In Memoriam: Garry Stewart, 1956-2023

A highly respected individual in the Australian mortgage industry known for his integrity and willingness to help others, Mr Stewart had deep knowledge of and passion for the broker market having worked in a range of banking and mortgage and businesses over his career - including St George Bank (1997-2001), Bluestone Group (2002-2006), Challenger Financial Services (2007-2008) and outsource Financial (2013-2015).

Steve Weston, who worked with Mr Stewart at St.George Bank and Challenger Financial Services said that Australia’s mortgage industry had lost one of its “wonderful people”.

He said: “Garry was a big man in stature but had an even bigger heart. He was universally liked and respected for his integrity and willingness to go the extra mile to help those he worked with. Garry will be sadly missed by all those who knew him. RIP big fella.”

Greg Evans, the former national sales manager (retired) at Bluestone, added that Mr Stewart was “a family man” and credited his friend for helping him transition easily from 31 years of traditional banking to a non-conforming environment at Bluestone.

“He was already a "believer" in the Bluestone philosophy and taught me the ropes of this new business... He made the transition much easier.

“Garry’s honesty and knowledge were key elements that helped me greatly in the initial stages. He never really lost sight of his passion for helping brokers achieve a positive result.

"He'll be missed,” he said.

Trevor Scott, CEO of Ownright Custom Finance who used to recruit for Bluestone Mortgages, reflected: “I first met Garry when he was a BDM at Home Loans, and I was so impressed with a presentation he did at Parramatta, I hired him to become one of the first BDMs in NSW.

“Garry had a very strong knowledge of the broker market, and was extremely well-connected in NSW, which greatly assisted us in establishing a footprint in that state.

“He was a very affable fellow, and well liked and respected by all he came in contact with. I will always remember his infectious smile, his sense of humour and his love for his family, especially his beautiful wife Heather,” he said.

A funeral service was held at Menai Anglican Church on 9 March, remembering his life.

Mr Stewart is survived by his wife, Heather, his chidren Daniel, Breeane and Benjamin and grandchildren Ava, Lexi, Zoe, Baxter, Cooper, Noel, Jonah and Grayson.