The event, which drew more than 500 professionals to The Fullerton Hotel, marked the first in NIBA’s 2025 Gala Lunch Series and highlighted the achievements of experienced insurance brokers across the state.
Sponsored by CGU, the Broker of the Year award is presented annually to acknowledge senior practitioners demonstrating professional excellence and contributions to both the industry and their local communities.
With this recognition, Richards becomes a national finalist and will represent NSW/ACT at the 2025 NIBA Convention scheduled for October on the Gold Coast.
He will compete against peers from other states for the national Broker of the Year title, also supported by CGU.
NIBA CEO Richard Klipin noted the importance of recognising brokers who make a difference in the profession.
“NIBA congratulates Caleb for this fantastic achievement, wishing him the very best of luck for the national awards in October,” he said. “NIBA acknowledges the incredible efforts of all the finalists in going above and beyond for their clients and the impact they’ve made in giving back to the community.”
NIBA president Nick Cook described the award program as a vehicle to identify individuals influencing the direction of broking across the country.
“The award is an important platform to recognise the outstanding professionals shaping the broking profession,” he said.
Michael Frazer, executive manager – underwritten lines at CGU, congratulated Richards on behalf of the insurer.
“On behalf of CGU, Iʼd like to congratulate Caleb as this yearʼs NSW/ACT Broker of the Year state winner. His expertise and integrity as a standout senior broker are why CGU is proud to champion broker ambition,” he said.
The 2025 Gala Lunch Series marks a new phase for NIBA’s mid-year event program, introducing partnerships with local charities in each host city.
The initiative is intended to integrate industry recognition with community support.
According to Klipin, the addition of charitable partnerships reflects a broader role for brokers within their communities.
“This is a unique opportunity to give back to the communities that support us. Aligning the NIBA Gala Lunches with a local charity extends broking values of care and service to the broader community,” he said.
In addition to Sydney, the 2025 Gala Lunch Series will be held in:
Each event will include announcements for state finalists in two categories: CGU Broker of the Year and Vero Young Broker of the Year.
Cook said the mid-year timing of the series supports professional engagement as brokers navigate changing conditions.
“NIBA plays a key role in building bridges across geographical boundaries by creating inclusive platforms where brokers can connect, share insights, and support each other,” he said.
Finalists announced at each lunch will proceed to the national awards, to be held in October at NIBA’s annual convention.
