First State Super and Industry Super Funds were announced joint winners of the Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) 2008 Platinum Communication Award in Melbourne last night.
First State Super was recognised for its call to action campaign, which encouraged members to boost their superannuation through salary sacrifice.
Industry Super Funds was acknowledged for its campaign featuring former Reserve Bank chairman Bernie Fraser, which reassured the public about investing in super, despite a period of negative returns.
Both campaigns received praise for their message, innovation and industry value at AIST's inaugural awards for excellence gala dinner.
The awards reflect the excellent achievements of the sector's highly committed fund staff and the vital behind the scenes work that contributes to the ongoing growth and success of the industry, AIST chief executive Fiona Reynolds said.
Other industry professionals recognised were First State Super's Mark Sainsbury, who took out the Super Investment Professional Award for his leadership in investment strategy and Hostplus' Umberto Mecchi, who received the Super Marketing Professional Award for his role in sport sponsorship, member education and financial literacy.
Other winners comprised: Hesta's Alison Dixon, who took out the Super Business Development Professional Award; Ausfund's Richard Grant, who took out the Super Compliance Professional Award; Seafarers Retirement Funds' Sharon Parr, who took out the Super Operations/Administration Award; CBus, which took out the Super Team Award; Super SA and Hostplus, which were named joint winners of the Gold Communication Award; ESS Super, which took out the Silver Communication Award; and Hesta and CARE Super which were named joint winners of the Bronze Communication Award.
