Tributes flowed in as Dallas "Tex" Booth departed the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) last week.

Mr Booth retired after more than 10 years as CEO, handing the mantle to Philip Kewin.

The revered barrister said his tenure had been a "funny form of fun few others would understand,” adding that the insurance broking industry was at a “massively important turning point” and NIBA was the “one voice” of brokers across Australia.

He said achieving the best outcomes was “the culture of broking and I am so proud of it”.

Broking alumni paid tribute to Mr Booth during an online awards ceremony on Thursday, commending his long and illustrious career, authentic professionalism, passion, consultative leadership style and quirky sense of humour.

“Dallas, with his name worthy of a Hollywood cowboy, has from the very beginning managed to grab the NIBA thoroughbred by the reins and lead us safely through some of the most significant regulatory reforms we have ever had to face,” Radford Lawyers principal solicitor Mark Radford said.

Former chairman of the brokers’ code compliance committee Michael Gill gave a detailed tribute.

“NIBA needed a lawyer who knew insurance and government well, and it got him,” Mr Gill said. “For 10 years, Dallas has committed himself to your best interests, not as an unthinking mouthpiece but as a strong patient leader who always focused on what was doable, and what was best.”

Mr Kewin congratulated Mr Booth on a stellar career and acknowledged he had “big shoes to fill”.

“Everyone I have spoken to you just has so much high regard for you, your knowledge, your warmth, your supportive character,” he said. “You will be sorely missed but we know you will be around on a part time basis.”

Gallagher Australia CEO Sarah Lyons praised his “all voices heard and valued, everything under control” leadership style while NIBA President Dianne Phelan thanked him on behalf of the board, acknowledging “how far the association has grown under your guidance, how much you have done, how much you are valued and appreciated and how much we all love the things you have done for us”.

Vero’s Head of Commercial Intermediaries Anthony Pagano says Mr Booth’s legacy at NIBA will “certainly not be forgotten any time soon”.

“Some of my fondest memories are recalling your moves at the NIBA conference dancefloor and seeing that rare but cheeky smile that would light up a room. Thank you for your support, leadership and friendship over the years,” he said.