Darryn Thode founded the original Charlestown office back in 2009, formally Bridges Charlestown.

In that time Lantern Financial Group has grown significantly servicing Charlestown , Hunter and the greater Gloucester and Maitland areas.

He has gained a deep understanding of investment funds, shares, superannuation, and income streams through his diverse experience and extensive study. It is Darryn's passion to provide his clients with technical and strategic advice aimed at improving their financial position while increasing their personal net worth.

Darryn is heavily involved in community work volunteering on the Valentine Eleebana Junior Rugby Leagues Club committee for many years. Every Saturday you will see him there on the BBQ feeding the hungry mases.

Currently he is raising funds for the Cancer council via The Mystery Box Rally . Hope you can follow team Two Tees.

He is a Certified Financial Adviser and has completed the Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning.

We would love to welcome you to our Lantern Family and guide you on your own Financial Journey.

Contact email: Darryn.thode@lanternfg.com.au or call 02 4942 2922

Stuart joined the Charlestown practice in 2010 and has over 25 years’ experience in the financial services industry. Stuart's career started in corporate Sydney working with fund managers, giving him a thorough knowledge of markets, investments and managed funds. Using this expertise, he relishes in the opportunity to guide clients into retirement by accumulating funds in superannuation and investments. 

Stuart's love for the industry is evident with the satisfaction he gains by developing long-term relationships with his clients, many he would now call friends. Stuart takes pride in helping clients enjoy their lifestyle by carefully managing their assets and building their wealth whilst assisting them in meeting their financial and lifestyle goals throughout the various phases of their lives. 

Stuart is committed to ensure the advice he provides is current and innovative.  He has completed the Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning an Advanced Diploma of Financial Services as well as a Bachelor of Arts from the University of NSW.  He is also a member of the Financial Planning Association of Australia.  

When Stuart isn't in the office, he hopes to be out surfing, or riding on the Fernleigh.  Yet you will more likely find him running after his kids to various sporting commitments, he is their number one cheer squad. Stuart is married to his long-term love Juliana, and they are kept busy with their 3 boys, Hugo, Felix and Leo as well as a lively terrier called Salty. 

Contact email: stuart.cain@lanternfg.com.au or call 02 4942 2922

Megan began her career in financial services in 2007 and discovered her passion for financial advice after gaining experience across a variety of roles. In 2012, she moved into financial planning and has since built a wealth of experience in helping clients navigate their financial journey with clarity and confidence.

With over a decade in financial planning, Megan has developed a deep understanding of strategies that support clients at every stage of life—from starting out and paying off a mortgage, to building wealth, preparing for retirement, and supporting families through the complexities of aged care. As an Accredited Aged Care Professional™ with Aged Care Steps, Megan brings specialist knowledge to an area that can be both financially and emotionally challenging for many families.

Megan is a Fellow Chartered Financial Practitioner and holds a Master of Financial Planning, completed in 2023. Her strong academic background, combined with years of practical experience, reflects her commitment to continually enhancing her knowledge to better support her clients.

What drives Megan most is helping clients achieve peace of mind—whether that’s reducing financial stress, retiring earlier, travelling more, or simply having the confidence that their finances are working for them. Megan prides herself on building long-term relationships by providing professional, personalised advice that is backed by strong research and a disciplined approach. She has the ability to draw on a wide range of investment options and strategies—from managed funds and listed investments to other tailored solutions—ensuring clients have access to the right mix of opportunities to achieve their goals.

Outside of work, Megan enjoys spending time with her husband James, their two children Charlotte and Flynn, as well as extended family and friends.

Contact email: megan.usher@lanternfg.com.au or call 02 4942 2922

Jessica has been in the Financial Planning industry since 2001 and with Lantern Financial Group (formerly Bridges Charlestown) since March 2010. Through the years, Jess has seen the impact that professional advice can have on an individual's life. In her opinion, engaging in advice is something you'll regret not doing in the future. Jess loves that she can be a part of the process in helping clients meet their financial goals.

Her role here is to serve as a point of contact for clients and to assist the Advisers in implementing our clients' Strategic Advice. With her long-standing expertise in financial planning strategies and dedication to quality outcomes for clients, Jess adds value to your client experience.

Jess enjoys an active lifestyle where you’ll find her at her children’s sporting events on weekends with a passion for travel.

Contact email: jess.hodgson@lanternfg.com.au or call 02 4942 2922