When it comes to real estate, the Hall and Francis families are proof that some callings are just meant to be. Spanning three generations and more than six decades, their rich family legacy and journey details a story of persistence, innovation, and an honest commitment to people.
Over the years, the family have grown and evolved their business from cars and insurance in the 1960s to today’s dynamic property market to serve the community with a strong focus on building trustful connections through hard work, and a real care for clients.
It all began with the late 1960s sales career of Claudia Francis’ grandfather, Ron Hall. Starting as a fitter and turner, he soon found his stride in sales, first with Volkswagen and Holden vehicles, and later in the insurance sector. By the mid-1960s, he had already been named Australian Salesman Recruit of the Year with Legal and General, before taking up a long career with AMP. His adventurous spirit saw him relocate to Papua New Guinea in 1970 to establish his own insurance agency, covering the vast and roadless region by learning to fly and purchasing his own aircraft. For seven years he sold insurance across the country, earning five consecutive President’s Awards along the way.
Returning to Mackay in 1977, he entered the real estate industry, later purchasing TJ Leonard Realty in 1991, which became a RE/MAX office. After nearly three decades in property, he retired, proud to see that the profession would continue through his children and grandchildren.
One of those to follow in his footsteps was his son-in-law, Peter Francis. Moving to Mackay with his wife Kylie in 2003, Peter embraced the region as his family home. Today, he is both Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate, bringing more than 22 years of experience and an impressive list of achievements. From residential homes to rural properties and large subdivision projects, Peter has proven himself as a trusted professional, earning a Hall of Fame Award and a Top 30 International Achievement Award.
Peter’s approach to real estate is built on integrity, strong communication, and a genuine understanding of the Mackay market. Beyond his career, he is a proud father of five, passionate about the region’s lifestyle, and dedicated to giving back to the community whether through foster care, family time outdoors, or involvement in local activities. As a leader within the business, he has become known not only for his results, but for mentoring others and ensuring clients feel supported at every stage of the sales process.
The newest generation to join the industry is Peter’s daughter, Claudia Francis, who officially became a sales consultant at Blacks Real Estate in 2023. Claudia studied a Bachelor of Business at Brisbane’s Queensland University of Technology (QUT), majoring in Marketing. After returning to Mackay and completing her degree online, she joined the Blacks Real Estate team as her father’s assistant before stepping into a sales role of her own.
With a strong background in marketing, including her own marketing business, Claudia brings fresh, modern strategies to real estate.
“I’ve always wanted to work in a creative and fast-paced industry, and real estate has definitely ticked those boxes,” said Claudia.
“I really enjoy the role… every day is different”
While each generation has developed their own strengths and styles, there are clear threads that tie them together: a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and an ability to connect with people.
“My grandfather and father have a friendly, and trustworthy nature - I’ve learned from both of them and added my own style, especially with marketing and social media.”
From a grandfather who once sold insurance from the cockpit of his own aircraft to a father who has helped shape Mackay’s modern real estate landscape, to a daughter now bringing a new perspective to the industry, this family has created a proud legacy. At its heart is a shared belief that success in real estate is not just about sales, but it’s about people, and in Mackay, three generations of the one family have proven that this remains true.
The Hall and Francis family, L-R: Claudia Francis, Ron Hall, and Peter Francis. Photo supplied
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