BMO boasts 3 finalists for the Women in Finance Awards

Chelsea W • September 27, 2024

BMO ladies named as a finalists in the Women in Finance Awards

Regional Queensland based accounting and business advisory firm, BMO Business Centre has been honored with three of its female team members being named finalists for this year’s national Women in Finance Awards. BMO Partner Michelle McVeigh is one of ten finalists in the Accountant of the Year category, while Associate Helen Ruddy is in the running for Regional Professional of the Year. While Operations and Marketing Manager Chelsea Wyatt is the only Queensland finalist up for the Office Administrator of the Year.


The national awards program, run with the support of principal partner Mortgage Choice, is designed to recognise and acknowledge the leading women influencing the Australian finance industry. 


Helen Ruddy, Associate at BMO Business Centre, said that she was humbled and surprised to be recognised and proud to be named as a finalist in the Women in Finance Awards 2024.


“BMO’s recognition for our excellent contribution to the finance industry reinforces the strength of our service and dedication to connecting with the community and engaging with clients,” she said.


Year after year, the Women in Finance Awards recognises the outstanding contributions made by women in financial services and companies furthering diversity and inclusion in the industry across a wide range of sectors.


With only a fifth of the financial planning industry and around a quarter of mortgage brokers being women, the awards amplify the exceptional work being done by this minority. 


BMO, which has offices in Dalby, Roma and Charleville is defying this minority with 70% of their team of 50 professionals being female.


The finalist list, which was announced on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, features over 258 high-achieving professionals and businesses across 29 submission-based categories. 


Finalists of the Women in Finance Awards are widely recognised as having unwavering determination and commitment to furthering the work of the industry and for playing a pivotal role in propelling the industry forward.


Winners of the Women in Finance Awards 2024, will be announced at a black-tie gala at the Hyatt Regency, Sydney, on Friday, 15 November 2024.

Annie Kane, managing editor of The Adviser, extended her congratulations to all finalists, stating: “Momentum Media, in partnership with Mortgage Choice, is thrilled to announce the finalists of the Women in Finance Awards 2024.


“With cost-of-living pressures impacting the back pocket and home loan rates having hit a 12-year high recently, the support and advice of those in the finance sector is making a critical difference to the financial health of Australians across the nation.


“We’re proud to highlight the exceptional women and companies across the finance sector who are making significant contributions to the financial well-being of Australians amid a difficult economic landscape.


“By celebrating these remarkable achievements, we aim to inspire future generations of women to explore careers in financial services.”


“Congratulations to all the finalists of the Women in Finance Awards 2024. We look forward to celebrating the winners at the awards ceremony in Sydney!”

Adrian Rasmussen retires after decades supporting Regional Queensland

By BMO • June 30, 2026
After an incredible career dedicated to supporting regional businesses, farming families and rural communities, BMO Business Centre Partner Adrian Rasmussen will officially retire from the partnership effective 30 June 2026. For many across the Western Downs and beyond, Adrian has been far more than an accountant or advisor. Over decades in business, he has built trusted relationships grounded in honesty, loyalty and a genuine understanding of regional life and the people who live it. Adrian’s connection to the country and agriculture has always been at the heart of who he is. He has worked alongside generations of farming families and business owners through seasons of growth, challenge and change, becoming a steady and respected presence for clients, colleagues and the wider community alike. Reflecting on his time at BMO, Adrian said the relationships formed throughout his career have been among the most rewarding parts of the journey. “It has been a privilege to work with so many wonderful people over the years; not only clients, but colleagues and communities who have become lifelong friends,” Adrian said. “Regional communities are built on relationships, trust and supporting one another, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of that throughout my career.” BMO Business Centre Managing Partners Kelvin Tyler and Michelle McVeigh said Adrian’s contribution to both the business and the region would leave a lasting legacy. “Adrian has played an incredibly important role in shaping BMO into the business it is today,” they said. “His care for clients, commitment to regional communities and calm, practical approach have earned enormous respect across our industry and the communities we serve. While we will certainly miss having him in the office, we are excited for Adrian and his family as they enter this next chapter.” While stepping away from the partnership, Adrian is looking forward to spending more time with family, on the farm and enjoying a well-earned change of pace after many years dedicated to supporting others. Everyone at BMO Business Centre extends their sincere thanks to Adrian for his years of service, friendship and leadership, and wishes Adrian and his family all the very best for the future.

Your 30 June superannuation checklist

By Nikki Ashurst • June 4, 2026
Five easy ways to get more into your super fund before the end of the financial year.