Putting Values First

There’s a sense of enthusiasm and energy at BMO that contradicts the traditional image of a boring accountant’s office.  BMO is a Dalby success story, growing from seven staff to 45 over the past two decades.
Partner Peter McKinnon says people often comment on BMO being “a bit of a surprise package”.
“Our clients appreciate our modern systems, the technology in our building and our professional team, but I think the main thing that makes an impact  is our genuine care and concern for people.”
Long term client Helen Baker (nee Palm) agrees.
“I have been with BMO since I was 17 years old and have such huge praise for the BMO team.
“We’ve moved from Dalby to Adelaide and now Brisbane and we never felt the need to change accountants.  BMO offers such great service.
“Even though BMO has grown in size, it still has that small, friendly approach.”
Helen also appreciates the depth of services.
“BMO has given us all the information we need about awards and employing people for our business, and when we needed a new vehicle, BMO did the leg work and found the right loan for us.
“I just know our business will continue to grow with BMO on our side steering us in the right direction.”
Local farmer Glenn Fresser also recommends the BMO team.
“Because some of the accountants actually own farms themselves, they understand our business and the pressures of farming. We can call up any time to check things and you never feel like you’re asking a silly question.”
BMO offers a full package of services including accounting and taxation, financial planning, business planning, marketing and communications, succession planning, loans and leasing, secretariat services and conference facilities.
Having this ‘one-stop-shop’ suits the Fressers.
“We can call in and see Shane about our investments, Michelle about our super and Kelvin about our tax all in one hit,” says Glenn.
BMO is owned by four partners Peter McKinnon, Adrian Rasmussen, Kelvin Tyler and Michelle McVeigh who have been working together for 16 years.  The financial planning arm* of the business is led by Shane Lee and Mal Smith, while the Lending Services area is managed by Paul Logan.  Practice Manager Barry Jordan and Associate Partner Dave Briese also form part of the management team.
“We work very well together and respect each other’s strengths.  We believe it’s important to know what you stand for and know your values.  We think that every moment is a learning opportunity and it’s important to enjoy what you are doing,” says Partner Adrian Rasmussen.
“Our business approach is quite simple - we live by our values and we care.”
Adrian says this approach has helped drive BMO to become one of Australia’s Top 100 Accounting firms (BRW 2009) and Dalby Business of the Year last year.
*Principal Wealth Management Pty Ltd (ABN 44 544 382 922) trading as BMO Financial Solutions is a Corporate Authorised Representative of Charter Financial Planning Limited ABN 35 002 976 294 Australian Financial Services Licensee No. 234665.

Accounting & Taxation
Doing tax planning all through the year is the key to achieving a better end-of-year result according to Partner Michelle McVeigh. “Our favorite time of year is between March and May when we do tax updates and assist businesses to put the right strategies in place before 30 June.”  The team works with a diverse range of clients including primary producers and small-medium enterprises in manufacturing, hotels, automotive, retail, health, transport, and professional services.

Business Growth
“The most successful businesses are the ones that are clear about their direction and have a good handle on what makes them tick,” says Partner Kelvin Tyler.  The BMO team has experience with everything from cash flow analysis and budgeting, to marketing and communications and human resources advice.  “This might mean helping you develop a strategic plan or benchmarking your business and coming up with ways to help you improve your profitability.”

Wealth Creation
BMO Financial Solutions* was formed when BMO Financial Services and local firm Lifetime Financial Solutions merged earlier this year. Principals Shane Lee and  Mal Smith offer investment planning, retirement planning, and wealth protection (life insurance, trauma insurance and income protection) at offices in Dalby and Miles.  “Everyone has a different idea about what lifestyle suits them and how they’d like to retire. We are passionate about working with our clients to help develop strategies to achieve their goals and dreams,” says Shane Lee.

Loans & Leasing
BMO Lending Services, led by Finance Manager Paul Logan, can obtain competitive finance options for leases, business loans, and agribusiness loans.  “In today’s busy world, people don’t have time to shop around for the best deal, says Paul. “We can do all the leg work for you and help find a loan or leasing arrangement that’s tailored to your needs.”

For more information see www.bmo.com.au