The local accountancy firm has partnered with Wagga-based Adams Kenneally White Pty Ltd, and started trading as AKW Fleming Partners this week.
AKW managing director Graeme Obst said all staff are continuing with AKW Flemings.
But he said the very important benefit of being able to access back up support, skills and experience of a large regional firm will ensure that the firm can continue to provide its clients with a superior level of service.
There will be 70 staff across the merged firm’s offices, with 20 based in Deniliquin.
“Combining our resources means that we can provide better service to our clients,” Deniliquin-based partner Priscilla Jebatharshanan said.
“We think it will be a real benefit to our clients going forward, and a positive move,” associate Michael Fleming added.
“From our perspective we know we wanted to continue looking after our clients in the best possible way,” Mr Fleming continued.
The merger process has been ongoing for an extended period of time, with late partner Graeme McKindlay involved in the early discussions and very keen to see it come to fruition.
“He could also see it is going to be a perfect fit for both firms,” Ms Jebatharshanan said.
She said it has been a long process but “I am confident it is a worthwhile wait”.
In a letter to clients issued before the merger officially took place on February 1, Fleming Partners said the partnership would assist with overcoming the problem that many rural practices faced in recruiting suitably qualified staff.
“Other factors that attracted us to the merger is that AKW share the same values that we do, which was a major consideration in our final decision,” the client letter said.
“We have received a great deal of positive feedback from our clients which gives us great confidence in the future of the merged practice.
“AKW have exceeded our hopes for a firm that we can combine with and continue the tradition of excellent service, expertise and an environment that our clients and associates want to be part of.
“By way of background AKW is based in Wagga Wagga and was established there in 1928.
“It has a proud history of excellent service and professionalism which accords with the values we have always aspired to.
“AKW have branch offices across southern New South Wales, and are very much committed to the Riverina region.
“We now look forward to the future and are confident that our new affiliation will serve us all well.”
Ms Jebatharshanan will hold a director and shareholder role in the new combined business, which will have nine directors in total.
The firm will continue to operate from the Mulwala Plaza in Deniliquin, and can be contacted by calling 5881 1377.
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