Real Estate
12 February, 2026
Innisfail businesswoman opens doors to new Professionals-branded property firm
PROMINENT North Queensland businesswoman and former political candidate Annette Swaine has launched her next business challenge as principal of Professionals Innisfail.
She is off to a strong start, selling two homes in her first week of opening the new office.
“Taking this next step to open my own Professionals office is both exciting and rewarding,” Ms Swaine said.
“I truly believe in the future of Innisfail – it’s a beautiful, affordable region with a great lifestyle, strong agricultural base and friendly community.”
The launch follows a major expansion for Professionals Real Estate, which has recently undergone a national rebrand and business transformation to strengthen its national and internal network.
Professionals Innisfail is the first North Queensland office to open under the new branding.
Ms Swaine’s extensive career reflects her deep connection to the region and passion for community service.
Growing up in the Torres Strait Islands, she began working in the commercial fishing industry before serving as a police officer in Mount Isa, Innisfail and Cardwell.
She later owned and operated a fishing charter and tourism business and served as a president of the Cardwell Chamber of Commerce.
“Looking for a challenge three years ago, I fell into real estate after always having a passion for property investment,” Ms Swaine said.
“I got my real estate licence and joined an agency in town. It was a steep learning curve, but I worked hard to become the number three agent on the Cassowary Coast and I quickly realised I could lead my own office.”
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Ms Swaine (right) stood as a candidate against political heavyweight Bob Katter in the federal seat of Kennedy in 2025 and contested the seat of Hinchinbrook in the 2024 Queensland election.
After living in Innisfail for 20 years, she is launching with a team of two but plans to expand and offer property management in the near future.
Professionals Real Estate CEO Sean Hanneberry said Ms Swaine’s leadership, energy and strong community connections would be a major boost for the group’s growing northern presence.
“Annette brings entrepreneurial drive and a long history of service to her community that truly reflects Professionals spirit,’’ Mr Hanneberry said.
“We’re proud to welcome someone who not only understands her local market but is actively involved in shaping its future.’’
Ms Swaine said her decision to join the Professionals group followed extensive research of its competitors.
“Professionals offers great marketing support but also gives its principals a level of independence to bring their own creativity to how they operate.
“The support from the network has been outstanding as I launched the office,’’ she said.
“I love the new branding – it looks spectacular against my art deco building in Innisfail’s main street (left).
“My goal is simple: to become the town’s number one real estate office by delivering great results and great service.”
Professionals Innisfail is the latest office to open under the network’s refreshed brand, which is currently being rolled out across 190 offices throughout Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
The ambitious business overhaul reflects a new era for the almost 50-year-old network, delivering a contemporary redesign and a renewed commitment to innovation, technology and member support.
Professionals Innisfail is at 21-23 Edith Street, Innisfail.
• Pictured right is one property listed at 5 Ludwick St, Cardwell. It is a four-bedroom, three-bathroom house with airconditioning, an outdoor entertaining area and space for four vehicles. Asking price is $689,000.
