MEET OUR PEOPLE
Rhonda Futterleib - Director
Rhonda holds a Bachelor of Economics from Macquarie University and is a Chartered Accountant. Rhonda worked for KPMG Sydney for 13 years, ran a small business with her husband in Harrington before joining a local accounting practice in 2000 where she was a partner from 2006 to 2011. Rhonda established Essential Tax & Accounting Services in June 2011. She provides taxation, accounting and business advice to a wide range of clients assisting them to manage and monitor business performance and taxation affairs. She is a Registered Company Auditor and Registered Superannuation Auditor. In June 2016 Rhonda completed a Diploma in Financial Planning and is now an authorised representative of Politis Investment Strategies Pty Ltd. Over the last 20 years Rhonda has also held a number of board positions with a variety of community groups. This has enhanced her understanding of practical business management.
Sharon Findlater
Sharon joined our office as our administrative assistant in June 2011. She is our receptionist, manages client enquiries, correspondence, appointment scheduling and general office duties. Sharon had over 20 years’ experience in face-to-face customer service before joining our office and creates a friendly and happy office environment for our staff and our clients when they call or visit the office. Sharon is happy to assist with any queries you may have.
Bethany Zeilke
Bethany Zielke is an accountant with a Diploma of Accounting and a Diploma of Financial Planning and is currently studying a Bachelor of Accounting, majoring in Financial Planning through Central Queensland University. Bethany joined our team in 2021 and works with Rhonda in the firms taxation area and is responsible for the preparation of tax returns and financials for individuals, partnerships, trusts, companies and self-managed super funds, as well as other tax matters and various bookkeeping queries and processing assistance needs.
Michael Collar
Michael is an Undergraduate Auditor and has been working with Rhonda since the start of 2021. Michael is from Port Macquarie and has completed a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping through Open Colleges. Michael is a motivated and passionate worker who is willing to continue to learn about the industry and enjoys working closely with clients to provide the highest level of service at all times.
Amanda Portelli
Amanda has joined our team in April 2023 bringing with her 20 years of experience in the financial industry, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable and Reconciliations. She is also well versed in both MYOB and Xero. She is passionate about working with our clients to help them achieve the best possible results and creating trust that is vital to a great long-lasting relationship. She is currently undertaking a Diploma in Accounting and recently completed a Certificate 4 in Accounting and Bookkeeping. She is working with Rhonda in the taxation area of the practice, completing BAS's and preparing tax returns.
Leanne Hemingway
Leanne joined our team in July 2023, bringing with her 20 years of experience within the hospitality industry in various management roles. In her past roles, Leanne has used Xero, MYOB and other industry specific software products. Leanne has completed her Certificate IV in Accounting and is currently studying a Bachelor of Accounting through Charles Sturt University. Leanne works with Rhonda in the firms audit and tax teams and is responsible for audits of various size clients, preparation of tax returns and financials for individuals, partnerships, companies and self-managed super funds.
Sudip Karki
Born and raised in Nepal, Sudip holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies through Everest College in Kathmandu. He has also obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Accounting and Administration (BBAA) through Victoria University and has worked as a Junior Accountant in Canada.
Sudip is the newest member of our team and is motivated to further his knowledge and experience in taxation and audit. With the goal of establishing meaningful relationships within the community, Sudip also hopes to add value to our team and clients.