REIQ welcomes new Life Member Felix Reitano

REIQ Fellow and industry stalwart, Felix Reitano, has been recognised for a lifetime of dedication to the real estate profession after being named an REIQ Life Member today.

After nominations are sought and consideration is given by the REIQ Board of Directors, Life Members are confirmed by a vote of members at the Annual General Meeting and Felix received a resounding level of support in favour of his appointment.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the real estate peak body considers this distinction for REIQ members who have shown long outstanding and meritorious service.

“Felix certainly fits the bill for the honour of Life Member, holding REIQ membership since 1992, more than three decades, and in that time proudly and exceptionally serving his community and giving back to his real estate colleagues,” Ms Mercorella said.

“He has been a great supporter of the REIQ and our advocacy efforts over the years and it’s wonderful to acknowledge his contribution and firm commitment to the REIQ family.

“Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate is a family business that’s not only highly respected, but after celebrating 100 years of operation, it’s woven into the fabric of the community and is an Ingham institution – dare I say, it’s become part of the furniture!

“Felix is undoubtedly a ‘people person’ who thrives off human interaction, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he knew just about everyone in his district, giving him great influence.”

Accepting the Life Member certificate in person at the REIQ Office HQ today, alongside his wife Judy, Felix said he was honoured to receive the award and dedicated it to his family.

“I’m 77 years young and my son, Felix Peter, is the fourth generation in our family business, but we both always keep in mind that we are carrying the baton on behalf of those that came before us,” he said.

“I dedicate this award to my grandfather and my father who were faced with much greater challenges, yet still accomplished so much and established a business with exceptional standards and service.

“We respect and honour that tradition by living by those standards, and the REIQ has been a great support in our endeavours because its high standards match ours.

“Real estate is far more technical now than the old days when you shook hands and away you went, but with rights come responsibility and I take that responsibility seriously.”

REIQ’s Newest Life Member – Felix Reitano

Felix Reitano has spent nearly all of his 77 years in Ingham, leading the family business, Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate, for over 45 years. As the third generation to take the helm, Felix has upheld a proud legacy of service in the Hinchinbrook district, with the business celebrating 100 years of operation in 2023. The Reitano tradition in real estate continues with Felix mentoring his son, (Felix) Peter, and working closely with his wife, Judy, who now serves as Head Property Manager. 

Felix’s real estate journey began when his uncle, an established agent, encouraged him to pursue the field. He has been an auctioneer for just under 42 years and became a licensed real estate agent in 1992, shortly thereafter joining the REIQ. Felix was deeply honoured to be named an REIQ Fellow in 2017, recognising his longstanding commitment and delivery of exceptional customer service. 

A passionate advocate for real estate in North Queensland, Felix has supported the REIQ’s advocacy efforts, including lobbying the state government and opposition to reintroduce the First Home Buyers’ Grant for established homes, particularly in regional Queensland. He has always upheld the values of the REIQ, proudly displaying the Institute’s logo as a mark of integrity and excellence within his business. 

Beyond real estate, Felix has dedicated his time and resources to benefit the region. He is a past president and vice president of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Tourism & Industry, and served on its committee for nearly 40 years. Felix has also previously led the 31st Army Reserve Battalion as a Captain and has been the ANZAC Day Parade Marshal for over three decades. His service to the Rotary Club of Herbert River (now Hinchinbrook) earned him the Paul Harris Fellow recognition. 

A family man and active community leader, Felix was named the Hinchinbrook Shire’s Citizen of the Year in 2024, further cementing his legacy of service, dedication, and commitment to the real estate profession and his local community. 

ENDS

Media enquiries:
Claire Ryan, Media and Stakeholder Relations Manager, The Real Estate Institute of Queensland
M: 0417 623 723 E: media@reiq.com.au

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