Austbrokers held its annual conference on the Gold Coast last week, including the presentation of awards for excellence.

Broker of the year was Austbrokers BGA MD Brett Wilkinson, the young professional award was won by AEI Insurance Group partner Jordan Caleo and MGIB claims manager for workers’ compensation Donna Pearce was named claims manager of the year. 

The Frank Earl Memorial Award was presented to AEI Insurance Group executive chairman Tim Wedlock. 

More than 400 people attended the conference, themed SOAR: Strategy, Opportunity, Ambition and Results.

Former foreign minister Julie Bishop and Paralympian and tennis champion Dylan Alcott delivered keynote speeches.

Industry speakers included AUB Group CEO Mike Emmett, National Insurance Brokers Association CEO Richard Klipin and Austbrokers chief broking officer Ben Bessell.

"We had a fantastic conference," Mr Bessell told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

"It was great to see and hear from a diverse group of partners, sponsors, and exhibitors, as well as excellent external speakers. We appreciated the opportunity to connect with many of our partners, not just within Austbrokers, but also within the broader AUB Group family, with delegates from Agencies, New Zealand, and Tysers also present."