Meet the Team
Shannon Ashton
Director, Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) Specialist
Shannon holds a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting with a minor in Finance, from the University of Wollongong and is an accredited Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) Association Specialist.
With a strong entrepreneurial mindset, Shannon made his first property investment at just 19 years of age and has since built a diverse portfolio of property and business interests. In 2021, he launched two business ventures, Escape Place Cafe and Ashton & Associates, initially established as a bookkeeping business. By 2023, he had expanded his entrepreneurial pursuits with the launch of Gleam Team Cleaning and transitioned Ashton & Associates from bookkeeping into a full-service accounting practice, now operating as Ashton Garland Accounting.
Shannon also has a background in IT and, drawing on his interests in technology, art and music, has pursued side ventures in photography and software and technology setups. These varied experiences have given him practical exposure to many of the same challenges faced by his business clients, from starting and growing a business to managing employees, cash flow, assets, property and investments.
His involvement in property has also continued to grow. Alongside his broader property investments, Shannon operates a portfolio of five short-term accommodation properties and holds an interest in an additional Airbnb property on Boracay Island in the Philippines. This hands-on experience gives him an understanding of property investment and short-term accommodation that extends beyond accounting and taxation.
Shannon believes that being open about his own experiences helps build genuine connections and confidence with his clients. His diverse business and investment background complements his accounting expertise, allowing him to approach client matters from both an accountant's perspective and that of a business owner and investor. He takes pride in providing practical, personalised advice and helping clients understand not only their numbers, but how those numbers relate to their broader financial and business goals.
Shannon attributes much of his own development to the guidance of mentors throughout his career and strongly believes in self-confidence, continual learning and empowering others to succeed.
Born on the Central Coast, Shannon relocated to Batemans Bay at eight years of age and has strong ties to the local community. He is currently a member of the Batemans Bay Business and Tourism Chamber and Rotary Batemans Bay.
Outside of accounting and business, Shannon enjoys spending time with his children, jamming as the front man with his newly formed band, painting, scuba diving, boating, gaming and unwinding with Netflix.
Chelsea Bower
Junior Accountant, Admin Assistant & Receptionist
reception@ashtongarland.com.au
Chelsea brings a diverse range of business and client service experience to the team, having previously operated as a sole trader providing NDIS and palliative care services. Her background in care, administration and business operations has given her strong organisational and people-management skills, which she now applies across several areas of the businesses.
At Ashton Garland Accounting, Chelsea works alongside Shannon and assists with the preparation of tax returns, Business Activity Statements (BAS), transaction coding, bookkeeping and payroll. She also has experience using Xero and assists with maintaining accurate client records and ensuring information is organised and ready for review and lodgement.
Chelsea also plays a key role in the management of Gleam Team Cleaning, overseeing much of the day-to-day operations of the business. Her responsibilities include staff rostering, human resources, staff management, scheduling and coordinating cleaning services, as well as maintaining relationships with clients and employees.
Alongside Shannon, Chelsea also assists clients who are looking to convert their investment properties into short-term accommodation and Airbnbs. Chelsea focuses on the presentation and practical setup of each property, assisting with décor, furnishings and Airbnb layouts to create an inviting and functional space for guests. Shannon then complements this by completing the property photography, online listing and platform setup.
Chelsea occasionally attends Rotary events as a guest and enjoys being involved in the local community and supporting the relationships developed through the businesses.
Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys spending quality time with her two children and staying connected with family and friends.
Coral Anderson
Receptionist & Admin Assistant
reception@ashtongarland.com.au
Coral brings over 20 years of experience as a legal secretary, along with three years working in real estate. With a passion for property investment, she has successfully purchased, renovated, and flipped over 20 properties in the Batemans Bay area since moving there in 2000.
Active in her community, Coral enjoys volunteering and has supported organizations like the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, and Respite for Children with Disabilities. She is also involved in local council elections.
In her downtime, Coral stays informed on current events, politics, and legislative changes.