As we count down to this year’s REINSW Awards for Excellence, we’re excited to introduce the finalists in the School-based Apprentice/Trainee (SBAT) of the Year Award. This category celebrates the next generation of real estate professionals — young students who have excelled in their traineeships while balancing school studies with real-world industry experience. Each of our finalists is completing a Certificate III in Real Estate, building strong foundations for their future careers and proving just how much they’ve got to offer. Passionate, motivated, and already showing the qualities of future leaders, these finalists are ones to watch.
Meet this year’s rising stars:
Jay Ayling – LJ Hooker Taree
At just 13 years old, Jay took the bold step of walking into his local LJ Hooker office in a suit and tie, pitching his skills and creating his own opportunity. Since then, he’s developed extensive knowledge across sales, property management, and compliance. A confident public speaker and student leader, he also holds a black belt in Taekwondo and mentors younger students. Jay’s initiative, professionalism, and passion for inspiring others highlight why he is a strong contender for SBAT of the Year.
Luke Johnson – Century 21 Sutherland Shire
From a young age, Luke has shown a strong passion for helping people, building solid experience in the workforce since the age of 14. His roles with First National Davidson and his current traineeship at Century 21 Sutherland Shire have strengthened his industry knowledge and given him a strong foundation for a future career in real estate. Through these opportunities he has grown in confidence and professionalism, honing his communication skills and commitment to ethical practice. As School Captain, ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership Award recipient, and a leader in both his school and community, Luke has proven himself a natural ambassador. Balancing school, two jobs, sport, and his traineeship, Luke demonstrates resilience, initiative, and the qualities of a true future leader.
Alexandra Love – Warburton Estate Agents
Inspired by family experiences in property, Alexandra undertook work placements that solidified her passion for real estate. Alongside her HSC studies and her placement with Warburton Estate Agents, she has gained confidence, independence, and a strong foundation for her career. She is admired for her teamwork, communication, and professionalism, and regularly shares her positive SBAT experiences with peers considering similar pathways. Alexandra’s balance of academic excellence, industry dedication, and leadership makes her an outstanding finalist.
Isabelle Rasmussen – McGrath Beecroft
For Isabelle, real estate perfectly combines her love of property with her people-first personality. She has already gained invaluable experience at McGrath, learning the full property process from client meetings through to settlement. At just 16, Isabelle juggles high school, three jobs, and content creation, where she shares her SBAT journey on social media to inspire other young people. With her energy, strong work ethic, and ambassadorial flair, Isabelle is already making her mark in the industry.
Looking Ahead
Our SBAT of the Year finalists embody the future of real estate — energetic, driven, community-minded, and ready to make their mark. Balancing school, work, and training is no easy feat, yet Jay, Luke, Alexandra, and Isabelle have shown incredible passion, innovation, and commitment along the way.
We’re proud to celebrate their achievements at this year’s REINSW Awards for Excellence on Tuesday 16 September – and you can be there too! Tickets are still available, so don’t miss your chance to join us for an evening honouring the very best in our industry.
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