Next Friday, the insurance community will gather to honour the memory of Robert Cooper - a highly respected insurance professional known for his caring and ethical approach to broking - at a special fundraising event for the Leukaemia Foundation. Organised by his wife, Mandy Cooper, the fundraising cocktail night will take place at the Shafston Hotel, their local Brisbane pub. Mandy and Robert co-directed CPR Insurance Services before Robert’s untimely death from leukaemia in 2023. Now in its third year, the annual Robert Cooper event is on track to push total funds raised for leukaemia well above $50,000.
“This is a great way for the insurance community to give back,” said Mandy.
The evening promises not only the chance to support a vital cause, but also to enjoy good company. Guests will be treated to finger food, a three hour drinks package, raffles, an auction and prizes.
Funds raised will directly support the Leukaemia Foundation’s research efforts and the assistance it provides to families who don’t live close to the hospital where their loved one is getting treatment.
“So for families who are not within a five-kilometre radius of a major hospital, there's somewhere for them to stay - because they have to stay close to the hospital during the treatment,” said Mandy.
The Foundation’s work extends to people affected by leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and other related blood disorders. Mandy shared sobering statistics with Insurance Business: blood cancers are the second highest cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia, with more than 50 people diagnosed every day. Yet, modelling shows that five lives could be saved daily if everyone received best-practice treatment.
The event is also a celebration of Robert Cooper’s career and legacy. Mandy described him as a “broker extraordinaire” whose ethics and commitment to knowledge sharing defined his more than 40 years in the industry.
Read more: Celebration of life: Robert Cooper
“Other brokers would often ring to ask him questions and for help,” said Mandy. “He always made time to help others and also worked on promoting broker education to raise the profile of the industry.”
Robert was the recipient of numerous industry awards and a passionate advocate for young professionals. His influence extended beyond the industry, as he was also active in his local community.
“We need to learn to listen to our clients, use empathy and people skills in the whole broker process, not just on claims,” he once told Insurance Business.
After selling CPR’s portfolio to Ausure in December last year, Mandy took time to rest, travel, and be with her children. She has since returned to the industry as a consultant, advising brokers.
Those interested in attending the Fundraising Cocktail Night on Friday 14th November are encouraged to contact Mandy directly on 0403 692 223. You can also buy tickets by clicking here
