Born and raised in Mackay to a local cane farming family, Josey Comerford knows this region like the back of her hand. Her father was born here, and her Maltese heritage traces back through generations who helped shape Mackay’s close-knit community.
She began her career at Hugh Reilly Real Estate at just 20 years old after a few early jobs in law and medical offices. When an employment agency placed her at Hugh Reilly Real Estate, it turned out to be the perfect match.
“I think they did really well out of that one — and 37 years later, I’m still here,” she laughs.
Starting in reception, Josey climbed the ranks with heart and determination. Starting out as Receptionist, working up to senior property manager then to business partner and now Managing Director, her journey has been marked by loyalty and resilience.
Her first year as a principal commencing June 2007 wasn’t necessarily an easy one. After being allocated her daughter and travelling overseas to adopt Zuzana and then returning home in late Jan 2008 what was meant to be a time to bond with her daughter, did not happen as Mackay was hit by one of the region’s major floods.
“It was absolute chaos — the office went under, computers were soaked, and we were drying equipment with a hairdryer and then handling 60 plus insurance claims,” she recalls.
“And that was my introduction to business ownership.”
Today, Josey leads the agency’s sales and commercial division, bringing decades of insight and a people-first approach.
“I just really enjoy helping people. Just recently, a woman burst into tears because we found her a home when she’d almost given up… and that’s what makes it all worth it.”
Josey has witnessed real estate evolve from carbon paper and typewriters to digital marketing and social media.
“We started with two-way radios and paper receipts — now everything’s online. But one thing that hasn’t changed is our reputation for honesty.”
Her leadership is anchored in values passed down from the late Hugh Reilly himself of integrity, community, and care.
“Our name means everything. We’re proud to be a local, independent agency — that’s what people trust.”
Outside of work, Josey enjoys gardening, family time, and long walks with her cheeky bullmastiff, Kenny. She’s also active in the community, having served over a decade on the Mackay Regional Housing Board and contributing to Zonta, a women’s advocacy group.
As Hugh Reilly Real Estate celebrates 80 years, Josey reflects with a great sense of pride.
“We’ve survived floods, market changes, and everything in between, because at our core, we care about the people. I believe that’s what’s kept us standing.
“It’s a major achievement to be able to celebrate 80 years… and I’m sure there’ll be plenty more to come.”
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