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Cathy Stewart
Senior Accountant at SBG Acountants and Business Advisors
Professional Background
Cathy Stewart is a dedicated accounting professional who has made a significant impact in the field of public accounting over her 17-year career. Currently serving as a Senior Accountant at Sbg Accountants and Business Advisors, Cathy specializes in accounting and taxation, particularly focusing on small businesses and tax clients. Known for her proactive approach, she not only assists clients with compliance obligations but also goes the extra mile by visiting them at their places of business. These visits allow her to gain a deeper understanding of their operations and management needs, fostering a more open and relaxed atmosphere for discussions. This unique strategy has enabled Cathy to build strong relationships with her clients, who often express gratitude for the extra effort she puts into understanding their business environments.
In addition to her core responsibilities, Cathy plays a crucial role in managing the ASIC requirements for the firm’s extensive client base, ensuring that obligations are met with precision and quality compliance. Her ability to tackle the complexities of accounting and taxation with enthusiasm and dedication positions her as a valuable asset to her team and clients alike.
Education and Achievements
Cathy's educational foundation in accounting is impressive. She completed her schooling at Penleigh And Essendon Grammar School, where she developed a strong work ethic and a penchant for analytical thinking. Pursuing her passion for business, she earned a Bachelor of Business with a specialization in Accounting from Victoria University. This academic background, combined with practical experience, laid the groundwork for her certification as a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA), a designation that reflects her professionalism and commitment to the accounting industry.
Cathy’s career trajectory is marked by significant positions that have enriched her skills and knowledge. Before her current role at Sbg Accountants and Business Advisors, she served as an Accountant at both Jeffkins and Read and Peter Jess and Associates. Each experience contributed to her deep understanding of compliance and taxation needs across various industries, further solidifying her reputation as an expert in the field.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Cathy has achieved numerous milestones that underscore her expertise in accounting and client management. Her unique approach to client interactions—primarily through on-site visits—has not only helped her understand their individual needs but has also fostered long-lasting relationships built on trust and reliability. Cathy is particularly skilled in recommending proactive strategies that align with her clients' compliance obligations and wealth creation goals, ensuring they navigate their financial landscape effectively.
Cathy’s commitment to her clients extends beyond mere compliance; she firmly believes that successful accounting is about forming a partnership with clients to achieve tangible results. This philosophy drives her to consistently expand her knowledge of systems and processes, making her an invaluable resource for clients looking to grow their businesses. Her knack for utilizing tools such as MYOB and Cashflow Manager further enhances her ability to streamline her clients' accounting systems, ensuring they remain efficient and compliant at all times.
In her role, Cathy is also adept at managing the intricacies of ASIC requirements, which are essential in maintaining the integrity and compliance of her clients' businesses. This aspect of her work highlights her attention to detail and commitment to quality service, characteristics that set her apart in the accounting profession.
Family Life & Hobbies
Outside of her professional achievements, Cathy enjoys a rich family life filled with adventure and chaos typical of having an active family. Together with her husband, Brett, she cherishes the time spent with their two children, Mitchell and Darcy, nurturing a supportive environment that enables their personal growth and family bonding.
In her leisure time, Cathy finds joy in gardening—a passion that allows her to connect with nature and unwind after a busy week. Additionally, she enjoys walking, an activity that complements her love for maintaining an active lifestyle. As a unique personal interest, Cathy is also involved in harness racing, an exhilarating pastime that reflects her excitement for competition and desire to try new experiences.
Cathy Stewart’s journey in the field of accounting is defined by her dedication to her clients, her proactive approach to problem-solving, and her commitment to professional excellence. Her blend of educational achievement, hands-on experience, and a strong commitment to community and family illustrates the dynamic role she plays both in her career and personal life.
