WELCOME TO
AVOCA
about avoca
Our company heart beat is “rewards with respect” which epitomises how we do business. We believe in integrity and trust above all and by focusing on servicing clients’ needs to the highest levels we know the rewards will come.
We believe in dealing with people the way we would like to be treated; such that what is best for you, our clients, will also be the best for us.
You will come to us as an unknown but go away as a trusted friend.
Our business philosophy is based on a triple bottom line agenda (economic, community and environmental) and we strive not only to make the business economically successful but also to contribute and put back into our community and to operate a business that is environmentally aware and friendly.
Our Purpose
Background
mEET THE aVOCA tEAM
Charlie Elders
Managing Director
The force behind the team.
Charlie founded Avoca in 2005 and has worked in the insurance broking industry for over 35 years. Completing a double major in Finance and Management, together with a number of insurance industry qualifications, he has experience both in the Australian and European markets.
He is reliable and committed to establish that the service provided to his clients is the very best, plus ensuring strong and enduring relationships are developed and trust is built.
Often starting his day on his bike or doing laps in a pool, Charlie lives a healthy lifestyle and loves to take his second wife, a 1977 red Porsche 911 out for a drive.
JIMMY GREHAN
SERVICE DELIVERY MANAGER
Jimmy, with 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, has been operating under his former company “Dynamic Risk Solutions Pty Ltd” under the Avoca license. After returning from Ireland to Australia in 2004, he gained significant knowledge in insurance for the mining and resources industry.
In 2012, he founded Dynamic Risk Solutions and has been working closely with Charles and Avoca for the past eight years. His dedication to excellence in service is unwavering, acknowledging the support of his clients in the business’s growth. Jimmy values the mentorship of Charles Elders and enjoys sports, especially rugby union, as well as spending quality time with his wife, Yoshie. He looks forward to collaborating with the Avoca family in his new role.
Mia-Carla Tree
Broking Operations Manager
A kid of the bush, the office problem solver and straight shooter Mia-Carla has been in the insurance industry since 2001. She knows you have a business to run, and will ensure no questions go unanswered!
Mia does not have the phrase “impossible” in her dictionary. Whatever is unknown, becomes an enchanting challenge for her.
In her spare time, you will find her in the Perth Hills, enjoying family life or in a hidden watering hole – talking about work-of-course! She never stops, and she absolutely loves what she does.
SHEENALI SLIPPER
Broker Development Services
ELAINE MCNICHOLAS
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Elaine moved to Australia to test the waters and loved it so much she now lives here with her family. She has been with the Avoca family since 2019 and says she is the hardworking and honest Irish girl that wants the best for everyone at work and at home.
She will hands down provide her clients with the best options!
When she is not looking after others, she likes to enjoy “me time” walking along the beach, sipping bubbles and camping with the family.
SHANE KEYSER
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Shane is has been working in the insurance industry for 20 years. He is “customer focused” and has a passion for ensuring clients get an excellent level of service and responses on claims which is when a client realises the true value of the insurance program they have purchased.
That takes a lot character and Shane has no shortage of that.
When he is not heading off to work, you will find him casually jogging or sweating his guts out outdoors, playing indoor cricket or spending time with his sons camping and 4wdriving.
Not forgetting he is an avid follower of the West Coast Eagles!
NICOLE BISHOP
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Nicole has been part of the insurance industry since 1997, starting in a family-run business where she learned the ropes, especially working with small to medium-sized enterprises (SME’s). Over the years, Nicole’s broadened her scope to manage clients of all sizes, from Corporate client’s to SMEs. Helping clients navigate insurance complexities has been rewarding, and Nicole is excited to keep providing tailored solutions and peace of mind.
During Nicole’s free moments, she loves embarking on adventures with her young family, discovering new destinations and delving into the joys of travel.
LOUISE SULLIVAN
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Following Louise’s emigration from Ireland to Australia in 2014, she spent 6 years with an international Insurance Broker where she obtained her Diploma of Insurance Broking.
Louise joined the Avoca team in May 2024. Her focus centres on servicing the needs of SME and Commercial Accounts.
In her free time, Louise loves to explore WA, including hiking and camping, and is always looking for suggestions to wander out yonder!
KYLIE ZOMER
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
With over 30 years in the industry, Kylie brings a wealth of experience and expertise as a qualified Commercial Broker. Her deep understanding of risk assessment and compliance allows her to provide clients with strategic, tailored solutions—whether they’re small businesses or large corporations. Known for her customer-first approach, Kylie goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive the best possible guidance and support.
Outside of work, Kylie swaps policies for quality time with her young adult daughters and catching up with friends.
SOPHIE HARVEY
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Melissa Scrivener
Account Executive
Melissa has worked in the insurance broking industry for 10 years and decided this was where her passion is. Melissa loves a challenge and finding the best options for her clients.
After years of playing netball, she is now involved in sports through her children, either as a coach, team manager or spectator.
Maryna Horn
Account Executive
As an active and sociable person, I thrive on adventure—whether it’s hitting the trails, cycling through new paths, or enjoying the serenity of the beach. When I’m not outdoors, you’ll find me tackling insurance challenges with the same energy and dedication.
With 17 years of experience in the Australian insurance industry, I’ve learned that great coverage starts with great relationships. I’m excited to be part of the Avoca team, ensuring clients feel as secure as a well-fastened seatbelt. As I embark on this next chapter of my career, I look forward to making every policy count and every client feel valued.”
Cath Haynes
Claims Manager
With 18 years of experience in the insurance industry across Auckland, Melbourne, and Perth, I’m excited to now be part of the Avoca family—and I’m here to make your claims experience as smooth and easy as possible!
As a true ANZAC, I’ve spent half my life soaking up the best of New Zealand and the other half enjoying the Aussie way of life. If there’s one thing I know, it’s how to balance the best of both worlds—whether it’s on the job or in my garden!
When I’m not simplifying the world of insurance, you’ll find me nurturing my green thumb or experimenting in the kitchen.
I’m also a book lover with an eclectic collection—my shelves are as diverse as my career journey.
These days, I’m a bit of a homebody, cherishing time with family, friends, and my four-legged companion, Spike, who always keeps me on my toes
JULIE POTTER
ASSISTANT ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE & CLAIMS
Julie has previously worked in real estate doing advertising and is our claims support hero. She makes sure our customers get fast and informative responses to their claims lodgements and queries.
When she is not dealing with copious amounts of paperwork in the office, she loves spending time with her family, especially Simba her cat!
Her wish is to take her boys to Bali, put her feet up and have a great time!
CAROLYN IDDLES
Accounts Administrator
Brace yourselves! With over 30 years of experience in the accounting sector, Carolyn is one of the oldest employees of the Avoca team. The gentle soul of the office, calm and collected, her commitment, flexibility and willingness to adapt are commendable.
Besides spending time in her natural habitat, the tennis court, Carolyn is often found on her yoga mat or busy cooking up a creative storm in her kitchen.
Her motto – If you haven’t got the correct ingredient use something that looks the same!
KRIS HACKETT
Office Administrator
Kris holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and in the past, has worked in senior positions as a loan officer and has been with Avoca ever since it was founded in 2005.
She spends way more time getting things done than she does chatting away with us in the office. She is very accurate with her work and pays attention to the finer details.
In her spare time she enjoys the beach, takes walks along the coast and loves holidaying on Rottnest Island with her family.
