SMSF Association awards outstanding members at 2025 National Conference
SMSF Association members have been recognised at the 2025 SMSF National Conference for demonstrating excellence in their SMSF capabilities and for their contribution to the SMSF sector.
The 2024 CEO Award was posthumously awarded to Brooke Hepburn-Rogers while Leigh Mansell was awarded the prestigious Chair Award.
Michael Lorimer was recognised for achieving the highest examination score in 2024 for the Association’s SMSF Specialist Advisor accreditation program, while Ryan Ding was recognised for achieving the highest examination score for the Association’s SMSF Specialist Auditor accreditation program.
Association CEO Peter Burgess said the awards were richly deserved, with all award winners embodying the Association’s values as well as showcasing a high level of professionalism.
“Our Specialist Advisor and Specialist Auditor designations are highly regarded across the industry, not just as a test of knowledge but as a demonstration of deep SMSF expertise and the ability to apply that knowledge in practice.
“Those members who have undertaken the comprehensive Specialist Adviser and Specialist Auditor programs understand that earning these designations requires a commitment to professional development, technical proficiency and the highest standards of SMSF practice.
Burgess said the CEO Award was conferred on a member who had made a significant contribution to foster the SMSF community and embodied the values of the Association.
“No one better fits that description than Brooke, the Founder and Director of the ACT-based Foxton Financial, who had more than 22 years’ experience in the sector, was Chair of the ACT Local Community Committee from March 2020 to July 2023, and always a strong advocate of our Association.
“Sadly, Brooke passed away last year, so this Award is a poignant reminder and tribute to her unwavering support and dedication to the sector over many years.”
Association chair Scott Hay-Bartlem said Heffron Director, SMSF Technical & Education Services, Leigh Mansell, has been a highly influential figure in the SMSF sector for over two decades and was a worthy recipient of this year’s Chair Award.
“This award recognises a member who has made an outstanding contribution to the growth and sustainability of the SMSF sector, and no one better symbolises this description than Leigh who has been a major contributor via her exceptional education skills.
“In addition to her contributions to education, Leigh’s leadership and insights during the 2024 Treasury legacy pension amnesty consultations were instrumental. Her influence played a key role in shaping a legislative outcome that will benefit many SMSF members.”
