Steve James

Steve James 0448 872 055

As the founder of Astute Townsville Central, (previously Landy James Finance) I believe in providing personal service and individual financial solutions to all of our customers.

Previously I have worked for the Commonwealth Bank for 12 years, gaining extensive knowledge in Personal Finance, Small Business Finance, Corporate Finance and Agribusiness.

In 2005 I left CBA and formed the successful business, known then as Landy James Finance, with Ernie Landy. Since then the business has grown, now incorporating all aspects of finance, insurance and wealth.

Our evolving services called for a revamp in the business, in 2014 Landy James Finance was rebranded to Astute. Still holding the same values of honesty, integrity and customer service which we have built our reputation on.

With 20 years of experience in the banking and finance industry, I have an extensive knowledge of Bank Lending policies and have built a network of business advisors and client advocates.

Being self-employed and having a number of staff, I have first hand experience in the day to day challenges facing small business owners and can better provide real world solutions to their finance requirements.

Personally, I enjoy spending time with my two sons, playing and watching sport, keeping fit and active and greatly enjoy the outdoors.

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Chris Denyer

Chris Denyer 07 4728 8618

(AR 345060)

Experienced Wealth Adviser and Debt Specialist. Passionate advocate for educating and empowering people who are seeking healthy balanced lives, including financial health and certainty. Chris is a specialist advisers to the Medical Profession and High Net Worth investors.

Imagine a life of abundance, debt free, healthy and happy…. “Save now, for tomorrow”.

This can be achieved with the right wisdom and fundamentals in place. We can help you implement innovative solutions to achieve your desired outcomes in life.

I am a qualified Financial Planner with over 20 years’ experience, specialising in Debt Reduction & Cash Flow Management, Self-Managed Super Funds, wealth creation and investment and protection advice. Our focus is on providing financial certainty and positive outcomes for our clients, through leadership, education and mentoring. Proactively managing behaviours and changing the issues we experience in our financial lives is where we believe “Financial health” starts.

We are committed to helping our clients achieve their lifestyle of choice. We maintain strong corporate and strategic relationships across the finance and professional services sector, ensuring our clients overall needs and goals are met and exceeded.

Astute Insurance & Wealth Townsville boasts a culture of shared strategic values that relate directly to our clients; integrity, honesty, respect, excellence, and a tenacious commitment to providing the best outcome for our clients. Contact me directly on 07 4728 8618.

Specialties:
Debt Reduction & Cash Flow Management | Investment | SMSF | Retirement Planning | Asset Protection & Trust Structure | Estate Planning | Private Banking & Finance Solutions | Accounting & Taxation Services

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Denise Jarvis

Denise Jarvis 0402 867 225

Although born in Ayr, I consider myself a Townsville girl, having moved here when I was five.  I am part of a large family and grew up in Townsville, attending Holy Spirit Primary School and then going onto Saint Margaret Mary’s in High School.  I started my banking career in 2003 at Defence Force Credit Union and haven’t looked back.   I have over 12 years’ experience in the finance industry, having worked at the Commonwealth Bank and Railways Credit Union in Brisbane before moving back to Townsville in 2012.  This was when I started working at Astute Townsville Central (formerly Landy James) and realised my passion for lending and became accredited as a Mortgage Broker.

As a Finance Broker, I have access to a number of banks, which means I am able to find the best product to fit my client’s needs.  Having worked in the banks on the ground level I understand the frustrations customers face, and therefore I aim to give my customers a different experience and make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.  I aim to build enduring relationships with my clients that last well beyond the settlement date.  I not only guide my clients throughout the whole process but provide exceptional after service care.

When you choose to use me as your Broker you are getting a “One Stop Shop”.  I can help with Home Loans, Investment Loans, Commercial Loans, Car Loans, Equipment Finance and Personal Loans, as well as recommend a fantastic Financial Planner, and give recommendations for other services you may require when it comes to your finance needs.

Personally, I enjoy staying active and healthy, playing Oztag and going to the gym.  I am also a Mum of two beautiful kids, as well as our cheeky dog.

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Renee Ashelford

Renee Ashelford 0424 757 262

I have been involved in the Financial Services Industry for the past 16 years. During my first 10 years I worked with Financial Planners in various firms between Townsville & Brisbane. After working in Financial Planning, I was able to appreciate the various options a Planner was able to offer their clients.

In February 2012 I was given an opportunity to work as a Mortgage Broker. As a Mortgage Broker I am able to assist my clients to understand their finances with my extensive knowledge in home loans and by having access to an extensive panel of lenders.

I personally can understand how complex and stressful the home loan process can be so I believe that by providing my clients with a high level of customer service this will allow for those pressures to be taken away. Whether you are purchasing, looking to renovate a home, transferring or refinancing an existing mortgage, my role as your broker is to find the most suitable lender/product according to your personal situation.

I am looking forward to being able to continue providing exceptional service to my existing clients, as well as any new clients that I have the privilege to work with.

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Lisa Cody

Lisa Cody 0400 958 935

I moved from New Zealand in 2010 where I had been a successful Real Estate Salesperson for 15 years. I joined the banking Industry and after 6 years’ in banking/lending, I made the decision to move into Mortgage Broking as it gives me access to over 25 lenders, which can result in more successful outcomes for my clients.

I have a passion for housing and home finance and being part of the home buying journey from start to settlement date and then beyond. I myself have bought and sold several properties over the years and know how frustrating and stressful the process can be, which is why providing that genuine care factor and high-level customer service, with a friendly approach is very important to me. I feel that communication along the journey is the key to ensuring the process is smooth and enjoyable

I love meeting people and I’m always ready for a coffee and a chat. When I’m not working, I love to go fishing and particularly trout fishing which I have been doing for around 20 years. I love cricket, rugby union and league, being in or around the water and socialising and relaxing with my partner, friends and family over a glass of wine. I recently became a grandma for the first time and have discovered a whole new love and I try to get to see him as much as possible.

I look forward to working with you whether you’re a new or existing client – buying your first home, your next home, an investment property or just wanting to renovate.

Call me for a chat to discuss your lending needs.

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Rachel Downey

Rachel Downey 0498 800 061

As a finance broker I am driven by a passion for helping people achieve their financial goals and make their dreams a reality. As someone with a love for travel, motor sports, family, and friends (including the furry kind), I understand the importance of having the financial freedom to pursue your passions and enjoy life to the fullest.

My expertise extends to a wide range of financial products, including commercial lending, mortgages, and equipment finance. Whether my clients are looking to start a business, purchase a home, invest, or simply take your family on a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I am always willing to go the extra mile to ensure their financial success.

I am dedicated to building long-term relationships, based on trust and open communication. I understand that finance can be a daunting and stressful undertaking for many people, which is why I work hard to ensure that my clients feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the process.

Overall, my unique blend of interests and experiences make me a well-rounded and effective finance broker. I am confident in my ability to provide tailored, accurate, and trustworthy financial options to my clients. Let’s work together to achieve your financial goals while also enjoying the things we love in life!”

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Rebecca Groves

Rebecca Groves 07 4728 8618

I work as Home Loan Support for Astute Townsville Central and have lived in Townsville since I was six, moving here from Kilmore Victoria. After leaving school I ventured into hospitality where I discovered my love for customer service. After being in the hospitality industry for a few years I decided that it was time for a change, which is how I entered into the motor vehicle finance industry. I started in administration completing my Cert IV in Credit Management, moving through the company ending up as a development coordinator with the knowledge and experience I gained over 6 years working for the company.

Still enjoying being in the finance industry, I wanted to learn more. I am now lucky enough to become a part of the Astute family allowing me to join the team in Home Loans.
My goal is to make purchasing your home an enjoyable process, I hope to achieve this by providing excellent customer service making it a smooth process. It brings me great joy to work one on one with the customers and see them make dreams come true by purchasing their home.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family, going on road trips, watching or playing basketball and reading a good book.

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Allison Goldsmith

Allison Goldsmith 07 4728 8618

I grew up in Townsville up until I was 13.  I then moved around Australia for 5 years due to my dad being in the Army and moved back to Townsville in 2015.

I began my journey with Astute Townsville Central as the Office Receptionist.  During my role as the receptionist, I was able to learn and help with the Equipment Loans and Commercial Loans.

This helped build my confidence and I was then given the opportunity to take on the role as the Equipment & Commercial Loans Support Specialist.  I have thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the finance industry and getting to know our customers better.

I have always worked in the Customer Service Industry and for the past 10 years have had the opportunity to learn as a supervisor and helping manage different departments.  I believe this has helped me in my current role and I am eager to continue learning and helping customers in the finance industry.

I love spending time with my son and my family in my spare time.

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Taleisha Perfect

Taleisha Perfect 07 4728 8618

I am Townsville born and bred and my journey here at Astute Townsville started when I was referred to the team to speak about a personal loan for a new car. After losing my position as a travel consultant due to the pandemic, to my surprise I was offered a position here as the Astute Townsville Office Manager. I am the first and last happy face clients will see during their finance journey and I love being able to see not only the joy in their faces but also know the process and work that goes behind the scenes to make it all happen. I am here to help all things in the office run smoothly, a bit of a jack of all trades.

I cannot thank the team at Astute Townsville enough for giving me this opportunity and pulling me from the “Couch and Netflix” state I became during this uncertain time. I never expected to be in this position and have taken a hold of the opportunity with two firm hands. I look forward to being able to expand my knowledge within the finance industry, help clients through the progression of their finance and help this incredible team thrive as the back bone of the office.

Outside of work, my partner and I love to keep busy and active, we have 2 beautiful large dogs and one very mischievous 3-legged cat who definitely keep us on our toes. I love to travel, just ask me I’ll always be planning that next adventure. When life actually slows down you’ll catch me appreciating a snuggle on the couch to a movie, a book or I love a bit of colouring in.

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Tammy Gray

Tammy Gray 07 4728 8618

Although I grew up in Townsville, I have spent many years moving between Qld and WA. When the time came to put down roots, Townsville was the natural choice.

I met the team at Astute not long after our move back to Townsville when we were looking to purchase another property. A few years later, I was looking for a career change when I was offered the position of receptionist at Astute. Coming from a retail background, I love meeting new people and being able to help them when I can. I am enjoying the new challenges and learning about the finance industry.

On my days off, you will find me either watching my son play sport, relaxing at home with my family or out having adventures with our friends.”

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