The National Insurance Brokers Association annual convention on the Gold Coast began this morning with a series of heartfelt tributes to broking leader Tim Wedlock.

As insuranceNEWS.com.au has reported, former NIBA president and AEI executive chair Mr Wedlock died while on holiday in the US in August when a car hit pedestrians.

More than 1000 people are attending the convention, which is themed “future ready”, and a packed ballroom heard tributes from current president Nick Cook and former presidents Di Phelan, Eric Harris and Gary Okely.

All wore gold jackets in tribute to Mr Wedlock, while remembering his passion for the industry and determination to advocate for it. Mr Wedlock regularly donned a gold sequined jacket as part of his unique approach to the presidency.

Mr Harris described how Mr Wedlock had called him just days before the accident to wish him well in a new role. “Checking in on a mate” despite being away on holiday was typical of the care he showed to others, he said.

Mr Okely described Mr Wedlock’s “endless passion and energy” and how he was “always giving to someone”.

“In the spirit of Tim, I want to bring that energy to this conference,” he said.

The NIBA Convention continues until Tuesday. Highlights include the release of the final version of the new code of practice, and a gala dinner and awards presentation.