The Australian Accounting Awards recognises excellence across the entire accounting industry, and showcases individuals and firms which are leading the way in the industry.

Katrina has over 26 years experience in the Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) and accounting industry. She started Elite Super, an SMSF audit company, 15 years ago and has offices in Kempsey and Coffs Harbour.

The company is now in the top 20 firms in Australia and has a commendation from the ATO stating the firm is in the top 10 of the top 100 SMSF audit firms in the country.

Katrina has been a finalist in the Australian Accounting Awards before, but this is the first time she has come away with the top award.

"You're nominated by your peers so it's really nice to see they think I'm doing great work in the industry," Katrina said.

"It's really amazing to be recognised for the work that you do."

Due to COVID-19 restrictions the awards night was held virtually via Zoom this year.

"Usually there would be an awards night in Sydney, but this year they had to do things differently," Katrina said.

"I didn't think there was any chance that I would get it, I was up against some of the best in the industry. I almost wasn't going to join the Zoom meeting.

"It's pretty special because I've been nominated before, but to take out the top award is just the icing on the cake for me."

Katrina is also an Australian Securities and Investments Commission registered SMSF auditor, she has recently started to run SMSF audit training, she is also the chair of the Northern Region NSW SMSF Association local chapter and sits on the SMSF Auditors professional Association Stakeholders group with the ATO.

"It really is a wonderful feeling to be rewarded and recognised for my work," Katrina said.