2002 National Winner


Patrick Kelly
2002 National Winner

After some persuasion, I decided to enter the Paraplanner of the Year award. After dealing with some self doubt I completed the application form and found that the content allowed me to express my views on the financial planning industry in general and the important role that paraplanning plays in both the initial and ongoing advice process. It allowed me to qualify the specific role that I play within the financial planning division at Fell Eales McGarry, and "test out" my knowledge.

I was surprised to receive confirmation that I was a state finalist but the initial surprise quickly transformed into excitement at the prospect of travelling to Sydney for the 2002 National FPA Convention, and networking with the other State finalists, Fund Manager Representatives and advisers. This experience was first class - not only did I get the chance to "pick the brains" of industry experts but also established new professional relationships and networks. We were also treated to some great social functions and Australian Unity "wined and dined" us at a wonderful restaurant adjacent to the Sydney Opera House (the karaoke afterwards was definitely a highlight).

In April 2003 we were again flown to Sydney for the Gala Dinner where it was announced that I had won the National award. This was a most humbling experience and one that will stay with me for many years to come. So I am now off to Philadelphia in November for the International Financial Planning Convention and simply can't wait. It will be interesting to compare the state of our industry with that of the United States and I should learn a great deal.

This award has opened up many opportunities for me and the experiences it entails are certainly second to none. I wholeheartedly recommend the award as something both "new" and "old" paraplanners should aspire to as the combination of professional recognition, the opportunity to attend FPA conventions and form new professional networks is amazing.

Many thanks to the numerous sponsors; Australian Unity, the Financial Planning Association and Independent Financial Adviser. I think it's a credit to these organisations that they outlay their time and financial support to recognise the important role paraplanners play within the financial planning industry.