Our aim at Backpackers Buddy is to help you make the most of your time here in Australia by Making Aussie Easy!
Backpackers Buddy was launched on 1 June 2009 as a re-brand of the company Super Return. Super Return was established in 2005, in partnership to assist backpackers with getting the superannuation back when they left Australia. The company’s focus soon turned to a tax refunds as well as superannuation and operated in Manly. In January 2007 Phillip Browne hired a project manager to undertake a feasibility study of beginning a tax refund company in Manly. The results were positive and shortly after this, and offer was made to sell Super Return to Phil Browne. In June 2007, Phillip Browne purchased the company and continued to operate it out of the thriving backpackers hub of Manly Beach.
In January 2009, the team at Super Return decided that it was time for a change. With the experience they had, speaking to backpackers and assisting them with their tax, superannuation and Living Away from Home allowance, they realised that there were many other services that could make aussie easy for backpackers. Workshops were held with local backpackers to gather information on services they required, and to think of a new name for the company that would relate to the new services. Backpackers Buddy was born.
The firm operates as a Chartered Accounting firm, which means that it abides by the Professional Standards Legislation Code of Ethics. The firm uses a Trust Account for all refunds so the money remains the property of the clients. The Trust Account is audited annually.
So, who is the Buddy team?
David Goldsmith – Business Development Manager
David travelled to Australia over three years ago, tripped over a surfboard into the ocean and now is rarely found out of the waves. “I arrived as a clueless Backpacker, I followed friends here … now I know what backpackers need and am happy to pass the good stuff on”
David has a Bachelor of Business Economics (Hons.) from The University of Wales, Aberystwyth. (Try saying that 10 times fast after half a goon!)
David’s a tall fellow, over 6ft 4 and successfully managed to drive an original Mini for 3 years. He’s still a bit bent in places, but he does fold up nicely into a backpack and gets a lot of free holidays with his mates.
Kwan Oh – Graduate Accountant / Bookkeeper
Kwan landed in Australia 6 years ago for study. After constantly being squashed most of his life in the crazy city of Tokyo, he’s loving the perfect mix of space and convenience here in Manly. Kwan has a Bachelor of Commerce from The University of Sydney and is now pursuing his Master of Karaoke. Kwan enjoys spending time on the beach surfing, playing volley ball or sunbathing until he no longer looks Japanese.
Kristal Carney – Office Assistant
Kristal, our pocket rocket surfer girl originally hails from Byron Bay. Byron, being one of Australia’s top 10 most popular tourist destinations, means Kristal has spent most of her life alongside surf, sand, bech lovers and backpackers. Between running a local hostel and teaching travellers how to master the waves, she loved working with those with some adventure for travelling the world in their soul.
Backpackers Buddy was very lucky to have Kristal join the Buddy team in Manly in July 2011. So, if you need a few surfing tips, or how to look like a gorgeous manly surfer chick, Kristal is your lady. She is also the master of the fake tan, and can make any woman (or man) look the part!
Anna Donaghy – Business Manager
Anna worked in international marketing for Macquarie University and the International College of Management, Sydney in Manly for 5 years. Anna now works at Backpackers Buddy and other associated accounting firms doing business management, marketing and communications. Anna has a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing & Accounting from Macquarie University.
Anna considers herself a bit of a dancer. She danced at the Closing Ceremony of the Sydney Olympic Games in a bright blue sequined outfit her Mum made. She only brings out the blue sequins on special occasions, like on days ending in ‘y’.
Phillip Browne – Business Owner
Phillip Browne owns Backpackers Buddy, and jointly owns Chartered Accounting firm CABEL Partners and Financial Planning firm BEX Financial. Phil has been a Chartered Accountant for over 30 years. As a business owner, he is interested in new business opportunities, innovation and high quality service.
Phil is a Fellow Chartered Accountant of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Australia, a Registered Tax Agent, a Justice of the Peace and a Registered Company Auditor. Life according to Phil… you’ve gotta have pink and purple Hugo Boss socks on to get anywhere in life!!
