Meet the Gardian Team

Ben Kerrisk

Director And Principal Of Gardian Real Estate

Ben Kerrisk, Director, Principal, and Sales Agent at Gardian Real Estate, has been with the business since 2013. Formerly a teacher, Ben transitioned into real estate, leveraging the extensive network he built through teaching and coaching rugby league.

"I love being given the opportunity to sell, in many cases, people’s most valuable asset.

“They would only let someone do this if they trusted them completely. It’s such a great feeling to have the absolute trust of another," Ben shares.

Ben’s journey with Gardian began through his long-standing connection with the Phillips family, whom he met in 1999 through the Brothers Football Club. Reflecting on the company's growth, Ben notes, "From humble beginnings as a Mortgage Choice franchise with a staff of only two, to now having over 60 staff and 6000 clients, it makes you realise that all the hard work was worth it."

He highlights the introduction of real estate to Gardian in 2013 as a significant milestone, marking his entry into the family.

Known for his calm and pragmatic approach, Ben’s specialties lie in maintaining composure and a positive outlook in both life and business. Gardian Real Estate, the largest division within the Gardian Group, employs nearly half of the entire staff. This makes Gardian one of the largest agencies in Mackay, offering clients a comprehensive package—from financing their property purchase to insuring their home and planning for future wealth.

Ben remains deeply connected to his community, continuing to volunteer at the Mackay Brothers Football Club. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family. Ben has been married to his wife, Caroline, for over 20 years, and they have three sons, with only one still at home. Their family also includes Ralph, their beloved dog.

Ben Phillips

Head Of Gardian Finance and Director of Gardian

Ben Phillips, Head of Gardian Finance and Director of Gardian, is driven by a passion for helping people and a love for the dynamic nature of his work.

"No day is the same, which I also love," Ben shares.

Since joining Mortgage Choice in 2006, Ben has seen Gardian Finance grow from a team of six to a bustling workforce of over 60.

“Seeing our business segments become a hub of vibrant and caring people and fostering a great culture driven by our six values—Family, Enjoyment, Leadership, Reliability, Balance, and Potential—has been incredibly rewarding,” he reflects.

Ben’s unique talent lies in his tenacity and positive outlook. He thrives on finding solutions and overcoming challenges.

"There is always a way no matter what," he asserts.

Leading Gardian's Finance arm, Ben is proud of his young, vibrant team and their commitment to efficiency. From home loans and car loans to business loans and asset finance, they ensure a stress-free experience for clients.

"We guarantee once we have all your information, we will get your deal assessed within 24 hours. This efficiency takes a lot of stress out of our client's experience, which is why we have such a huge percentage of return clients," Ben explains.

A fourth-generation Mackay local, Ben grew up at the Leichhardt Hotel, which used to be on the corner of River/Brisbane Street.  Before transitioning into finance, he spent 12 years as a sales rep in the electrical industry.

Outside of work, Ben enjoys watching rugby league, spending weekends with his family at Mackay's beautiful beaches, and enjoying the simple things in life. Married to his wife Rebecca, they have three daughters and two furry friends, Eddie the Cavoodle and Blakey Boy the Cockatiel. The couple are celebrating 20 years of marriage this year.

Nicole Geisler  

Financial Advisor

Nicole Geisler is a Financial Advisor at Gardian, where she has spent over a decade with the company. Growing up in Walkerston Nicole attended school in Mackay. Her work career started when she was in school at her first job in Woolworths and later at NQ Car and Truck Rentals. Nicole was then given the “wonderful opportunity” to work with Gardian Group.

Beginning in the Real Estate department, Nicole discovered her true passion within the Gardian Group, which was, Financial Planning.

“Helping people achieve their goals and retire comfortably is incredibly fulfilling to me.”

Nicole reflected on the company's growth over the past few years, saying she saw the business grow from around 20 staff members to over 60. Nicole expressed that the Gardian consistently offers ample opportunities for professional development.

“Personally, my most significant achievement has been progressing from a receptionist position eleven years ago to attaining my Masters in Financial Planning and becoming a Financial Planner.”

As a financial planner, Nicole takes pride in ensuring that everyone she works with is comprehensively covered in all aspects of their lives. Whether through reviewing their superannuation, creating a budget for purchasing their first home, or planning investments for their future, Nicole finds great fulfilment in guiding her clients through these important financial decisions.

Zac Thompson

Account Manager

Zac Thompson, Account Manager at Gardian Insurance Brokers, has been with the business for just over three years. Introduced to the opportunity by a longtime friend already in the industry, Zac was drawn to Gardian by the positive reputation of the team. His passion for the role stems from the dynamic nature of insurance broking, allowing him to learn about a diverse range of industries, from mining to construction to transport.

"I love assisting clients from all over Australia with their unique insurance programs," Zac says.

Zac's milestones include transitioning from domestic insurance to assisting with commercial accounts within his first six months, and more recently, becoming an Account Manager with his own portfolio of clients.

"Managing my own portfolio is something I’m extremely proud of," he adds.

Zac’s specialties include maintaining a positive and calm attitude, even when faced with challenging situations. He prides himself on his excellent memory, which he describes as almost photographic, enabling him to quickly recall information and assist his team efficiently.

In his role, Zac works as an intermediary between insurers and consumers, always prioritising the consumer's needs.

“We can assist in procuring insurance products that our clients require to protect their assets and liabilities / risk exposures, whilst providing wholesale advice around these different products we work with.”

A lifelong resident of Mackay, Zac completed Year 12 at St. Pats in 2017 and had a brief stint at the University of the Sunshine Coast before returning to Mackay in 2019. Outside of work, Zac is a sports fanatic, avidly following rugby league, cricket, basketball, and football.

Zac and his partner, Emma, share a home with their Kelpie x Border Collie, Spec.

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