The National Insurance Brokers Association raised more than $177,000 for Ovarian Cancer Australia at its annual convention.

The record amount included a $40,000 match contribution from the Z Zurich Foundation (ZZF).

“Funds raised will support the charity’s free services for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer and their families, including access to specialist ovarian cancer nurses through the Teal Support program, counselling and support groups, as well as national advocacy and research aimed at improving treatment access and survival outcome,” NIBA said.

Taylor Burstow, branch manager at McLardy McShane Brisbane and former NIBA young broker of the year, put the charity forward as NIBA’s national partner.

NIBA CEO Richard Klipin, Ovarian Cancer Australia CEO Debbie Shiell, and Taylor Burstow from McLardy McShane

He told insuranceNEWS.com.au he is particularly pleased it was chosen, because the cancer’s survival rates are relatively low and it does not have the higher profile of some other campaigns.

Mr Burstow’s mother passed from the disease in 2023.

He was instrumental in NIBA’s Queensland gala lunch raising an additional $40,000 in July. Having spoken at the lunch when the tally reached $18,000, he then volunteered to take on his biggest fear – skydiving – if it got to $30,000.

“We then smashed it to $40,000,” he said. “I was terrified when it was time to jump. But I’m glad I did it for a cause that means so much.

“It’s a very emotional cause for me, and something I think doesn’t get the attention it needs, considering how horrific a disease it is. 
 
“It’s one of the deadliest cancers for women globally and it’s not easily diagnosable. There have been no advancements on screening or testing.
 
“It doesn’t receive as much funding as other cancers, so getting out in front of people and telling my story is not only deeply personal but it’s something which, unfortunately, a lot of people are able to relate to.

“To hear someone telling their story makes them feel comfortable sharing theirs, which is most important.”

He says the money will go to nursing and psychological help for women and their families facing ovarian cancer. Ovarian Cancer Australia will also be campaigning in Canberra for greater government support in the fight against the disease.

A Zurich spokesperson said: “This is the third consecutive year ZZF has supported the NIBA conference and its charitable partners.

“This dollar matching initiative provides important support and amplification for the generosity that exists within the broking community.

“Many of Zurich’s customers are impacted by cancer. Ovarian Cancer Australia provides vital care for women and families affected by ovarian cancer and plays a significant role in advocacy and research. We are proud to support their important work.”

NIBA CEO Richard Klipin told insuranceNEWS.com.au the amount raised smashed previous records, and NIBA has raised more than $300,000 for various charities in the past year.

“It’s a standout effort and huge thanks for the generosity across the NIBA community,” he said.

“I want to acknowledge Ovarian Cancer Australia, Zurich and Taylor. It was a really amazing effort from him, and very courageous for him to tell his personal story.”

Ovarian Cancer Australia CEO Debbie Shiell added that brokers are helping ensure “no woman faces ovarian cancer alone”.

Donations can still be made here.