The value of sharing a wealth of knowledge
Denise McKay founded Adelaide-based McKay Business Services in 1997, but last year stepped back to become a consultant and mentor. A former president of the Australian Institute of Conveyancers South Australia, in 2025, she was recognised as one of Australia Conveyancer’s top 10 most influential conveyancers. Here’s she shares the wisdom of a generation in the business ... in her own words.
AFTER 28 years, I sold McKay Business Services, not to retire but to rewire into a new, interesting and hopefully more relaxed chapter.
My time in conveyancing has been an extraordinary journey, from serving as president of AICSA to receiving awards for excellence, but the true reward has always been the people and the profession itself.
I did not begin my working life in property, starting off in banking and bookkeeping.
Conveyancing found me almost by accident, yet it quickly became the career that suited me best.
To me, conveyancing has never been just paperwork. It is guiding people through one of the most significant transactions of their lives, often with equal parts technical knowledge, patience and care.
Over the years there have been uplifting moments, difficult days and many satisfying reminders that I was in the right profession.
I have seen enormous change: typewriters, posted documents, queues at RevenueSA, and the noise, laughter and camaraderie of the settlement room at the Land Titles Office.
I embraced change wholeheartedly, including becoming the second firm in South Australia to complete a PEXA transaction, a significant step at a time when many were sceptical.
For a small business to maintain a Top 10 ranking in those early months was something of which I remain proud.
A good conveyancer wears many hats: problem-solver, analyst, communicator, systems thinker, numbers person, and meticulous document manager. Above all, you must love helping people.
It is not always easy, and it is certainly not a profession for anyone seeking a quiet day. I have been tired, stressed, overworked, jubilant and deeply satisfied – but never bored.
Communication is at the heart of the work.
Every client is different: some want the facts, some need reassurance, some enjoy a chat and others simply want to know the next practical step. Learning to be the right fit for each person is essential.
My advice to conveyancers is simple: do not sweat the small stuff, believe in yourself and never cut yourself short.
Be professional, build strong relationships and charge what you are worth. Undercutting fees is a road to nowhere.
I have always treated my clients like family, and it has been a joy to welcome them back for the next stage of their property journey.
While my role is changing, my passion for the industry remains.
These days I look forward to doing some conveyancing work, mentoring others, helping establish systems and procedures and being a sounding board whenever needed.
It has been a privilege to be part of such a demanding, rewarding and ever-evolving profession – and I am excited for what comes next.
