™ ™ November- December 2013 VOLUME 7 ISSUE 8
Human rights Amnesty International in Brisbane
Innovators The young lawyers starting their own firms
MERGEDHemming+Hart joins Colin Biggers & Paisley
1 Brisbane Legal developing talent and success
Published by Business News Publications Pty Ltd. Contents ABN: 78 095 179 678 GPO Box 2087, Brisbane QLD. 4001 Phone: 07 3608 2069, Fax: (07) 5575 9544 Managing Editor Camilla Jansen 4 [email protected]
Journalists: Keeping kids out of Colin Gilmore custody [email protected] James Perkins [email protected] 07 3608 2069 Karen Rickert Career Opportunities [email protected] Laura Daquino Construction Insurance | Professional Indemnity | Public Liability [email protected] 7 5 Yrs to SA | Construction Litigation 2-4 Yrs | Workers Comp and Public Liability With a genuine commitment to grow and develop this practice, you will act Servicing both major insurance companies and significant self-insurer Advertising: for some of Australia’s major blue chip companies across the mining, clients this is an exceptional opportunity to join one of Queensland’s leading HopgoodGanim Kim Draper engineering and property sectors. This is a brilliant opportunity to make a defendant teams. Great team culture. moves into China [email protected] mark and progress within one of the country’s most innovative law firms. 4 Yrs to SA | General Insurance Janine Maggs Senior Lawyer to SA | Construction – Back-end Recognised as a leading employer, this highly awarded firm is keen to [email protected] Be part of a team that is known as one of the best construction practices in recruit an experienced insurance lawyer to join this growing team. Be part the Asia Pac region. You will work with a terrific group of partners who have of its success and be rewarded well above market. 07 3608 2068 cultivated a dynamic and unique team culture. Clear path for progression. 3-5 Yrs | Professional Indemnity 5 Yrs to Senior Associate – Front-end construction Complex professional indemnity combined with bespoke corporate Design: Working on some of Queensland’s most significant infrastructure projects litigation will be the norm when you join this team of specialist litigators. Albrecht Gatchalian this is a very rare opportunity to join this tight knit team. Both the scope of Progression is only limited by your ambition and skill. [email protected] 9 work and the chance to launch your career via the firms’ international Subscriptions: secondments make this role one of the most exciting available right now. Property | Infrastructure | Corporate [email protected] Agnes McWhinney 5 Yrs to Senior Associate | International firm | Property and infrastructure award winner Commercial Litigation Join a strong and stable team that rarely has a need to recruit. We welcome feedback from readers: Senior Lawyer | Commercial Disputes Great opportunity for a commercial property lawyer to broaden their [email protected] Whether you have a portable client base or a proven track record in expertise in the infrastructure projects area and work with a leading team. Cover: . generating new work, this well-known mid-tier firm can offer an experience Partner | Client Base with a difference. A terrific culture and a clear progression to partnership This well-established and reputable mid-tier firm, with a well-known and make this an opportunity to be explored. dynamic partnership continues to operate at an impressive level. Servicing PRIVACY NOTICE 6 Yrs - Senior Associate | Niche litigation practice a range of SME’s across the commercial, property and commercial litigation This issue of Brisbane Legal may contain offers, competitions or Servicing an array of blue chip and SME clients across the mining, space they are now looking to complement their firm with a seasoned surveys that require you to provide information about yourself if 11 you choose to enter or take part in them. If you provide information manufacturing and property industries, this presents as an exciting practitioner who can bring not only a client following, but the strength of about yourself to Brisbane Legal, Brisbane Legal will use this opportunity to join this recognized practice. Federal and Supreme Court their knowledge and experience. information to provide you with the products or services you have requested and may supply your information to contractors that Cover story: experience is a must. help Brisbane Legal to do this. Brisbane Legal will also use your information to inform you of other products, services and events. 6 Yrs + | Commercial Litigation This is one of a handful of opportunities currently available for senior Brisbane Legal may also give your information to organisations Firm accepts Home to ex-top tier lawyers this practice continues to debunk the myth practitioners who have cultivated their own client base and are looking that are providing special prizes or offers and that are clearly associated with the reader offer. Unless you tell us not to, we national merger that it’s only top tier firms that get complex multimillion dollar disputes. for an alternative environment from their current firm. Having worked may give your information to other organisations that may use it to inform you about other products, services or events or give to Unique opportunity for an experienced litigator to be 2IC to this well-regarded with many partners and senior practitioners, we are well-experienced in other organisations that may use it for this purpose. If you would partner. Salary + bonus the complexities of such moves. Confidentiality is assured. like to gain access to the information Brisbane Legal holds about you, please contact our privacy officer at Brisbane Legal , GPO Box 2087, Brisbane. Qld 4001. The views expressed by advertisers and outsourced columnists are not necessarily those held by the publisher.
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September 2013 4 NEWS NEWS
Queen’s Counsel Last resort: How to keep appointments children out of custody BACKLASH TO THIRTEEN members of the Queensland Bar A UQ hosted forum aired on ABC radio aimed to generate wider discussions on sentencing of have been appointed as Queen’s Counsel, PATEL VERDICT marking the first appointments since 1993. youths through debate. Attorney-General and Minster for Justice Jarrod Bleijie resumed the use of the title in Queensland in December 2012 after it was removed by the Labor Government in 1994. The following Queen’s Counsel appointments The Medical Board of Australia and the Australian were approved by the Governor General on Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) are November 14: taking a stance against Queensland’s District Court’s Helen Patricia Bowskill November 21 decision on the Dr Jayant Patel case Thomas Joseph Bradley Catherine Elena Carew Peter Alan Hastie SOON after Judge Terry Martin announced From this, disciplinary action is to Patel would walk free, on a two-year recommence in the Queensland Civil and David Robert Kent wholly suspended jail sentence for fraud, Administrative Tribunal (QCAT), where the Mark David Martin the Board and the AHPRA reactivated case against Patel will be prosecuted by Timothy Matthews disciplinary action against Patel to “ensure the Board. Damien Peter O'Brien the ongoing protection of the public”. The Board intends to ensure a Adam Michael Pomerenke They have served him with a referral continuation of denying Patel registration as Mark Louis Robertson notice on the grounds of: supplying false a medical practitioner in Australia, an order and misleading information in application which took effect in April 2005. Soraya Mary Ryan for registration on two occasions, providing Rebecca Mary Treston below standard clinical patient care, and QCAT is yet to set a date for the hearing, Manuel Michael Varitimos unsatisfactory professional conduct under but it is expected to be in the near future. relevant law. consecutive time.
… THEN ADVERTISE Janet Wright, Jann Taylor, April Chrzanowski, Professor Heather Douglas, Dr Stephen Stathis, LOOKING FOR FOR FREE WITH THE Paul Barclay (Radio National’s Big Ideas program), Scott McDougall (Director, Caxton Legal Centre) STANDOUT COLLEGE OF LAW Need a law graduate, ORGANISERS of a University of Queensland needed evidence to influence this debate in the high cost of incarceration in relation to alternative Law School youth justice forum hope its hope of persuading lawmakers to reconsider rehabilitation programs. work experience student broadcast on the ABC will help prompt their dramatic rollback of accepted legal principle COLLEAGUES?... Dr Stathis says the vast majority of young or recently admitted community debate over government proposals in deciding these matters. people in youth detention centres have either a practitioner? to impose harsher sentencing on young “Detention is a last resort when children are history of physical or sexual abuse, have suffered offenders. The College’s free online jobs sentenced in all Australian states and territories, parental neglect or intergenerational trauma, The forum, co-hosted by the Caxton Legal (and) it should stay that way.” or are exposed to a toxic peer group or family noticeboard can get your job Centre and Griffith University, was covered More than 150 people attended the Youth environment. in front of thousands of PLT by Radio National’s Big Ideas program in late Justice and Detention as a Last Resort students and new lawyers October. Early parenting programs such as Triple P, discussion held at the Queen Elizabeth II Court across Australia. Professor Heather Douglas says the Complex. developed at UQ, and youth development initiatives can help to reduce the risk of See just how easy it is panel discussion aimed to highlight potential Research suggests children should be treated offending by improving a young person’s home consequences of the Queensland Government’s differently to adults as detaining and removing to advertise - visit us at Safer Streets Crime Action Plan. them from their families, educational institutions environment. www.collaw.edu.au/careers “The United Nations Convention on the Rights and friendship groups can marginalise them from Chrzanowski revealed that the cost of today! of the Child states that the detention of a child their communities and reduce their chances of detaining a juvenile in a youth detention centre is should be used as a last resort,” Prof Douglas rehabilitation. about $240,000 per year. says. The panel featured Royal Children’s Hospital Taylor says many young people in detention “This principle is under threat in Queensland Child and Youth Mental Health Service clinical centres are unable to obtain bail simply because and lawmakers should be considering how to director Dr Stephen Stathis, Youth Advocacy there is no safe place for them to stay due to avoid detention through use of a greater range Centre director Janet Wright, barrister Jann family dysfunction. of early interventions and sentencing options to Taylor and Griffith University criminal justice deal with young offenders. researcher April Chrzanowski. The Youth Justice panel discussion was the final of a three part Social Justice Series. “By bringing together experts with They raised a number of key issues to be Visit www.collaw.edu.au/careers considerable experience in the realm of youth considered in the treatment of young offenders, It is available as a podcast at abc.net.au/ justice our aim is to contribute some much ranging from social and medical factors to the radionational/podcasts
5 Brisbane Legal September 2013 6 NEWS NEWS Homeless legal health training CHINATOWN FOR videos TWO innovative homeless legal health HOPGOODGANIM training videos were launched by the Attorney General’s office during November. The videos are designed to help homeless people, through assisting community workers to recognise legal needs of disadvantaged clients and effectively refer them to free legal services as necessary. The videos produced by the QPILCH Homeless Persons’ Legal Clinic (HPLC), with funding from Legal Aid Queensland, feature actors who were at the time either homeless residents or support staff at Roma House – a crisis accommodation and support service operated by Mission Australia at Spring Hill. HPLC coordinates private volunteer lawyers to attend 14 homeless community services in the state to provide free legal services and works closely with the workers at such services to ensure its clients know what legal panel, including our partner firm Dacheng Law help is available. Offices. Eighty per cent of people experiencing “By building on our service offering, we will be homelessness have unresolved legal issues in a great position when that time comes. which can hamper their housing prospects, but “In the meantime, we will focus on continuing they will typically not seek a lawyer’s help. Brett Lethbridge, Lethbridge Gallery; QCP director and judge Maurice Ortega; winner to provide a high quality service to our existing Sebastian Di Mauro, and Clayton Utz Brisbane partner in charge Alan Maguire’ Up to 105,000 people are homeless on any clients and attracting new clients with the given night in Australia. HopgoodGanim approach, which is of course Queensland’s largest homeless population The Brisbane firm has appointed a senior China consultant in the business mateship at its best. is in Brisbane – with 1943 in the inner-city and booming Asian nation. “This is a great milestone for HopgoodGanim 4324 across the entire metropolitan area. and sets our 40th anniversary celebrations off to LAUNCH ART Other centres of homelessness include the HOPGOODGANIM now has direct Offices and Zhejiang T&C. an exciting start.” Gold Coast, with 1426, Cairns with 2303, representation in China. The firm has a growing list of Chinese-based Wadley has been a resident of Shanghai for Townsville with 1591 and 2130 across western Managing partner Bruce Humphrys says this and owned clients such as Norton Gold Fields 13 years and has extensive experience over the parts of the state. PRIZE AWARDED has been made a reality through the appointment Limited; SinoCoal Resources (a wholly-owned past 20 years providing corporate advisory and There were 38,930 applicants waiting for of Senior China Consultant Michael Wadley. Australian subsidiary of China National Coal legal services to foreign investors throughout public housing in Queensland at December China and to Chinese groups investing offshore. Religious tolerance and successful civil “We are delighted to welcome Michael to our Group; and Bank of China. 2012, and the rental market had a critically growing team and to confirm to our clients that “We saw the need to not only have on-the- He has assisted hundreds of Australian, administration themes in this year’s winning work. low vacancy rate of 3.1 per cent at the same we have on-the-ground support in China,” says ground support, but to also demonstrate that Chinese and foreign businesses establish and period. Humphrys. commitment by having a go-to person whom manage operations in China and Australia. COMMERCIAL and business firm Bones oil painting, received special Homelessness can come about because of “We very much see our work in the region as clients and prospects alike can visit,” says Working with Australian and Chinese federal Clayton Utz has awarded Sebastian commendations. many factors such as relationship and home a long-term and committed arrangement and Humphrys. and state government trade agencies, he speaks Di Mauro its $10,000 LAUNCH Art breakdowns, job losses, mental health issues Ortega acknowledges the firm for we hope to continue to build the support base in “Our peers in the UK have predicted that in the regularly to interest groups on strategies for Award for 2013. and debt. supporting the “unique venture”. China so as to reflect the needs of our clients. next five to 10 years, the China market will open doing business in and with China. The taxing experience homelessness can Judge Maurice Ortega praised Di “Our industry is grateful for the “HopgoodGanim has been working in China up entirely. Wadley has also served on several listed be impacts on individuals for years and can Mauro’s Pro Constantinus wall-based support given to local artists and the for a long time now, with the appointment “This is reflected in this week’s appointment of company boards and is currently a Partner or impede their health, financial and social well- sculpture for its innovative use of of Michael being an enhancement of our a number of local and international firms to the Director of a number of consultancies for China increasing recognition brought by this being across the long-term – even after they materials and modernity. cooperation agreements with Dacheng Law Chinese Government’s Ministry of Commerce in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the UK. award. may have regained housing. Its "clear appreciation of history “I believe the showcase in this by thematically linking the work QPILCH collaborates year-round with other award expresses unequivocally to Constantine as the first Roman community agencies to help vulnerable and the quality and depth of talent of emperor to convert to Christianity,” socially excluded people get through the crisis Queensland art." was also a key to the judging, of homelessness, stabilise their housing and says Ortega, who is director of the The winning piece and those of 39 fulfil their potential. improve your work efficiency Queensland Centre for Photography. finalists will be displayed at Utz’ offices It is recognised that people need a range Package Priced for during the next 12 months. of services to address factors that led to or AND your well being! “(Constantine was also) a clear / WK* supporter of religious tolerance and a LAUNCH is now in its sixth year and keep them homeless, with legal issues being significantly important. $14.90 success as an administrator. invites contributions in any medium Redeem your corporate exclusive The Legal Health Check is a diagnostic "The celebration of these attributes from Queensland-based artists with a Join our WorKplace HealtH deal by contacting us with the tool that was developed by the HPLC as a by such a unique work at this critical strong connection to the state and pHysical activity program (WHpa): special code : BL2013 structured interview tool for pro bono lawyers point in time made this work the clear Past winners include photographic who provide legal service to disadvantaged 2 x 30 min circuits / week run and monitored by a winner for 2013.” and performance artist Henri van clients; Personal Trainer in the gym (10-12 persons group) Di Mauro and two other artists were Noordenburg in 2012, Kate Bernauer Resource for community workers to identify in 2011, Haruka Sawa in 2010, Free Program and session with a Personal presented with awards at a cocktail and prioritise the legal needs of their clients Gemma Smith in 2009, Dane Lovett Trainer to learn how to do the exercises function held at Utz’ Riparian Plaza and a menu for clients to maximize their choice offices during October. and Martin Smith, both in 2008. Level 4, 132 Albert Street by understanding which issues the lawyer 24 / 7 gym access to all the Stepz Clubs Brisbane, 4000, QLD Greer Townshend, for her charcoal Utz thanks Lethbridge Gallery for can assist with.View the Legal Health Check Ph: 07 3162 2177 No Joining Fee, No Contract. www.stepzfitness.com.au drawing Mods and Rockers and managing the 2013 award for the third training videos at: www.qpilch.org.au/lhc Not redeemable for cash. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. First time Stepz Fitness members only. Mark Standing, for his Rattling the consecutive time.
7 Brisbane Legal September 2013 8 NEWS NEWS Principal rewarded for her principles Michelle James has been awarded a prestigious award for her community and professional achievements.
MAURICE Blackburn Lawyers principal Michelle “She also dedicates her time as an adult James has won the Queensland Law Society literacy tutor.” James accepted the award at (QLS) 2013 Agnes McWhinney Award. the annual Women Lawyers Association of James is Queensland president of the Queensland Award Dinner on Saturday October Australian Lawyers Alliance, Moreton Bay Law 19 at Brisbane City Hall. Association vice president and a QLS accredited personal injury specialist. Accepting the award, she said it was an “extremely humbling experience” and She says she’s grateful to the society for Pedal congratulated all of the other nominees whose recognising the ongoing importance of work being done in community legal centres and the ranks she was proud to belong to. volunteers who generously donate their time. “I am proud of the legal profession in “It is always humbling to be reminded that the Queensland and I am also proud to be a legal profession is one with the genuine best member of the legal profession in Queensland. interests of the community at its heart.” power “Despite recent convenient political The award is named in honour of the state’s commentary to the contrary, ours is an important first admitted female solicitor and recognises profession and one with the genuine best outstanding professional or community ‘Race of truth’ set to interests of the community at its heart. contributions by woman lawyers. challenge the most senior QLS president Annette Bradfield says the “This is true, I like to think, of all practitioners, award recognises outstanding professional or no matter which side of the political spectrum riders – all in the name of community contributions by a woman lawyer you may sit on.” supporting Bravehearts. and Michelle is deserving of the award in both She said when asked what she enjoyed respects. about practising law and about common and “Aside from her professional achievements, fundamental values lawyers shared she routinely her community contributions include FORMER professional bicycle road racer Robbie Bravehearts does in the community,” says the McEwen and Orica GreenEDGE owner Gerry replied: fairness. membership of the Management Committee McEwen will be among Brisbane lawyers from Brisbane native who recently joined Utz after Ryan for being such passionate supporters of of the Pine Rivers Neighbourhood Centre and “When I talk about fairness in a legal Clayton Utz during the inaugural Bravehearts returning from a four year stint in the UK. child protection and for helping to launch this voluntary work at the Pine Rivers Legal Centre,” context I am talking about notions of balance, Time Trial on November 24. Bravehearts founder and executive director race.” says Bradfield. transparency, respect and empathy. The Orica GreenEDGE Cycling supported Hetty Johnston thanks Clayton Utz for its McEwen says the event will test even the most event’s Utz team will be headed by Construction ongoing support and for selecting Bravehearts seasoned riders. and Major Projects Team Special Counsel Chris as a community connect partner. Slocombe – who has averaged between 150 “Clayton Utz is such a wonderful supporter of “They call it the ‘race of truth’,” he says. and 200km each week in preparation. Bravehearts and our vision to make Australia the “And there’s nowhere to hide; it’s just you, Slocombe says his team will include Shannon safest place in the world to raise a child,” says your bike and the clock. Saxby, Blake Frost and Gareth Oxley. Johnston. “This is as close as you will ever come “We do a lot of training together and a couple to competing in a pro cycling event and I of us have competed in the Noosa Triathlon in encourage riders of all levels to have a crack at it the lead-up to the Bravehearts Time Trial,” he Lawyers must challenge changing media while raising much needed funds and awareness says. Clayton Utz is such for Aussie kids.” “We all have our strengths and weaknesses Social media challenging sub judice laws and the right to a fair trail and in the lead up weeks we scoped out the a wonderful supporter of The Bravehearts Time Trial will cater for teams course to see where our strengths are best Bravehearts and our vision to and individual riders and include many of the DEFENCE lawyers must re-evaluate their He says defence lawyers can’t afford contempt charges that similar information deployed. features of a professional time trial, such as ramp media strategies during high profile criminal to remain silent in the face of such blatant was freely available on social media. make Australia the safest place in “It’s not a classic time trial course as it’s quite start, motorbike cameras and timing gates. cases in order to ensure due process for flouting of the due legal process. “Instead of stoically gliding past the their clients, according to a Brisbane public undulating, so it will be interesting to see how the world to raise a child,” says Prizes on offer include a trip to the 2014 Tour “I’m not a lawyer, but I believe that the television cameras on the way to court, relations and reputation management everyone copes with the hills.” de France for the highest fundraiser. foundation of a just society is to ensure a fair lawyers could use the opportunity to bring Johnston. strategist. The 43km pro replica race will be contested Of course it’s all about the kids so the Samford and untainted trial. some balance to the situation facing their Mercer PR principal Lyall Mercer through the picturesque Moreton Bay and Hetty Johnston, Bravehearts “This not only protects the innocent but client and reinforce the message that the law Parklands hosting the Time Trial will also be predicts the new social-media dominated Samford Valley areas. ensures that appeal opportunities are not applies to everyone – even people on Twitter the venue for a free kids carnival sponsored by landscape will become more uncontrollable The Utz team averaged 35km/hr over a recent unduly given to the guilty.” with fake names.” Moreton Bay Regional Council. and is already creating an American-style 100km ride from Brisbane to the Gold Coast. The mainstream media has a part to play “To all the riders and to those who have Riders can bring their family and friends along conversation around legal proceedings, Mercer says defence teams should closely Slocombe says that kind of training and as well, he says. donated and helped to bring this event to to the carnival which will include rides, a jumping despite sub judice laws. monitor social and general media reports regular Wednesday and Saturday rides favouring fruition; we can’t thank them enough. about their cases and not be afraid to speak castle, petting zoo, pony rides, clowns and “Each high profile case now is preceded “It’s becoming easier for journalists to be the Brisbane River loop will keep his team “It’s this kind of support and events like this by seemingly endless and often vitriolic social up to demand people abide by the law or call influenced by social media, making it more competitive on the 24th. fairground food such as fairy floss. that make a real difference. media commentary, making it more difficult for offenders to be prosecuted. important for lawyers to place a greater “As a father to two young children, I am “The local business community has really for the legal principle of the presumption of “Few could argue with Derryn Hinch’s priority on media engagement around their Visit www.braveheartstimetrial.org.au or passionate about this cause and the work that taken to this event I must also thank Robbie innocence to be maintained,” Mercer says. comments following his recent conviction on cases.” phone Jenna Rathbone on 07 5552 3009.
9 Brisbane Legal September 2013 10 COVER
Hemming+Hart merges with the world
A Sydney and Melbourne-based firm, with ties to the rest of Australia and the globe, has merged with a local office.
COLIN BIGGERS & Paisley’s (CBP) managing He has a clear vision for the new look eastern “I have to get to know some people a bit partner Dunstan de Souza sees his firm’s merger seaboard CBP. better and the geography is a challenge, but I with Brisbane’s Hemming+Hart as a vote of “This is a significant milestone for the firm but am confident that my new team will work well confidence for Queensland’s economy and it is far from the end of the journey. together. growth outlook. “We have other exciting initiatives in the “What gives me this confidence is the fact that The merger follows CBP’s expansion to we didn’t rush headlong into this merger – we Melbourne during 2012. pipeline and I expect to be able to make further announcements in the immediate future.” took our time making the decision, so we knew “After our move to Melbourne we have quickly the two firms were a good match.” moved to a full eastern seaboard presence to Hemming+Hart managing partner Jon offer the variety and depth of services required Meadmore says he sees the merger as a vital Nationalisation and globalisation of legal by our clients,” says de Souza. practice has become a trend of late, though "As the firm continues to service clients on a Meadmore says CBP in its new form in national scale, the move into Brisbane will ensure collaboration with Hemming+Hart “has its own that we continue to expand in the areas where story”. our clients need us. We didn't rush “It is not reacting to what the profession is “It makes sense that we can serve our clients headlong into this merger doing,” he stresses. better by joining forces with a strong Queensland “It is a combination of proactively making our firm." - we took our time making offering to clients a better offering and, in some The marriage with Hemming+Hart will a decision, so we knew the cases, reacting to what our clients have asked dramatically increase CBP’s commercial and for. corporate practice while also building its two firms were a good fit. construction and property market share. Jon Meadmore “Our Brisbane team will continue to serve our clients nationally, but with the ability to access on The move takes CBP’s total partners to 53, and total staff numbers to more than 300. the ground resources in Sydney and Melbourne. De Souza says partner numbers have doubled “I’m delighted to have the privilege of in the past two years. taking over the running of the commercial and “We are delighted about this merger with strategic step in serving national clients with corporate teams in Sydney and Melbourne. Hemming+Hart,” he says. multi-state operations. “It is a vote of confidence in Queensland and “They are a long established Queensland firm “Hemming+Hart is a proud Queensland firm my Brisbane team.” and we look forward to the natural progression with expertise that provides immediate synergy Founded more than a century ago, CBP is with CBP. to an eastern seaboard firm in the new entity,” says Meadmore. highly regarded for its expertise in property and “They are leaders in their fields of expertise development law, building and construction, He will assume the national role of head of and I'm confident that the new firm will go from environment and planning, restructuring and commercial in the new firm. strength to strength. insolvency, transport and logistics, litigation, “Our combined expertise and wider “Prior to the merger I ran a law firm in insurance, commercial and corporate law. geographic coverage across the three states will Brisbane comprising 40 excellent people,” says The firm acts for major corporations, financial bring significant benefits to both our clients and Meadmore. institutions, insurance companies, government our staff. “I now run a team in Brisbane, Sydney and departments and individuals. "We predict that our Brisbane office will double Melbourne comprising 40 excellent people. in size within the next two years and we expect “In both cases the people are really good It is now based in Sydney, Melbourne and to be making more announcements in the very at what they do and passionate about the Brisbane, with associated firms in Adelaide and near future." outcomes they achieve for their clients. Perth
11 Brisbane Legal United in human rights justice
Amnesty International Australia national director Claire Mallinson visited Brisbane to launch a new network in the state and to attend Beyond the Brief – which brought together like-minded legal professionals from around Australia and across the world.
FOR MORE than 50 years the name Amnesty her work as a defense lawyer and her human International has been synonymous with the rights advocacy. Nasrin was imprisoned in human rights movement. We work to protect the notorious Evin Prison where torture and and defend human rights for everyone regardless executions take place regularly. of race, religion, sex, gender or creed. We are starting a During her detention Nasrin was prevented The organisation has its roots firmly planted in newly-formed Amnesty from having regular visits with her husband and the legal world, having been founded by lawyer two young children. Peter Benenson in 1961 in the UK. International Queensland Amnesty supporters from our legal networks It is with Peter’s story in mind that I was in Legal Network and hope in Victoria, New South Wales and our wider Queensland for a first of its kind event to unite membership responded to her six-year prison legal professionals who feel as strongly about your readers will become a sentence by signing petitions and writing letters human rights as the organisation he founded. part of the network. demanding Nasrin’s immediate and unconditional Peter began the movement after reading release. Claire Mallinson a newspaper article about two Portuguese Following this outpouring of support and students who were sentenced to seven years public pressure, Nasrin was released and in prison for raising their glasses in a toast to reunited with her husband and two children in freedom. Commission of Jurists, the Lawyers Information September. Network Inc and Australian Lawyers for He was so shocked by the case he wrote to Australian Human Rights. This support is not just solely focused on the editor of The Observer newspaper, asking international cases. Australian Melinda Taylor people to write letters showing their support for We are currently extraordinarily lucky to have was in Libya to visit Saif al Islam Gaddafi as the students. the support of several top Australian law firms his defense lawyer. She was arrested after providing us with pro-bono legal assistance. This story resonated with readers of the paper her meeting with Saif and accused of passing and the article reappeared in papers across the DLA Piper for example generously commits a documents that undermined Libyan national world. The success of this one simple action led secondee in the form of a junior lawyer to work security. She was held in a jail cell in Zintan Peter to decide to co-ordinate more letter-writing from the Sydney office for six months full-time, for about three weeks before sustained public campaigns. twice a year. pressure and diplomatic efforts saw her released. And so, Amnesty International was founded in We have legal networks comprised of law Melinda's freedom came after meetings London in July 1961 at a meeting between Peter students and practitioners in some states. In between then Foreign Minister Bob Carr and Benenson and six other men, from across the the last few years we have had several interns Abdurrahim el-Keib, the Libyan Prime Minister, political spectrum. from a German law school in Hamburg, Sydney and pressure from the UN Security Council, University Law School and UNSW Law School the International Criminal Court and Amnesty Within a year groups of letter-writers had working at Amnesty International providing legal supporters around the world. formed in more than a dozen countries. support. The founder of Amnesty showed how one Amnesty International has now grown to We are looking at building on this strength and person can make a difference and how by us become the world’s largest human rights starting a newly-formed Amnesty International coming together to take action we can change organisation with well over 4.5 million people Queensland Legal Network, and hope your the world and make it a better place. campaigning to protect human rights and more readers will become part of the network. than 300,000 members in Australia alone. If you are already a supporter thank you, but Recent successes that our supporters, local if not, please join us and continue this tradition With Australia currently having a place at the groups and legal networks have achieved include of social justice in Australia's sunshine state: world’s most influential peak body, the United the release of Iranian lawyer Nasrin Soutodeh, Queensland. Nations Security Council, now is a critical time to who was sentenced to six years in prison on For more information about Amnesty make our voices heard and ensure human rights charges of ‘spreading propaganda against the are respected and emphasised. International’s local groups and our new system’ and ‘acting against national security’. Queensland legal network, please visit our During October I met with some of Nasrin’s imprisonment was based solely on website and register your interest at: www. Queensland’s top legal professionals, from her peacefully exercising her rights, including amnesty.org.au/get-involved/events_groups/ organisations including the International
13 Brisbane Legal September 2013 14 Young, successful, and doing it their own way: Brisbane Legal speaks to two young lawyers with their own practice, Clarissa Rayward and Kate Hynes, gaining an insight into the way they like to do business.
A LAWYER FOR FAMILIES Family law was not always Clarissa Rayward’s passion, but it sure is now.
DANCING in Ireland is literally and figuratively “I really struggle with the damage we can do a world away from practising family law in as family lawyers,” says Rayward, particularly of Brisbane. The ethos of setting the taxing court process. It’s part of Brisbane Family Law Centre (BFLC) up my own practice, or my “The ethos of setting up my own practice, or founder Carissa Rayward’s former life. aim at the end of the day, my aim at the end of the day is to not go to court Rayward is from the Byron Bay area of and it’s an aim that I’m getting close to.” northern New South Wales. is to not go to court and it While she recognises some families – In 1996 at the Queensland University of is an aim I am getting close particularly those with at risk children – need the Technology she began an architecture degree court’s ability to make definitive decisions, she majoring in interior design. to. prefers to work with former couples who are Then after leaving those studies in 1997 she Clarissa Rayward willing to avoid court and maintain necessary ties crossed the river to the University of Queensland for the sake of their children. and studied a Bachelor of Law Bachelor of Arts “The most important things to me are my from 1998 to 2002. husband and child. She kept dancing the entire time. glamorous part of Ireland”, on the River Shannon in the country’s west. “And my niche in Brisbane in family law is to During her law degree for three years she was work with those sorts of families who hold the “Gee it rains; when I got there in summer it also working at Mark Bucknall’s practice. same values. rained for the first 35 days straight. Then she headed to the Emerald Isle in 2004 “I’m not going to pretend that there aren’t the to both teach and practice dancing. “It was quite a contrast, coming from Brisbane to this miserable, cold place.” day-to-day difficulties faced by other business “Ireland is beautiful and I learned so much owners. When Rayward returned to Brisbane she over there, as the manager of a performing arts “But this is what I want to do, and keeping centre,” says Rayward. worked again as a partner with Bucknall – who is now a magistrate in Kingaroy. families out of court is the most rewarding part.” “I wrote a tertiary performing arts course while So rewarding, in fact, Rayward is writing a I was there. The now 36-year-old has always harboured a suspicion or at least hope that there “has to be a book aimed at helping people going through “It had 500 students and 40 performing arts better way for us to practice as family lawyers”. separation to stay out of the court process. teachers, and it was just lovely.” BFLC was founded in 2008 with this question Its intended publishing date is in August, She was based in Limerick, “not the most in mind. 2014.
15 Brisbane Legal September 2013 16 LAW IN THE BLOOD From family to less than pleasant circumstance – this lawyer’s professional journey has been as personal as it has been successful.
WHEN asked as a little girl what she wanted to born – along with at about the same time her be when she was older, Kate Hynes replied: “A My goal was to now three-year-old daughter. Her ability to found judge.” her own law firm at least in part comes back to “Not that I really knew what that was,” create a way of delivering her family history in the profession. she clarifies, to a quite startled Brisbane Legal. legal services that also “I certainly saw the law in lots of different “I’m a third-generation lawyer,” the founder of lights, having lawyers as parents, and one of Kate Hynes Lawyers further explains. delivers a sensible lifestyle the things that gave me was the confidence to “And there’s certainly an aptitude, or a sense to the lawyers providing establish a firm. of familiarity I have from being immersed in the “My goal was to create a way of delivering
law from childhood.” such services. legal services that also delivers a sensible lifestyle Now 39, Hynes’ plans have obviously changed Kate Hynes to the lawyers providing such services. focus from the judiciary to that of a successful “I don’t like the idea of work-life balance, It wasn’t particularly challenging for her as a legal businesswoman. because work and life aren’t separate things. woman lawyer. She graduated from a University of “But there is a problem with the classic “It was challenging full-stop. It wasn’t Queensland Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) expectation of lawyers to be working 80 to 90 challenging for me as a woman for two in 1994, before travelling through Europe hours per week if they want to do high quality reasons: one that it was a very much an expat and working in hospitality in England and work for high quality clients. environment over there, with lots of other Greece. Aussies and Brits around; and two because as “That leaves little time for other parts of life, Then after returning and graduating from her an unmarried woman I was legally treated as a with knock-on effects that include depression Queensland University of Technology law degree man. and family problems.” in 2003, her first legal gig was working for her “If I was married I would have lost a lot of This gives an insight into the types of problems brother Robert’s Gold Coast firm – now based in those legal rights, such as a working visa.” Hynes faced in Melbourne. Brisbane. Returning to Australia after only six months, “For me, setting up my own firm was a case of A move to an all-but-unknown Dubai, of presumably with her piano, she started working necessity being the mother of invention. all places, in 2006, was intended to be so for the Norton Rose Group – formerly Deacons “I had to find a way of continuing to operate as permanent Hynes even moved her piano there. Australia – in Brisbane then in 2009 was a lawyer but not compromising my motherhood “But I didn’t like it,” she says, with some transferred to their Jakarta, Indonesia office. – all without having a partner to fall back on. disappointment. Soon after, she left Deacons and moved to “What I enjoy most about law, is that I love “No-one that I know had even heard of Dubai a Melbourne firm where life, for reasons that being involved in my clients’ businesses. at that time. cannot be printed, went “to hell in a handbag”. “I enjoy entrepreneurial people – their new “And when I told my family ‘I’m moving to the Of course the silver lining is that out of that ideas and how they’re achieving things and how Middle East’: they really flipped.” unfortunate experience Kate Hynes Lawyers was I can help them navigate their path.”
17 Brisbane Legal September 2013 18 FIVE minutes with... Toni Myers Senior Associate Legal life at Kate Hynes Lawyers. honoured I have worked in the legal profession for just over four years. I grew up in the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland. A former Supreme Court Justice is My colleagues think I am a fantastic person and an incredibly remembered by the Justice Department talented lawyer, hopefully. for his tireless contributions to My favourite meal is anything cooked by my gorgeous grandmother, always made with love and great tasting. The same Queensland law, since emigrating from applies to my parents' cooking. South Africa in the 1960s My favourite things about Brisbane are it is a city with a country feel. If I could be anywhere else in the world, I’d be in the UK. I’ve always wished I could run a half marathon. My iPod/CD collection is at present One Republic but in general I ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Justice Minister Jarrod Bleijie McPherson married Shirley Cowan in 1960. have a pretty diverse taste. has paid tribute to one of Queensland’s most significant They had one son and one daughter, and were later I’m currently reading: The Kite Runner. judicial figures who died recently. divorced. Former Justice of the Supreme Court Bruce Harvey I couldn’t live without my family, On April 17, 1963 he was admitted as a barrister of the McPherson died on Monday, October 7 aged 77. Supreme Court of Queensland. My worst habit is is falling asleep on the couch at a ridiculously “Justice McPherson was arguably one of Queensland’s early time . . . every night. finest legal minds,” says Bleijie. After commencing practice in 1965 he took silk on August 14, 1975. What is something people would be surprised to learn about “He made an invaluable contribution to the law and the you? I purchased You wouldn’t know it but: I’m a sucker for a community as an academic, a practitioner and as a member While at the bar McPherson served as a member of the good romance novel. of the judiciary. Queensland Law Reform Commission from 1969 to ‘82) and married Isobel Jacqueline Marie Milne during that time, in “From the time he migrated from South Africa in 1960 I’m inspired by: a challenge. 1975. They had three sons. to take up a position at the University of Queensland, His I would spend my last $100 on: a day out with my husband and 2 Honour served the people of Queensland with distinction. On January 28, 1982 he was appointed a judge of the boys. “He was appointed to the Supreme Court in 1982 and Supreme Court of Queensland and was the Commercial became an inaugural member of the Court of Appeal Causes judge from 1983 to 1985. in 1991. He retired in 2006 after reaching the statutory In 1988 he was appointed a Commander of the Order of retirement age. the British Empire. “Justice McPherson was appointed a Commander of the He became senior puisne judge of the court on Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1988 and also served September 13, 1990. as Senior Puisne Judge, Chairman of the Queensland Law Reform Commission and Chairman of the Judicial On December 16, 1991 he became one of the inaugural Conference of Australia at various times. judges of appeal. Divorce app launched “He will be remembered for his outstanding contribution to During his years on the court, McPherson also served the law in this state. as chairman of the Queensland Law Reform Commission ATTS MCCRAY has announced the launch we are now doing so in a way that supports the the email contact page and also link directly with “On behalf of the Government and people of Queensland, (1982–91); chairman of the Supreme Court Library collection of its second family law and divorce app changes in lifestyle, behaviour and technology Watts McCray's mobile and main web pages for I extend my deepest sympathies to Justice McPherson’s subcommittee (1981–2006); chairman of the trustees of more in-depth information. the Peirson Memorial Home for Children (since 1988); and myAussieDivorce. that these potential expat clients are displaying.” wife and family.” “Watts McCray will also provide face to face McPherson was born on September 23, 1936 at Melmoth, chairman of the Judicial Conference of Australia (1998– The firm is aiming the new app at Australian He says demand for legal information from Asia local services if a matter progresses.” South Africa. The son of mechanical engineer William 2000). expatriates working and living in the US and UK, expats is growing due to Australians being more McPherson and his wife, Sybil Vipond (née Anderson), he Canada, China Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, and more sought after as professionals across Managing Partner Greg McCray adds the He also wrote The Supreme Court of Queensland 1859- Vietnam and Indonesia. Asia, “as they are mobile, they need smart app is another useful innovation for overseas attended Durban High School and the University of Natal, 1960: History, Jurisdiction, Procedure (1989) and was Australians needing family law and divorce where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 1957. appointed international vice-president of the Selden Society Chairman Justin Dowd says myAussieDivorce innovative technology to access information information quickly. in 2004. provides an outline of the key elements a quickly, and Watts McCray is at the forefront of McPherson then read law at Trinity Hall, Cambridge, potential client can need to know if they are this”. “This also says to the Australasian where in 1959 he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and He retired from the court at the age of 70 on September considering a divorce or separation, particularly “myAussieDivorce will outline target marketplace in general that Watts McCray Bachelor of Laws. 23, 2006. while living and working overseas. information for Australian Expats on divorce, supports and wants to help Australians no He migrated to Queensland to take up a position as He since published The Reception of English Law Abroad matter where they live and at anytime of the “myAussieDivorce will ensure Watts McCray de-facto, child support, child custody, property lecturer at the University of Queensland in 1960. (2007), has served on the Administrative Appeals Tribunal settlement, pre-nup or de-facto agreements and day,” says McCray. can now provide their knowledge and experience For his thesis on the law governing the liquidation of (from 2007) and, in 2012, was appointed one of its deputy separation issues in an easy to read format. directly to Australians living and working in Asia,” myAussieDivorce will be available to Apple, registered limited liability companies in Australia, UQ presidents. “Potential expat clients can contact Watts Android and Windows smart phone and tablet says Dowd. awarded him a Doctor of Philosophy in 1967. McPherson also served on the Court of Appeal of the McCray directly from the app via phone or via users and free to download from their respective “While we have always provided such services, Solomon Islands and was also a member of the Fiji Court of app stores and via Watts McCray web sites. The thesis developed into his first major work, The Law of Company Liquidation. Appeal.
19 Brisbane Legal September 2013 20 Gadens Lawyers has responded to changing demands on legal offices in a very physical way, with the refurbishment of its Brisbane base.
Legal clients are increasingly searching for law firms with dynamic, flexible and transparent ways of working, because of new technology and the influx of international firms into the local market, says Gadens Lawyers. In that vein the firm has challenged the conventional office structure with its Brisbane office’s new interior design. Partner Paul Spiro spearheaded the redesign and says the aim was to use culture to influence the design instead of letting the design control the office culture. “Gadens prides itself on its friendly and open culture,” says Spiro. BNP media specialises in “Our new layout, with its glass walls and creating branded content wide-open spaces, enhances that environment perfectly.” for companies just like The practical and innovative refurbishment yours. the benefits are both was designed by international firm, HASSELL. exciting and endless. Large internal walls made of glass transmit EngagE mEmbErs, light into the very centre of the workplace. The walls are movable, which helps the firm’s 350 staff, including 34 partners, work flexibly in stakEholdErs and cliEnts response to client needs. HASSELL director Kirsti Simpson embraced the changes and says Gadens was not scared of Through the medium of a branded content campaign, your business can have a ‘voice’ challenging design conventions. and speak directly to its target market, stakeholders, members and clients. “The design has another aspect that is unusual in law firms: the support staff sit closest to the building’s façade. It’s a great way to: “In a typical law firm, the partners and senior lawyers are given the window facing offices and build brand awareness & brand loyalty the support functions take a back seat, literally, near the core of the building.” position your business & brand Spiro says the firm wanted to reverse the engage members, stakeholders and clients traditional approach by moving partners and cleverly showcase initiatives such as community engagement solicitors into the building’s core and moving the communicate key messages directly to target market open-plan area for the supporting staff toward the façade. educate and take an authoritative voice within your industry “But all of those built zones are four walls reach new audiences of glass. The built zones do not obstruct light create a value-add for loyal clients & members transmission.” showcase new products, services and promotions Gadens’ staff embraced the idea, somewhat to his surprise. effectively communicate the personality behind the brand/business “We anticipated a lot of resistance when first announcing these plans to the partners. “However when we explained the strategy for When putting together your next budget – consider adding branded content to your marketing mix. this decision and when people settled into their new offices, they were overwhelmingly happy, even those senior partners who may have lost their corner office with previously sweeping city views.” The result is a more productive and satisfied workforce, but Simpson still thinks the decision OFFICE took courage. “The practice is a progressive and exciting one. “The space represents this bravery,” she says. LIGHTS UP She sums up the project by saying the legal Magazines digital design sector has changed significantly over the past 10 custoM brand years, and the new space is more transparent, publishing content www.bnpmedia.com.au collaborative and less hierarchical to suit.
21 Brisbane Legal contact jade harrison at Business News Publications for more information on 07 3608 2070 or 0412 416 689 or [email protected] 2013 22 QUINN & SCATTINI QUEENSLAND RAIL BOARD LAWYERS
ALIDA CHAN started at Quinn & Scattini Lawyers at the end of September. Chan specialises in general commercial and civil litigation issues, debt recovery and insolvency. She graduated from Griffith University with a Bachelor of Laws with Honours and a Bachelor of International NEW Relations, as well as completing a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice at the College of Law in Victoria. She’s a member of the Queensland Law Society and was admitted as a solicitor of the Appointments High Court of Australia in 2012. has joined the firm, MAURICE BLACKBURN BIANCA LEIGH has expertise advising RESULTS LEGAL DONNA YALG clients on personal injury, motor accident bringing more than 13 years’ experience in MAURICE Blackburn Lawyers has four lawyers compensation and workers compensation SOLUTIONS property law. Her main areas of expertise from Queensland confirmed as Queensland and rehabilitation claims. COURTNEY include retail/ commercial leasing and Law Society Accredited Personal Injuries LOCKETT joins the commercial team, conveyancing, business purchase and Specialists. SUGATH WIJEDORU is a senior handling matters involving property, sales, self-managed superannuation fund associate and joined the Brisbane firm in 2009. structuring and business succession and purchases and establishment of bare He was admitted in 2003 and is a member of estate planning. Lockett has expertise in Richie Muir trusts. Yalg completed her Bachelor of MICHAEL KLUG has been appointed to the Queensland Rail Board as chairman, after the Queensland Law Society and the Australian residential property, debt recovery and Legal and Justice Studies in 2002 and concluding his third term as partner in charge at Clayton Utz in the Brisbane office. Klug Lawyers Alliance. SARAH VALLANCE is commercial law. She plans to broaden her Bachelor of Laws in 2009. She was has more than 40 years’ experience practising law and is seen as a leader in alternative an associate in the medical law department, scope into wills and estates, superannuation admitted to practice in the Supreme Court joining the firm in 2012. She completed a dispute resolution. He has served on a diverse range of boards and committees, ranging and insolvency arrangements. Chairman of of Queensland as a Solicitor in 2009. Bachelor of Laws with Honours at the University from education, health and transport. He is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company partners Michael Keir says they provide a of Queensland was admitted as a solicitor in directors and has taught university students and business leaders in Australia and overseas. fresh perspective and grow their expertise for 2006. ALISON BARRETT from Southport and EVETTE CLARK has recently received the firm’s next generation. KARA THOMSON from Townsville were also her Accredited Specialist qualification, successful. working at Quinn & Scattini Lawyers since 2006. Clark practices exclusively in family QUT SCHOOL OF LAW law, handling property disputes, parenting CARTER NEWELL LAWYERS team as a senior associate, bringing more than JOHN KELLY will lead a team of lawyers matters and alternate dispute resolution. ten years post admission experience. Hayes M+K LAWYERS and academics teaching QUT’s new She holds a Bachelor of Arts and Laws, Carter Newell has strengthened their team, with specialises in insurance, commercial litigation and M+K Lawyers has appointed two new undergraduate Mining and Resources Law as well as a Graduate Diploma in Legal three new appointments at the firm. Special dispute resolution. She has worked in London as members to their Brisbane office, both moving elective. Kelly has more than 30 years’ Practice from the University of Tasmania. counsel MARK KENNEY will join construction an assistant in-house legal counsel for Spectrum over from Carne Reidy Herd Lawyers. Accredited experience in commercial and business Clark is a solicitor of the Supreme Court and engineering, previously working in-house Syndicate Management. Associate ALLISON law, as a partner and previous chairman at Result Legal Solutions has appointed family law specialist TRENT WALLER and new solicitor SHIREEN OMERA. Omera of Tasmania and High Court of Australia, at an international firm. Kenney has more than HAWORTH has commenced in the property and associate DANIEL HALLAM bring more than Corrs Chambers Westgarth. With a strong as well as a member of the Family Law 12 years’ experience working in construction, injury liability team, leaving a top tier firm. She reputation in the energy and resources began working in commercial litigation and 20 years’ experience to the firm. Both men have recoveries in 2010 and was admitted to the Practitioners Association and Law Council infrastructure and resources. has expertise in insurance, dispute resolution and industry, he played a vital role in designing of Australia in the Family Law Section. She expertise in all areas of family law, specialising in Supreme Court of Queensland and the High risk management and has worked in the UK as a property settlements and pre-nuptial or financial the course structure for students. He volunteers at the Women’s Legal Service Court of Australia in 2012. KATHERINE HAYES joins the Financial Lines senior associate at a Legal 500 firm. agreements. Managing director Les Hancock has worked on numerous gas, electricity, in Annerley. mining and infrastructure projects. He is the She has represented various corporate, says they will complement the company’s government and private clients. This has commercial focus. recipient of numerous accolades including Brisbane Mining Lawyer of the Year for 2013 provided her with expertise in commercial and recognised for his work by Chambers litigation disputes, such as corporate Email your new appointment details plus photo to [email protected] MACDONELLS LAW Global for five years in a row. He returns to recoveries, construction disputes and insolvency. She prides herself in achieving MACDONNELLS Law has appointed two QUT after previously lecturing part-time in positive results in a timely and cost-effective new lawyers to its state-wide insurance the Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice as manner. developing talent and and commercial teams. Insurance lawyer well as chairing the Law Faculty Advisory Committee. inspiring success
SLATER & GORDON SLATER & GORDON YOUR career plan for 2014?
JACKIE KNOWLMAN has been appointed Because serious as special counsel in the wills and estates TRISTAN HIGHAM has joined Slater & team at Thynne & Macartney. Knowlman is Gordon’s compensation team at the Brisbane highly respected in the state, with more than office. Higham will bring a personal insight decisions should never 20 years’ experience in the industry. She is a to the team after a serious motor vehicle Queensland Law Society accredited specialist accident left him a paraplegic in 2009. The be rushed. in succession law and has served on their firm’s reputation for handling motor vehicle Practice Management Committee. claims motivates him to help clients in similar
situations. He graduated from James Cook The firm also welcomesGEOFF CAMERON Let us show you how. as an associate. He brings more than six years’ University with a Bachelor of Laws, as well experience to the role, specialising in estate as receiving a graduate diploma from the Call us on 07 3210 0992 planning, estate administration and estate College of Law. In 2011, he was admitted to for a confidential discussion. the Supreme Court Queensland and the High litigation. [email protected] Court of Australia. alexcorreaexecutive.com.au In house | Private practice | Non legal professional
23 Brisbane Legal September 2013 24 EVENTS EVENTS
DAMAGES IN GREEN JAM MASTERCLASS: PRACTICAL CHRISTMAS BREAKFAST CATASTROPHIC CASES ISSUES EXPLORED WITH CHIEF JUSTICE CAROLS IN THE CITY EVERY FRIDAY NOVEMBER 28 DECEMBER 6 Swing on QPAC every Friday until The Australian Financial Security Authority December 20 at dusk for Green Jam will discuss the Personal Property Securities A highlight of Queensland Law Society’s Sessions; a free evening of smooth jazz, Act 2009 during a comprehensive seminar event calendar, the Specialist Accreditation chilled beverages and great company held at the Law Society House. Attendees Christmas Breakfast with the Chief Justice is a great opportunity to toast newly accredited held at QPAC’s Melbourne Street Green. will be briefed on the practical applications specialists and celebrate 2013 in a relaxed Unwind to cool tunes played by the multi- of provisions and provided with tips breakfast setting with fellow colleagues. The talented musicians from the Queensland regarding compliance before the expiry of Honourable Chief Justice Paul de Jersey AC NOVEMBER 28 Conservatorium Griffith University with a the transactional period in January next will formally award and congratulate the 2013 repertoire of jazz standards, contemporary year. Tickets start at $315 for members and Specialist Accreditation graduates. There are a number of issues to consider grooves and laid back funk. $405 for non-members. More info at: qls.com.au when assessing damages for the catastrophically injured plaintiff. Richard More info at: qpac.com.au More info at: qld.com.au Morgan has served as an associate to a SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS Supreme Court Judge and will lead the SUBDIVISION IS GOOD FOR YOU discussion for Continuing Professional Development Seminars. The talk will cover DECEMBER 20-21 case management, economic loss and house modification. Held at the Christie In December the Spirit of Christmas comes Conference Centre on Adelaide Street, to QPAC Concert Hall with all your favourite registration costs $440. carols featuring guest soloists Mitchell Butel DECEMBER 14 More info at: cpds.com.au and Alinta Chidzey with Virgilio Marino and Kimberley Hodgson; the Queensland Get into the spirit of Christmas at the IGA Lord Mayor's Carols in the City at Riverstage. Bring Symphony Orchestra; the grand organ; the a picnic blanket and settle in as this year's artists take to the stage with all your favourites. DRAFTING AND QPAC Choir, Brisbane Chorale, the Brisbane Performing this year is Australia's Got Talent star Jack Vidgen, Paulini, Debra Byrne, Mark ADVOCACYCASES Birralee Voices; and hosted by ABC TV Lowndes and many more. Entry is free. More info at: carolsinthecity.com.au presenter Jenny Woodward.. NOVEMBER 28 More info at: qpac.com.au
The Queensland Law Society will present BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL GREEN JAM a master-class for experienced litigators to perfect the art of drafting and advocacy. NOVEMBER 28 Professionals have the chance to get the edge and expand their skillset. The Successful subdivision design is often just as important for smaller projects, as it is for new EVERY FRIDAY course will provide invaluable tips from a master planned communities. It impacts health and safety, the surrounding environment and Swing on QPAC every Friday until judicial officer, how to best draft claims legibility of an area. Three leading speakers will discuss the importance of good subdivision December 20 at dusk for Green Jam and affidavits and provide techniques for design and how infrastructure can be integrated into the concept. The speakers are Mike Sessions; a free evening of smooth jazz, persuasive arguments. Members’ tickets McKeown from McKeown Planning and Design, Michael Chapman from Lend Lease and chilled beverages and great company are $390 and $510 for non-members. Michael Sandaver from Powerlink Queensland. More info at: planning.org.au held at QPAC’s Melbourne Street Green. More info at: qls.com.au Unwind to cool tunes played by the multi- talented musicians from the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University with a repertoire of jazz standards, contemporary Share your next event with our readers. Email event details to [email protected] grooves and laid back funk.
NYE BALL
DECEMBER 31
This year's theme is "I wish I was", so get creative with costume ideas or stick to traditional formal wear. Held in the Marquee DECEMBER 29 - JANUARY 5 at RNA Showgrounds, there will be three stages of entertainment as well as a huge Sunshine state tennis fans are in for a treat with Roger Federer making his first appearance at balloon drop at midnight. Tickets are $145 the Brisbane International. One of the greatest athletes of all time, the Fed Express rolls into including food and drinks. town to kick off his 2014 season. US Open champion Serena Williams and home-grown talent Lleyton Hewitt will also battle it out on court. Tickets start from $45. More info at: brisbaneinternational.com.au More info at: ballevents.com.au
25 Brisbane Legal September 2013 26 POP CULTURE
SCENE ABOUT WIN stuff MOVIE
Elizabeth O’Connor Mothers and Amy Tym
search for Kirstie Colls, Kate Ferguson, James Steel Danielle Boland, Stewart Boland lost son Barry Nilsson turns 50
Philomena is the true story of one world-weary journalist as cynical as mother’s search for her lost son. Philomena is trusting. Falling pregnant as a teenager in Ireland in 1952, Together they embark on a journey of discovery, revealing the extraordinary Philomena Lee was sent to the life of Philomena’s son. Warm, witty convent of Roscrea to be looked after and compassionate, and featuring as a ‘fallen woman’. When her baby a powerhouse performance from Judi Dench, Philomena is not to be was only a toddler, he was taken missed. away by the nuns for adoption in America. To win a double pass to see this film, email competitions@ After fifty years searching for him in brisbanelegal.com.au with vain, Philomena (Judi Dench) meets Philomena as the subject. Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan), a
Daniel McCormack, Nav Quixley, Richard Leahy, Scott Burns Kirstie Colls, Kate Ferguson, James Steel
BARRY NILSSON Lawyers celebrated its 50th anniversary in Dan McCormack, Lisa Kennedy and style with a gala ball at the Brisbane Tenniele Horton City Hall.
Jazz quartet Jazz Australis and speed portrait painter Brad Blaze entertained the more than 150 people, from a diverse range of industries and including federal circuit court judges, who attended the event.
Firm founder John Barry attended, accompanied the successor of the Barry name, his brother David Barry.
Speeches were made by the firm’s Managing Partner, Don Leembruggen and friend of the firm, Roger Traves QC.
27 Brisbane Legal September 2013 28