Affinity Insurance Brokers client director Paul Davenport has won NIBA’s community excellence member of the year award.

Melbourne-based Mr Davenport was handed the award at the National Insurance Brokers Association Convention on the Gold Coast yesterday.

He works with community programs that use horse riding to build confidence in children and support them through life challenges, including initiatives in the NT and with Indigenous people.

“Brokers play an important role in supporting their communities and Paul and the finalists show the values of care and service that are at the core of our profession,” NIBA CEO Richard Klipin said.

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The other finalists were Clear Insurance CEO Lisa Carter, Goldsworthy General Insurance Services director Kate Greaves and Aon graduate Benji Klipin.

The award recognises NIBA members who contribute beyond their regular work responsibilities.

Peter O’Leary, VP at award sponsor Liberty, says brokers who use their skills, influence and compassion to make a difference are inspiring.

“Paul’s decades of work with young people and the horse community, and his focus on making sure that work continues well into the future, stood out to us,” he said.

Six more awards will be presented tonight, including broker and young broker of the year. In the running are Gallagher’s Jodi Sharman and Lockton account manager Alyssa Sanfilippo for Victoria/Tasmania; WA winners Brooke Tarr from KBI and Isabella Moran of Howden; SA/NT contenders Shannan Gardner of Guardian Insurance Brokers and Thomas Lawrie from Astute Insurance Services; and four Aon brokers – Queensland winners Alison Morrissey and Emily Booth, and NSW/ACT winners Debbie Gibson and Laith Parissi.

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