Financial Advice Australia Association has named the contenders for its annual excellence awards.

In the Zurich-sponsored adviser of the year category, the finalists are Melinda Brown from UniSuper Advice (NSW), John Cachia from Thriving Wealth (Victoria) and Rebecca Pritchar from Rising Tide Financial Services (Victoria).

Zurich Australia head of adviser channel Kieran Forde says the adviser of the year finalists exemplify excellence. “They are dedicated professionals, whose contributions greatly benefit their clients and the broader financial community.”

Three Queenslanders will compete for the TAL-sponsored inspire women excellence in advice award: Robyn Arnold from Kreate Wealth; Kelsey Dent from Alman Partners and Magdeline Jacovides from Mazi Wealth.

FAAA will announce the winners at its annual congress in Brisbane on November 28.

The finalists in the other four categories are:

Certified Financial Planner professional of the year

• Teneale Laister, Alman Partners (Queensland)
• Bianca Musico, Warr Hunt (Victoria)
• Scott Quinlan, Solace Financial (Queensland) 

Professional practice of the year (sponsored by Cbus Super)

• Capital Partners (WA)
• Warr Hunt (Victoria)
• Alman Partners (Queensland)

Gen next rising star

• Jakob Ayres, Apt Wealth Partners (Victoria)
• Kirra Sharrock, Bravium (ACT)
• Simone Vasnaik, Verse Wealth (Victoria)

University student of the year (sponsored by UniSuper)

• Phillip Ambrose, Queensland University of Technology
• Emma McKenzie, Deakin University
• Brandon Rerrie, Griffith University