Shelby Emblem CA – Partner

Shelby Emblem is a Chartered Accountant with a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in accounting. She began her career in 2013 and joined Pinnacle Partners in 2017, where she has steadily advanced through the ranks, recently becoming a Partner.

With a deep understanding of business operations and financial strategy, Shelby brings more than just technical expertise — she is passionate about helping clients achieve sustainable growth. Her approach goes beyond traditional accounting, focusing on strategic advice, tailored planning, and identifying opportunities that drive long-term success.

Shelby works closely with a broad range of clients, from small businesses to established enterprises, building strong relationships through clear communication and practical guidance.

Outside the office, Shelby enjoys travelling, spending time at her favourite local beach spots, and hanging out with her beloved Labrador pup.

Cris Dula CPA – Senior Associate

Cris began her career in public practice in 2006 and has been a valued member of Pinnacle Partners since early 2013. She holds a Bachelor of Business from Griffith University and is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA). With over ten years of professional experience, Cris specialises in assisting clients with taxation, financial compliance, and has a strong focus on Self-Managed Superannuation Funds.

Fluent in Tagalog and proud of her Philippine heritage, Cris is able to provide business advice and services to Filipino expatriates. Known for her warm and approachable nature, she is always smiling in the office and enjoys spending her time outside of work with family and friends.

Renata O’Reilly CPA – Senior Accountant

Renata joined the Pinnacle Partners team in 2017 and has since built a reputation for helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of tax and accounting with precision and care. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business, during which she received an Award of Excellence for her academic achievements. Renata further distinguished herself by completing her CPA qualification with High Distinction, reflecting her commitment to professional excellence.
Renata’s empathetic approach enables her to understand and address diverse client needs. She is passionate about creating meaningful financial solutions and takes pride in helping clients achieve their goals with clarity and confidence.
Outside of work, Renata prioritises a healthy and balanced lifestyle. She enjoys gym workouts, embraces clean eating, and finds relaxation and inspiration in her garden, where she spends her free time nurturing its growth.

Yi Yang CPA – Accountant

Growing up in China, Yi quickly came to understand her aptitude of mathematics as she excelled amongst her peers. Seeking to master this newfound adroitness, Yi travelled to Australia to study a dual Bachelor’s degree of Science and Commerce – majoring in mathematics and accounting. Yi enhanced her expertise working both in China and Sydney as she completed her CPA qualifications, before finally settling on the sunny Gold Coast in 2016. Her ability to fluently communicate in Mandarin has significant amplified our ability to facilitate engagements with foreign clientele.
With a keen eye for detail, Yi often spends her free time crafting quality leather accessories and goods.

Alister Timbs CA – Accountant

Alister graduated from the Australian National University with a Bachelor of Commerce and went on to spend over 10 years in public practice in Canberra. There he gained extensive experience working with government consultants and other specialists, as well as managing the taxation of personal investments. After moving north for warmer climes, Alister has worked with clients in Brisbane and Mackay before finally settling on the Gold Coast. Since recently joining our team, he has specialised in the taxation of various clients and their superannuation funds.

Candice Russell – Accountant

Candice Russell has been employed with us since 2019 as an Accountant and is a valued part of our team. She comes with over 20 years experience with company accounting and has an excellent knowledge of bookkeeping.

Candice has lived on the Gold Coast all of her life and outside of the office she enjoys giving back to her community and spending time with her family.

Lauren du Rand – Accountant Assistant

Lauren is our dedicated Assistant Accountant who joined the team in October 2022. Having completed her Certificate IV in Bookkeeping and Accounting, she brings strong technical knowledge and a commitment to supporting both our team and clients with accuracy and efficiency. With a solid background in customer service, Lauren ensures smooth operations while helping deliver exceptional client experiences.

Outside of work, she enjoys playing tennis, planning getaways, diving into a good book, and cherishing quality time with family and friends.

Tori O’Connor – Client Services Administrator

Tori is one of our valued Client Services Administrators, bringing a strong passion for numbers and a genuine commitment to delivering exceptional client service. Having completed her Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping, Tori continues to build on her technical knowledge while supporting both our team and clients with efficiency and care.

She plays a key role in managing client communications, coordinating appointments, and ensuring processes run smoothly behind the scenes. With her organised approach and friendly manner, Tori helps create a seamless experience for our clients.

Outside of the office, Tori enjoys spending time with friends and family and making the most of the outdoors.

Kelsie Bunt – Client Services Administrator

Kelsie is a dedicated Client Services Administrator who plays a key role in supporting both our clients and team. With strong attention to detail and excellent organisational skills, she ensures client matters are handled efficiently and professionally from start to finish. Kelsie is committed to delivering a positive client experience, assisting with administrative processes, and keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Outside of the office, Kelsie enjoys spending time with family and friends, staying active, and making the most of her downtime to recharge and unwind.

Brett Mulquiny – Financial Planning Manager

Brett is one of our Financial Planners and partners in the Pinnacle Partners Wealth Management team and brings over 10 years of experience in assisting clients with their financial goals, having previously worked as a business financial planner with major bank in their private business and health division .

He is experienced in providing holistic financial advice in areas including SMSF’s, Superannuation, Investments, Personal & Business shareholder Insurance and retirement planning.  Brett holds a Bachelor of Science degree along with and Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning, is a member of the SMSF Association, and is currently completing his Masters of Applied Finance.  Outside of business hours Brett is a sports tragic who enjoys spending time with his young family, friends and dogs.