Canberra’s insurance industry came together in force for the 2026 ACT Insurance Ball, an evening that delivered a meaningful funding boost to grassroots mental health organisation Running 4 Resilience.

This year’s ACT Insurance Ball – on May 1 at the Rex Hotel – didn’t just meet expectations, it elevated them with thanks to Platinum Sponsor Beneco and Gold Sponsor, QBE.

A powerful show of industry support has delivered a meaningful funding boost to grassroots mental health organisation Running For Resilience.

More than just a gala event, this year’s Ball placed a clear and deliberate focus on community impact – with the insurance industry rallying behind a cause that continues to resonate across workplaces, families, and local communities.

The evening raised $36,608.99 to support Running For Resilience’s initiatives, which are centred on early intervention, connection, and practical mental health support delivered at a local level.

Founded with a mission to create real, accessible change, Running For Resilience focuses on breaking down barriers to mental health support through community-driven programs and events. Their work is grounded in lived experience – an element that was felt strongly on the night.

Attendees heard firsthand from the founders and members of the community, with stories that brought a deeply human perspective to the issue of mental health. The impact was immediate and tangible, shifting the focus from awareness to action.

The funds raised will contribute directly to expanding local programs, enabling more individuals and families to access support in moments that matter most.

What stood out was not just the total raised, but the collective response from the industry – a clear signal that insurance professionals are increasingly engaged in the wellbeing of the communities they serve.

Events like the ACT Insurance Ball continue to demonstrate that when the industry aligns behind a shared purpose, the outcome extends far beyond the room.

The night was backed by Insurance Industry Leaders. The scale and success of the evening were made possible through the backing of major industry partners, led by Platinum Sponsor Beneco and Gold Sponsor QBE Insurance. Their support, alongside a strong network of Silver Sponsors (Moray & Agnew, Medilaw, MLCOA & McInnes Wilson Lawyers)and outstanding Bronze sponsors, enabled the event to deliver a premium experience while maintaining a clear focus on giving back.

Celebrating Excellence Across the Industry

At the heart of the evening sat the ACT Insurance Awards, an independent recognition community-led program celebrating individuals and organisations driving excellence across the insurance sector.

From commercial deal-making to technical risk advisory, leadership, and community contribution, this year’s winners represented the very best of the profession.

Key award highlights included:

• 2026 Deal Maker of the Year was awarded to Zoe Higgins, Iqumulate Premium Funding
• 2026 Risk Mitigator of the Year was awarded to Joseph Everdell, Moray & Agnew Lawyers
• 2026 Excellence in Leadership was awarded to Nick Symons of Suncorp Group
• 2026 Best Support Person of the Year was awarded to Carly Sharp of Guardian Exercise Rehabilitation Services
• 2026 Excellence in Claims was awarded to Heather Arnold of Suncorp Group
• 2026 Provider of the Year was awarded to Anthony Armati, Prudence Rehabilttion     
• 2026 Human Impact Award was awarded to Tim Cologon of EML
• 2026 Community Contribution & Engagement was awarded to Paul Eccles of PSC Insurance Brokers
• 2026 Insurance Leader of the Year was awarded to Craig Moorfoot, CGU
• Each category reflected a broader truth: the strength of the insurance industry lies not just in transactions, but in people, in expertise, integrity, and the commitment to serve clients and communities at the highest level.

Beyond the awards and fundraising, the ACT Insurance Ball continues to cement its position as a flagship industry event – one that blends professional recognition with genuine community impact. 

The atmosphere on the night reflected a shift in the industry: one that values collaboration over competition, purpose alongside performance, and connection as a driver of long-term success.

With record engagement, strong fundraising outcomes, and growing recognition across the national insurance landscape, the ACT Insurance Ball is no longer just a calendar event, it’s a platform. A platform to celebrate excellence. A platform to give back and a platform to shape the future of the profession.

runningforresilience.com

News all day, every day at CityNews.com.au.