Simon Southwell

Not everyone is able to find their dream job, but I’m fortunate enough to say I have. Being able to combine my passion for real estate with my agricultural background at Ray White Rural is something I am incredibly proud of.

However, it is working alongside my son George and daughter Clare and seeing their professional growth in our family business that has been my highlight. Their contribution to “Team Southwell” has helped build our reputation as the leading real estate business in the region.

Raised in the Canberra region on the family property “Ginnagulla” near Hall, I attended St Michaels Primary School at Lyneham where rugby was my best “subject”, playing from my primary years right through to being selected in 1st XV at St Patrick’s College, Goulburn (now known as Trinity College).

When I wasn’t at school or on the rugby field, I was at home on the farm living an idyllic country life, although this was thrown into disarray when I was nearly killed in a motorbike accident on our property when I was 15. Not to deter me, I forged a career path in the agricultural sector, going on to become a wool classer before taking a change of direction into agricultural machinery sales.

It was building a transport company in western Queensland where I developed a passion for vehicles, which I indulge today, spending my free time between working on my collection of old cars and Mack trucks as well as running our sheep properties.

Moving back to the Canberra district was an easy decision for my family, with my family history in the region going back to 1838.

An exceptional region, there is so much to do from trout fishing and mountain camping to embrace the beautiful scenery to visiting the wineries at Murrumbateman. You cannot go past a bottle of Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier, which is so good I recommend you get two bottles – one to share with friends and family and one just for yourself.

However, the region’s best kept secret would have to be Coolamine Homestead in the Kosciuszko National Park where my grandfather was raised.

It’s exciting to see the interest and growth this region is experiencing as more people seek to enjoy the wonderful lifestyle it offers.

I am proud of all the properties our team has sold, whether it be large or small, but I was particularly privileged to be involved in the sale of Bolaro Station at Adaminaby on the banks of the mighty Murrumbidgee River.

Other career highlights include selling Owen Betts’ properties and the back-to-back sales of Narra Allen Station, Boorowa, for $15 million after selling the purchasers’ Queensland property for $11.5 million.

Using my knowledge and experience to achieve the best possible outcomes for every single property we sell is my driver, and I look forward to having “Team Southwell” deliver for you.