The three appointments follow the expiry of the terms for Board members Kearsten James CFP®, Julie Matheson CFP® and Julian Place CFP® in November 2023.

FAAA Chair David Sharpe CFP® said: “On behalf of the FAAA Board, we are pleased to welcome Felicity, Deborah and Sheila. Each bring important skills and experience which will add to the depth of knowledge on the FAAA Board.

“I would like to sincerely thank the three departing directors.

“Julie has been on the Board for over 10 years. During this time she has continued to be a staunch advocate for the CFP program and committed to promoting the highest professional standards in the profession.

“During Kearsten’s term she has been instrumental in bringing the AFA and FPA communities together, and worked tirelessly to ensure the highest quality of governance to the Board and the organisation.

“Julian has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the FAAA Board, always focusing on members as a priority and working towards the highest education standards.

“Kearsten and Julian have also contributed enormously to the development of the hugely successful Masterclass series.

“On a personal note, it has been delight to have worked with Julie, Kearsten and Julian on the Board and their insight will be missed.”

More on the newly elected Board members:

Felicity Cooper has been the director and authorised representative of her self-licenced AFSL for over six years on the Gold Coast. With over 20 years of experience in the finance sector, Felicity is the recipient of the AFA Adviser of the Year in 2022 and a previous winner of the FPA Financial Planner AFP of the Year in 2018 as well as other numerous awards. Felicity has been involved in her local chapter for many events and recently presented at the 2023 FAAA Roadshow around the country. Felicity is passionate about financial literacy and representing advisers. Felicity holds a Master of Financial Planning and a Bachelor of Business.

Deborah Kent CFP® is the co-founder of Integra Financial Services, a boutique financial advice business located in Parramatta, Sydney. She has been a financial adviser for over 30 years and some of her many achievements include an FAAA Distinguished Service Award in 2004, AFA President, AFA NSW Director, AFA National Treasurer, Director of the AFA Foundation, President of the Western Sydney Business connection and FASEA Board Director. Deborah is passionate about helping Australians get great financial planning advice and learn about money so they can make the most of their lives and live the way they want without fear or uncertainty. She is equally, if not more, passionate about helping women succeed as advisers.

Sheila Gutierrez-Cabacungan CFP® is the Principle Financial Planner and owner of Wealth Forum, a small self-licensed practice in Sydney’s West. She is the Chair of the new Sydney Metro Community as well as having been a member of the Sydney Chapter since 2010, a Western Sydney Ambassador and a Women in Financial Planning Champion. Sheila is passionate about financial literacy and engaging with students and academics to advocate for careers in financial advice. In addition to being a CERTIFED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Sheila is also a SMSF Specialist Adviser® and holds a Bachelor of Economics.

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The 2022 AFA Adviser of the Year Award finalists are:

• Charles Badenach – Main Street Financial Solutions
• Felicity Cooper – Cooper Wealth Management
• Joseph Hoe – Wealthwise

The advisers who nominated for the AFA Adviser of the Year Award were measured on a number of factors including their leadership qualities, innovation, customer focus and professional excellence.

Chief Distribution Officer, of Zurich’s Life & Investments, Kieran Forde, said “As an ongoing partner of this prestigious award, we are pleased to provide a platform that recognises and celebrates these talented individuals who drive positive change through their leadership, innovation, customer-centricity and commitment to professional excellence and financial literacy. It has been great to be part of the judging panel this year, these individuals make us proud to be a part of an industry that does so much good for individuals and the broader community.

AFA CEO, Phil Anderson, said “It’s been an honour to participate as a judge in the award process this year, to see the incredible caliber of candidates. The AFA and Zurich have supported this award for nearly 20 years, helping showcase outstanding advisers from across the profession, and this year has been no exception. It gives you great confidence for the future of the profession to see the high levels of expertise and commitment these advisers have in helping their clients achieve great outcomes.”

Finalists will present to a judging panel in mid September about their business achievements, community involvement and approach to mentoring others, as well as being able to demonstrate and articulate successful client outcomes.

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The Award promotes positive change in the financial advice sector by encouraging more women to enter the industry and take on leadership roles. It has been championed by TAL for the past nine years.

AFA CEO Philip Kewin said the Award also promotes the broadening of choices available to Australians when it comes to seeking financial advice. “The aim of the Award is two-fold. The first is to encourage more women to enter the industry and take on senior roles. The other equally important aim, is to encourage more women to seek advice so that they can be adequately resourced for retirement and obtaining insurance. With more women in the industry, we hope this will be a natural progression.”

The 2019 Female Excellence in Advice Award Finalists are:

• Felicity Cooper, Cooper Wealth Management
• Tracey Ferguson, Ferguson Financial Planning
• Dawn Thomas, Wealthwise
• Tabitha Tworek, Insight Wealth Planning

TAL General Manager Retail Distribution, Niall McConville, said this year’s finalists were clear standouts in terms of the successes they have had with their clients and the contributions they have made to the community, particularly in regards to promoting advice to females and encouraging more women to consider financial planning as a potential career.

“The quality of the applications we received again this year was excellent and I would like to thank everyone who submitted an application. The application process takes time and effort but many participants let us know how rewarding the experience is. It is a good opportunity for them to reflect on the great work they do every day for Australians and for some it is a chance to reflect on how they are performing to their business plan.”

The winner, who will receive a $15,000 tailored education package courtesy of TAL, will be announced at the AFA Conference in Adelaide on 29 August.

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Taking out the coveted FPA CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional of the Year Award is Michael Carmody CFP® of Viva Wealth in Perth, WA.

The award acknowledges Michael’s passion for helping his clients through financial planning, and going above and beyond to give them the best possible outcomes.

FPA CEO Dante De Gori CFP® said, “Michael embodies the facets of an exemplary financial planner: outstanding technical knowledge and capability, as well as care and understanding as a financial coach and mentor to his clients, helping them create a vision for their future, and bringing organisation and accountability to their financial lives.

“Michael has recently proven his willingness to take on a new challenge, completing the 2018 Wheel Classic. The gruelling eight-day charity event raises funds for the FPA’s philanthropic arm, the Future2 Foundation.”

The FPA Professional Practice of the Year Award is Wotherspoon Wealth in Adelaide, SA. When the founders of Wotherspoon Wealth established their business eight years ago, they set out with the aim of building a business “that is the very best out there”. Their critical business decisions are actively focused on making the client experience the best it can be and their submission highlighted that they are constantly exploring ways to improve this approach.

Winning the FPA Financial Planner AFP® of the Year Award for 2018 is Felicity Cooper AFP® of Cooper Wealth Management in Surfers Paradise, QLD. The judges in this category commented that Felicity put herself in strong contention from the very start of the awards process because the standard of her submitted Statement of Advice was exceptional, and clearly stood out from the pack.

The FPA Paraplanner of the Year Award was given to Kearsten James CFP® of Queensland based Sterling Private Wealth. Commenting on Kearsten’s award application, the judges said that not only was her advice well written and thought out, but the depth of research done on the issues and the notes around it made it an outstanding entry.

The FPA University Student of the Year Award was given to Mary Hadgis of University of South Australia (UniSA) in recognition of her academic excellence and commitment to becoming a future leader within financial planning. Mary is motivated to become a future financial planner because of the opportunity to help people from all walks of life reach their financial goals and achieve their dreams. Mary has also been a driving force behind UniSA becoming an FPEC accredited provider of a financial planning degree.

The Gwen Fletcher Memorial Award recognises the highest performing student in the final unit of the CFP® Certification Program. John Dacker AFP® from Shadforth Financial Group in Sydney, NSW is the 2018 Semester two winner of the honorary award named after the late “first lady of financial planning”, Gwen Fletcher.

Mr De Gori said, “The rigorous CFP® Certification Assessment unit demands students be at the top of their game, so to receive the Gwen Fletcher Memorial Award is a significant achievement. John’s outstanding results reflect his commitment and dedication, and I congratulate him on his efforts.”

The winner of the Community Service Award supported by Future2 is Zacary Leeson CFP® of HPH Solutions in Perth, WA. Zacary receives this award in recognition of his dedication as a volunteer at WA based not-for-profit, Leading Youth Forward. The organisation provides mentorship and positive experiences to disadvantaged Perth teenagers to help them foster respect, positive conversations and personal growth. It’s a purely volunteer run group and for the past five years, Zacary has proudly served on the committee, worked as the treasurer and volunteers manager, and had the privilege of seeing his mentee grow from a troubled young boy into a responsible young adult. This award from the FPA’s philanthropic foundation recognises the amazing contribution Zacary has given to the organisation and the young Australians it supports with his time and experience.

Below is a summary list of the 2018 FPA Award winners

• FPA CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional of the Year: Michael Carmody CFP®, Viva Wealth, Perth, WA
• FPA Professional Practice of the Year: Wotherspoon Wealth, Adelaide, SA
• FPA Financial Planner AFP® of the Year: Felicity Cooper AFP®, Cooper Wealth Management, Surfers Paradise, QLD
• FPA Paraplanner of the Year: Kearsten James CFP®, Sterling Private Wealth, Brisbane, QLD
• FPA University Student of the Year: Mary Hadgis, University of South Australia, SA
• Gwen Fletcher Memorial Award: John Dacker AFP®, Shadforth Financial Services, Sydney, NSW
• Community Service Award supported by Future2 Foundation: Zacary Leeson, CFP®, HPH Solutions, Perth, WA

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The FPA Awards recognise the achievements of outstanding financial planners, paraplanners, students and practices, and celebrate the individuals and businesses who go above and beyond for their local community.

FPA CEO Dante De Gori CFP® said finalists had been chosen because they have made a positive difference in the lives of clients, and delivered the highest professional and ethical standards outlined in the FPA Code of Professional Practice.

“Those shortlisted in the financial planner categories have shown exceptional commitment to professional standards and they’ve put their client’s best interest first at all times. I am extremely proud of the work being done by all the finalists and look forward to announcing the winners at Congress in November.”

Mr De Gori also highlighted the Community Service Award supported by Future2 Foundation that honours outstanding pro bono and volunteer work by CFP® professionals and Financial Planner AFP® members.

“With support from the financial planning community, we’re now on track to raise $1 million in grants for Future2 since fundraising started in 2007. As the philanthropic arm of the FPA, Future2 gives members the opportunity to raise funds for grassroots programs that transform the lives of young people who are experiencing social, financial or physical hardship.

“I’m especially proud of our members who contribute to Future2 through donations, getting involved in fundraising activities and by nominating organisations for the annual grant program.”

Depending on the category, prizes include $5,000 for either professional development or a charity of choice, support for media opportunities, and complimentary registration to the FPA Professionals Congress.

Award winners will be announced at the FPA 2018 Professionals Congress, along with the winner of the bi-annual Gwen Fletcher Memorial Award. For more information about the FPA Professionals Congress visit www.fpacongress.com.au.

The shortlist for each award is as follows:

FPA CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional of the Year Award

• Michael Carmody CFP® – Viva Wealth (WA)
• James McFall CFP® – Yield Financial Planning (VIC)
• Chris Smith CFP® – VISIS Private Wealth (QLD)

FPA Financial Planner AFP® of the Year Award

• Felicity Cooper AFP® – Cooper Wealth Management (QLD)
• James O’Reilly AFP®– Northeast Wealth (VIC)
• Sandra Slattery AFP® – Commonwealth Financial Planning (NSW)

FPA Paraplanner of the Year Award

• Pierce Hanlen – Hewison and Associates (VIC)
• Kearsten James CFP® – Sterling Private Wealth (QLD)
• Emma Zwaan AFP® – Capital Partners (WA)

Community Service award supported by Future2 Foundation

• Amanda Cassar AFP®– Wealth Planning Partners (QLD)
• Wayne Fenton AFP® – Elders Financial Planning (TAS)
• Zacary Leeson CFP® – HPH Solutions (WA)

FPA Professional Practice of the Year Award

• Eureka Whittaker Macnaught – Sydney (NSW)
• VISIS Private Wealth – Brisbane (QLD)
• Wotherspoon Wealth – Adelaide (SA)

FPA University Student of the Year Award

• Mary Hadgis – University of South Australia (SA)
• Mitchell Harrison – Deakin University (VIC)
• Paul Travis – Griffith University (QLD)

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Felicity Cooper

The Association of Financial Advisers (AFA) and Asteron Life (Asteron) have announced Felicity Cooper of Cooper Wealth Management as the winner of the 2018 AFA Excellence in Education Award (the Award).

Finalists of the Award were chosen for their commitment to professional development through continuing education and making a difference within the marketplace and their local community through the practical application of their knowledge and expertise.

Judges placed a weighting across the four criteria areas – 60% on education and 40% on their practice, industry and community combined.

Ms Cooper will receive an education scholarship for study with Kaplan to the value of $25,000.

AFA CEO Phil Kewin said, “Felicity has a refreshing approach to education, proving it is not just about study but true personal development which results in enhanced skills.”

Asteron Life Head of Life Intermediaries, Daniel Waller said, “For 11 years, Asteron Life has proudly supported this Award. We’re delighted to recognise Felicity Cooper who through her education, continues to improve herself and demonstrate uncompromising care for her clients.  This in turn helps strengthen the overall profile of the advice profession.

“I would also like to acknowledge Caleb Dozzi as highly commended for his significant achievements in furthering his education.”

The Award was presented at the AFA National Adviser Conference on the Gold Coast this morning.

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The finalists are:

• Felicity Cooper, Cooper Wealth Management, Director, (QLD)
• Caleb Dozzi, dozzi Financial Advice, Financial Adviser (TAS)
• Michael Fox, Main Street Financial Solutions , Private Client Adviser (QLD)
• Dean Loosmore, Lio Adviser Centre, Financial Planner, (QLD)
• Helen Russo, Encompass Wealth – Financial Life Planning, Financial Planner (QLD)

AFA CEO, Philip Kewin said, “Education is vital to a thriving financial advice profession and these finalists are clearly committed to an ongoing investment in their own education, so that they can continue to deliver great advice to their clients. We commend them all on their efforts.”

The 2018 Excellence in Education Award Winner will be announced at this year’s AFA National Adviser Conference on the Gold Coast 10-12 October, and will receive an education scholarship for study with Kaplan to the value of $25,000.

Asteron Life Executive Manager Daniel Waller said, “We’re very proud to be a long standing supporter of the AFA Excellence in Education Award. This Award encourages and recognises advisers who pursue further education that they apply to their businesses for the overall betterment of the advice provided to their clients. We congratulate the five finalists for their outstanding contribution to strengthening our industry.”

Finalists of the Award are chosen for their commitment to professional development through continuing education and making a difference within the marketplace and their local community through the practical application of their knowledge and expertise.

Candidates are judged on the quality of their written nomination. Judges then conduct phone interviews with shortlisted candidates. Judges placed a weighting across the four criteria areas – 60% on education and 40% on their practice, industry and community combined.

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Recognising outstanding planners, paraplanners, students and practices, the awards celebrate individuals and businesses who demonstrate a commitment to delivering excellent outcomes for clients, and those who have made a notable contribution to their local community.

FPA CEO Dante De Gori CFP^® said there had been a record number of entries for this year’s awards and that finalists had all demonstrated the highest professional standards.

“Once again the judging panel has been very impressed by the volume and quality of award entries this year. The finalists represent the best of the best in our profession and I look forward to announcing the winners at Congress in November.”

Commenting on the Future2 Community Service Award, Mr De Gori said those on the shortlist deserved a special mention.

“Future2, the philanthropic arm of the FPA, has awarded $823,000 in grants since 2007. Our members continue to raise funds for grassroots programs that transform the lives of young people who through no fault of their own, struggle to make a ‘go’ in life.

“I’m particularly proud of our members who commit their time and energy to improving the circumstances of the most socially excluded or financially disadvantaged members of the community.”

Depending on the category, award winners will receive access to consumer media opportunities, financial contribution to professional development and complimentary registration to the FPA Professionals Congress.

The winners will be announced at the FPA Professionals Congress in Hobart on 23 November, along with the latest winner of the bi-annual Gwen Fletcher Memorial Award. For more information visit the FPA Professionals Congress.

The shortlist for each award is as follows:

FPA CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^® Professional of the Year Award

• Paul Benson CFP^® – Guidance Financial Services
• Michael Hayward CFP^® – Capital Partners Consulting
• Robert Zammit CFP^® – RSM Financial Services Australia

FPA Financial Planner AFP^® of the Year Award

• Felicity Cooper AFP^® – Cooper Wealth Management
• Nicholas Lloyd AFP^® – ITL Financial Planning Patricia
• Soares Garcia AFP^® – WB Financial

FPA Paraplanner of the Year Award

• Adriana Brink AFP^® – Alman Partners
• Laura Buckley AFP^® – Momentum Planning
• Travis Schindler – Hewison Private Wealth

Future2 Community Service Award

• Mary-Louise Gnoato AFP^® – Commonwealth Financial Planning
• Luke McCoy CFP^® – Elevate Financial Solutions
• Reuben Zelwer CFP^® – Adapt Wealth Management

FPA Professional Practice of the Year Award

• Capital Partners Private Wealth Advisers – Perth (WA)
• Eureka Whittaker Macnaught – Sydney & Brisbane (NSW & QLD)
• MBA Financial Strategists – Adelaide (SA)

FPA University Student of the Year Award

• Azaria Bell
• Jonathon Halls AFP^®
• David Steyn

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