On 10 February 2026, Roderick Insurance Brokers proudly celebrates 40 years in business – a milestone that reflects not only longevity, but four decades of commitment to clients, people and community across our region.
What began back in February 1986 as a small two-person insurance agency has grown into a trusted regional insurance brokerage, with two office locations, over 45+ staff, and a reputation built on advice, integrity and enduring relationships with clients & business partners.
From family foundations to regional strength
Roderick Insurance Brokers began life as Dean & Roderick Insurance Agencies operating from a small office above a garage at 5 Retreat Road, Newtown. When Laurie Dean and Keith Roderick first joined forces, Laurie was 80 & Keith was 40 yet their age difference proved no barrier to forming a formidable partnership.
The business expanded when Keith purchased Pivot Insurance Services Geelong in 1990 with his daughter Marnie joining the business at that time as a receptionist in an office in Ryrie Street, Geelong
In 1992, Pivot Insurance & Dean & Roderick joined forces and the firm transitioned from an insurance agency to become “Geelong’s Newest Insurance Broker” Dean & Roderick Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd including a move to bigger premises at 246 Pakington Street, Geelong West to accommodate the growing team.
Throughout the early 1990s, the business continued to grow through word of mouth, acquisitions of several smaller agencies and strengthened industry relationships through membership of the Regional Insurance Brokers Association (RIBA) and the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA).
With the retirement of Laurie in 1993, Keith became the sole director & the business entered its second phase of growth. Additional family members joined the business during this time with Jai joining in 1992, followed by Wes in 1995 & Louise in 1997 rounding out the team number to a small but dedicated team of 7.
By 1998, the business evolved again, adopting the name Roderick Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd (RIB) to reflect the new ownership and another move to our final home in Yarra Street.
The Team Grows
The early 2000s marked another period of significant growth with the acquisition of Autofire Insurance Agents and McInerney Ling Insurance Brokers. This expansion established offices in both Geelong and Werribee and doubled the team to 15 overnight. Brian Eaton, Ron and Gabrielle Ling, Les McInerney, and Sue Warden joined the team during what remains a time remembered for both growth and fun.
Further expansion followed in 2004 with the purchase of Ray Dalton Insurance Services, and the arrival of Karli Byrne who was later to become Karli Roderick.
In 2008, to support continued growth and evolving compliance requirements, RIB joined the Steadfast Group. In 2011, a trainee program was introduced to welcome young professionals into the industry. Some of our first intake, including Kaitlin Chesshire and Samantha Baensch, remain with us today. Through this initiative, we are proud to have helped launch many insurance careers in Geelong and Werribee.
With a strong commitment to professionalism in the industry we invest significantly in staff training and development. We pride ourselves on a strong team with many staff with us for 10+ years Michelle Jennings, Linda Holt, Jess Wright, Ian Hitchcock, Karen Fernandez and 5+ years for Paul Codd, Tony Caruso, Lindsay Campbell, Danielle Rowe Jenna Chapman, Emma Copley & Leanne Harvey
Today we also boast our third generation of the Roderick family working in the business with Taylah Byrne joining the ranks in 2018 & Owen Shepherd in 2022. We are very proud that our team includes the second-generation employees with Stephanie Eaton, Harry Ling & most recently Thomas Hitchcock now included in our number.
In recent years our staff numbers have swelled with 23 new staff joining the team in the last four years as we prepare for continued success in the future.
Community Focused
Community has always been at the heart of Roderick Insurance Brokers. For four decades, we have actively supported the Geelong and Werribee communities through sponsorships, fundraising and hands‑on involvement.
We proudly support a wide range of community initiatives, including local sporting clubs, business awards, youth programs and charities. Long‑term support for organisations such as the Leukaemia Foundation and Cystic Fibrosis Victoria, and the annual Jai Roderick Memorial Race Day continue to be a priority.
Wherever possible, we prioritise employing local people and working with local suppliers, reflecting our belief that strong businesses help build strong communities
Awards, Recognition and Values
Over the years, RIB has been honoured with numerous industry and local business awards. These recognitions reflect our commitment to professionalism, service excellence, and trusted advice.
Our reputation is built on clear values: integrity, expertise, and a genuine commitment to doing the right thing for our clients.
Looking ahead with pride
From a modest family business to a one of the largest Victorian regional insurance providers, Roderick Insurance Brokers’ 40‑year journey has been shaped by trusted relationships, dedicated people, and a genuine commitment to doing the right thing.
As we celebrate this milestone, we gratefully acknowledge the contributions of past and present staff, loyal clients, industry partners and the wider community who have been part of our story
For 40 years, we have proudly delivered the “Right Advice” to our clients.
Here’s to the next chapter, and to many more years ahead.
