At Guardian, we regularly talk about the importance of authenticity.
It’s a quality that isn’t found in an insurance policy or measured by technical expertise. It’s reflected in the way people show up for their clients, colleagues and community when they are needed most.
That’s one of the reasons we’re proud to share that Shannan Gardner, Client Relationship Manager at Guardian Insurance Brokers, has been named the 2026 National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) SA/NT Broker of the Year.
Presented by Australia’s peak body for insurance brokers, the award recognises professionals who demonstrate outstanding client outcomes, professional excellence and a commitment to the industry.
For those who know Shannan, the recognition feels particularly well deserved.
She is someone who genuinely cares about people. Whether she’s helping a client navigate a complex insurance matter, supporting a colleague, or volunteering her time through the State Emergency Service (SES), she brings the same level of commitment, professionalism and care to everything she does.
One story shared among colleagues speaks volumes about her character. During a severe storm event, Shannan spent hours assisting the community as an SES volunteer. Long after most people had headed home, she was still out helping others. The next morning, she was back in the office early, ready to support her clients.
It’s not something she talks about, and it certainly wasn’t done for recognition. It’s simply who she is.
That same approach has earned the trust of clients and the respect of peers throughout her career.
This year’s award is also a reflection of her perseverance. Shannan was previously recognised as a finalist for the SA/NT Broker of the Year Award, a significant achievement in itself given the calibre of insurance professionals considered. Rather than seeing that as the finish line, she continued to invest in her development, refine her craft and focus on delivering great outcomes for her clients.
Shannan will now represent South Australia and the Northern Territory at the national Broker of the Year Awards in October.
For Guardian, the recognition is about more than an individual achievement. It reflects the qualities that matter most in our profession, showing up, following through, putting people first and earning trust over time.
We’re incredibly proud of Shannan and the example she sets for our team, our clients and our industry.
Congratulations, Shannan, on this well-deserved recognition.