Paul’s professional life has been built around service to others. He dedicated ten years to the Mater Foundation and four years as the head of Hummingbird House, a children’s hospice. Through these roles, Paul raised awareness and funds for numerous medical causes, positively impacting many lives. With the Mater Foundation, he coordinated and led international treks, focusing on raising both awareness and financial support for critical health conditions.
However, during one such trek along Spain’s renowned El Camino trail, Paul’s journey took a dramatic and life-altering turn. While leading a group of fundraisers, he developed cellulitis—a condition he was predisposed to and that had previously triggered sepsis. His condition deteriorated rapidly, and he found himself hospitalised in Madrid. A combination of language barriers and inadequate treatment delayed his treatment, leaving him facing the grim prospect of losing his leg and, potentially, his life. Despite these harrowing circumstances, Paul survived and was able to keep his leg.
In 2024, Paul was nominated for a community and client service award through his work in the insurance industry. This recognition presented an opportunity for him to give back in a deeply personal way. Tasked with choosing a charity to receive the award winnings, Paul selected an organisation dedicated to helping individuals who, like himself, have battled and survived sepsis.
Paul was honoured with the prestigious 2024 National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) Community Excellence Member of the Year Award. This accolade celebrates industry professionals who go above and beyond their roles, giving back to the community and assisting clients in meaningful ways. As part of this honor, a $3,000 donation was made to Sepsis Australia by NIBA and Liberty Specialty Markets, in line with Paul’s wishes.
Sepsis Australia is incredibly grateful for Paul’s generosity and commitment to raising awareness about sepsis. The donation will contribute significantly to their ongoing efforts in research and education, helping to improve outcomes for those affected by this life-threatening condition The funds support Sepsis Australia’s vital work in research and education, helping to raise awareness and improve understanding of sepsis within the community.