John Carroll
Practice Manager
B.IT – PG Cert FP
John is a Mackay local whose first introduction to management and business was in several Mackay hotels. He then spent over 12 years working in the family business, John Carroll Retravision before leaving to pursue an interest in finance.
John joined the FitzWealth Team in 2008. His first role was to establish and grow FitzWealth’s Financial Planning arm and on achieving that goal moved on to be responsible for the overall management and forward planning within the firm.
John stepped aside as director and owner of FitzWealth in 2023 but continues in his role as practice manager. He is a strong believer in creating processes and reporting within a business to enable the management and staff to work and communicate more efficiently and therefore more profitably.
John has a Bachelor of Information Technology, and a Post Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning. He is happily settled in Mackay where he lives with his wife Veronica and their four children.
Sarah Jacobs
Paraplanner
DIP FP
Sarah has been a valued member of the FitzWealth team since February 2017, where she started as a Financial Planning Assistant and completed further study (Diploma of Financial Planning) to move into the role of a Paraplanner in April 2021.
Sarah is still currently working in the specialised role as a Paraplanner, where she ensures that the advice provided by our Financial Planners is documented and delivered to our clients in a compliant and understandable manner. She also oversees the implementation of the advice and client communication. Sarah has experience and understanding of both the Financial Planning Industry and FitzWealth’s valued clients.
Sarah enjoys the forever changing dynamics of the financial world and continuously learning, she also loves the organised and fast paced environment that FitzWealth has to offer.
In her spare time, Sarah is working towards attaining a Bachelor of Business (majoring in Financial Planning) to further extend her knowledge in the Financial Planning industry.
Ashleigh Morris
Operations Manager
DIP FP, Cert IV Bus Admin
Ashleigh has worked in the financial planning industry alongside our senior planner and director Derek Fitzgerald, since 2006. She holds a Certificate 4 in Business Administration and a Diploma in Financial Planning and is well versed in the administrative complexities of the Financial Advisory world. Ashleigh’s role includes assisting clients in their day to day interactions and implementing the advice provided by FitzWealth. She enjoys the challenging fast paced environment of FitzWealth and lives in Mackay with her husband Todd and two children.
Tani Trevethan
Client Manager
Adv Dip FP
Tani has always had an interest in Finance and a passion for helping people. She has been an important member of the Financial Planning team since June 2020. With over 10 years real-world admin experience, she utilises her strong administration and people skills to get the best results for FitzWealth’s clients.
Tani completed study (Advanced Diploma in Paraplanning) to further her knowledge of the industry and moved into the role of Paraplanner in January 2024. She enjoys the diverse nature of the financial planning industry and the satisfaction of overseeing clients from strategizing with our Advisers to implementation of advice and ongoing review to aide in achieving their goals.
Tani spends her time home renovating and enjoys the outdoors with her young family.
Cristal Jackson
Financial Planning Assistant
DIP FP, Cert IV Bus Admin
Cristal brings over 8 years of experience in administrative support within the financial planning industry. Cristal is recognised for her professionalism, reliability, and commitment to providing exceptional client service. Her bright, bubbly personality brings a refreshing energy to the workplace and her warm and approachable demeanour contributes positively to both client relationships & team dynamics, making her a valued member of the team. Born in Mackay, Cristal has raised her two adult children in the area and enjoys spending quality time with her family & husband. Whether it’s fishing, camping, or relaxing on their property, Cristal embraces the outdoors and the simple joys of life.
Robyn Sweeney
Financial Planning Assistant
Robyn started her working career with a 16-year stint at the CBA, and a further 7 years working for Armaguard before a “sea-change” as a chiropractic assistant. Returning to the finance industry in 2011 she enjoys providing efficient and friendly administrative support for the clients and staff. Her main role at FitzWealth is processing the various forms and changes required after clients meet with their adviser.
A born-and-bred Queenslander, she has lived in this area since 1991 and resides on small acreage with her husband. An active member of the Qld Mud Trials Association based in Sarina, other free time is spent caravanning and enjoying the highs and lows of being a Cowboys supporter.
Erin Linnett
Financial Planning Assistant
Erin is a valued member of our administration team, bringing strong experience and a supportive approach to her role. Before joining us, she worked as a Hotel Manager in Townsville and later spent five years living in the UK. She has since settled in Hay Point with her husband and their two children, embracing the region’s relaxed lifestyle.
Outside of work, Erin enjoys spending time outdoors and loves camping, fishing, and watching the local footy with her family supporting the Sarina Crocodiles and North Queensland Cowboys.
Leona Inch
Admininstration Officer
Leona is the newest member of our team and brings a warm, approachable presence to the front office. With a diverse professional background spanning various roles and industries, she offers a wealth of experience and adaptability that enhances our workplace culture. Known for her reliability, honesty, and commitment to excellence, Leona consistently upholds high standards in all aspects of her work. Her professionalism and strong interpersonal skills make her a valued point of contact for both clients and colleagues.
Leona takes pride in creating a welcoming and efficient front-office environment, contributing to the smooth day-to-day operations of the business. Her approachable nature and proactive attitude ensure that everyone who interacts with her feels respected and well supported.
Beyond her professional life, Leona is a devoted family woman. She is often found enthusiastically cheering on her children and grandchildren at various sporting events, proudly fulfilling her role as their number one supporter. In her spare time, she enjoys listening to music, exploring new dining experiences, and spending quality time with her partner and their extended families.
Louise Basham
Administration Officer
With a extensive administration experience reaching from Far North Qld to Far West Qld. Mackay has been home close to 20 years. My role at FitzWealth ensures the office runs efficiently and that our clients receive friendly, professional support every step of the way. I enjoy being part of an environment that’s dedicated to helping people feel confident about their financial future. I have enjoyed working with the FitzWealth team for many years. I've obtained my Certificate IV in Financial Services and have been Appointed a Commissioner of Declarations. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family including the four legged one's and exploring the beautiful region we’re lucky to call home.
Tahlia Dennis
Financial Planning Assistant
Adv Dip FP
Tahlia relocated from the Sunshine Coast to Mackay in 2024 and has quickly settled into the local community. She is currently studying an Advanced Diploma of Paraplanning, reflecting her commitment to developing a strong foundation in the financial services industry. In her role as a Financial Planning Assistant, Tahlia provides dedicated support to advisers and clients, ensuring a high standard of accuracy, efficiency, and client care. Outside of work and study, she enjoys spending her free time with her partner and their dog, making the most of Mackay’s relaxed and welcoming lifestyle.
Lilijana Newman
Financial Planning Assistant
Lili is a friendly and dedicated Financial Planning Assistant, with a strong background in administration she brings her organisational skills and attention to detail to support advisers, the team, and our clients effectively. Known for her reliability, strong communication skills, and client-first approach, she is a valued team member who consistently contributes to positive client outcomes. Outside of the office, she enjoys camping and exploring the outdoors with her partner and their dog, Arlo.
Chelsea Bowyer
Financial Planning Assistant
With a diverse background in the retail and mining industries and over four years of administrative experience, Chelsea brings a strong work ethic and versatile skill set to her role. She began with the firm as a receptionist, demonstrating the initiative and professionalism that led to her progression into a specialised role in Financial Planning Administration. Known for her high-quality support, positive attitude, and diligence, Chelsea is a valued member of the team. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, seeking new adventures, and spending time with her friends, family, and her dog, Moose.
Stacey Faulkner
Financial Planning Assistant
Stacey started her working life in the Financial Planning industry followed by a few years in both Construction and Mining and after a short break to start a family, returned to Financial Planning with us in 2016. She has worked mostly in Administration, Accounts and Office Management Roles in the various industries and loves the Financial Planning industry for the reward of helping people achieve their goals and specifically the challenge of guiding and assisting our clients with all things Centrelink. Stacey enjoys her time away from the office with her husband Dave and their two children at sporting events, renovating their home and spending time in the great outdoors.
Georgia Mitchell
Financial Planning Assistant
Georgia plays a key role in processing client applications efficiently. Originally from New South Wales, she’s brought her bubbly personality and strong work ethic to the team. Outside the office, Georgia loves spending quality time with her daughter, partner, and their beloved dog.
Amy McGarity
Client Manager
Amy migrated to Mackay from the Coalfields in December 2021 and started at FitzWealth as a Financial Planning Assistant in May 2022. Amy’s previous 15-years’ experience as a Dispensary Technician / Pharmacy Retail Manager created a solid foundation in building relationships and client communication which has been a valued skill in ensuring our clients feel at ease.
Amy is currently working as a Client Manager where she oversees the management of our valued FitzWealth clients, including but not limited to; ensuring your regular reviews are extensively prepared, client communication and monitoring the implementation of advice. She is also currently completing an Advanced Diploma of Paraplanning to further her knowledge in the Financial Planning industry.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys spending quality time with her family and supporting her two children at their team sporting events.
Chris Place
Financial Planning Assistant
DIP FP
Chris Place is a proud Mackay local husband and father of three, deeply committed to both his family and his professional growth. After earning a bachelor’s degree from James Cook University in 2017, Chris has continued to pursue excellence through further studies at Central Queensland University, where he is currently undertaking a dual degree in Bachelor of Accounting and Bachelor of Business, majoring in Financial Planning. With a strong foundation in taxation and a passion for helping others achieve their goals, Chris brings dedication, insight, and a community-focused approach to his role.
Maddison Bailey
Financial Planning Assistant
Maddi is a local having grown up in a small country town just outside of Mackay she completed her schooling in the region and gained experience working in the local community before joining the FitzWealth team in 2022.
Maddi has enjoyed learning how the finance industry operates and assisting the paraplanners and advisers in creating a smooth administration experience for clients.
After taking a recent break to welcome their first daughter she has settled back into the team in a part time role where she brings a calm, solutions-focused approach to helping the team.
Outside of work, Maddi and her family recently purchased a block of land, where they’re in the process of building their new home. She’s enjoying this new chapter of motherhood and rural living and brings warmth and perspective to both her personal and professional life