The White Report AU | October 2024 | Page 35

Rural Muster celebrates 30 years of Ray White Rural and Livestock

BY SHANNON COOK AND ALEX TILBURY
THIS YEAR ’ S RAY WHITE
RURAL AND LIVESTOCK
MUSTER 2024 BEGAN WITH
A GATHERING OF MORE
THAN 130 MEMBERS OF THE
NETWORK AT THE SHED IN
CROWS NEST , NORTH OF
TOOWOOMBA .
The Shed , which is considered the most important real estate owned by the White family , is where Ray White began the now leading Australasian group 122 years ago . The gathering kicked off the annual Rural Muster in 2024 and honoured the 30 year anniversary of the Rural and Livestock network .
The second day of the Rural Muster saw more than 170 members arrive in Toowoomba on the Darling Downs for a conference featuring sessions from leading figures from around the Ray White Group .
The conference was set against the historic backdrop of the Empire Theatre in Toowoomba , a fitting venue for Ray White Rural and Livestock ' s gathering . Chairman Paul White took the stage to reflect on three decades of his business , sharing insights and memories that have shaped the journey of the company .
Reflecting on the origins of Ray White Rural and Livestock , Paul mused , “ When we started , my father Alan was always incredibly supportive . He
would often join us at events , driving out west with us , bringing his unique energy and enthusiasm . Brian was equally supportive from the beginning . I believed we were on our way to something significant .”
Discussing the biggest challenges the business has faced , Paul highlighted the tough times that have come with unpredictable seasons .
“ The challenges have been numerous , especially during tough seasons , but through it all , I am so proud of every single one of our members . The commitment and resilience they have shown is truly remarkable .”
He concluded with an emotional note about The Shed , a symbol of the company ’ s journey and foundation .
“ At The Shed , you can feel the emotions , the history , and the unity of our team . It ’ s a wonderful thing to witness — a testament to what we ’ ve built together over the years ,” he said .
Ray White Rural and Livestock CEO Stephen Nell said he had never been more confident about the future of the business given the technology capabilities available .
“ Success leaves clues and so does failure . I genuinely see a real opportunity for all of you to take advantage of the environment that our competitors have put us in ,” he said .
“ I am enormously proud of how all of you have navigated your way through this last year and I expect that to continue . We all have an obligation to every other member of the company to be the best practitioner we can be . And that extends to us as your franchisor .
“ We strive to provide you with the best tools and skills for you to be successful in your businesses .”
NRL Super Coach Wayne Bennett ( pictured above ) took to the stage at the Rural Muster to share his insights on leadership and the lessons he ' s learned throughout his illustrious career .
Bennett opened up about his natural introversion , revealing , " I am introverted . I got into coaching , but to be successful in teams , I had to communicate ."
" The introvert is always in me ; we don ’ t show a lot on the outside ."
" I taught myself how to communicate . It ' s an active choice . I worked hard at communication so my players know where I stand ."
He emphasised the importance of authenticity and personal accountability , noting , " If I don ' t challenge you , I have failed you . I want you all to be your best — that ’ s your choice , whether in real estate or footy ," he said .
" Many people don ’ t want to take responsibility for their choices . No one tells more lies than the ones you tell yourself . Who is putting your handbrake on ?"
Wayne also touched on the significance of self-awareness and self-esteem , encouraging the audience to reflect on their self-image and the way they are perceived in their communities .
" You need to like yourself , your image , and how you regard yourself in your community ," he said
" That is your trademark . Know who you are and what you represent , and what your company represents — it ' s up to you . That is your choice and you have to own that ."
Read the full wrap here
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