1945 — Hugh Reilly returns from World War II and, together with Joe Griffin, begins his real estate career in Mackay. Shortly after, he and his wife, Anne Graham Reilly, officially establish Hugh Reilly Proprietary Limited. George Gibbs joins as an executive and shareholder, helping shape the agency’s early direction.
1971 — Hugh Reilly tragically passes away from a heart attack. His son, Steve Reilly, aged 22, steps into leadership alongside George Gibbs.
1970s–1980s — Edward Sydney Cowan, and Frank Comben (valuer) Join as partners and the partnership becomes Hugh Reilly Real Estate.
The agency grows under these partnerships. Frank Comben and later his son Barry who joins as a salesperson play key roles in guiding the business. George Gibbs’ family involvement continues along with his son, Chris Gibbs.
1986 — The agency relocates to the corner of Wood and Gordon Streets, a site it still occupies today, cementing its status as a Mackay landmark and a stable, locally owned institution.
1990s — The firm briefly experiments with a franchise identity (trading as Richardson & Wrench for a short period) before returning to the independent Hugh Reilly Real Estate name, responding to strong local recognition for the original brand.
1996 – Frank Comben retires and Barry Comben and Chris Gibbs enter the Partnership with Syd Cowan.
2007 — After more than two decades on staff, Josey Comerford rises through reception and property management to be offered a partnership stake when Syd Cowan retired, along with Barry Comben; she stepped into principal responsibilities whilst heading up the Property Management department.
2010s–2020s — Hugh Reilly Real Estate evolves its services to include modern digital marketing, commercial sales & leasing, project marketing and continued award-winning property management while remaining a locally owned, independent agency.
2022 — Barry Comben retires and Wendy Chatto buys into the business along with Josey Comerford. Wendy becomes a partner and Senior Property Manager, reinforcing the next generation of leadership in property management. Josey becomes the Managing Director.
Today (2025) — After 80 years, Hugh Reilly Real Estate remains a local, independent agency built on reputation, community service and continuity – a business that has adapted through technological shifts, natural disasters and changing markets while retaining its founding values of integrity.
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