Stocker Preston is the largest independent real estate company in the south west region of Western Australia, servicing the areas of Dunsborough, Margaret River, Cowaramup, Augusta, and Vasse. The company was formed through the merger of several long-established real estate firms with decades of experience in the region. Stocker Preston offers a full range of real estate services, including residential and commercial sales, property management, and land development. As the region has grown, Stocker Preston has expanded its operations and divisions while committing to environmentally conscious development and supporting the local community.
Good Stuff Happens in 1:1 Meetings: Why you need them and how to do them well
Stocker preston corporate brochure
1. C o r p o r a t e p r o f i l e
real eState aGeNtS & reSiDeNtial, Strata & CoMMerCial SUBDiViSioN feaSiBilitY &
propertY CoNSUltaNtS propertY MaNaGeMeNt MaNaGeMeNt
D U NSB O R O U GH • VA S S E • COWARAMUP • MARGARET RIVE R • AUGUSTA
2. 3 about Us
4 South West Specialists
4 About The South West’s Cape To Cape Region
6 Company Divisions
8 Supporting The Community
9 Protecting The Environment Licensee
Downsouth (WA) Pty Ltd
aCN 125 383 628
10 Company Directors
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3. The origins of Stocker Preston date back to the early 1950’s when A.D.
Errey & Co opened its doors within the Margaret River township. At this
time the region was still a rural-based community of struggling sheep and
dairy farmers.
Ray Stocker joined the organisation in the seventies, which was around
the same time Peter and Mary De Chiera began making their mark on the
Dunsborough real estate market.
In 1988, the name Stocker Preston was introduced to reflect the then
partnership in Margaret River.
A branch office was soon opened in Augusta, while a new player in the real
estate market began making an impact in the rural environment with an
office in Cowaramup.
This newly formed business accepted an offer to come under the wing of
“Stocker Preston has the then Stocker Preston by franchising to the company. After operating
for 4 years under franchise, the company struck out on it’s own to become
a strong conscience
Down South Realty.
about how the area
Over the years all three organisations built trust and loyalty within the
developed, after all we community by continually demonstrating a high level of service and genuine
commitment to the community.
have to live with the
Independently, they played an integral role in the region’s growth and
development too.” development, working to ensure the essence of the south was not lost
through its development. Each district office has listed and sold more
properties than any other organisation in their individual areas and have
- Ken Preston
attracted some of the most experienced agents in the industry.
In 2007, a landmark merger saw the three companies amalgamated to
create the largest independent real estate company in the south west.
With cultivated roles in specialist areas, Stocker Preston was the first
organisation to cover the south west under one management structure.
Stocker Preston today combines decades of experience and resources with
offices in Dunsborough, Margaret River, Cowaramup, Augusta and Vasse.
The combined strength of this amalgamation presents Stocker Preston as a
principal force within the real estate industry in the south west region.
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4. As the south west’s largest independent real estate company, Stocker As a result, Stocker Preston is the south west’s leading real estate company,
Preston is the only company that services the south west under one single listing and selling some 35 to 50 % of all properties sold in the region.
management structure.
Research has indicated that professional service, quality staff, sound ethics
With decades of experience, the company has a comprehensive and industry knowledge are the major reasons clients choose to buy or sell
understanding of the local marketplace, and has developed specialist through Stocker Preston.
divisions to service the growing demands of land subdivisions, vineyards,
Stocker Preston has a large database of qualified purchasers with a genuine
rural land, residential development, commercial and luxury properties.
interest in the area, which means potential purchasers can be identified
With the growth of the region, the company is committed to retaining early, sometimes even prior to commencement of formal marketing.
its competitive edge. This ensures that, despite the scale of land being
marketed; a modest block, or a high-priced tourism development;
consistency of service is maintained.
The Cape to Cape region in the south west is home to all manner of environs
from stellar coastlines and beaches, to world renowned surfing locations,
lush forests and farmlands, national parks, majestic caves and the famous
Margaret River Wine Region.
As the region’s profile is elevated onto a world stage, it continues to attract
an increasing number of investors and people looking for that ‘perfect’ sea
change environment.
Just a 200km to 300km drive from Perth, the south west is a world away
from any city environment. It comprises a range of distinct landscapes and
cultures, with complementary activities and interests that cater for many
varied lifestyle dreams.
The region enjoys a Mediterranean/maritime climate with summer
temperatures rarely over 32oC and winter temperatures ranging from 11oC
to 18oC. Most rainfall occurs between April and October and the annual
average rainfall is approximately 1,000mm.
Stocker Preston has offices in five locations in the south west, each with
individual charm and distinct cultures.
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5. Augusta
The first white settlers came to Augusta in 1830, making it the third oldest Investment in the area is available in all types of properties, with the beachside
settlement in W.A. The townsite now comprises a tight community with a holiday home (or homesite) being keenly sought. Many prospective residents
mix of new and historical residences, but also boasts significant tourism are also drawn to the privacy of the 2ha special rural retreats, developed
drawcards such as craft and gift shops, wineries, whale watching, dolphin in the natural bushland of the hinterland. Commercial opportunities also
tours, ferry cruises and the tallest lighthouse in WA at Cape Leeuwin. abound in this rapidly growing area.
Located on the banks of the Hardy Inlet, a tidal inlet into which the Blackwood
and Scott rivers flow, and easy access to pristine waters and beaches that
Margaret River
stretch through to Flinders Bay, this water-lovers haven has an approximate The township of Margaret River sits comfortably on the banks of the infamous
population of 1200, including nearby Karridale. Margaret River and is surrounded by broad hectare farm land, State forests,
vineyards and world famous surfing beaches.
Originally known for its timber and later, local farms, Augusta is well served
by a range of shopping, medical and accommodation facilities, including a Traditionally known as a service centre for the beef, dairy and timber industries
new supermarket, restaurants, hospital, aged lodge and clinic. There is a and a beautiful rural and coastal holiday destination, viticulture and tourism
Primary School in Augusta, as well as one in Karridale. today provide the catalyst for a thriving community and economy.
The Augusta-Margaret River Shire population is approximately 10,000, with
Cowaramup an annual growth rate of 5.5%.
Cowaramup is a country town with a lot of character. Ideally located on the There are six primary schools, a senior high school, Montessori school and a
Bussell Highway between Margaret River and Busselton/Dunsborough town regional college of TAFE in Margaret River, plus a Centre For Wine Excellence,
centres, this quaint town rests right in the heart of wine region territory. comprising a joint venture of TAFE, Curtin University, Edith Cowan University
The town is well serviced with tennis courts, BMX track, a well-recognised and the Margaret River High School.
primary school, lawn bowls and the Cowaramup Club, plus restaurants and Margaret River is well served with comprehensive shopping, business and
niche retail. medical services (including two hospitals) and there are numerous sporting,
In peak periods, it becomes the hub of major activity, having hosted the cultural and religious organisations within the community.
Margaret River Wine Region Festival’s major event, Margaret River Viticulture
Field Day and summer Sunday Sundowner concerts. Vasse
Cowaramup has been targeted for growth by the Augusta Margaret River Vasse is quite literally a new gateway to the south west, with the Vasse
Shire and is expected to increase from 600 residents to 3000 within the next Newtown residential estate development taking centre stage.
10 – 15 years. As such, development activity is well underway, with adequate
The introduction of Vasse Newtown will bring a new business centre,
sensitivity given to the town’s rare and welcoming rural atmosphere.
industrial park and healthcare facilities to the region.
A major 95 bed aged care facility and district hospital is in the plans, as
Dunsborough
are four school sites, in addition to the existing Vasse Primary School and
Dunsborough is a small town in a big hurry! It is visibly vibrant and tertiary education facilities.
sophisticated, yet leisurely in ambience and forms part of the fastest growing
Vasse is located in the centre of the wine region, in almost equal distance
shire in Australia.
to Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River. It therefore benefits from
Blessed with natural assets few areas can emulate, it reposes on the tranquil having equal access to all the beaches and lifestyle infrastructure available
shores of Geographe Bay. The township is also the nearest commercial in the southwest.
centre for Yallingup, one of the country’s finest surf areas as well as Eagle
The master-planned development introduces a new vibrant community to
Bay among its most prestigious beach localities.
the South West, and extensive facilities to the growing community.
A family holiday destination for decades, Dunsborough incorporates a naval
ship dive wreck, a championship golf course, many great little restaurants
together with the appeal of the vineyards.
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6. Stocker Preston comprises five key divisions. These include:
• Residential Sales
• Commercial and Business Sales
• Land Subdivision and Development
• Rural and Vineyard Sales
• Residential Property Management
• Commercial Property Management
• Strata Management
RESIDENTIAL SALES LAND SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT
Stocker Preston has listed and sold more residential properties in the south Stocker Preston’s contribution to the sales and marketing of residential
west than all other companies put together. subdivisions and developments in the region is significant.
With a strategic approach to marketing and sales negotiations, and effective The company has extensive experience in working with englobo land,
and proven marketing programs, the company has built on a traditional ‘real including residential, special rural, industrial and strata title commercial
estate’ foundation to incorporate modern technologies and meet demands developments.
of the new environment.
With a comprehensive understanding of the local demand and the obligations
Stocker Preston has an extensive data base of qualified property investors of any Town Planning scheme or Subdivision approval requirements,
that spans through the entire region. Stocker Preston works closely with land owners to assist in the drafting of
covenants and/or building and design guidelines, liaise with local councillors
It has unmatched competitive advantage in the region and an unequalled
and/or community members, and design effective and targeted marketing
reputation for service.
strategies.
COMMERCIAL AND BUSINESS SALES
RURAL AND VINEYARD SALES
This specialist area of real estate requires a depth of understanding of
Rural properties in the region are constantly evolving to accommodate
business and profitable return.
varied agricultural demands and environmental policies, including water use
Stocker Preston has experienced consultants with hands on business procedures and restrictions on clearing of remnant vegetation.
experience and a track record off successful negotiations, no matter how
While some rural land owners might qualify for land subdivision, many have
complex.
invested in the development of new produce to meet changing market
The team can assist in assessing business features to establish a sales demands.
price, highlight areas of concern to ascertain a seller position, work with
Stocker Preston has strong links to the region’s rural industry and understands
the buyer to determine required equipment, stock and good will value, and
the challenges and requirements of owning a rural property.
broker mutually beneficial transactions that reflect the marketplace.
The company has been involved in selling bare land for lifestyle, general
In addition, Stocker Preston’s marketing strategies ensure a targeted
farming, dairies and for development of vines, olives and trees. It has also
approach to all commercial sales.
been successful in selling commercial vineyards and boutique wineries.
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7. COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Stocker Preston Property Management is ideally positioned to service new, Managed by a team of experienced professionals, the division holds the
or existing commercial and retail developments. largest residential and commercial property management portfolio in the south
west and has a large database of people seeking rental accommodation.
Stocker Preston is actively involved in the business community where it is in
constant touch with the local business people and can offer a consultancy The tenant selection process comprises a meticulous qualifying program to
service, and/or advice on current or proposed commercial, retail and strata ensure responsible tenants are placed in available properties.
opportunities.
Stocker Preston Property Management is fully conversant with the The Stocker Preston Property Management service incorporates general
Commercial Tenancy (Retail Shops) Agreement and Strata Titles Act which management duties, including arrangement of minor repairs, preparing
allows staff to quickly identify potential problems and rectify them prior to monthly statements and general liaison with clients, and leasing duties
any expensive legal wrangles. including arranging advertising, screening a tenant, property inspections
and preparing lease agreements.
Our commercial and retail tenant screening process is comprehensive and
involves initial interviews, obtaining reference checking, financial status,
as well as establishing a business and trading history for the prospective
STRATA MANAGEMENT
tenant. Strata management proposals comprise an increasingly significant portion
of the commercial and residential plans for our company.
Annual reports and budgets can be formulated ensuring the maximum
profitability for Landlords. Reconciliation of variable outgoings, plus other Stocker Preston’s duties in regard to strata management including forming
commitments as per the Commercial Tenancy (Retail Shops) Agreement Act the Strata Company and organising the registration of new By-Laws with
are part of our service. DOLA (Department of Land Administration). We arrange the initial meeting
of the Strata Company and liaise with owners and occupiers to ensure that
the common property is maintained and the Strata meets its obligations
under the Act.
“Well before the first vines were planted, surfers
had discovered Margaret River’s perfect waves”
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8. Having established its position as a leader in the marketplace, Stocker With both directors and many staff members raising families in the area,
Preston is also proud of its leadership role within the community. support for youth-oriented projects is also priority.
Stocker Preston is well-recognised throughout the region for supporting the Stocker Preston is a major sponsor of the Youth Outreach Program that
community that supports them. concentrates on fostering life-skills, opportunities and development for
young people in Margaret River, and has a hand in the funding in the region,
Amongst the many activities Stocker Preston is involved in, the company
and been an avid supporter or community initiatives and causes.
regularly conducts seminars to assist the local community with their property
investments. These might include “First Homebuyer’s Information Nights” or As the Cape to Cape region’s natural environment inspires many artisans,
Investment Seminars held several times each year. Stocker Preston has an on-going commitment to the artistic community.
"Stocker Preston
provides extensive
support to the
community via it's
sponsorships"
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9. Land prices in the south west have soared in the past decade with the Both the Augusta-Margaret River and Busselton Shires have now adopted
tourism boom and resultant population growth. As a result, development the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge Statement of Planning Policy principles when
has progressed steadily. considering future development proposals.
The demand for land brings with it increased expectation for environmentally- These measures endeavour to ensure that developments in the region meets
aware land releases. Careful planning in consultation with the local both town planning requirements and those of the local community, so that
communities aims to ensure the innate essence of the area is retained. the inherent values of the south west lifestyle are protected for the future.
The State Government recently identified the need for definite planning Stocker Preston understands and supports the Leeuwin-Natraliste Ridge
principles to protect significant sectors of the south west region. The Statement of Planning Policy principles and works with Shires and developers
Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge Statement of Planning Policy was released to to ensure the best possible outcome for the region and its clients.
identify land required to accommodate population growth.
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10. Ken Preston Peter De Chiera
Ken Preston is the Managing Director of Stocker The doyen of Dunsborough real estate, Peter has
Preston and has operated in the real estate industry been operating in the region since 1979 and has been
for almost two decades, building the region’s leading involved in more transactions than any other realtor in
real estate agency since 1988. the history of the district.
A member of REIWA, a licensed real estate agent and He is by far Dunsborough’s most respected and
a licensed auctioneer, Ken spent ten years as the Shire Clerk in Margaret knowledgeable agent, and has managed the transaction of literally hundreds
River and returned to the local government arena in 1999 as an Augusta- of millions of dollars worth of property.
Margaret River Shire Councillor.
Within an area that encompasses Dunsborough, Quindalup, Siesta Park,
Ken continues to maintain an active interest in community affairs. He has Eagle Bay and Yallingup, Peter has been integral in taking these localities
served as chairman of the fundraising committee for the Margaret River into the forefront of beachside development in Australia. In fact, many of the
Aquatic Centre, a $3m project completed in 1998. He is also a previous region’s most successful developments may not have eventuated without
president of Landlink Australia and the Margaret River Tennis Club and, Peter’s enthusiasm, expertise, sales ability, confidence and guidance.
among many outside interests, Ken lists fishing, swimming and enjoying the
He has exclusively marketed most of the district’s major developments and
fine food and wine of the region.
has been awarded many top selling agent awards and continues to be
acknowledged as a highly influential player in the Western Australian real
estate market.
Ray Stocker
Ray Stocker has more than 30 years experience in the Louis De Chiera BA LLB
real estate industry, including 20 years as Licensee
After completing his Bachelor of Arts (Asian Studies)
and proprietor of the business. He is a licensed real
and Bachelor of Laws degree, Louis worked as a
estate agent, a licensed valuer, a certified practicing
solicitor in both Perth and Sydney within Freehills, one
valuer and a licensed settlement agent.
of Australia’s top tier law firms.
Ray is the south west representative of REIWA, an Associate of the Australian
Working predominantly in the areas of major
Property Institute, a Member of the Australian Institute of Conveyancers and
projects and property, Louis obtained extensive experience with contract
holds an Associate Diploma in Valuation and a Certificate in Settlement
requirements for major sales and acquisitions, property development and
Agency Procedures.
commercial leasing.
Ray is still actively involved in listing and selling property within the region,
The lure of returning permanently to Dunsborough and its idyllic lifestyle
which he combines with special talents in subdivision feasibility, project
proved irresistible to Louis De Chiera and his wife Louise.
management and marketing.
His skills have proved invaluable in his current role within Stocker Preston.
Ray has served on various committees and steering groups in Margaret
River including the Margaret River Townsite Strategy Steering Committee He has since made his mark on the real estate industry and is today a highly
and the Margaret River Business Enterprise Centre. regarded residential and commercial property consultant in the Dunsborough
area, selling over $20 million worth of properties in his first 12 months.
However, he still finds time to participating in Masters swimming events and
often travels to exotic surfing breaks in pursuit of the perfect wave. Louis provides internal legal expertise, which in today’s contractual climate
should give clients additional confidence in their dealings.
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11. Mary De Chiera Jill Turton
Mary De Chiera entered the local real estate industry Jill Turton is the Licensee Director of the Cowaramup
with her husband, Peter, some 28 years ago. The office and has lived in the Cowaramup area for more
archetypical woman behind the man, Mary’s strength than 20 years. Jill has over 11 years experience in the
of character and business acumen has made her operational management of a real estate business
an integral part of the partnership and created a plus a further 8 years in business management in rural
formidable team in the Dunsborough marketplace. agencies and sales.
An experienced and qualified agent in her own right, she has achieved her A consummate all-rounder, Jill’s extensive knowledge and expertise sees
real estate licence and triennial certificate, and has a depth of local market her overseeing, as well as actively participating in, all matters concerning
knowledge. Administration, Property Management, Sales and Contractual Procedures
within the business. She also undertakes all training of new staff plus re-
Mary’s comprehensive role in the development and management of the
training when required.
business has created a foundation for the business to flourish over the
decades. Her office management prowess has seen the implementation Jill holds a Real Estate Agent Licence and Triennial Certificate, a Diploma in
of unique systems within the office environment, which has allowed for a Teaching, and is a member of REIWA representing its Rural Chapter in the
seamless transition of a sale through to settlement. Bush Brokers Partnership.
Her contribution to the business cannot be understated and her personable Jill also maintains a community presence as an active member of the
approach to business ensures that every dealing with the agency is a Business and Professional Women’s Group of Margaret River and the
pleasurable experience. Cowaramup Retailers’ Association Inc.
Jill’s combined platform of knowledge, experience and skills within the real
estate industry, has ensured an outstanding contribution to the company.
Rod Duggan
Rod Duggan is a third generation Cowaramup-based
resident and has a lifetime background in farming,
Neil Earl
business and real estate.
Neil Earl is a Director of Stocker Preston and an
As Director of Stocker Preston and co-owner of one
active member of the community. He has contributed
of the region’s most successful agricultural supplier,
extensively in local, state and interstate rural business
Cowaramup Agencies, his extensive knowledge of viticulture and agricultural
environments and considered an expert in the
land allows him to be well versed on intricate rural issues. It has also provided
agricultural industry.
a unique platform for his work in property development.
Based in Cowaramup, Neil has an excellent reputation for his entrepreneurial,
In fact, Rod has been heavily involved in many property development
business negotiation and property development skills.
projects in the region, including the sub-division of rural land for housing
estates and smallholdings. Rod is well known in the region and respected He provides first-hand experience in securing successful property investments
in the industry. He was instrumental in the Stocker Preston merge that and supports his colleagues in specialist areas of rural subdivisions.
brought together three of the region’s most successful agencies.
Neil operates a successful agricultural supply company in the south west,
Cowaramup Agencies, and is looking to expand his interests in the area.
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12. Dunsborough
Shop 9 Dunsborough Centrepoint
(PO Box 585) Dunsborough WA 6281
t (08) 9756 8888 f (08) 9756 8833
e dunsborough@stockerpreston.com.au
Vasse
Lot 21 Bussell Highway
(PO Box 146) Vasse 6280
t (08) 9755 0033 f (08) 9755 0133
e vasse@stockerpreston.com.au
Cowaramup
Bussell Highway
(PO Box 390) Cowaramup 6284
t (08) 9755 5123 f (08) 9755 5771
e cowaramup@stockerpreston.com.au
Margaret River
128 Bussell Highway
(PO Box 85) Margaret River 6285
t (08) 9780 5777 f (08) 9780 5888
e vasse@stockerpreston.com.au
Augusta
71 Blackwood Avenue
(PO Box 207) Augusta 6290
t (08) 9758 0300 f (08) 9758 0188
e augusta@stockerpreston.com.au
www.stockerpreston.com.au