For expert advice call us on (03) 5618 3122
About Us
The Grand Ridge
Located in Victoria’s South East, the Grand Ridge Road meanders through one of Gippslands highest points, Mount Worth. Showcasing some of our regions best scenery and diversity and with strong connections to our community the Grand Ridge Road quickly became the inspiration for our business name. Grand Ridge Financial is a business working together with you and your best interests through all of life’s stages.
The Best of Both Worlds
Grand Ridge Financial is a Corporate Authorised Representative of Melbourne based firm First Financial Pty Ltd. First Financial is one of the largest financial services providers in Victoria. They hold their own Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL). First Financial have over 60 staff who provide Grand Ridge Financial several layers of support. Of significance is our investment research process which enables advisers to spend more time with clients. The internal research team analyse and navigate the external investment recommendations from various first class research houses. The outcomes of the analysis are presented in a timely and efficient manner to our advisers who then communicate any appropriate investment changes to our clients based on their own personalised circumstances and attitude (C&A). The C&A process is a unique cashflow based philosophy to ensure you have the income you need when you need it regardless of market conditions. At Grand Ridge Financial you are not just a number in the same box as other clients within a large organisation. You and your specific needs and objectives are at the forefront of our personalised advice.
The strength of a well resourced licencee with years of strategic and investment research experience coupled with good old fashioned service brings together the best of both worlds.
Meet the Team
Financial Adviser
Barry Zeldenryk
Barry founded Grand Ridge Financial in May 2016 with the mission to provide financial advice to put people in a better financial position.
Raised in West Gippsland, Barry is passionate about helping other locals achieve their personal and financial goals.
Using his years of experience in changing market conditions, qualifications and connections to help our client achieve their goals.
Financial Adviser
Jason Croft
Jason has over 10 of experience as a financial planner, along with a further 6 years in accounting and business services industry.
Jason has extensive knowledge in all aspects of financial planning including superannuation, self-managed super funds and direct shares.
Jason is a Warragul local with a young family and strong ties to local sporting organisations.
Financial Adviser
Sam Batson
Sam has been working within the financial services industry since 2017 with previous experience in accounting and mortgage broker services. In early 2025, an opportunity arose for Sam to transition into Financial Advice at Grand Ridge Financial.
Sam takes a holistic approach to providing personalised advice, giving clients confidence that their financial future is on track.
Outside of work, Sam coaches two local sporting clubs and enjoys helping members of his community—young and old—achieve their individual and team goals. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and young family.
Practice Manager
Deb Thomas
Deb has been apart of the Grand Ridge Financial team since 2016 as the firms Practice Manager. Deb also has a wealth of experience in the financial services sector and understands building strong long-term relationships is earned with efficient, proactive, professional and quality client service and practice management. She has a strong understanding that financial advice is more than just numbers and strategies. It is peace of mind.
Client Services Manager
Emily Cole
We welcomed Emily to the team back in 2019 as our Client Services Manager. Having worked in the financial advice industry since 2011, she understands that building trusted, long-term relationships is done with efficient and proactive client service.
Emily's attention to detail keeps us all on track and ensures all your dealings with us are seamless.
Client Services
Samantha James
Samantha joined our Client Services team in 2024. With almost a decade of combined experience in the Financial and Insurance Services industry, she brings a genuine focus on the importance of ensuring our clients feel valued throughout their financial journey with us.