A real estate agency might not be the first place you’d expect to find a community fundraising program, but Professionals Armidale is quietly becoming as well known for its local giving as it is for selling homes.
Each month, the agency hosts an end-of-month barbecue at the PCYC Markets, raising funds for a rotating roster of local charities, sporting clubs, schools and community organisations. General Manager Nikki Zimmerle said the idea grew out of a simple desire to be part of something bigger than the day-to-day business of real estate.
“Our success is directly tied to this community,” said Ms Zimmerle.
“We wanted to contribute meaningfully to Armidale, not just operate in it. Supporting local people and causes is something we genuinely value.”
The PCYC Markets was a natural fit for the initiative. With strong foot traffic and an already warm community spirit, the monthly barbecue quickly became a success.
“A BBQ felt like a relaxed, accessible way to bring people together,” said Ms Zimmerle. “It’s grown into a regular event that people now look forward to each month.”
The sausage are supplied by local butcher Pete’s Mountview Butchery, keeping the support local from the sausage to the cause. Visitors can grab a feed, meet the Professionals Armidale team, and find out which local organisation they’re helping this month.
Deciding who to support is something the team takes seriously. Ms Zimmerle said the aim is to benefit as many people in the community as possible.
“We try to support a wide range of local groups, a mix of charities, sporting clubs, schools and community initiatives,” she said.
“We’re always open to hearing from local organisations. It’s a great opportunity for exposure as well as fundraising.”
The response from the Armidale community has been strong since the program launched.
“It’s been extremely positive,” said Ms Zimmerle.
“We’re seeing more repeat visitors each month. People appreciate knowing where their contribution is going, and it has helped strengthen our connection with the community.”
For Ms Zimmerle, the initiative reflects something she believes is core to running a local business well.
“Real estate is about people, not just property,” she said. “Supporting local causes aligns with helping people build their lives here. We see ourselves as part of the bigger picture in Armidale.”
This month, Professionals Armidale is proud to support Navi Tikko, raising funds for the Stockman Rugby 2026 ‘Year of the Dark Horse’ Squad Member Sponsorship. Navi will be in attendance this Saturday, 28 June, at the barbecue, giving community members a chance to meet him in person ahead of his upcoming Japan tour in October.
Adding to the occasion, fun 3D-printed rugby figurines will be available for a donation, made by Evie Ramage, daughter of Professionals’ own Brad Ramage.
“It’s a great example of the whole community getting behind a cause,” said Ms Zimmerle.
“We encourage everyone to come down this month, grab a sausage sandwich, meet Navi, and support a fantastic local initiative.”
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