Bryce and Mellissa Gibson and David Loy honoured with prestigious LJ Hooker recognition

In a first for Australia’s iconic real estate brand LJ Hooker, the network’s prestigious Sir Leslie Hooker Award has been won by two worthy winners: Bryce and Mellissa Gibson from LJ Hooker Cessnock.

The Gibsons shared the award, presented by CEO Christine Mikhael at LJ Hooker’s International Awards in Sydney on Monday 20 October 2025, in recognition of their tremendous joint contribution as franchisees in New South Wales’s Hunter Valley.

Bestowed annually since 1989, the award named in honour of LJ Hooker’s founder is the highest accomplishment within the network. The award criteria not only encompass sales achievements but also living up the community and philanthropy values espoused by Sir Leslie Hooker.

(from left, Bryce and Mellissa Gibson, and Christine Mikhael)

“Bryce and Mellissa Gibson lead by example, mentoring their team, contributing to their community and investing in others with genuine generosity,” Christine said upon presentation of the award. “They’ve raised funds for local causes, supported numerous events and served in leadership roles that strengthen both their community and our brand.

“They balance it all with grace, raising a young family without compromising on their values.

“Long recognised for excellence in sales, marketing, and leadership, the Gibsons’ true legacy lies in how they make people feel: valued, supported, and proud to be part of their journey.”

Accepting the award, Bryce and Mellissa referenced both their work and community achievements.

“It was a wonderful surprise and tremendous honour to win the Sir Leslie Hooker Award,” the paid said. “Whether it’s running our successful real estate business or contributing to our local community through partnerships and events, we do everything together as a team, so it was lovely to be the first co-winners in the award’s history.

“We can’t wait to return to Cessnock to share this achievement with our daughters Matilda and Bronte.”

(from left: David Loy and Christine Mikhael)

Joining the Gibsons on the honours list was LJ Hooker Hall of Fame inductee David Loy from LJ Hooker Darwin. Induction into the Hall of Fame is for longstanding members of the network who have demonstrated consistent dedication to LJ Hooker values. Only occasionally are individuals inducted into this pantheon.

“For more than four decades, David has built a career defined by purpose, professionalism and quiet determination,” Christine said. “He has grown his business from humble beginnings into a network of thriving offices but, more importantly, he’s shaped an entire region through a belief in what real estate can do when it’s done with patience and doing the fundamentals well.

“David has given back as much as he’s achieved too, dedicating years to industry leadership and professional standards, mentoring those coming through the ranks in all areas of the business, while using his influence to create opportunity for others.”