The 2025 Raine & Horne NSW & ACT Awards for Excellence took centre stage at the spectacular Hyatt Regency in Sydney recently, honouring the network’s top sales and property management professionals, including two of Dubbo’s best agents, Ken Mongan and Brentley Goodwin from Raine & Horne Dubbo.

The sold-out event hosted by comedian Rob Shehadi of Fat Pizza fame generated a 25% increase in attendance from 2024, reinforcing the award’s status as a must-attend occasion for the network.

One of the night’s most highly anticipated moments was Mr Mongan, the Managing Director of Raine & Horne Dubbo, Raine & Horne Commercial Dubbo, and Raine & Horne Rural Dubbo, winning the prestigious Max Raine Award.

This award, named in honour of Raine & Horne’s long-term Chairman, Max Raine, is presented to principals who are recognised as strong supporters of the Raine & Horne brand, culture, and values.

Angus Raine, son of Max Raine and now Executive Chairman of Raine & Horne, and the fourth generation of his family to lead the renowned brand since its founding in 1883, stated, “Ken leads a team of over 20 professionals and has extensive experience in real estate and the construction sectors. 

“His commitment to making Raine & Horne Dubbo the region’s top real estate office is evident in his focus on growth, strong relationships, and industry innovation. 

“A passionate and driven leader, Ken’s dedication to excellence and service makes him a deserving recipient of this year’s Max Raine Award.”

Mr Mongan responded, “This award means a lot, and I’d like to thank my fellow directors and staff members across our residential, rural, and commercial real estate teams. It takes the whole team to achieve recognition like this. 

“In 2006, I was lucky enough to win the Number 1 Auction Lister award, and there’s a photo of the great Max Raine presenting it to me. My dad was so chuffed, he framed the image of Max and I, the winning certificate, and a picture of the award, and then placed it on the wall right next to his recliner at home.

“He was incredibly proud. We’re a humble family, and this award—especially being presented by Max all those years ago —was a monumental moment for us. 

“The reason I bring this up was my father passed away recently, and so did Max, who has left an incredible legacy. Yet I must add that Angus is ensuring that legacy and drive is in great hands.”

Mr Mongan continued, “In recent years, we’ve seen a major push from Raine & Horne Corporate to enhance office support, training, and industry-first technology—it’s certainly exciting to see. 

“Having been with the brand for more than 20 years now, we used to outsource many services early on, but now Raine & Horne provides the entire network with a true one-stop shop.” 

In addition to Mr Mongan’s recognition, Raine & Horne Dubbo was named the group’s Top Regional Office in NSW & ACT and finished fourth overall in the Top Office Number of Sales Transactions category. Dubbo sales star Mr Goodwin secured third place in the Top Principal Number of Sales Transactions category, earning him a place in the Chairman’s Club (Platinum) for 2024.

The Dubbo property market on track for a robust 2025

The property market in Dubbo is experiencing an outstanding start in 2025, according to Mr Mongan.

“The market has been an absolute belter,” he said, noting that despite the traditionally quieter January and February months, the local property market has maintained its momentum from late 2024.

“Sales in January were up by 20%, and listings and appraisals also saw a 20% increase. This is a strong indicator that confidence in the market is high, and we’re seeing more people actively looking to make moves.”

Mr Mongan attributes the market’s strength to several factors, including the February interest rate cut. “People feel that if they can afford what they can now, they’ll get a bit of breathing room from the RBA in the next two to three years, which is encouraging many to make their move now.”

First-time homebuyers are also re-entering the market, with support from parents helping to make it possible. “We’re definitely seeing a lot of first-time buyers come back, with mums and dads playing a big role in assisting them,” Mr Mongan said.

For all your sales and property management needs, whether for residential, commercial, or rural real estate in Dubbo and surrounding regions, contact Raine & Horne Dubbo at 02 6882 1755.