Caleb Richards and James Still took out the top broking honours at the NIBA Convention this week.

Mr Richards, a Wagga Wagga-based practice leader at Gallagher’s AgriRisk, was named CGU-sponsored broker of the year, and said he was “extremely proud to receive this recognition. A great way to conclude a big few days mingling with and learning from some our industry’s best. Education and advocacy for our clients is number one.”

Mr Still, who founded Still Insured in Ballarat, was crowned Vero-sponsored young broker of the year, and said he was “honoured, humbled, in disbelief”.

“Standing on that stage ... is a moment I’ll carry for life,” said Mr Still, whose father nominated him before passing away.

“You’ve inspired me to think bigger, lead better and give back more. To my dad, your presence is always felt, your lessons always heard. This one’s also for you.”

The National Insurance Brokers Association’s large general insurer of the year award went to Vero, which was praised for being a trusted partner for brokers.

“Brokers want us to be available for them and make it easy for them to work with us. We’ve been responding with clearer contact points, better relationships and new integrations with broker platforms,” Suncorp’s CEO commercial and personal injury Michael Miller said.

“This award is testament to our focus on getting these basics right.”

Transport specialist NTI won underwriting agency of the year, having “stood out versus its competitors, particularly being good value for money and responsive to brokers”.

NTI says the award is “fantastic recognition of the commitment and passion our team brings to supporting Australia’s transport, logistics and construction industries every day”.

Liberty won the specialty insurer award for the fifth straight year, and was praised as a “trusted partner that brokers are happy to recommend”.

The company said: “Thank you for again recognising Liberty ... Five years in a row is an achievement we’re truly proud of.”

BJS Insurance Group chairman Ron Smith was awarded the Lex McKeown Trophy, Aon Risk Services’ Wendy Ford was claims broker of the year, and North Queensland Insurance Brokers area manager Kieran Volpe won the community excellence prize.

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