Interview with Maria Dracakis and John Dracakis | S6EP07

In this episode of The Development Drum, Maria and John Dracakis reflect on nearly three decades of building a boutique, family-run property and construction business from the ground up. They share a candid look into how their distinct skill sets complement each other, the reality of navigating major market cycles and events, and the strategic advantages of maintaining an in-house construction arm. Maria and John also discuss the evolution of their brand, the rewarding dynamic of welcoming the next generation into the business, and the importance of long-term relationships in a collaborative industry. It’s a warm, insightful conversation on perseverance, trust, and the enduring passion required to shape local communities together.

Guest Bio: John is the Founder and Managing Director of Jadecorp, Brisbane’s boutique builder–developer specialists established in 1997. John has led the delivery of design-driven residential and mixed-use projects from acquisition through to construction and handover-building Jadecorp’s reputation on certainty, craftsmanship and trust. Known for his hands-on leadership, he stays close to buildability, discipline and quality outcomes, ensuring every project meets Jadecorp’s benchmark standards. John is a long-term operator who has delivered through multiple market cycles, underpinned by enduring relationships with consultants, trades and partners. Outside of property, John is a man with interests that start with “r”: Rugby, Red Wine, and Reading!

Maria is Co-Founder of Jadecorp and leads the design and brand direction behind Jadecorp’s boutique portfolio. A passionate advocate for quality, timeless Queensland living, she guides each project from first sketch to final handover, championing product integrity across architecture, interiors, finishes, and customer experience. A strong advocate for UDIA Queensland, Maria also served on the Institute’s board for six years, bringing industry perspective and a strong commitment to elevating standards in the development sector. She is recognised for her taste, detail, and ability to translate design vision into residences that endure. Music plays a significant role for Maria, John and their three boys. Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds is John’s speed and Maria is a diehard Arctic Monkeys superfan.

Connect with Maria Dracakis and John Dracakis:

• LinkedIn:
  • Maria: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-dracakis-6b09aa48/
• Website: https://jadecorp.com.au/

About Your Host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UDIA Queensland, a role she has held since 2018. She brings extensive experience in policy, stakeholder engagement, and research, and has played a key role in shaping state and local government policy. Kirsty is passionate about driving positive change in the development industry to create greener, smarter, and more resilient communities.

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Get in Touch: We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have feedback, guest suggestions, or sponsorship enquiries, reach us at udia@udiaqld.com.au

Recorded and Produced at our The Podcast Boss podcast studio in Brisbane