The Yeppoon Running Festival is once again proud to be backed by Shanahan Swaffield Partners (SSP) – returning as Naming Rights Sponsor for yet another year in 2025. As a longstanding supporter of the event, SSP’s commitment to community, healthy lifestyles, and local connection continues to shine through every step of the race.
Founded in 1993, SSP is one of Central Queensland’s most respected accounting and business advisory firms. With offices in Yeppoon, Rockhampton, and Emerald, their services go far beyond tax returns – offering everything from business strategy and superannuation to a growing general insurance division.
We caught up with Matthew Hayes, one of SSP’s partners, to hear more about why the event means so much to them, and what we can expect from Team SSP in 2025.
Why does SSP continue to support the Yeppoon Running Festival?
“SSP is a strong supporter of community events that help make Yeppoon and the region a better place to live,” says Matthew. “Having locally well-run events like this allows residents to enjoy large-scale experiences without having to travel to the city – and that’s something we’re proud to be part of.”
Will we see SSP out on the course again this year?
“Absolutely,” Matthew confirms. “We really encourage everyone at work to have a go. A lot of our staff take part in the 5km walk and make it a social event – it’s a great team-building day.”
But it’s not all cruisy strolls and high-fives – a little friendly rivalry has added extra energy this year.
Any stories from past events?
“This year we’ve got a new young buck who’s just joined us – he’s 26 and very competitive,” Matthew laughs. “He’s challenging everyone to beat him – especially our ‘old fox’ who’s 68 and not backing down. There’s even a cheeky $5K side bet riding on it!”
The challenge is on – and it’s safe to say the SSP tent will be the place to be for post-race banter.
Any new services or updates from SSP?
“We haven’t launched any new community programs this year,” Matthew says, “but we are ramping up our Insurance Division. It’s something a lot of people might not associate with accountants, but we can now assist with house, car, boat, and business insurance – and we’d love to get the word out.”
What are you most looking forward to this year?
“Seeing who wins that SSP race… and having a beer with everyone afterwards,” says Matthew with a grin. “The festival atmosphere is something special – it really brings people together.”
And what’s next for SSP in the community?
“We’re always open to ideas that will benefit the community and our brand,” Matthew says. “We want to support initiatives that strengthen Yeppoon and give back to the people who support us.”
As they lace up for another year of sponsorship, Shanahan Swaffield Partners once again show what it means to back your community – not just in business, but in the everyday moments that bring people together.
Whether it’s crunching numbers, cheering from the sidelines, or joining in the fun, SSP continues to lead from the front – and this year’s Yeppoon Running Festival is all the better for it.
Contact Shanahan Swaffield Partners
📍 15 James Street, Yeppoon QLD
🌐 sspaccountants.com.au
📞 (07) 4939 1766
📧 admin@sspaccountants.com.au
