QBE Australia has won the National Insurance Brokers Association's (NIBA) General Insurer of the Year title for the fifth consecutive year. The award is regarded as particularly important because the only people able to cast votes are working brokers.

And industry oracle and a young Queenslander were among other award winners at this year’s NIBA Convention.

The Lex McKeown Trophy, which is awarded for outstanding service, was awarded for the first time to a non-broker, government relations consultant John Hanks.

NIBA President Steve Ball says it is an unusual move but wholly understandable given the years of service that Mr Hanks has given to the broking community.

“Over the years he’s been a great contributor to the things we have achieved at NIBA and a passionate advocate for our industry,” Mr Ball said. “His understanding of complex issues and his ability to find effective solutions have been lifesavers to the insurance broking industry many times over.”

Laura Sinnott, of Your Insurance Broker in Queensland, won the Warren Tickle Memorial Award for the top young broker of the year.

This was the last time the trophy will be presented in its present form. From next year, young brokers will compete for state-based awards and the winners will vie for a single national trophy.