MEET THE TEAM
Meet the dedicated members of the Australian Consumers Insurance Lobby Inc committee, a team composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Our committee boasts a balanced mix of consumer representatives, who provide crucial insights into consumer needs, with insurance professionals, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the industry, to effectively advocate for consumer interests in the insurance landscape.
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Together, we combine our unique perspectives and expertise to provide valuable insights that drive our advocacy efforts and foster positive change for Australian consumers.
Tyrone Shandiman
Chairperson (Insurance Professional)
Dip Fin Serv (Brok) & Dip Fin Serv (Financial Planning)
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Tyrone, the managing director and founder of Strata Insurance Solutions established in 2011, brings a wealth of experience in dealing with clients facing challenges across Australia.
With a strong background in the insurance industry, he witnessed the affordability and availability issues faced by clients in Northern Australia. This led him to establish the Northern Australia Insurance Lobby Inc in 2021, advocating for consumer representation on the issue and is now active in lobbying for consumer issues more broadly across Australia.
Tyrone, recognised as Queensland's Young Insurance Broker of the Year in 2016, brings professionalism and integrity to his work. He is also involved in other ventures, including being a director at Best Injury Lawyers and having served as Chairperson for Open Doors Youth Service.
Outside of work, Tyrone enjoys international travel, fitness, music festivals, and keeping an eye on the stock market. His dedication and expertise contribute to his leadership role at the Australian Consumers Insurance Lobby (ACIL).
Bradley von Xanten
Treasurer (Consumer Representative)
Graduate Diploma Financial Planning & Advanced Diploma Financial Planning
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Bradley, a retired financial planner, brings a wealth of experience to the table. As the former chairperson of Unit Owners Association QLD, a non-profit organization dedicated to representing the interests of strata scheme owners in Queensland, Bradley has demonstrated his commitment to advocating for the rights of property owners.
Bradley brings extensive leadership experience as the chairperson and treasurer of strata buildings in Magnetic Island, Mackay and the Sunshine Coast. Additionally, his background as an intelligence analyst with the Australian Intelligence Corps, serving in operational services in East Timor and the Australian Army Training Team, enhances his ability to navigate complex issues with strategic thinking and diverse expertise.
Outside of his professional engagements, Bradley generously provides pro-bono general financial advice to various entities and individuals in need. This highlights his dedication to giving back to the community and using his knowledge and skills to assist those who require support.
Eva Jones (Rankmore)
Secretary (Insurance Professional)
B.A. History and Archaeology (hons) & Dip Fin Serv (Brok)
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Eva is the Operations Manager at Strata Insurance Solutions. She began her insurance career in early 2014. With a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in History and Honours in Archaeology, her academic background has provided her with valuable skills as a detail-oriented committee member.
Eva’s experience and knowledge of the current insurance industry provides valuable insights into specific challenges faced by consumers across a wide range of regions.
During her free time, Eva enjoys engaging in various activities. She takes pleasure in working on renovations, indulging in reading books and showcasing her culinary skills in the kitchen.
Peter Marer
General Committee Member (Insurance Professional)
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Peter is an insurance industry veteran with a wealth of experience spanning several decades. Beginning his journey in 1976, he held various roles within the industry, including serving as the CEO of Queensland Doctors Mutual. In 2004, Peter established his own insurance broking practice, which he successfully managed until 2014.
Having retired from insurance broking, Peter now leverages his extensive knowledge and expertise as a consultant. He specialises in providing "in-house" advice to businesses, helping them navigate and optimise their insurance arrangements. Peter's consultancy services are invaluable in assisting businesses to make informed decisions and ensure their insurance needs are effectively met.
With his extensive background and ongoing dedication to the insurance industry, Peter brings valuable insights and guidance to his clients. His commitment to providing expert advice and personalised solutions has made him a trusted consultant in the field.
John Devaney
General Committee Member (Consumer Representative)
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John is a retired insurance broker concluding a career that lasted over fifty years in the general insurance industry. Approximately fifteen years were with insurance companies here and overseas with the remainder of his career working as an insurance broker. In both sectors he had management roles including ownership of his own broking firm. He’s witnessed and participated in insurance support efforts from catastrophic weather events particularly cyclones, commencing with Winifred in 1986. He served on the North Queensland community committee providing feedback to the ARPC’s roll out of the Cyclone & Related Flood reinsurance program as well as contributing a submission to the Senate Committee where he highlighted certain anomalies which in his view were and remain disadvantages to personal and small business consumers.
John is passionate about the principle purpose of ethical insurance being an essential financial tool in everyday life; that the many contribute to the losses of the unfortunate few – because any of us can fall into that “unfortunate” category at any time. In his retirement he hopes to spend more time with his family including eight grandsons and one great grandson. He is also an aspiring writer.
Carol Roberts
General Committee Member (Consumer Representative)
Master of Commerce (Professional Accounting), Fellow Institute of Public Accountants (FIPA), Graduate Australian Institute Company Directors (GAICD), Assoc Deg Commerce, Adv Diploma of Financial Planning
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Carol is now working part time in Business Consultancy, having owned companies from 1993 to 2018, that specialised in commercial and systems accounting, strategy and business turnaround. With financial planning qualifications, from 2013, specialising in the needs of Retirees and Pre-Retirees, Carol focused on helping them plan cash flow, preparing for a time when most of them would be on fixed incomes, and analysing options for downsizing. This brought the focus on legislation and consumer protection in ; Retirement Villages, Over 50s Communities and Strata. Retirees need to know that they are fully covered by transparent Insurance, as well as knowing that legislation, state and federal, covers them, as the consumer, in all downsizer options.
With 11 years in the Australian Regular Army from 1973 to 1984, the leadership and systems training provided Carol with the belief, that good people deserve a voice, and that processes don't change unless we collectively make them change.
That change includes volunteer teaching Financial Literacy for Seniors through U3A, and still studying a Masters of Financial Crime. Carol is passionate about;
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Consumer protections and scams that focus on over 60s,
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Transparency and governance, in all self regulated or unregulated businesses, that focus on seniors as their customer of choice ,plus
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Helping seniors make informed choice in their retirement years
With fur baby Billee and many great friends, we spend weekends exploring country towns and finding out-of-the-way 5 star restaurants.
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Carol is very excited to join and be an active committee member of Australian Consumer Insurance Lobby
CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY
Policy Purpose
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The purpose of this Conflict of Interest Policy is to ensure that the decisions and actions of the Australian Consumers Insurance Lobby Inc. ("ACIL") are conducted in an ethical, transparent, and unbiased manner. This policy is designed to prevent and manage conflicts of interest, ensuring all activities and decisions are made in the best interest of ACIL and its stakeholders.
ACIL is committed to attracting highly skilled professionals to serve on its board, recognising that individuals with a wealth of experience and expertise often have interests that could pose a conflict of interest. To navigate this complexity, ACIL has developed a conflict of interest policy that adopts a balanced approach. This policy is crafted to ensure that while the organisation benefits from the invaluable insights and skills of these distinguished board members, the interests of the consumers ACIL represents remain paramount. By carefully managing potential conflicts of interest, ACIL aims to harness the strengths of its board members, thereby enhancing its advocacy and service to consumers, without compromising on its principles and commitment to those it serves.
Definition of Conflict of Interest
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A conflict of interest arises when an individual's personal, professional, or financial interests or obligations outside of their duties to ACIL have the potential to influence or appear to influence their decisions, actions, or responsibilities within ACIL. Such conflicts can arise, for example, from holding directorships or owning shares in other businesses, where the individual may face obligations to act in the best interests of both ACIL and the other organisation, potentially compromising their impartiality and effectiveness.. Conflicts of interest can be actual, potential, or perceived and may involve any situation where an individual might gain personal benefit from their position in ACIL, or where their external affiliations or interests could compromise their judgment, objectivity, or loyalty to ACIL's mission and objectives.
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Scope
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This policy applies to all board members, committee members, employees, and volunteers ("members") of ACIL.
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Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest
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All members are required to disclose to the board any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest upon commencement of their role and on an annual basis thereafter.
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Additional disclosures must be made as soon as a new conflict of interest arises.
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Initial Review of Disclosures
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The board of ACIL will review all disclosed conflicts of interest and evaluate the significance of each conflict and decide on appropriate actions, which may include:
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Setting in place appropriate practices and guidelines for managing conflicts.
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Implementing a temporary period of increased monitoring and reporting for the conflicted member’s activities.
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Seeking advice from external financial, legal or ethical advisors to understand the implications of the conflict and potential actions.
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Communication with key stakeholders about the conflict and the steps being taken to manage the conflict.
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Recusal of the member from related decisions or activities.
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Divestment of the conflicting interest.
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In certain cases, resignation from their position within ACIL.
The board of ACIL must evaluate the potential risks and benefits associated with any conflict of interest, taking into account whether risks can be properly managed and assessing whether the conflict is advantageous to both ACIL and the consumers it represents.
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Risks of Conflicts of Interest
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Potential risks associated with conflict of interest include:
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Loss of Trust: Conflicts of interest, if not managed transparently and ethically, can lead to a loss of trust among consumers, members, and partners. This loss of trust can undermine the organisation’s credibility and effectiveness in advocacy efforts.
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Bias in Decision-Making: Conflicts can lead to decisions that are not in the best interest of the organisation or the consumers it represents. Decisions influenced by personal gain can skew the organisation’s priorities and actions away from its mission.
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Legal and Financial Repercussions: Failure to manage conflicts appropriately can result in legal challenges and financial penalties, especially if decisions influenced by conflicts lead to breaches of laws or regulations.
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Reputational Damage: The public revelation of poorly managed conflicts can cause significant reputational damage, making it difficult for the organisation to engage with stakeholders, attract funding, or influence policy.
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Internal Conflicts: Unaddressed conflicts of interest can lead to internal strife, reducing cohesion among board members and staff, potentially leading to a toxic work environment and decreased productivity.
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Benefits of Conflicts of Interest
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Potential benefits associated with conflict of interest include:
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Diverse Perspectives: Properly managed conflicts of interest can bring diverse perspectives to the board, offering insights into various facets of the insurance ad associated industries. This diversity can enrich decision-making processes, providing a broader understanding of issues and innovative solutions.
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Expertise and Experience: Members with conflicts might possess specialised knowledge or experience that can be invaluable to the organisation. Their insights into industry practices, challenges, trends and specific case studies can help the organisation in crafting more effective advocacy strategies.
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Networking and Relationships: Individuals involved in multiple aspects of the insurance industry can facilitate connections and relationships that might benefit the organisation. These networks can be leveraged for collaborations, partnerships, and access to information.
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Informed Advocacy: The firsthand experiences and knowledge of board members with industry ties can inform the organisation’s advocacy work, making it more nuanced and effective. Understanding the practical implications of policy changes from an industry perspective can help in crafting more realistic and achievable advocacy goals.
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Resource Optimisation: Leveraging the professional networks and resources of members with conflicts, under strict ethical guidelines, can lead to more efficient use of the organisation's resources. This might include access to research, data, or expertise that would otherwise be costly or difficult to obtain.
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Member Responsibilities in Conflict of Interest Situations
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In managing conflicts of interest, members who identify such conflicts are expected to adhere to the following actions to maintain the integrity and trust in the organisation's decision-making processes:
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Prompt Declaration of Conflicts: Members must immediately disclose to the board any conflicts of interest as soon as they arise, ensuring transparency and allowing for timely management of the conflict.
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Prioritise Organisational and Consumer Interests: Members are required to consistently prioritise the interests of ACIL and the consumers it represents over their personal interests, ensuring decisions are made for ACIL’s benefit rather than individual gain.
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Self-Recusal from Conflicted Decisions: Members should voluntarily step back from discussions, decision-making processes, and actions where their involvement could be deemed an unmanageable conflict, thus safeguarding the organisation’s integrity and decision-making objectivity.
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Avoid Influence: Members must avoid any attempt to influence the decision-making process related to the conflict, ensuring that discussions and resolutions are unbiased and in the organisation's best interest.
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Update Declarations: Members are expected to regularly update their conflict of interest declarations to reflect any changes in their personal, financial, or professional circumstances that might give rise to new conflicts.
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Seek Guidance When Uncertain: In situations where the appropriateness of participation in decision-making is unclear, members should seek guidance from the board, to ensure their actions align with organisational standards and policies.
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Ongoing Management of Conflicts by the Board
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In situations where a board member is allowed to continue participation in activities where a conflict exists, the board must actively manage and monitor the situation to ensure the integrity and trust in the organisation's processes. Specifically, the board should:
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Disclosure on ACIL Website: Display this Conflict of Interest Policy and disclosed conflicts of interest on the ACIL website, unless deemed inappropriate due to privacy, legal, or sensitivity considerations.
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Regular Disclosure and Review: Incorporating a dedicated agenda item for conflict of interest declarations in board meetings, enabling members to openly disclose and deliberate on any conflicts, as well as to reevaluate ongoing conflicts and the effectiveness of their management strategies.
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Consequences for Non-Compliance: Clearly outline the consequences for failing to adhere to the organisation's conflict of interest policy, including disciplinary actions or removal from board activities.
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Assess Impact on Decision-Making: Regularly review and assess if the conflicted member's actions or decisions are adversely affecting the organisation's commitment to its consumers. This includes evaluating if the member:
o Prioritises personal interests over the interests of the consumers ACIL represents.
o Inappropriately prioritises activities aligned with their interests over other organisational priorities more important to consumer welfare and ACIL. -
Establish Clear Guidelines for Recusal: Clearly define circumstances under which the conflicted member must recuse themselves from discussions, decision-making processes, and access to relevant information.
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Initiate Appropriate Action for Unmanageable Risks or Misconduct: In instances where a member's handling of conflicts is deemed inappropriate, or the conflict poses an untenable risk to ACIL that cannot be effectively managed, the board must take appropriate actions. This could range from implementing corrective measures and additional oversight to considering suspension or removal of the member from their position to protect the integrity and interests of the organisation.
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Reporting a Conflict of Interest Concern
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ACIL encourages transparency and accountability within its operations. To uphold these values, we welcome reports from anyone who identifies a potential conflict of interest in breach of this policy involving one of our members. If you have observed or are aware of a situation that may constitute a conflict of interest, we strongly urge you to come forward. Here’s how you can report your concern:
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Email Reporting: Send a detailed account of your concern to info@acilobby.org.au. Please include as much specific information as possible to assist in our assessment and subsequent investigation. The email will be received by Chairperson Tyrone Shandiman.
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Online Form Submission: Complete the form provided below with details of your concern. The form submission will go to consumer representative Committee Member Pam Farrell.
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Upon receipt of your report, the following steps will be taken:
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Initial Review: The concern will be preliminarily reviewed to ascertain the nature and seriousness of the reported conflict of interest.
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Board Discussion: The issue will be brought to the attention of the board for a comprehensive discussion. This ensures that all aspects of the concern are considered from a governance perspective.
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Action and Investigation: If deemed necessary, appropriate actions will be initiated. This may include a formal investigation to gather more information and assess the impact of the conflict.
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Response: We commit to responding to your concern, providing feedback on the outcomes of our review and any actions taken. Upon receiving your concern, we will provide a response timeframe within 7 days, taking into account factors such as the severity of the issue, scheduled board meetings, and the current workload of the board. Due to confidentiality and privacy considerations, some details of the actions may not be fully disclosed.
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Policy Purpose
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The purpose of this Conflict of Interest Policy is to ensure that the decisions and actions of the Australian Consumers Insurance Lobby Inc. ("ACIL") are conducted in an ethical, transparent, and unbiased manner. This policy is designed to prevent and manage conflicts of interest, ensuring all activities and decisions are made in the best interest of ACIL and its stakeholders.
ACIL is committed to attracting highly skilled professionals to serve on its board, recognising that individuals with a wealth of experience and expertise often have interests that could pose a conflict of interest. To navigate this complexity, ACIL has developed a conflict of interest policy that adopts a balanced approach. This policy is crafted to ensure that while the organisation benefits from the invaluable insights and skills of these distinguished board members, the interests of the consumers ACIL represents remain paramount. By carefully managing potential conflicts of interest, ACIL aims to harness the strengths of its board members, thereby enhancing its advocacy and service to consumers, without compromising on its principles and commitment to those it serves.
DISCLOSED CONFLICTS
​Tyrone Shandiman
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Managing Director & Shareholder of Shandit Pty Ltd T/as Strata Insurance Solutions an Authorised Representative (AR) of Insurance Advisernet Australia Pty Limited (IA)
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Director (Non-Practicing) & Shareholder of Benny & Alex Pty Ltd T/as Bayinsure an AR of IA
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Director (Non-Practicing) & Shareholder of Coverite Insurance Services Pty Ltd an AR of IA
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Director (Non-Practicing) & Shareholder of Best Legal Pty Ltd T/as Best Injury Lawyers
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Director (Non-Practicing) & Shareholder of Acctivate Business Accountants
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Owner of three Body Corporate Properties in QLD, including acting a secretary on the committee of one property.
Bradley Von Xanten
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Committee Member Unit Owner Association of QLD
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Owner & Committee Member of Five Body Corporate Properties in QLD
Eva Jones
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Employee of Shandit Pty Ltd T/as Strata Insurance Solutions an AR of IA
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Secretary of a body corporate building in Queensland.
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Peter Marer
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Managing Director & Shareholder of Our Insurance Manager
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John Devaney
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Owner of residential property in North Queensland
Carol Roberts
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Owner & Committee Member of a Body Corporate Property in QLD