One Harbour Advisory

About Us

Practical, honest advice from experienced accountants, advisers and brokers
who care about helping you make confident decisions at every stage of life.

Experienced, down-to-earth advice you can count on

One Harbour Advisory is built on a foundation of deep expertise and a shared commitment to doing things differently. The One Harbour team are incredibly proud to be born from a joint passion for delivering clear, honest and genuinely helpful advice to our clients. We are a team of extensive experience.

Meet the team

Our team brings decades of collective experience, trusted relationships, and deep local insight to every conversation, offering clear, strategic advice tailored to your goals.

We’re here to guide you with clarity, care, and practical expertise – no matter where you are in your financial journey.

Andrew Thomas

Principal – Financial Adviser | Mortgage Broker

Andrew is a financial adviser and mortgage broker with a career spanning well over a decade in the financial services industry. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Finance & Economics) and a Bachelor of Business (International Business), and is a proud member of the Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPAA) and the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA).

In 2016, Andrew was recognised as the National New Adviser of the Year by Charter Financial Planning Limited. In 2022, he established AT Wealth Management, building a boutique, client-first approach to financial advice.

Today, Andrew brings that same bespoke mindset to One Harbour Advisory, offering end-to-end financial advice and lending solutions tailored to each client’s life stage and goals. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for retirement, Andrew’s holistic approach helps you make confident, well-rounded decisions that grow and protect your wealth. 

Ethan Shaw

Principal – Accounting

Ethan brings over 12 years of experience in public practice accounting, having worked with some of Newcastle’s most respected firms before joining the team five years ago. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting, and is an Associate Member of the Institute of Public Accountants. He supports clients across a wide range of industries – from construction and hospitality to professional services and retail – delivering strategic advice grounded in practical insight.

With a forward-thinking, tech-led approach, Ethan helps business owners streamline operations, strengthen structures and plan for sustainable growth. His focus is on turning accounting into a strategic advantage, empowering clients to cut through complexity and make smarter, more confident decisions.

When he’s not at work, Ethan enjoys time with his young family and brings a grounded, people-first mindset to every client interaction.

Gary Shaw

Principal Founder

Gary Shaw founded the business over 30 years ago and has been a trusted presence across the Nelson Bay, Newcastle and East Maitland regions ever since. Known for his integrity, deep community ties and longstanding client relationships, Gary built a reputation for advice that’s dependable, personal and values-led.

Gary has moved into a strategic, mentoring role – sharing his decades of experience and ensuring the next generation upholds the same high standards he established.

A proud father of six, Gary brings the same values of dedication, care and perspective to both his family and professional life.

Tara England

Client Services Manager

With over 15 years of experience in bookkeeping and financial administration, Tara is a highly regarded member of the team – valued for her reliability, efficiency and deep industry knowledge. For the past decade, she has worked closely with both Andrew and Ethan, providing steadfast support to clients and advisers alike.

Earlier in her career, Tara worked as an insurance underwriter in New Zealand and held a role at the Commonwealth Bank, giving her a broad foundation across financial services.

A Nelson Bay local for more than 50 years – and a proud alumna of the local school – Tara brings a strong sense of community and genuine care to every client interaction.

Laura Palombini

Client Services & Administration

Laura brings over eight years of experience in the financial services industry, supporting advisers and clients with a warm, proactive approach and a meticulous eye for detail. Having previously worked alongside Andrew for four years, she has rejoined him at One Harbour Advisory, bringing continuity and a deep understanding of both his advice philosophy and client needs.

In 2025, Laura completed her Advanced Diploma of Paraplanning and has recently also completed her Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking, further strengthening her technical expertise across both financial planning and lending.

Laura prepares Statements of Advice (SOAs) and Records of Advice (ROAs), manages the full implementation process for Andrew’s clients, and oversees ongoing client relationships, including the preparation of review documentation. She ensures strategies are executed efficiently and accurately while maintaining consistent communication and support. From coordinating client meetings to preparing advice documentation and overseeing day-to-day administration, she plays a key role in ensuring everything runs seamlessly behind the scenes.

Passionate about service, systems, and creating positive client experiences, Laura is committed to making every client feel supported, confident, and valued at every stage of their financial journey.

Venessa Skoljarev

Administration and Accounting Support Officer

Venessa has been a dedicated member of the One Harbour team for over 25 years, having built her entire professional career within the firm. In a time where long-term loyalty is increasingly rare, her commitment stands out as a testament to her character and deep connection to the business. Known for her approachable nature, unwavering reliability and strong work ethic, she plays an integral role in supporting both the administration and accounting functions of the business.

Of Croatian heritage, Venessa comes from a proud lineage of commercial fishers in Port Stephens. Her family’s longstanding legacy on the water is well known, and she is held in high regard across the local community for her deep roots and quiet strength.

Georgia Shaw

Administration and Bookkeeping Support

Georgia has spent the past four years delivering vital support across administration and bookkeeping. Known for her attention to detail and calm efficiency, she helps ensure the day-to-day operations run smoothly for both the team and our clients.

Before transitioning into the financial sector, Georgia enjoyed a vibrant career as a professional dancer, touring internationally and performing on stages around the world. Her discipline, adaptability and creative spirit continue to shine through in her work today.

Mira Skoljarev

Intermediate Accountant

Mira has over three years’ experience across both the accounting and banking sectors, having worked with Newcastle Permanent Building Society and a local accounting firm. Through these roles, she has developed strong technical knowledge alongside practical, real-world experience working closely with clients.

From liaising directly with clients to navigating complex accounting and tax matters, Mira approaches her work with confidence, care and a solutions-focused mindset. She prides herself on being approachable, reliable and thorough in everything she does.

Mira brings great energy to the One Harbour team, along with a strong work ethic and genuine passion for helping clients. Following in the footsteps of her mum, Venessa, she’s continuing the family tradition of dedication and high standards – and we’re lucky to have her on board.

Mira Skoljarev

Intermediate Accountant

Mira has over three years’ experience across both the accounting and banking sectors, having worked with Newcastle Permanent Building Society and a local accounting firm. Through these roles, she has developed strong technical knowledge alongside practical, real-world experience working closely with clients.

From liaising directly with clients to navigating complex accounting and tax matters, Mira approaches her work with confidence, care and a solutions-focused mindset. She prides herself on being approachable, reliable and thorough in everything she does.

Mira brings great energy to the One Harbour team, along with a strong work ethic and genuine passion for helping clients. Following in the footsteps of her mum, Venessa, she’s continuing the family tradition of dedication and high standards – and we’re lucky to have her on board.

Georgia Shaw

Administration and Bookkeeping Support

Georgia has spent the past four years delivering vital support across administration and bookkeeping. Known for her attention to detail and calm efficiency, she helps ensure the day-to-day operations run smoothly for both the team and our clients.

Before transitioning into the financial sector, Georgia enjoyed a vibrant career as a professional dancer, touring internationally and performing on stages around the world. Her discipline, adaptability and creative spirit continue to shine through in her work today.

Venessa Skoljarev

Administration and Accounting Support Officer

Venessa has been a dedicated member of the One Harbour team for over 25 years, having built her entire professional career within the firm. In a time where long-term loyalty is increasingly rare, her commitment stands out as a testament to her character and deep connection to the business. Known for her approachable nature, unwavering reliability and strong work ethic, she plays an integral role in supporting both the administration and accounting functions of the business.

Of Croatian heritage, Venessa comes from a proud lineage of commercial fishers in Port Stephens. Her family’s longstanding legacy on the water is well known, and she is held in high regard across the local community for her deep roots and quiet strength.

Laura Palombini

Client Services & Administration

Laura brings over eight years of experience in the financial services industry, supporting advisers and clients with a warm, proactive approach and a meticulous eye for detail. Having previously worked alongside Andrew for four years, she has rejoined him at One Harbour Advisory, bringing continuity and a deep understanding of both his advice philosophy and client needs.

In 2025, Laura completed her Advanced Diploma of Paraplanning and has recently also completed her Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking, further strengthening her technical expertise across both financial planning and lending.

Laura prepares Statements of Advice (SOAs) and Records of Advice (ROAs), manages the full implementation process for Andrew’s clients, and oversees ongoing client relationships, including the preparation of review documentation. She ensures strategies are executed efficiently and accurately while maintaining consistent communication and support. From coordinating client meetings to preparing advice documentation and overseeing day-to-day administration, she plays a key role in ensuring everything runs seamlessly behind the scenes.

Passionate about service, systems, and creating positive client experiences, Laura is committed to making every client feel supported, confident, and valued at every stage of their financial journey.

Tara England

Client Services Manager

With over 15 years of experience in bookkeeping and financial administration, Tara is a highly regarded member of the team – valued for her reliability, efficiency and deep industry knowledge. For the past decade, she has worked closely with both Andrew and Ethan, providing steadfast support to clients and advisers alike.

Earlier in her career, Tara worked as an insurance underwriter in New Zealand and held a role at the Commonwealth Bank, giving her a broad foundation across financial services.

A Nelson Bay local for more than 50 years – and a proud alumna of the local school – Tara brings a strong sense of community and genuine care to every client interaction.

Gary Shaw

Principal Founder

Gary Shaw founded the business over 30 years ago and has been a trusted presence across the Nelson Bay, Newcastle and East Maitland regions ever since. Known for his integrity, deep community ties and longstanding client relationships, Gary built a reputation for advice that’s dependable, personal and values-led.

Gary has moved into a strategic, mentoring role – sharing his decades of experience and ensuring the next generation upholds the same high standards he established.

A proud father of six, Gary brings the same values of dedication, care and perspective to both his family and professional life.

Ethan Shaw

Principal – Accounting

Ethan brings over 12 years of experience in public practice accounting, having worked with some of Newcastle’s most respected firms before joining the team five years ago. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting, and is an Associate Member of the Institute of Public Accountants. He supports clients across a wide range of industries – from construction and hospitality to professional services and retail – delivering strategic advice grounded in practical insight.

With a forward-thinking, tech-led approach, Ethan helps business owners streamline operations, strengthen structures and plan for sustainable growth. His focus is on turning accounting into a strategic advantage, empowering clients to cut through complexity and make smarter, more confident decisions.

When he’s not at work, Ethan enjoys time with his young family and brings a grounded, people-first mindset to every client interaction.

Andrew Thomas

Principal – Financial Adviser | Mortgage Broker

Andrew is a financial adviser and mortgage broker with a career spanning well over a decade in the financial services industry. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Finance & Economics) and a Bachelor of Business (International Business), and is a proud member of the Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPAA) and the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA).

In 2016, Andrew was recognised as the National New Adviser of the Year by Charter Financial Planning Limited. In 2022, he established AT Wealth Management, building a boutique, client-first approach to financial advice.

Today, Andrew brings that same bespoke mindset to One Harbour Advisory, offering end-to-end financial advice and lending solutions tailored to each client’s life stage and goals. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for retirement, Andrew’s holistic approach helps you make confident, well-rounded decisions that grow and protect your wealth. 

ONE HARBOUR ADVISORY

Together, Gary, Ethan and Andrew are excited to bring the next chapter of One Harbour Advisory to life, uniting their deep expertise across accounting, financial planning and mortgage broking under one umbrella. While each brings a unique strength to the team, they’re united by a shared commitment to clear, honest and genuinely helpful advice. Together, they’re building on decades of trusted relationships in the Nelson Bay and Newcastle communities to offer a more connected, personalised experience for every client. Whether you’re managing tax, securing a loan or planning for the future.

Accounting

One Harbour Advisory – Accounting was founded by Gary Shaw and, directed in partnership with Ethan Shaw, delivers expert tax and accounting services to individuals, professionals and growing businesses. As many will know, Gary brings over 30 years of trusted experience in the Nelson Bay and Newcastle region, offering unmatched strategic insight. In his footsteps, Ethan leads the accounting division with a proactive and modern approach to client service and compliance. Together, their blend of experience and forward-thinking advice ensures personalised attention, practical solutions and trusted guidance for every client.

Financial Planning

One Harbour Advisory – Financial Planning is led by Andrew Thomas, Principal and experienced Financial Adviser. With over a decade of experience in financial services, Andrew takes a strategic and personal approach to helping clients grow, protect and manage their wealth. He combines technical expertise with a genuine understanding of what matters most to his clients – delivering clarity, confidence, and direction at every stage of their financial journey.

Mortgage Brokering

One Harbour Advisory – Mortgage Brokering is led by Andrew Thomas, who brings together financial acumen and a strong business background to deliver lending solutions tailored to each client’s broader financial goals. As Principal, Financial Adviser and Mortgage Broker, Andrew provides a holistic view of property finance – helping clients make smart, informed decisions about structuring their loans to build long-term security.

One Harbour Advisory

Ready to get started?

Book your free consultation with the One Harbour Advisory team today.

Service(Required)