The Team

Phillip has been in the auction industry for 40 years having worked, as a teenager with his uncle A.R.C.Thomas in his Parramatta auction rooms. Phillip worked in London with Sotheby’s and with Phillip, Son & Neale for many years before returning to Sydney, joining a local auctioneering Company where his rôles included Director and General Manager, prior to becoming joint owner of Raffan, Kelaher & Thomas.

Phillip has extensive knowledge of all fields of Decorative Arts, Antique Furniture, Colonial Furniture, Decorative Arts, Australian and European Paintings, and Antique Silver. For many years Phillip was the principal valuer for the contents of the properties owned and administered by the National Trust of Australia (NSW)

Jim Kelaher founded Raffan & Kelaher with Doug Raffan in 1976.

Having managed the company for 32 years, Jim continues his involvement with Raffan Kelaher & Thomas as a consultant.

Michael worked at his first auction when he was eight years old and has been involved with the auction industry ever since.

Michael spent several years working in Europe before undertaking various roles with the Australian Government. Michael joined his father Phillip as a Director of Raffan Kelaher & Thomas in 2015.

Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Laws and a Master of Public Policy degrees from the Australian National University.

Yvonne joined Raffan Kelaher & Thomas in 2021 and is our Book Keeper.

Yvonne has 35 years experience in financial and office management positions across various industries, including logistics, mining, construction, retail and design.

Growing up with a vintage car restorer and an antique furniture collector has given Yvonne a great appreciation of craftsmanship and character (people and objects!).

Rosemary has studied Art History, Museum Studies and Project Management at the University of Sydney and combines her knowledge of these areas in her current role. She has worked in both private and public art sectors along with various Sydney and Melbourne Auction Firms broadening her knowledge of the market.

Rosemary’s long-standing passion lies in Decorative Arts, Antiques, Australiana, Twentieth Century design, Toys and Oriental art.

Rosemary has been working with RKTA since 2013 and has brought her extensive experience and knowledge, together with her abundant enthusiasm as a young Auctioneer and valuer.

Scott joined Raffan Kelaher & Thomas in 1987 and has an impressive knowledge of antique and period furniture. Scott has a particular interest in cedar and colonial Australian furniture.

A very experienced auctioneer, Scott conducts our weekly furniture auctions, as well as overseeing all operations of our saleroom.

Marie has almost a decade of experience in the auction industry.

She brings her knowledge and passion to the role, providing clients with a personalised approach, which guarantee the best results that can be achieved in our our monthly specialist Jewellery auctions.