Work experience for the next generation 💻
School holidays brings some of our little visitors to the office.
Bit of fun in the office today for Footy Colours Day 🏉
Who will you be backing this weekend?
After a big couple of months of roadworks along Mundy Street, we’re pleased to once again welcome traffic past our Bendigo office.
These works form part of the shared user path initiative, creating a safer and more accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists throughout the area.
While a small number of on-street car parks have been removed, clients are reminded that limited client parking is available at the rear of our building, with access via Hopetoun Street.
“I love my job at Strategem. One of the elements of my position within Strategem Financial Services is assisting with staff engagement and wellbeing initiatives. It’s a part of the job that I love … especially when you get to deliver donuts to the office. We are incredibly lucky to work for a business that encourages the small things 🍩”
- Meghan Rogers, Client (and staff) Engagement and Marketing Coordinator.
Taking a moment to acknowledge R U OK Day and reminding our staff to keep an eye out for each other, today and every day 💛
Coming to your appointment at Strategem Financial Services - in Bendigo.
We know it’s been a little tricky to access our Bendigo office lately but don’t forget we have limited client carparking available at the rear of our office - accessed via Hopetoun Street.
Mind the footpaths as you make your way around to our front door and be ready to be welcomed by our friendly and professional team.
One final takeaway from our conversation with Jesse Gollan...
No business is ever truly "finished."
In our latest Enriched Wealth Podcast episode, Jesse Gollan, owner of Get Naked Espresso and The Drawing Room, shares why continuous improvement has been at the heart of his journey. From challenging ideas and embracing feedback to listening with intention, it's a reminder that growth comes from staying curious and never assuming you've learned it all.
💬 "Everything's always a work in progress."
If you haven't caught the episode yet, this is your sign. Tune in to hear Jesse's honest insights on business, leadership, and building a culture that continues to evolve.
🎧 Watch the full episode here: https://strategem.com.au/podcast/episode-19
If you haven't listened to our latest Enriched Wealth Podcast episode featuring Jesse Gollan, owner of Get Naked Espresso and The Drawing Room, now's the perfect time.
Jesse shares an honest look at the realities of running a business—from learning through mistakes and navigating financial pressure to adapting when things don't go to plan. His story is a powerful reminder that resilience isn't about avoiding challenges—it's about facing them head-on and growing because of them.
Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or someone chasing a big goal, this episode is full of practical insights and relatable experiences.
🎧 Listen to the full episode here: https://strategem.com.au/podcast/episode-19
Your community project could be next.
The Strategem Community Foundation has up to $15,000 in grant funding available to support local community organisations and groups making a positive impact.
If you've been looking for funding to help your next initiative, now is the time to apply.
📅 Applications close 5:00pm, Friday 31 July.
Visit the Our Community page on our website to access the application details and Terms & Conditions.
We can't wait to see the positive impact these grants will help create across our community.
From 1 July 2026, new legislative requirements mean we'll be taking a few extra steps to verify the identity of our clients.
At Strategem, we're committed to making this process as simple and seamless as possible while continuing to provide the trusted, professional service you know us for.
These changes are part of nationwide reforms designed to strengthen Australia's financial system and help protect against financial crime.
While many of these measures are already part of our process, you may now be asked to provide identification or answer a few additional questions when becoming a new client. In some circumstances, this may be necessary if your engagement changes or we're required to update your information.
If you have any questions about what these changes mean for you, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team.
In this episode of the Enrich Podcast, Ashley Hill, Partner at Strategem Financial Services, discusses an important question every business owner should consider:
💼 Is your business ready to be sold?
Whether you're planning to exit in three years or ten, preparing your business for sale starts long before you put it on the market.
Ashley explores the factors that can influence the value and attractiveness of a business, including:
✔️ Maintaining up-to-date plant and equipment
✔️ Building a diversified client base
✔️ Reducing reliance on a small number of key customers
✔️ Understanding the risks that could impact a future sale
The key is making informed decisions today that align with your long-term goals tomorrow.
A saleable business isn't built overnight—it's the result of strategic planning and ongoing improvement.
🎧 Watch the full interview via the link in our bio.
https://strategem.com.au/podcast/episode-18
🎙️ Ashley Hill, Partner at Strategem Financial Services, joins the Enrich Podcast to discuss one of the most important questions every business owner should be asking:
What's the plan for your business in the future?
Succession planning isn't something that happens when you're ready to retire. The most successful transitions start years in advance, with open conversations, clear expectations, and a roadmap for the next generation.
Ashley shares why it's important to:
✔️ Start succession discussions early
✔️ Involve family members in the planning process
✔️ Understand whether the next generation wants to take over
✔️ Identify the skills and preparation needed for a successful transition
✔️ Ensure your business is positioned for the future, whether you're passing it on or planning to sell
The earlier these conversations begin, the more options you'll have and the smoother the transition can be.
🎧 Catch the full conversation on the Enrich Podcast.
https://strategem.com.au/podcast/episode-18
This week Strategem representatives, Daniel Nalder and Michael Cherry attended the Bendigo Aged Care & Disability Expo held at Red Energy Arena.
We thoroughly enjoy these expo opportunities where we are able to meet a variety of people and support them with their questions.
We also appreciate the chance to connect with other service providers who share our passion of engaging within our community and creating trusted relationships.
In this episode of the Enrich Podcast, we sit down with Ashley Hill, Partner at Strategem Financial Services, who shares practical insights gained from more than 25 years of working with business owners.
Do you truly understand your business?
Many business challenges don't appear overnight. Declining sales, rising costs, cash flow pressures, and changing market conditions often develop gradually. The key is recognising the warning signs early and taking action before they become bigger problems.
Ashley discusses:
✔️ Why understanding your cash flow is critical
✔️ The importance of monitoring business performance regularly
✔️ How proactive planning can reduce stress and improve outcomes
✔️ Why informed decisions beat guesswork every time
Successful businesses don't leave their future to chance—they understand their numbers, their market, and their opportunities.
🎧 Watch the full interview to hear Ashley's insights on building a stronger, more resilient business.
https://strategem.com.au/podcast/episode-18
We recently had the pleasure of partnering with Mercedes-Benz Bendigo to host a curated Drive Day experience for a select group of our clients.
The day provided a unique opportunity for our guests to get behind the wheel of some of Mercedes-Benz’s premium and AMG vehicles, while enjoying a relaxed and engaging environment.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with another local business to create memorable experiences for our clients and show our appreciation for their ongoing support.
Take a listen to Strategem partners Kris Tatt and Emmy Mulholland as they break down the federal budget and discuss some of the main items that will impact our clients.
👉🏼 Capital Gains Tax
👉🏼 Trust Income Taxation
👉🏼 Negative Gearing
If you have any question please don’t hesitate to get in contact with our team.
Our weekend at the annual Strategem Grape Day Out summarised in 40 seconds thanks to @content.by.kayla
Another fabulous day celebrating our local wine makers. We’ve been sponsoring this event for almost 15 years and each year we are delighted to see some many people come together to support the wineries within our Bendigo Winegrowers Association 🍷
A huge thank you to our staff that helped out on the day, making it an extra special experience for our wonderful clients and guests.
Wealth planning isn’t just about numbers, it’s about preparing both your finances and your family for the future.
Strategem Partner Brett Marchant shares insights on structuring assets for growth, helping children become financially prepared to inherit wealth, and why partnering with a financial advisor can make all the difference.
When planning for the next generation, the questions often go beyond investments.
Should you gift wealth during your lifetime or pass it on later?
How do you minimise tax erosion over time?
And what happens if the family plan isn’t clear?
Strategem Partner Brett Marchant explores these questions and shares insights into the strategies families should consider when planning wealth across generations.
Intergenerational wealth is about more than just passing down money. It’s about protecting what you’ve built and setting future generations up for success.
In this conversation, Strategem Partner Brett Marchant shares insights on when families should start planning, why the right structure matters, and how business success can translate into long-term family security.
Because the legacy you build today should continue to support your family tomorrow.
Most people take out insurance thinking they’ll never need it.
But as Andrew Pearce shares, life doesn’t always go to plan.
Trauma insurance isn’t just a “nice to have” — it’s a safety net when the unexpected happens.
And for many families today, serious illness is becoming more common.
The real question is: If something changed tomorrow, would you be financially ready?
🎧 Listen now: www.strategem.com.au/podcast/episode-17
“I didn’t think anything was wrong.”
At 54, Andrew Pearce, Director at Tweed Sutherland First National, was healthy, active, and regularly donating blood…
until one phone call changed everything.
What started as an act of giving became a life-saving moment.
In this episode of the Enriched Wealth Podcast, Andrew shares more than just his journey in real estate—he opens up about resilience, perspective, and what truly matters when life takes an unexpected turn.
Because wealth isn’t just what you build—
it’s how you live, who you impact, and the legacy you leave behind.
🎧 Listen now: https://strategem.com.au/podcast/episode-17
In January 2026, our team once again rolled up their sleeves as part of our annual commitment to giving back — contributing to over 60 donations since we began this initiative.
We spoke with Peter Wheeldon, who has personally donated more than 260 times, about:
• What drove him to make his very first donation
• Why he continues to give
• What Strategem’s annual donation means to him
With Australia needing around 30,000 blood donations every week, the impact is real and immediate.
We’re proud of our team for turning values into action.
💉 Every donation counts. Every donation saves lives.
Are you still committed to donating blood?
How does donating blood actually work?
How long have you been donating?
And what would you say to someone thinking about becoming a donor?
This February, we sat down with our very own Peter Wheeldon, Strategem’s blood donation champion to talk about his journey of over 260 donations (an incredible effort 👏).
At Strategem, we’re passionate about supporting causes that make a real difference. Each year, we give our team time to donate together, because one donation can save up to three lives, and Australia needs around 30,000 donations every week to meet demand.
Since launching our annual drive, our team has given more than 60 donations — and counting.
💉 Every donation counts. Every donation saves lives.
Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting our “Buying a Business” session at The Drawing Room, featuring insights from our very own Ashley Hill, alongside Millennial Finance Director, Jace Leetham.
It was a fantastic evening of discussion, covering the key considerations when purchasing a business — from what to look out for and common barriers to entry, through to setup costs, insurance requirements, and practical next steps.
If you’re considering buying a business and weren’t able to attend, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’d love to answer your questions and support you as you take the next step in your business journey.
At Strategem, we believe strong businesses start with strong connections. That’s why our very own Chris Harrington stood with Hayley Tibbett, CEO of Be.Bendigo, to share insights on the power of collaboration, community involvement, and financial literacy.
From fostering meaningful partnerships to empowering the next generation with financial knowledge through the Young Professionals Network (YPN), we’re passionate about helping businesses and young professionals thrive.
Are you looking for your next business opportunity?
Whether you’re buying your first business or adding to your portfolio, join us for an insightful evening on what it really takes to buy well.
Hear from Ashley Hill, Partner at Strategem, as he shares insights from client business sales and acquisitions that he has supported, plus his own recent experience purchasing a business. We also welcome Jace Leetham, Co-Founder Millennial Finance Group, sharing his own personal experiences as well as his professional experiences supporting business finance.
Wednesday 25 February
5:30pm arrival | 6:00pm start
The Drawing Room, Quarry Hill
Register now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/everything-you-need-to-know-about-buying-a-business-tickets-1981700666038?aff=oddtdtcreator
Earlier this week, our Strategem Community Foundation representatives, Jennifer and Ronelle, proudly delivered a collection of gifts to @sunshinebendigo in support of their annual Christmas Appeal.
We extend a big thanks to all staff who generously contributed to this initiative. Your support helps make a meaningful difference to local families during the festive season.
Sunshine Bendigo is still seeking additional donations to fill all of the Christmas bags. If you are able to contribute, your support would be greatly appreciated 🎄
Thank you to @amysim.realestate and the team at @mckeanmcgregor_realestate for organising the Ladies Golf Day! It was an honour to sponsor this amazing community event supporting @sunshinebendigo and loads of fun to be involved on the day.
Well done to all of the teams who took a part and to all of the businesses who were involved ☀️⛳️
We invite you to join us for an intimate and engaging session, Investment Insights, hosted by Strategem.
Facilitated by Strategem Partner Kris Tatt, this exclusive event will feature a panel of industry professionals who will share their perspectives on building and managing a successful investment portfolio.
Our guest speakers, Josh Phillips and Tyler Greenhalgh from Evidentia Group, will bring their expertise in property and financial markets to the conversation, offering valuable insights and practical strategies to help you make informed investment decisions.
Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just beginning your journey, this session will provide thoughtful discussion, real-world examples, and opportunities to engage with experienced professionals across the investment landscape.
Where
501 Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
When
Tue, Oct 28, 2025 at 5:30 PM
👉️ Get tickets now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/investment-insights-tickets-1854813710739
We recently hosted Elliot from @cmcbendigo for a week of work experience at Strategem.
Based in our tax and accounting team for the week, alongside Strategem mentor, Hannah, Elliot made the most of his time with us, getting a wholistic view of what our tax and accounting team do.
“I really enjoyed my week Strategem. Everyone was very helpful and I had the opportunity to do everything in the business. I would highly recommend Strategem for work experience to everyone” - Elliot.
It was a pleasure to have Elliot join us for the week. We love being able to support the next generation of accountants and financial planners and believe that work experience is a valuable opportunity for students to develop ‘behind the scenes’ insights into what a career can look like in their chosen field.
Introducing Emmy Mulholland! She is one of our Partners and has worked to become the trusted advisor to many small businesses. She prides herself on the relationships she has built with clients over that time. She cares about the wellness of small businesses and their owners and can see their passion for success.
Emmy works closely with small business owners to promote efficiencies which enables exploration of growth opportunities and goal setting for success. With exposure to businesses mainly in the construction industry, medical professionals and retail sector, Emmy can provide operational and strategic advice, with a strong focus on ensuring processes are efficient.
Outside of work, Emmy enjoys being creative in the kitchen, travelling with her husband, and crocheting. She is also an avid Melbourne supporter in the AFL and enjoys the test cricket.
Learn more about Emmy’s expertise here ➡️ https://strategem.com.au/our-people-profiles/emmy-mulholland
Performance conversations aren’t “dirty words.”
Aishleen O’Sullivan shares why 90% of performance issues can be solved with one thing: a clear, honest conversation.
Don’t let problems fester — talk about them.
🎧 Full episode here: www.strategem.com.au/podcast/episode-14
