Expert Team
Ben Teng CA
Director
With over 20 years experience in the accounting industry including stints overseas with multinationals, Ben draws on a wealth of practical experience to benefit our clients. A Chartered Accountant and Fellow of the Tax Institute allows Ben to provide technical guidance. However, Ben’s passionate “bigger picture” approach given to clients affairs, along with his consulting focus provide certainty for growth and all round business performance. Ben has significant experience in a range of industries including Medical, Professional Practices, Small to Medium Business, Retail and navigating the complexities of International Taxation and Migration matters. A keen mountain bike rider and gym fan you will find Ben balancing his time outside of the office between these pursuits and his love of a good meal.
Danny Copley FIPA
Director
Danny is a Fellow of Institute of Public Accountants with over 20 years’ experience in the accounting industry. Along with being a qualified licensed financial planner he is also a registered SMSF auditor. Formerly a partner in a large Gold Coast based practice specializing in Small Business and Self Managed Superannuation Funds. Danny has broad based experience in many industries, with a particular emphasis on the Medical and Management Rights Industries.
Danny’s community spirit is evidenced by his involvement in many charities on the Gold Coast and his position as treasurer of the Carbine Club supporting junior sport. Recently Danny has been awarded a Paul Harris Fellow for his services to charity. A rare individual having been born and bred on the Gold Coast, Danny is an accomplished fitness tragic and talented musician.
Cris Dula CPA – Accountant
Cris first started working in public practice in 2006 and has been with Pinnacle Partners since early 2013. She completed her Bachelor of Business from Griffith University and is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) accreditation. With over ten years of professional experience assisting clients with their taxation and financial compliance, Cris has a strong focus in the Self-Managed Superannuation Funds.
With her Philippine background and fluent in Tagalog, Cris can provide business advice and services to expatriates of the Philippines. Cris is always wearing a smile in the office and at home. She enjoys spending her time outside of the office with family and friends.
Shelby Bunt CA – Senior Associate
With a Chartered Accountants accreditation and a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce, majoring in accounting, Shelby bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Shelby started her career in an Accounting firm in 2013 as a receptionist, she has quickly climbed the corporate ladder with further impending aspirations.
With a passion for business growth and success, Shelby goes beyond the traditional role of an accountant. By providing insightful financial advice, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and implanting strategic financial plans, Shelby becomes an invaluable partner in driving your business forward.
When away from the office, you will often find Shelby travelling the globe or down at the local beach spots.
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.
Susanna Feng CPA – Accountant
Susanna was Born and raised in China and fluent in three languages (Mandarin, Cantonese and English). After completing her Bachelor of Art degree in China, Susanna came to Australia and study Master of Accounting, and she is also a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) accreditation. Susanna first started working in public practice in 2008 , and joined Pinnacle Partners in early 2018, with extensive taxation and accounting experience on Management Right Business and Self – Managed Superannuation Fund. Susanna now has a strong focus in the Self-Managed Superannuation Funds auditing.
When away from the office, Susanna enjoying spending time with her family and friends, doing Yoga and travelling around the globe.
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.
Renata Kuhinica – Accountant
Renata first joined the Client Services Administration team for Pinnacle Partners in 2017, soon after graduating from Griffith University with a Bachelor of Business. While in this position, Renata frequently encountered accounting practices, sparking a keen interest in advancing her career within the accounting industry. Renata’s pursuit of knowledge led her to complete a Diploma of Accounting and enrol in the CPA program. Her dedication and progression within the company have resulted in her current role as an Accountant, where she continually showcases and enhances her skills.
Away from the office, Renata focuses on staying physically active by engaging in regular workouts at the gym. During weekends, she indulges in indoor climbing, finding it not only physically engaging but also an enjoyable way to unwind. Additionally, Renata enjoys engaging in social events with friends and family to relax and recharge outside of her professional endeavours.
Tori O’Connor – Client Services Administrator
Tori is one of our incredible client service administrators! With her passion for numbers and dedication to providing top-notch service, Tori is an integral part of our accounting firm. Currently pursuing her Cert IV in accounting and bookkeeping, she is constantly expanding her knowledge and skills in the field. Tori is a true multitasker, effortlessly managing client inquiries, scheduling appointments, and ensuring smooth communication between the team and our valued clients.
When away from the office you can find Tori hanging out with her friends & family or enjoying the outdoors!
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.
Lauren du Rand – Client Services Administrator
Lauren is one of our dedicated Client Services Administrator who joined the team in October 2023. Currently pursuing a Certificate IV in Bookkeeping and Accounting, Lauren brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for delivering top-notch administrative support. With a strong background in customer service, Lauren is committed to providing exceptional customer client experiences and ensuring smooth operations.
Outside of work, Lauren enjoys playing tennis, planning getaways, diving into a good book, and cherishing quality time with family and friends.