Follow your own philosophy, says Melbourne broker Lyn Blackwood, who was yesterday been named the winner of the Lex McKeown Trophy in recognition of her services to broking and the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA).

Ms Blackwood, who was presented with the award by NIBA President Steve Lardner, says she inherited her parents’ “strong work ethic” and was also lucky to be guided in her early career by mentors like Adelaide broker Mike Donnelly and the late Frank Earl.

Ms Blackwood, a broker at Marsh in Melbourne, was described by Mr Lardner as “the type of member NIBA can’t do without”.

He says she has made a strong contribution to NIBA through her work on the association’s SA committee, including service as the regional committee chairman.

Following her transfer to Melbourne with Marsh, she joined the Victorian committee, “where again her commitment as a behind-the-scenes achiever who doesn’t seek accolades” has been invaluable, Mr Lardner told the opening session of the convention.

“She has had a distinguished broking career and is one of the real pioneers of women in the industry.”

He also praised her “strong work ethic and ability to get on with people, with her principals, her peers and importantly, her clients”.