In the world of Brisbane real estate, Grace Duce brings more than just experience—she brings elegance, heart, and a deep understanding of the inner-city market that only time and personal connection can build.
In her journey to becoming the seasoned property manager that she is now, Grace walked the poised path of modelling and deportment under the legendary June Dally-Watkins agency. “I modelled for them,” she recalls, “and then later on, when I had children, I was a deportment teacher there.” Grace carries herself with a quiet confidence and professionalism rooted in that formative experience.
These days, Grace is best known for her expertise in Brisbane’s inner-city rental market, where she has been managing properties for over a decade. With a strong portfolio centred around high-rise living, she knows the city intimately—from the quirks of its apartment buildings to the rhythms of its residents.
Grace says that working in the inner city for so long has made it feel like her area. She knows the on-site managers, understands the buildings, and is familiar with common issues that come up. Over the years, she has managed apartments in places like Abian on Alice Street, Evolve on Boundary, and Felix Apartments in Riverside.
Her understanding of city living isn’t just professional. It’s personal. Grace and her husband recently downsized into a two-bedroom apartment after their children moved out, embracing the streamlined, low-maintenance lifestyle she helps others access every day.
Portfolio of Inner‑City Apartments
Some of Grace’s property management portfolio includes apartments in Brisbane’s most recognisable and prestigious addresses. Among them is Riparian Plaza—an architectural icon along Eagle Street, known for its sweeping river views, refined amenities, and tightly held residences that rarely come to market.
She’s also managed apartments in The Markets in West End, a boutique development at the heart of the suburb’s bustling retail and dining precinct, favoured by professionals for its walkability and lifestyle access.
In The Docks on Goodwin at Kangaroo Point, Grace has worked within a vibrant riverside community, where residents enjoy proximity to the CBD and the leisure of riverwalks and ferry links.
Her portfolio also includes homes in The Melbourne Residences in South Brisbane, a sleek high-rise prized for its rooftop pool, resident amenities, and close connection to South Bank’s cultural offerings.
From landmark towers to well-located lifestyle buildings, Grace’s leasing experience reflects a deep familiarity with Brisbane’s most liveable addresses—each managed with the same steadiness, care, and understanding that define her approach.
A Family-Loving Soul
Behind Grace’s composed exterior lies a warm, family-loving soul. Her home lights up every December when she and her children decorate their Christmas tree with ornaments collected from around the world.
“Every time we go somewhere, we have to find a Christmas decoration,” she says. “And it’s a really lovely trip down memory lane when we’re putting up the tree together.”
Most recently, that trip was a cruise through Eastern and Southern Europe with Viking Cruises, an experience she found every bit as flawless as advertised. “You can’t fault it,” she enthusiastically shared.
Grace’s love for people and community also extends into charity. She proudly supports Orange Sky, a not-for-profit organisation offering laundry and shower services to people experiencing homelessness.
Her daughter works for Orange Sky, and Grace beams with pride as she talks about their positive social impact and how they’re slowly making a change in people’s lives.
Her son is training to be a pilot, based at Coolangatta, and is also a talented basketball player, part of the Ipswich Force NBL1 squad that includes the likes of former Brisbane Bullets star, Nathan Sobey.
With deep Sicilian and English roots, Grace speaks fondly of family gatherings and cultural heritage. Her large extended family, shaped by her mother (one of ten) and father (one of seven), remains a constant source of joy. Whether it’s reminiscing about relatives overseas or catching up over food and laughter, family time remains sacred.
When not working or catching up with loved ones, Grace unwinds by watching British and other European crime dramas. Some of her favourites include Danish and French shows. “You really have to invest (time) because you have to read the subtitles,” she says. “You can’t be doing something else. You really have to watch it.”
Despite her rich professional life, Grace sees herself as “a fairly ordinary, run-of-the-mill type of person.” She says she doesn’t chase after possessions or take big risks. What she values most are simple, meaningful things, like time spent with family.
And yet, ordinary isn’t quite the word. Grace is one of those rare professionals who balances experience with empathy, and polish with genuine care. She is a consummate professional, a distinctive grace note to the Brisbane property scene, whose charm provides a wonderful platform for a career that deals with people as well as some of the best apartment buildings that Brisbane can offer.
Published 15-May-2025
