities you love to do. We have a fantastic home and I’m thrilled to be the person to show you around. theshoreline.coffs theshoreline_coffs/
REAL ESTATE -EXPERTS-
THE EDGE
COFFS HARBOUR

The Edge Coffs Harbour opened the doors to its first office in Harbour Drive in November 2003, with Partners Jason Burnett, Tim Bynon and Mark Webb heading the team. With an experienced lineup with a progressive outlook, the three principals knew that in a city with a higher than average number of real estate agencies, they would have to work hard to succeed. With that in mind, they set out to win over the hearts and minds of their future customers by meeting people, talking to them, developing relationships and gaining trust. That commitment, combined with a fresh and vibrant marketing approach, paid off. The company was awarded the “Highly Commended New Business” category at the 2004 Sunny Awards (Coffs Coast Business Awards). Continuing this through the years, our team, both in sales and property management, have achieved success after success. Amounting to numerous awards and industry recognition, again highlighting our commitment to service and clients. These agents and property managers are some of the most respected and trusted agents on the Coffs Coast. “I think our attitude is different, and people notice that”, says Jason, “The bottom line is that real estate isn’t just about land and houses, it’s about how and where we live”. Over the years, The Edge has grown from an office of 5 to an office of over 40 employees, making The Edge one of Coffs Harbour’s largest agencies. As The Edge has grown, it has also learned, attributing to its success to evolving and changing with the local market. From humble beginnings, The Edge has evolved, leading the way in sales and property management services on the Coffs Coast. Embracing new technology and systems along the way, we constantly strive to be market leaders “Our experienced staff are our greatest assets,” Jason said. “They all have years of experience in our local market, guaranteeing our clients that their property matters will be handled professionally and diligently”. The team at The Edge prides itself on being experienced real estate agents with a commitment to service that ensures their clients’ needs are not only met but exceeded! Over the years, we have had the pleasure of assisting many people to achieve their goals in life. Many of these people have referred us to other people and become lifelong friends, which as an agency, we are always appreciative of. Our entire team thanks the local community and beyond for the support in creating a successful local business. Moving forward as business owners, we see exciting times ahead for our area with positive confidence. With future works to the highway bypass, planned developments and an expanding sustainable community. All adding to a progressive city attracting people and new businesses to our coastline. As we have all known for years, Coffs Harbour is an excellent place to call home for young and old.

REAL

ESTATE
-EXPERTS-
MARK WEBB
THE EDGE PROPERTY
DIRECTOR, SALES AGENT, BUSINESS OWNER, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER.
25 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY
Can you tell us about how you came to be a real estate agent? Having moved out from the UK with my wife and small children, my focus and career goal was always leaning towards hard work in the business sector. I enrolled in business courses to enhance my qualifications whilst working to provide for my family. My initial stepping stone to the industry was simply applying for an advertised position in real estate. From that point I spent many hours of hard work, long hours and continual training. I had found my chosen career in real estate. Within that time period, I achieved great success winning THE EDGEnumerous awards in real estate, achieving and surpassing industry sales targets, whilst also training new personnel within the business. Can you tell us about your role? My role within The Edge Property agency is varied and broad based. Since starting our business 18 years ago myself and my business partner have been changing roles. We have become the number one agency for sales and rentals on the Coffs Coast. My role is still a very hands on approach to everything. The role of business owner whilst still achieving excellent sales results for my clients is paramount. I also take an active role in our property management division. I also oversee 14 property managers within the office.
What have been your greatest highlights over the
years? Marrying my wife, having our children and having grandchildren and their support. Taking the brave step to move to the country and create a new life. Using my ability to retrain and forge a successful career in Australia. Achieving recognition and awards within the industry over many years. Helping create a vibrant small business within Coffs Harbour. Having a business that has made charitable donations to many organisations over the years.
JASON BURNETT
THE EDGE PROPERTY
LICENSEE
25 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY

Can you tell us about how you came to be a real estate agent? When I was leaving school, my parents were selling their property, and I was interested in the process. The following year I applied and was successful in gaining a traineeship in Real Estate. Twenty-five years later, I am still in the industry and worked my way from being a trainee to owning my own office.
Can you tell us about your role? I am the Licensee in charge of The Edge, so I have the ultimate responsibility for everyone who works in the business. My role predominantly is ensuring everyone is following their legal responsibilities, financial legalities and making sure we are on top of our compliance requirements. I also have a loyal client base who I still assist with their real estate needs.
What do you think is important to be successful in this
industry? The real estate industry is definitely an industry where you will get out what you put in. Hard work and commitment will ensure your success in the industry. The best real estate professionals I have worked with over the years have been good listeners, and for me, this is an important skill to be successful in the industry.
What have been your greatest highlights over the
years? I have been fortunate to have had many great highlights in my career. Starting my own business when I was 24 years old was an early highlight. I have broken many sales records over the years, including some of the largest transactions registered in the area, which have been great achievements. My greatest highlight is creating The Edge into the business it is today. Watching my team grow and develop into the best team in town has been my greatest achievement.



REAL
ESTATE
-EXPERTS-
ADAM CROSS
THE EDGE PROPERTY
SALES CONSULTANT
18 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY
Can you tell us about how you came to be a real estate agent? I think I was always destined to be in sales of some description. I remember negotiating my first deal to sell my Nintendo. It was my greatest asset at the time, I was about 7. The deal was $220 but at $20 each Saturday it meant it was paid off by the end of the soccer season.
How I got into real estate was a result of my part time job through high school. I worked just around the corner from home at the local service station at Sapphire Beach. I got to know the regular customers over the 5 years I was there, and one of those was a local real estate agent. When
I finished school, it was that connection that provided the opportunity for a one year traineeship at NSW Real Estate. That was 18 years ago.
Can you tell us about your role? I’m a sales consultant and part of a team of 11 sales agents at The Edge. We sell properties and our job is to manage the sale process for the purpose of achieving the best result possible for the owner.
What do you think is important to be successful in this
industry? In addition to the basics (be honest, be organised, be present etc.) the most successful agents are often great listeners. They ask more questions and are never complacent about the value and importance of what we sell, and for this reason the top agents are always an investment, not a cost. Meaning they add more value to the process than what they take as a fee.
What are your goals moving forward with your career?
Changing market conditions are usually the best to grow your business. I’m always looking for new ways to do things. I’m certainly not a creature of habit.
What have been your greatest highlights and accolades
over the years? Every time I list or sell a property is a highlight for me, I never get tired of it. They are all important, and each one will challenge you in different ways.
AMY KEBBY
THE EDGE PROPERTY
LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT, LICENSED STOCK AND STATION AGENT, ACCREDITED AUCTIONEER
6 YEARS, 5 MONTHS IN THE INDUSTRY
Can you tell us about how you came to be a real estate agent? I was always interested in the real estate industry. After many years in the hospitality and retail industry, I decided to make a career change. Can you tell us about your role? As an agent, you’re helping people buy the biggest purchase they will ever make. You need to have a range of different skills, including customer service, problem solving, a good negotiator, time management and being available anytime of the day or night. Also helping vendors to achieve the best price for their home, and working endlessly to sell a home, whether it be in the few THE EDGEweeks or months to find the right buyer. What do you think is important to be successful in this industry? I work to a consistent routine, working hard and always having great communication. Good customer service, and honesty between buyers and sellers and the simple things like calling people back. The industry can be up and down so a positive outlook and genuine enjoyment of what I do helps me stay focused.
What are your goals moving forward with your career?
To sell more houses than I have the year before. My last achievement was to complete my Stock & Station License and setting personal goals helps me stay focused and love what I do.
What have been your greatest highlights and accolades
over the years? Last year was my highest amount of sales in the one year. Every day is a highlight when you are helping someone buy or sell a house. It’s always a lovely surprise to have a previous vendor call you to sell their house again. Having been in the industry now for over 6 years, I have met some amazing people and built a rapport for repeat business.


REAL

ESTATE
-EXPERTS-
BRETT FINNIE
THE EDGE PROPERTY
SALES CONSULTANT / LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT
13 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY
THE EDGE Can you tell us about how you became a real estate agent? I previously worked in the automotive industry but the desire to stay on the tools was fading so I commenced studying a Diploma in Property Valuation. I was fortunate to be given an opportunity to enter the real estate industry and started my career as a Property Manager. While property management was never the end goal, it was still a valued experience that further enhanced my knowledge and skills across the entire property industry. Once making the switch to sales I immediately knew this was the long term career for me and I’ve really prospered since joining The Edge Property Agency.
You have sold over $40 million of local real estate in the past 12 months - what do you put your success
down to? I believe my success can be attributed to a number of things; having a positive attitude, strong work ethic, clear communication, great market knowledge and simply doing the right thing by people. If you stay true to your values and work hard the results will naturally follow. A large percentage of my business comes from repeat clients and referrals which is humbling and very reassuring.
What do you love most about your job and what
keeps you motivated and passionate? I love the variety that real estate offers. Every property is unique and I’ve met some really great people from all walks of life. I genuinely get a buzz out of each and every sale and the team environment and culture at The Edge is incredibly positive and fun to be a part of.
GRANT LARSEN
THE EDGE PROPERTY
LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT STOCK & STATION AGENT, AUCTIONEER, SALES CONSULTANT
OVER 25 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY
THE EDGECan you tell us about how you came to be a real estate agent? Prior to moving from NZ to Coffs Harbour in 1994, I spent 20 years in the building industry, in both commercial and residential sectors. My last role in NZ was General Manager of an International Building Company. For the first 3 years in Coffs Harbour, I was the local Branch Manager for the Williams River Steel Group, before being invited to join the real estate industry. I was with NSW Real Estate for 24 years, before that business was amalgamated with The Edge Property Agency in 2021. Can you tell us about your role? I see myself as a facilitator, putting people and properties together and then helping to guide and advise them so they can make their own strong decisions.
What do you think is important to be successful in
this industry? A complete understanding of the local market and knowledge of the area. To provide honest and valuable advice to all my sellers and buyers.
What are your goals moving forward with your
career? Simply to provide the best service I can to all my clients.
What have been your greatest highlights and
accolades over the years? In 2016 I had the honour of being named a Top Agent in Australia, by Top Agent Magazine, the premier real estate magazine, featuring the most reputable agents from around the world.


MURRAY ROBERTSON
THE EDGE PROPERTY
SALES CONSULTANT/LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT
7.5 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY
Can you tell us about how you came to be a real estate agent? It was during my seven years as a Media Consultant, that I first met Jason and Mark from The Edge. We worked together to develop marketing strategies to ultimately position The Edge as the leading real estate company on the Coffs Coast. Over the course of this relationship, Jason had extended an open invitation to join the sales team at The Edge. Let’s call it a seven-year itch in April 2015, and I made the transition from media to real estate and haven’t looked back. Can you tell us about your role? Some key elements of my role are market analysis, property appraisals, marketing, sourcing and introducing buyers, maintaining a THE EDGE strong database, arranging inspections, negotiating sales, and liaising with conveyancers/solicitors and other agencies as required. In this role, I strive to provide prompt, reliable and courteous communication, transparent feedback, and unbiased, well-informed market advice. My aim for each of my clients is to make the buying and selling process as smooth as possible.
What do you think is important to be successful
in this industry? Importantly, you must love what you do and be fully invested in achieving the best outcome for your clients. I believe that listening and gaining a true understanding of your clients’ needs, along with an honest and courteous approach is the key to success in this industry.
What are your goals moving forward with your
career? It is an exciting time to be in real estate on the Coffs Coast. From our perfect climate, beautiful beaches, National Parks and lifestyle to the continued growth in infrastructure, including the Coffs Harbour Bypass Project, the secret is out. My goal is to continue to grow as the Coffs Coast continues to reach its full potential.


TAMMI LEAVER
THE EDGE PROPERTY
SALES CONSULTANT – LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT
25 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY

Can you tell us about how you came to be a real estate agent? Whenever I am asked this question, my response is that I was born into the real estate profession. My father, Rodger Pryce, returned our family from Sydney, back to Coffs Harbour in 1980 to open the Elders Real Estate franchise. Since starting my career at 17, I have progressed through various positions, from Property Management to Marketing and Sales.
What do you think is important to be successful in
this industry? To be successful in this industry, empathy is a key attribute, combined with a strong work ethic, a genuine interest and a strong desire to help others. The selling and buying of property is one of the most important decisions we make, and as an agent, we need to understand the needs and the objectives of those who we are engaged to help, always being mindful of how best we can assist them throughout the process.
What have been your greatest highlights and
accolades over the years? The highlight of my life to date, has been meeting my husband in Sydney 13 years ago and moving back to Coffs, buying our own piece of paradise and raising our 2 beautiful boys. My career highlight was working in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney at Double Bay, for one of Australia’s most successful real estate agents, Bill Malouf, learning invaluable negotiating and people skills. There is no place like home, so returning to Coffs, is proving to be the right move, selling the benefits of this region understandably, is something I do very naturally.



TOM SULLIVAN
THE EDGE PROPERTY
SALES CONSULTANT / LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT
12 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY
How long have you been selling real estate? I joined the real estate industry in 2010, selling property from Urunga to Arrawarra Headland in that time. Living in Sawtell and with our office in Coffs Harbour, most of my work tends to be in Coffs and towards the south side of town.
What do you think is important to be successful in this
industry? The role requires a skillset of solid communication and a great deal of empathy and understanding. From our customer’s point of view, buying and selling a property is always an emotional process!
I am quite systematic in my approach to real estate. Over the years I have committed a great deal of time into training & development, and have established a system that has proven to consistently achieve a great result for my clients.
I think it is the simple details that are important, do what you say you are going to do, return a phone call, and give honest advice and good old fashioned service. If you treat people well and provide a positive service experience, then the results will follow.
What do you enjoy about the real estate industry? I think it is the people who make the job enjoyable. We meet many different people and come across all types of personalities which makes every day interesting. I also tend to build a strong relationship with my clients and some of my closest friends are people that I have met through real estate. Thanks to technology I am also able to work from anywhere with a laptop and an iPhone, although this also makes it hard to take time off too - just ask my wife! I love that the office changes every day. I can be in a small suburban unit in the morning, and then off to a multi-milliondollar beachfront property in the afternoon.
What have been your greatest highlights and accolades over the years?
Agent of the Year – Sawtell (2016, 2017, 2020, 2022) Top 5 Agent – Coffs Coast (2018, 2020, 2021)
JAZMINE HUGHES
THE EDGE PROPERTY
SALES AGENT
5 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY

THE EDGE Can you tell us about how you came to be a real estate agent? I was a small property developer, business owner and investor with my husband. Together we designed, built, renovated and sold properties. I enjoyed the experience so much I wanted to be more involved in the industry. My previous experiences have also given me a great understanding of the investment process, which in turn gives me great insight into the investor based enquiries I receive. Can you tell us about your role? In my role I think the most important part is always in the best interest of our clients to exercise due care, skill and diligence in performing the listing and sales processes. We also need to be clear and honest, not make misrepresentations and to have good negotiation skills.
What do you think is important to be successful in this
industry? To be successful you need to be understanding of the client’s situation and trustworthy. You also need to be hard working mentally and physically as the position requires you to be dedicated. You need to be available and always ready to assist. Keeping your communication with your vendors and buyers is critical, as you navigate both parties through the sale process to settlement.
What are your goals moving forward with your
career? Keeping a work life home life balance while ensuring that I’m satisfied that I have given my full honest attention to my clients, especially in relation to getting the best price for their properties . As well as keeping them informed and updated while also ensuring that I’m there to help the buyers through the sale process.

KYLIE DEAN
KD PROPERTY CONVEYANCING
LICENSED CONVEYANCER / LICENSEE

Kylie Dean is a Coffs Harbour local who has worked in the region’s conveyancing industry for more than 20 years. Having been mentored by some of the Coffs Harbour region’s most prominent and respected lawyers, Kylie brings local knowledge and a dedication to customer service to KD Property Conveyancing.
Can you tell us about
how you came to be a conveyancer?
I started working as a receptionist at a local law firm. Having always been very interested in the local real estate industry, I really took a liking to conveyancing. I love helping clients achieve their property dreams. It is so rewarding to know that people have purchased their dream home. Assisting first home buyers is one of the most rewarding. It is a huge step in people’s lives and being able to make that happen is extremely gratifying. Having been mentored by two of Coffs Harbour’s most reputable lawyers, I gained truly beneficial knowledge during this time and am so very grateful for the hours that were spent educating me in the industry.
Can you tell us about your role?
I am a Licensed Conveyancer and Licensee at KD Property Conveyancing and have been in the industry for over 20 years. I opened my own business in 2020 which has always been a goal of mine. Local real estate agents, clients and brokers/lenders who I have dealt with throughout my career have been very supportive recommending me to clients, which I am so very grateful for. I now have clients returning to me for their second and third sale or purchase of property. My business was successful very quickly. I had been searching for a paralegal to assist me and thank goodness, I received a message from my paralegal Amber Nicholls. Having known Amber for many years through the industry, I knew how efficient and amazing she was and I employed her straight away. She is a wonderful asset to my business. Amber is a local who has been in the conveyancing industry for over 15 years. Having worked at local law firms throughout her career, Amber is exceptionally knowledgeable in all aspects of conveyancing.
What do you think is important to be successful in this
industry? Compassion and ability to make clients feel at ease. Also taking all the legal jargon out of the transaction. Moving home or buying/ selling a property is extremely stressful, probably one of life’s biggest stresses and, having gone through it ourselves, we understand. We aim to take all the stress out of the property transaction and provide our clients with cost effective, efficient and caring property transactions. Having grown up in the local area, I have a really good knowledge of the local area which I find to be very helpful when assisting clients. We also act for clients buying or selling throughout NSW. We also understand that people buying property are usually at work during office hours and with this in mind, I am always happy to meet with clients or make phone calls after business hours. For busy clients who cannot make it to our office, we can complete the entire transaction electronically.
What are your goals moving forward with your career?
Moving forward I want to ensure that all of my clients are always able to contact me directly. I always aim to return client calls and emails within the hour if I have been unable to take a call. I aim to keep my business at a size that will allow all of my clients to receive the best possible service and ensure that I will be able to provide personalised service and my undivided attention to each of my clients transactions.

What have been your greatest highlights and accolades over the years?
Having obtained my qualifications through Macquarie University, my greatest highlight would be receiving my Conveyancing Licence. Obviously opening my own firm comes in at a very close second. Seeing my son obtain his Law Degree and becoming a Lawyer is an amazing personal highlight. I love to get involved with the community and assist sporting teams, charities and most of all, helping my clients achieve their property dreams! How can we get in touch? Call 66001446, email Kylie@kdpropertyconveyancing.com. or you can also visit our website www.kdpropertyconveyancing.com