Vale: two of SA’s best-known real estate identities
Two South Australian real estate titans died over the weekend, both long-term Solstice Media partners who are drawing tributes from across the state.
Toop + Toop founder Anthony Toop was described by his family as a devoted husband, father and Poppa, known for his optimism, resilience and belief that “if it is to be, it’s up to me.”
While another giant in the business, Michael Brock died on Friday morning aged 72, having started Brock Partners in 1982.
Toop started the family business with his wife Sylvia in 1985 from their family home and over the years built an award-winning business.
In 2019, they passed the reins to the next generation, daughters Genevieve and Suzannah, and son-in-law Bronte Manuel, ensuring the business remained family-owned and future-focused.
Toop was first diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in 2012, and was successfully treated but the disease returned in late 2023.
“He defied the odds for more than a decade, working alongside his doctors with deep respect and gratitude for the world-class medical care available here in Adelaide,” his family said.
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“Anthony’s leadership helped raise the bar for real estate in Australia. He pioneered innovative approaches to real estate, championed higher professional standards and mentored generations of agents,” his family said in a statement.
“His contribution was recognised with the Sir Robert Torrens Award for outstanding service to the profession, alongside multiple state and national honours including induction into the REIA Hall of Fame in several categories.”
Toop, 68, was the driving force behind the creation of the Variety V2 Motorcycle Run, bringing together his love of motorcycles and his commitment to helping children in need.
He also gave thousands of hours on stage as a charity auctioneer, helping to raise millions of dollars for South Australian charities over his career.
Toop is survived by his wife Sylvia; daughters Genevieve and Suzannah; son-in-laws Bronte and James; and his grandchildren.
SALIFE publisher Brooke Seward said “Anthony was a visionary whose innovation and leadership touched everyone who had the fortune of working with him”.
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“From the very inception of SALIFE magazine, Anthony saw its promise and believed in its potential. As our earliest and most steadfast supporter, Anthony stood behind the magazine from its inaugural issue in December 2003,” she said.
“Anthony was a true innovator in the industry, consistently leading with vision and strategy setting him apart as a trailblazer.
“He was a true gentleman and endlessly inspiring. Working with Anthony over so many years was an absolute privilege, and his influence will continue to be felt for a long time to come.”
Tributes for Michael Brock
Brock began his real estate career as a sales consultant in 1973 and founded his own business in 1982. It was understood he had been unwell for some time.
His company, Brock Partners Real Estate, merged with global real estate giant Harcourts in 2008, and grew to include 36 franchise offices in South Australia.
In 2019 he split from Harcourts, rebranding as Brock Estates.
“Michael Brock certainly made his mark on the South Australian Real Estate landscape, as a sought-after auctioneer and presenter. Michael’s significant presence was undeniable; he was known for his generosity of mentorship and passion for the industry,” Seward said.
“It has been an incredibly sad weekend for the South Australian real estate community, with the loss of two of its most iconic and respected figures in such close succession.”
Magain Real Estate founder Barrie Magain posted a touching tribute to the two.
“The passing of these two real estate icons has left the industry with a huge gap to fill,” he said.
“Brocky, charismatic and hardworking, with his large following of friends and clients, made a significant impact on auctions in Adelaide.
“Toopy was a great family man and a leader of outstanding customer service and the practical application of IT within the industry.”
