In this episode, we’re joined by Peita Piper, CEO and Executive Director of Avenue Bank — Australia’s first bank dedicated exclusively to bank guarantees.

Peita breaks down a long-standing pain point in the property sector: slow, manual, and uncertain bank guarantee processes that can delay developments and tie up capital. She explains how Avenue Bank is challenging that model through digitisation, speed, and a highly specialised approach — delivering same-day guarantees, greater flexibility, and a more streamlined experience for developers and tenants.

We also explore how bank guarantees fit across the full development lifecycle, from site acquisition through to post-completion, and why demand is growing across asset classes — particularly in industrial and logistics. Peita shares insights into the role of technology in modern banking, the importance of certainty and speed in property transactions, and why focusing on a single niche has been key to Avenue Bank’s success.

In this episode of ReadyTalk, our very own Scott Bremner is joined by Peter Vines, Managing Director of Ray White Commercial Western Sydney — a market leader operating at the centre of one of Australia’s most rapidly evolving regions.

With over two decades of experience across Sydney and Europe, Peter brings a grounded, real-time perspective on the major forces shaping commercial property today. In this episode, he unpacks the recalibration of yields, why many investors are choosing to “buy, not build,” and how construction costs, builder shortages and compliance pressures are reshaping development feasibility.

We also explore the surge in demand for subdivision land, the ongoing scarcity of serviced sites, and the role modular construction may play in improving delivery speed and affordability. Peter breaks down why Western Sydney remains the industrial powerhouse of the state — and how infrastructure like the Aerotropolis and the new airport are cementing its long-term appeal.

Beyond the market dynamics, he shares candid insights on leadership, culture, and why Ray White’s family-driven values and data-led platform were the right foundation for building a nimble, high-performing commercial agency.

In this episode of ReadyTalk, Jack Johnstone speaks with Cieran Kayes, one of Australia’s most dynamic and versatile property developers.

From starting out as a bricklayer under his father, to running some of Melbourne’s busiest pubs, and ultimately leading landmark developments with Edge Development Group, Cieran has built a remarkable career.

Jack and Cieran's conversation explores how timing and cashflow have shaped his journey, the challenges of turning heritage pubs into successful projects, and the risks he faced during market downturns like the GFC. Cieran also reflects on the evolution of Melbourne’s property market — from townhouses to apartments and beyond — and shares his views on building strong teams, mentoring the next generation, and even venturing into new areas such as NDIS housing.

For our next episode of ReadyTalk, Jack Johnstone sits down with Gerald Delany, a true pioneer of Melbourne real estate.

With over 40 years at the top of the industry, Gerald has built an extraordinary career defined by consistency, integrity, and record-breaking success. Now Chairman of Kay & Burton, one of the most prestigious brands in Australian real estate, he has seen it all—from the early days of managing rent rolls to setting national sales records in the luxury property market.

In this episode, Gerald reflects on his unlikely entry into real estate, the early challenges of breaking into Melbourne’s exclusive high-end market, and the risks and turning points that shaped his career.

He shares lessons on leadership, mentorship, and the importance of presentation and professionalism, as well as his experiences navigating market downturns and growing Kay & Burton from a single office to a multi-branch powerhouse.

Gerald shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the risks that paid off, and the timeless lessons he passes on to the next generation of agents. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, his story is packed with insights, resilience, and inspiration.

Beyond business, Gerald opens up about his personal definition of success, what continues to drive him after decades in the industry, and the habits that have sustained his remarkable longevity.

In our next episode of ReadyTalk, Jack Johnstone sits down with Illan Samuel, founder and managing director of Samuel Property, a family-owned Melbourne-based property development firm, which specialises in high-end multi-residential projects.

Illan founded the firm around 10 years ago and in that time has emerged as one of Melbourne’s most progressive new contributors within the contemporary residential landscape.

With a background in property valuation, Illan shares his journey from buying his first development site, based on a bad Mexican meal, to managing complex projects across Victoria. He discusses market trends, the importance of precise feasibility analysis, community consultation, and the practicalities of navigating planning processes.

Tune in for direct insights, industry realities, and practical lessons from the front lines of property development.

For our next episode of Ready Talk, we have the second part of a two-part edition featuring special guest Barry Plant, a respected figure in the Australian real estate industry whose full story has never been heard before.

Barry's journey began in 1969, leading him from entry-level roles to building a highly successful real estate empire alongside his wife Karen.

Barry shares his pioneering marketing strategies, such as detailed canvassing and vendor-paid advertising, and insights gained from successfully navigating multiple recessions, emphasising adaptability and forward-thinking.

Barry also discusses significant trends shaping the industry, including the increasing role of technology in real estate marketing and sales.

Join us for a thoughtful discussion about real estate, business growth, and partnership, with lessons from Barry's five decades in the industry.

For our next episode of Ready Talk, we have a two-part edition featuring special guest Barry Plant, a respected figure in the Australian real estate industry whose full story has never been heard before.

Barry's journey began in 1969, leading him from entry-level roles to building a highly successful real estate empire alongside his wife Karen.

Barry shares valuable insights from his extensive experience, including strategies for effective sales and auctions, navigating market downturns, and making pivotal business decisions. He reflects on his early days in St Kilda, sales growth in Glen Waverley, and the key factors behind the establishment and expansion of his own agency in Templestowe.

Additionally, Barry offers practical advice on leadership, cultivating strong client relationships, and maintaining resilience in the face of industry changes.

Join us for a thoughtful discussion about real estate, business growth, and partnership, with lessons from Barry's five decades in the industry.

In this episode of ReadyTalk, Jack Johnstone sits down with Lauren Staley, Managing Director of Infolio Property Advisors. With 25 years of experience, Lauren shares practical insights into Melbourne's real estate market, her journey from property management to buyer advocacy, and how she built a successful business by filling a crucial gap for homebuyers and investors.

Lauren explains the critical role a buyer’s advocate plays, including sourcing off-market properties, negotiating deals, and using data-driven methods to avoid common pitfalls in the buying process.

She explores her experiences navigating complex negotiations, providing valuable insights into current market trends, build-to-rent opportunities, leveraging AI in real estate and strategies for success in Melbourne's dynamic property landscape.