Linda Burnett of AR Insurance Brokers has been named Young Professional of the Year at the Council of Queensland Insurance Brokers (CQIB) annual convention.

The prize – the Peter McCarthy Memorial Award – honours young professionals who have made significant contributions to professional service in the broking industry.

Brisbane-based Ms Burnett, who has worked for AR Insurance Brokers for more than 10 years, says it has been a busy year helping clients affected by floods. She says the experience has shown the value of clients being able to contact brokers for advice.

“It is what we are here for and they know they can ring if they have any questions,” she told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

Vero Queensland Sales Manager Pat Campbell presented the award.

The 20th CQIB convention heard a presentation from Christchurch broker Allan Daly on his experiences of the earthquakes there – and the lessons for Queenslanders.

Macquarie Premium Funding CEO Gary Seymour outlined changing patterns in the insurance market and CGU GM Broker & Agent Mark Searles discussed how the industry can improve its public image by increasing transparency and improving customer relationships.

More than $35,000 was raised for the Children’s Health Foundation at the event.