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Former cop, political candidate opens real estate office

By Liam Garman
28 January 2026 | 7 minute read
annette swaine professionals innisfail reb lxxrcz

A former north Queensland cop turned businesswoman and political candidate in the hotly contested seat of Kennedy has announced the launch of Professionals Innisfail.

Annette Swaine confirmed that she has already sold two homes within a week of opening the office.

Having grown up in the Torres Strait Islands, Swaine originally worked in the commercial fishing industry before turning to law enforcement.

 
 

She then owned and operated her own fishing charter and served as president of the Cardwell Chamber of Commerce.

She recently stood as a candidate against Bob Katter in the seat of Kennedy in 2025 and the seat of Hinchinbrook in 2024.

She’s now settling into growing her real estate business.

“Taking this next step to open my own Professionals office is both exciting and rewarding,” 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.”

She said she fell in love with the real estate industry and quickly became one of the top-performing agents in the region.

“Looking for a challenge three years ago, I fell into real estate after always having a passion for property investment.”

“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.”

Professionals chief executive officer (CEO) Sean Hanneberry said Swaine’s local expertise will help grow the brand locally.

“Annette brings entrepreneurial drive and a long history of service to her community that truly reflects Professionals’ spirit,’’ Hanneberry said.

“We’re proud to welcome someone who not only understands her local market but is actively involved in shaping its future.’’

Professionals recently underwent a brand refresh across its 190 offices throughout Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.

With the new brand, Swaine has set an ambitious target: “I love the new branding – it looks spectacular against my art deco building in Innisfail’s main street.”

“My goal is simple: to become the town’s number one real estate office by delivering great results and great service.”

[You might also like - Professionals kicks off new era with ‘complete reset’ to branding]

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