Supporting Far North Queensland
Meet our team
Andrew Swaney | General Manager
Andrew began his insurance career in New Zealand with State Insurance in 1987. Since then, he has worked internationally, holding positions at JTL and Marsh & McLennan where, as Regional Manager, his leadership skills and expertise in complex insurance environments drove business growth in North Queensland.
He holds a Diploma of Financial Services in General Insurance and is affiliated with prestigious organisations such as ANZIIF (Snr Associate) and the Insurance Brokers Association of New Zealand, where he is a Fellow. These affiliations reflect his commitment to professional development and high industry standards.
Outside of work, Andrew is dedicated to his family and enjoys a variety of interests, including history, travel, sports, and dining. He values maintaining a healthy work-life balance and is committed to promoting the holistic well-being of both clients and colleagues.
Supporting Andrew:
Amanda Hurst
Account Manager – New Business
Donna Geister
Account Manager - Aviator Risk
Robert Birrell
Domestic Broker
Rowena Neate
Receptionist
Lauren Hull | Head of Portfolio
With over 25 years’ experience in the industry, Lauren brings a unique perspective from running her own insurance broking business in Far North Queensland for six years, holding roles in account management, underwriting, business development, and claims management. Awarded Broker of the Year in 2023, Lauren is now advancing her career in management, driven by her dedication to customer satisfaction and building strong relationships.
As the Head of Portfolio with a diverse team, Lauren fosters a culture of customer dedication, professional development, integrity and transparency.
At home, Lauren is a mother to three young adults, two Goldadors, and a cat, and is also a part-owner of two racehorses. She enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and planning travel adventures for her and her family.
Supporting Lauren:
Lyn Dobbie
Account Manager
Sonya Waugh
Account Manager
Stephanie O'Keefe
Account Manager
Shanene Genge
Broker Assistant
Gilbert Kassman
Broker Assistant
Sara Duncan
Broker Assistant
Paula Carey | Head of Portfolio
Paula started in the insurance industry after Grade 10 at an entry level position with FAI Insurance and has steadily progressed throughout her career.
As Head of Portfolio Paula covers many areas of insurance including domestic, motor, strata, marine and SME businesses and enjoys looking after her clients and their insurance risks. Holding a Diploma of Financial Services (Insurance Broking) Paula is constantly learning and building her knowledge through industry training and conferences to ensure she can offer the right guidance to her customers.
Outside of work, Paula spends time with her family and looks after her 'grand-puppies'. Paula also enjoys Pilates and the Gym and is a keen follower of horseracing.
Supporting Paula:
Joanne Carucci
Senior Account Manager
Debbie May
Account Manager
Angela Mickan
Broker Assistant
Sophie Carroll
Broker Assistant
Tegan Struber
Broker Assistant
Nadine Mulkearns
Broker Assistant
Angela Downs | Head of Portfolio
Angela embarked on her insurance career from an entry level position and has worked her way up the ranks during a 25-year career, becoming a senior leader in the business and holding a Diploma of Financial Services (Insurance Broking). Angela extends her contribution to the insurance industry beyond the workplace as she’s served on the Board for the Council of Queensland Insurance Brokers (CQIB), a pivotal body in Queensland’s insurance landscape.
With her vast experience and strong focus on the customer, Angela is passionate about mentoring and sharing knowledge with the next generation of insurance brokers coming through our business.
Juggling career and a busy family, Angela finds downtime in walks on the beach with her partner and dogs or heading into nature on camping adventures with the family.
Supporting Angela:
Lyndal Bennetts
Account Manager
Nichole Jones
Account Manager
Breanna Vecchio
Broker Assistant
Rene Sturiale | Head of Portfolio
With humble beginnings in insurance, Rene’s passion for the industry was ignited over 30 years ago taking on work experience at high school. Since finding her perfect career Rene has been continually expanding her wealth of experience gaining a Diploma of Financial Services (Insurance Broking) and rising to Head of Portfolio and becoming a mentor to colleagues just starting their career in insurance.
Rene is dedicated to the best interests of her clients and has helped countless individuals and small to medium sized businesses find the right insurance coverage for their needs.
In her spare time, Rene is an avid reader of all genres and spends time with family and friends, occasionally ducking away for some well deserved retail therapy.
Supporting Rene:
Bina Khanal
Account Broker
Tracey Norton
Account Manager
Niven Bawden
Account Manager
Micala Bridge
Account Broker
Dedicated claims support
In Far North Queensland, we get our fair share of events that could impact your home, business and livelihood. We support you through the entire claims management process, and act as a liaison between you, insurance companies and any third parties. We help take the pressure off and let you focus on what’s next.
Our local claims team are here to help make the process of recovering from the unexpected as smooth as possible.
Our claims team:
Catherine Robinson
Claims Coordinator
Tarah McDonald
Claims Coordinator
Local trusted advice in Cairns and Far North Queensland
Personalised insurance broking services for your business from experienced professionals who are based in your local area. We manage your insurance while you get on with running and growing your business.
Call us on 1800 937 111, or complete the form to send us an enquiry.