A Legacy Built on Dedication and Trust
Success in commercial property isn’t measured by time alone, but by the relationships built, trust earned and contributions made along the way. At CBRE, we understand that true longevity lies not just in milestones, but in the people who have helped achieve them.
As we celebrate 50 years of success, we honour those who have shaped our journey, individuals who’ve built enduring client partnerships, mentored the next generation and helped strengthen our business with vision, dedication and integrity. Their impact continues to define who we are today and drives the standard we set for the future.
Our long-standing team members aren’t just employees; they’re the backbone of our business. They’ve weathered market shifts, built lasting client relationships and driven CBRE’s reputation as a leader in the Australian property market.
Their commitment, knowledge and passion have made a real impact, not just on the company, but on the wider industry.
This milestone is especially significant for key leaders, such as CEO, Ingrid Filmer, Partner and Head of Agency VIC, Jamie Perlinger and Partner, Shaun Venables.
Each has dedicated over 20 years to the company, driving its success through market shifts, industry changes and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Their leadership has been instrumental in steering CBRE to its current position as a trusted leader in the property sector.
As we mark this achievement, we honour their contributions and successes, which have built a legacy that inspires the next generation and ensures CBRE remains at the forefront of commercial real estate for years to come.
Ingrid Filmer CEO
“Joining CBRE marked the start of something bigger than I ever imagined. On my first day, I met Raoul Holderhead, a country boy who was genuine, honest and straightforward. A few weeks later, Shaun Venables and Jamie Perlinger joined the team.
It was before marriage, before kids, before we had any clear idea of what we would build together. What united us then was a shared sense of possibility and that bond has only grown stronger as we’ve created something truly special and significant.
Back then, things were very different. We had typists because computers couldn’t transcribe, we filled envelopes late into the night and there were more valuers than asset managers.
I started at Auction 15, where the first property was BOQ Shepparton. At the time, it paid $99,000 in rent and sold for $1,510,000. We sold it again in 2021, a reminder that great commercial property stands the test of time. What I enjoy most is that many clients from day one are still with me today. That is CBRE: long-term partnerships, deep expertise and consistent results year after year.
As CBRE celebrates its 50th year, I couldn’t be prouder of what we have built. And yet, I know the best is still ahead.’
Jamie Perlinger Partner & Head of Agency VIC
“I joined CBRE within weeks of Shaun. I came from the country; he was from the coast. Different backgrounds, but the same ambition, to make a difference in commercial real estate.
From day one, the culture at CBRE set the tone for success. The original founders, Chris Burgess and Gerald Rawson, instilled principles that we still live by today. Hard work, integrity and meticulous attention to detail aren’t just ideals, they’re the foundation of everything we do.
Trust is everything in this industry. When Coles needed to acquire seven properties on Riverside Road for their flagship superstore, they entrusted us to deliver. It was a two-year process that began on a handshake and required absolute confidentiality. These are the defining moments of a career and a successful agency, earned through trust, upheld by integrity and executed with strategic care.
The strength of CBRE lies not only in the deals we close but in our people. We retain staff at an exceptional rate, especially within our sales team. After 20 years, we will practise the same disciplines as Chris and Gerald lead with back then. It’s what built our success and that’s what will carry us into the future.’
Shaun Venables Partner
“I joined not knowing that it would become the foundation of my professional success and closest friendships. At the exact moment my working life started and our personal and professional partnership developed, we started crossing paths at the special events, including weddings, where both our personal and professional connections grew.
Longevity in this sector isn’t accidental; it’s built on commitment, teamwork and an ongoing pursuit of improvement to deliver the best possible outcomes for clients. My most defining experience, preparing for our 50th Melbourne Portfolio Auction, happened while working with my mentor Murray Holderhead, the father of CBRE Partner, Raoul. That connection reinforced a key lesson: success is about building strong intergenerational relationships and earning trust over time.
One of my most rewarding deals was the multimillion-dollar sale of the equine hospital in Shepparton, leased to Melbourne University. With no such specialist facilities in Melbourne, they turned to regional Victoria. The challenge was to value such a specialised asset with state-of-the-art surgical and imaging facilities, but the result was a major win for both the buyer and seller.
Two decades in, the formula remains unchanged: expertise, trust and results. That’s what drives me every day and that’s why I’m as committed as ever to CBRE’s continued success.’
Raoul Holderhead Partner
“24 years have flown by and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that this business is all about people. I’ve seen markets rise and fall, industries transform, but the fundamentals never change. Strong assets, great tenants and smart investors always win in the long run.
CBRE has always been more than just a workplace to me, it’s a team that backs each other, pushes each other and celebrates wins together.’
Darren Beehag Partner
“Marking 31 years is not just a milestone, it’s a reflection of enduring relationships and market expertise. A standout moment was seeing three generations of the same family attend our auctions, a client I first worked with decades ago, now passing that trust down.
Longevity isn’t just about time; it’s about consistently providing value while ensuring clients receive the best outcomes.’