Wotton Kearney solicitor Simone Snell has won this year’s Australian Insurance Law Association award for young professional public speaking skills.

The association’s insurance law prize goes to Norton Rose Fulbright partner Ray Giblett for his contributions to thought leadership, innovation and regulatory reform, and Liberty claims VP Angus Kench has been awarded AILA life membership. 

“These awards are our chance to recognise the exceptional talent and dedication within the Australian insurance community,” AILA president Melanie Quixley said.

“It’s inspiring to see both emerging professionals and seasoned experts driving innovation and setting the standard for excellence in our industry.”

Brisbane-based Ms Snell won with her presentation Cash or Cuffs? Fraudulent Claims and the Differing Approaches to their Investigation and Prosecution Under Queensland Statute.

Colin Biggers & Paisley solicitor Yasemin Sargin was runner-up in the speaking award, and Federal Court judge’s associate Connor Wright took third place.

The annual speaking competition is named after Ron Shorter, who was a practice manager at Colin Biggers & Paisley until his death in 2012.

“Each of the finalists excelled in their presentations,” Geraldine Gray of the Victorian Bar said. “I was just completely taken aback by ... the interesting issues they presented and the solutions suggested. They all did a wonderful job.”