In an industry that rarely slows down, most brokers don’t take time to pause.
There’s another client to support, a renewal to manage, a challenge to solve. That’s why so many of the 2025 Broker of the Year State Winners, and 2025 Broker of the Year Caleb Richards, described the 2025 awards process as unexpectedly powerful.
For Kate Greaves, 2025 QLD State Winner, the biggest value wasn’t the title, it was the reflection.
“The most valuable part was being forced to pause and reflect. Like many brokers and business owners, we’re usually so busy looking after clients that we rarely stop to look at how far we’ve come.”
Martyn Luck, 2025 SA State Winner, shared a similar experience.
“It gave me a chance to look back on my career and think about everything I’ve achieved and learned along the way.”
Caleb agreed and believed that reflection shouldn’t be optional.
“The process and practice of articulating your ‘why’ should be revisited every two years at least… Applying helps you stop and remember why you do what you do.”
In a fast-paced, high-demand profession, that reset can be invaluable. It sharpens your thinking, clarifies your purpose and reconnects you with the impact of your work.
More Than a Title
Recognition carries weight, not just personally, but professionally.
When Caleb was announced as 2025 Broker of the Year, his first reaction was “a big adrenaline surge” followed by gratitude - for the mentors, peers and clients who shaped his journey.
Winning, he says, has had a tangible impact.
“There are underwriters, insurers and agencies who I’ve not had significant dealings with previously who now know who you are and pay closer attention to your calls and submissions. That on its own is highly valuable — opening doors and commencing new relationships… and relationships is the daily commodity we trade.”
For Deb Spandonis, 2025 VIC/TAS State Winner, the recognition created something equally powerful: a stronger platform.
“It’s given me a stronger platform to influence and advocate — particularly for regional representation and creating environments where emerging brokers can thrive.”
And yet, for all of them, the most meaningful part isn’t the announcement moment — it’s the process itself.
As Deb puts it:
“The process is a gift in itself. It forces you to reflect, articulate your value and see your own impact with clarity you don’t necessarily get in the day-to-day.”
Beyond reflection and recognition, every winner also spoke about connection.
“Bonding with four strangers, bound only by your profession, but sharing an experience we will reflect on for life — that’s special,” Caleb said.
Kate described meeting peers across the country as a reminder of how supportive and vibrant the industry truly is. And Deb captured the deeper meaning behind it all:
“The awards aren’t about ego; they’re about recognising the people who move our industry forward.”
Applications for the 2026 Broker of the Year Awards are now open.
If you’re ready to step back, sharpen your purpose and share the impact you’re making across clients, teams and communities, now is the time.
.png)