Far North Queensland Regional team
Meet our team of insurance brokers

Supporting Far North Queensland

Meet our team

Andrew Swaney | General Manager

Andrew began his insurance career in New Zealand with State Insurance in 1987. Since then, he has worked internationally, holding positions at JTL and Marsh & McLennan where, as Regional Manager, his leadership skills and expertise in complex insurance environments drove business growth in North Queensland.

He holds a Diploma of Financial Services in General Insurance and is affiliated with prestigious organisations such as ANZIIF (Snr Associate) and the Insurance Brokers Association of New Zealand, where he is a Fellow. These affiliations reflect his commitment to professional development and high industry standards.

Outside of work, Andrew is dedicated to his family and enjoys a variety of interests, including history, travel, sports, and dining. He values maintaining a healthy work-life balance and is committed to promoting the holistic well-being of both clients and colleagues.

Andrew Swaney in a corporate office

Supporting Andrew:

  • Amanda Hurst

    Account Manager – New Business

  • Donna Geister

    Donna Geister

    Account Manager - Aviator Risk

  • Robert Birrell

    Robert Birrell

    Domestic Broker

  • Rowena Neate

    Rowena Neate

    Receptionist

  • Lauren Hull

    Lauren Hull | Head of Portfolio

    With over 25 years’ experience in the industry, Lauren brings a unique perspective from running her own insurance broking business in Far North Queensland for six years, holding roles in account management, underwriting, business development, and claims management. Awarded Broker of the Year in 2023, Lauren is now advancing her career in management, driven by her dedication to customer satisfaction and building strong relationships.

    As the Head of Portfolio with a diverse team, Lauren fosters a culture of customer dedication, professional development, integrity and transparency.

    At home, Lauren is a mother to three young adults, two Goldadors, and a cat, and is also a part-owner of two racehorses. She enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and planning travel adventures for her and her family.

    Supporting Lauren:

  • Lyn Dobbie

    Lyn Dobbie

    Account Manager

  • Sonya Waugh

    Sonya Waugh

    Account Manager

  • Stephanie O'Keefe

    Stephanie O'Keefe

    Account Manager

  • Shanene Genge

    Shanene Genge

    Broker Assistant

  • Gilbert Kassman

    Gilbert Kassman

    Broker Assistant

  • Sara Duncan

    Broker Assistant

  • Paula Carey

    Paula Carey | Head of Portfolio

    Paula started in the insurance industry after Grade 10 at an entry level position with FAI Insurance and has steadily progressed throughout her career.

    As Head of Portfolio Paula covers many areas of insurance including domestic, motor, strata, marine and SME businesses and enjoys looking after her clients and their insurance risks. Holding a Diploma of Financial Services (Insurance Broking) Paula is constantly learning and building her knowledge through industry training and conferences to ensure she can offer the right guidance to her customers.

    Outside of work, Paula spends time with her family and looks after her ‘grand-puppies’. Paula also enjoys Pilates and the Gym and is a keen follower of horseracing.

    Supporting Paula:

  • Joanne Carucci

    Joanna Carucci

    Senior Account Manager

  • Debbie May

    Debbie May

    Head of Portfolio - Development

  • Angela Mickan

    Angela Mickan

    Broker Assistant

  • Sophie Carroll

    Sophie Carroll

    Broker Assistant

  • Tegan Struber

    Broker Assistant

  • Nadine Mulkearns

    Nadine Mulkearns

    Broker Assistant

  • Angela Downs | Head of Portfolio

    Angela embarked on her insurance career from an entry level position and has worked her way up the ranks during a 25-year career, becoming a senior leader in the business and holding a Diploma of Financial Services (Insurance Broking). Angela extends her contribution to the insurance industry beyond the workplace as she’s served on the Board for the Council of Queensland Insurance Brokers (CQIB), a pivotal body in Queensland’s insurance landscape.

    With her vast experience and strong focus on the customer, Angela is passionate about mentoring and sharing knowledge with the next generation of insurance brokers coming through our business.

    Juggling career and a busy family, Angela finds downtime in walks on the beach with her partner and dogs or heading into nature on camping adventures with the family.

    Supporting Angela:

  • Lyndall Bennetts

    Lyndal Bennetts

    Account Manager

  • Nichole Jones

    Nichole Jones

    Account Manager

  • Breanna Vecchio

    Breanna Vecchio

    Broker Assistant

  • Stevie Darby-Brennan

    Stevie Darby-Brennan

    Broker Assistant

  • Carlos Lewong

    Carlos Lewong

    Processing Assistant

  • Rene Sturiale | Head of Portfolio

    With humble beginnings in insurance, Rene’s passion for the industry was ignited over 30 years ago taking on work experience at high school. Since finding her perfect career Rene has been continually expanding her wealth of experience gaining a Diploma of Financial Services (Insurance Broking) and rising to Head of Portfolio and becoming a mentor to colleagues just starting their career in insurance.

    Rene is dedicated to the best interests of her clients and has helped countless individuals and small to medium sized businesses find the right insurance coverage for their needs.

    In her spare time, Rene is an avid reader of all genres and spends time with family and friends, occasionally ducking away for some well deserved retail therapy.

    Rene Sturiale

    Supporting Rene:

  • Bina Khanal

    Bina Khanal

    Account Broker

  • Tracey Norton

    Account Manager

  • Niven Bawden

    Account Manager

  • Micala Bridge

    Micala Bridge

    Account Broker

  • Jennifer Jackson

    Jennifer Jackson

    Broker Assistant

  • Dedicated claims support

    In Far North Queensland, we get our fair share of events that could impact your home, business and livelihood. We support you through the entire claims management process, and act as a liaison between you, insurance companies and any third parties. We help take the pressure off and let you focus on what’s next.

    Our local claims team are here to help make the process of recovering from the unexpected as smooth as possible.

    Claims management expert talking with a client

    Our claims team:

  • Catherine Robinson

    Claims Coordinator

  • Tarah McDonald

    Claims Coordinator

  • Local trusted advice in Cairns and Far North Queensland

    Personalised insurance broking services for your business from experienced professionals who are based in your local area. We manage your insurance while you get on with running and growing your business.

    Call us on 1800 937 111, or complete the form to send us an enquiry.

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