SPAA launched its annual awards last night designed to recognise members for their outstanding contribution and excellence in the SMSF industry.
The inaugural Super Guardian Superannuation Cadetship was awarded to Monte Engler due to his desire to specialise, undertake the CA programme and invest in a long term career with one organisation.
A 2004 commerce graduate and current honours student, SPAA chief executive Andrea Slattery said Engler's grasp of self managed super, willingness to go the extra mile and outstanding communication skills all helped Engler clinch the award.
The cadetship includes full-time employment with SuperGuardian, a full scholarship to the Certificate in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds with the University of Adelaide and SPAA membership and attendance to its technical training sessions and workshops.
The Praemium scholarship won by Michael Dietrich from MSCJ Independent Audit Service in Queensland, was assessed on the basis of educational background, excellence within industry, dedication towards further study, currency of knowledge and professional practice. The award includes a $3000 scholarship.
The recipient of the inaugural Chief Executive Officer Scholarship was won by Nathan Baker from KR Securities Pty Ltd, also in Queensland. Slattery said Baker demonstrated excellence in all areas of the criteria. The University of Adelaide donated $3,000 for the award.
The Chairman's Award is in recognition of Outstanding Contribution to SPAA and the SMSF industry.
Founding SPAA member Kevin Nichols from Self-managed Super Fund Advisory Service in NSW is the first to receive the award. He has had significant involvement in the development of the State Chapters and is currently Chair of the National Membership Committee.
Over the next 12 months SPAA will offer the opportunity for its members to nominate and apply for an Advisor of Year Award and other excellence awards.
