A Melbourne-based adviser won this year’s Gwen Fletcher Memorial Award at the Financial Planning Association’s (FPA) conference in Perth last week.

Cameron Obliubek from Bridges Financial Services was the best-performing student in the final unit of the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) program.

FPA CEO Dante De Gori says winning the award, named after the late “first lady of financial planning”, is a major achievement.

“Mr Obliubek’s outstanding results are a testament to his commitment and dedication.”

CFP professional of the year is Tony Sandercock of Sunshine Coast-based Wetalkmoney.

“Mr Sandercock is passionate about motivating clients, helping them set meaningful goals and simplifying complex decisions,” Mr De Gori said. “His client testimonials were outstanding.”

Financial Planner AFP of the year is Cody Harmon, from Meridian Wealth Management based in Melbourne.

Cynthia Sercombe of Tupicoffs in Brisbane won the first FPA paraplanner of the year award.

Mr De Gori says the award recognises her technical excellence, dedication to quality and passion for providing pro-bono services.

Professional practice of the year is Ipac WA, and FPA university student of the year is Bradley Aleckson of Griffith University.

Kathy Havers from Catalyst Financial Group in Melbourne took the Future2 community service award, adding to her victory in 2014.

“Her tireless commitment to community service and philanthropy through her volunteer work with remote indigenous communities, and helping other families living with disabilities, is nothing short of inspirational,” Mr De Gori said.

Ms Havers is director of the Kindred Spirits Foundation, a non-profit organisation that supports Aboriginal people and their communities, and she provides support to Bulleen Heights specialist school for children with autism.