Australian Enterprise Awards 2026

Best Family-Owned Home Builder 2026 South East Queensland-based company, Callaway Homes, has been in the business of building quality homes for over 45 years. Working closely with clients to deliver exactly the home they want, where they want it, Callaway Homes has earned a reputation for quality construction, clear communication, and dependable outcomes. We chat with representative Jodie Bird to find out more. One of Australia’s fastest-growing regions, South East Queensland, continues to experience strong population growth, driving demand for new homes. With that demand comes complexity. Limited land supply in key areas, increased pressure on infrastructure, and shifting planning requirements in response to growth and changing community needs all influence what’s possible and where. Shaped by housing demand, regulatory change, and sustainability expectations, the residential construction industry in South East Queensland can be challenging to navigate. Add uncertainty around costs and skills shortages, and it’s easy to see why building companies fail. Fluctuating material prices, longer lead times and a lack of available contractors across key trades can also impact everything from scheduling to budgeting. In this environment, success requires longterm vision and an unwavering commitment to deliver above expectations. One company that’s found a winning formula is Callaway Homes. With over 60 years combined building experience, founders Mario Zaghini and Paul Bird have built one of the most sought-after building companies in South East Queensland. In partnership since 1977, the pair’s hands-on approach to reliable, high-quality outcomes remains in high demand. Working with a range of clients, including owner-occupiers, first-time buyers, investors, and joint venture partners, Callaway Homes derives a significant portion of its business from repeat clients and referrals. Jodie says: “The way our clients engage with us reflects the trust and long-term relationships we build. Our aim is always to deliver a seamless build experience and create homes that provide lasting value.” Offering services that include new build homes, custom and tailored builds, and turnkey investment solutions. Also providing project management and construction management, Callaway Homes presents a versatile solution to most building challenges. The company has extensive experience building on lots where other contract builders fear to tread, including sloping terrain, flooddeclared lots, and narrow strips of land presenting significant access constraints. Alongside its speciality turnkey homes, the company also offers one-off designs and collaborates with clients wishing to provide their own designs or architectural plans. Experienced in delivering homes with surface areas from 150 m2 to 400 m2, there are options to suit every budget and lifestyle. With values including quality, integrity, reliability, communication and partnership, it’s clear that Callaway Homes has built its business by putting the customer first. These values are present in all Callaway Homes’ day-to-day interactions with its clients. Quality comes from high standards at every stage and meticulous attention to detail. Integrity means practical, honest advice and upfront pricing, enabling clients to make confident decisions without feeling pressured or caught off guard. Reliability is reflected in strong accountability, consistent progress updates and following through on promises. Just as importantly, clear, easy communication keeps clients informed and reassured throughout the process. And partnership ensures a collaborative build, with everyone working toward the shared goal of delivering a quality outcome. Jodie tells us: “Our unique selling point is the way we combine our owner-led approach with strong project management and transparent communication. Our clients work directly with experienced builders who take full ownership of each project. This enables us to deliver on our promises and provides a smooth, stressfree building experience.” Working only with trusted contractors and long-standing trade partners, the company maintains exacting standards. Planning procurement early and managing projects hands-on, Callaway Homes protects budgets and minimises potential delays. Challenges are identified proactively at the beginning of a project, ensuring potential issues are managed early, before they become problematic. This makes the process straightforward and gives clients confidence and peace of mind that all bases have been covered. By staying informed, adaptable, and personally involved in every project, the company ensures its clients experience certainty and confidence from start to finish. With demand favouring well-designed, practical homes that offer long-term value, Callaway Homes’ position in the market seems assured. Its focus on delivering quality

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