QJA Journal Autumn 2018

VOLUME 15 12 •• NUMBER NUMBER 12 •• AUTUMN WINTER 2015 VOLUME 2018

QJA - ESTABLISHED IN 1918 Official Magazine of the Queensland Justices Association

A GLIMPSE AT THE PAST

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE 2 COMPANY INFORMATION

3 FROM THE PRESIDENT

4

EDITORIAL OF THE PAST

5 PERSONAL PROFILE HELEN MORROW

NEWS IN BRIEF

8 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT – DEALING WITH AN ANGRY PERSON

10 MOMENTOUS EVENTS FROM 1918

11 ROLL OF HONOUR

12 Q & A

14 REGIONAL ROUNDUP

16 REGIONAL CONTACTS

The above image is a copy of the front page of the August 1934 edition of the Queensland Magistrate – the “official organ” of the Queensland Justices Association at that time. The Editorial Page from the same issue is reproduced on page 4.

CENTENARY YEAR IS HERE Throughout this edition, there are several articles, images, advertisements and references to QJA’s history and our centennial celebrations in 2018 - see From the President (p3), QJA’s commencement & Matilda Hennessey’s story (p10), Centennial badge (p7) and Centennial Conference (p9).

Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

Board of Directors

PRESIDENT & CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD The Honourable Chief Justice

Patron

Mr Ray Burrows JP (Qual) Catherine E Holmes

Board of Directors President

Vice President

Telephone (07) 3822 1366 Mobile 0409 499 016 Email ray.burrows@qja.com.au

VICE PRESIDENTS

John Carpendale JP (Qual)

M: 0419 683 325 Telephone (07) 3812 1865 Mr Bob Pilkington JP (Qual) E: john.carpendale@qja.com.au Immediate Past President Mobile 0438 121 865 Email bob.pilkington@qja.com

Marian Vierveyzer JP(Qual) M: 0415 418 320

Telephone (07) 3389 2481 Mrs Marian E: Vierveyzer JP (Qual) marian.vierveyzer@qja.com.au Mobile 0415 418 320 Email marian.vierveyzer@qja.c Directors

Glenyce Hull JP(Qual)

M: 0439 746 219 Mr Raymond Young OAM E: glenyce.hull@qja.com.au

Joan Kennedy JP(Qual) M: 0477 510 517

Telephone (07) 4927 4155 JP (Qual) E: joan.kennedy@qja.com.au Mobile 0405 624 648 Email ray.young@qja.com.au Bronwyn McEntee JP(Qual)

Chris Lancaster OAM JP(Qual) M: 0448 504 404 E: chris.lancaster@qja.com.au

M: 0424 338 381

DIRECTORS E: bronwyn.mcentee@qja.com.au

Mr David Re Mr John Gordon JP (Qual) Telephone: (0 Mobile: 0415 589 047 Graeme Moorhouse JP(Qual) Carmelo Pasquale JP(Qual) Mobile: 0405 Email: john.gordon@qja.com.au M: 0439 964 899 M: 0408 879 182 E: carmelo.pasquale@qja.com.auEmail: dave.r E: Graeme.moorhouse@qja.com.au

.au

Mr Keith Revell JP (Qual) Telephone: (07) 3803 4337 Keith Revell JP(Qual) Garth Stephens JP(Qual) Mobile: 0411 134 841 M: 0411 134 841 M: 0481 550 721 Email: keith.revell@qja.com.au E: garth.stephens@qja.com.au E: keith.revell@qja.com.au

JP (Qual) 4152 3318 (AH) 2 135 @qja.com.au

dale JP(Qual) 3353 2927 683 325 endale@qja.com.au

Mr Doug Hull JP (Qual) Queensland Justices Association State Office Telephone: (07) 4128 0294 Email: doug.hull@qja.com.au

Mr John Carp Telephone (0 Mobile 0 Email john.ca

Mr Christoph Mobile: 041 Email: chris.

Porter JP(Qual) 48 189 ter@qja.com.au

Coordinator Membership Officer Merchandise Officer QUEENSLAND JUSTICES Training ASSOCIATION - ACN 009 666 559 – ISSN 1839-2784 Cindy Revell JP(Qual) Gabor Beres Aaron Dunster JP(Qual)

Business Manager and Registrar Wendy La Macchia JP(Qual) E: admin@qja.com.au

E: training@qja.com.au

E: memberships@qja.com.au

E: merchandise@qja.com.au

The Queensland Justices Association (QJA) is a not-for-profit publicACN company limited 009 666 559 – ISSNby 1839-2784 751 Stanley by Street, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102. guarantee operating under the Corporations Act 2001 and is governed a Board of Directors.

PO Box 8419, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102 Freecall 1800 061 423; Phone (07) 3392 2455 751 Stanley Street, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102.

E:admin@qja.com.au www.qja.com.au PO Box 8419, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102

Registered Office: Postal Address: Office Hours: Monday – Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm 392 2955The QJA Journal is compiled by an Editorial Board on behalf of the QJA. | Editor Joan Kennedy Deputy Editor: John Carpendale.

The views expressed in articles & advertisements published the QJA061 Journal are not- necessarily the views of the3392 Queensland Justices Contact: Free call: in1800 423 Telephone: (07) 2455 - Association Facsimile: (07 or the Board of Directors.© Queensland Justices Association claims copyright to all material published in this Journal. No material may be copied or Email: admin@qja.com.au reproduced without the written consent of the QJA. All enquiries should be addressed to The Editor at editor@qja.com.au Website: www.qja.com.au Printed

by ZinkJPPrint.

PO Box 236, Kallangur QLD 4503. Phone 0437 777 079 or visit us at www.zinkprint.net.au.

AE, Cert IV Fin Serv, (Qual) Facebook: www.facebook.com/QldJusticesAssn Registrar: Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices Angela since 1918 Yin BA (Journalism), GradDipSocAdmin, MHumanServ, Cert IV 2

eensland Justices Association

VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 1 • AUTUMN 2018

FROM THE PRESIDENT Ladies and Gentlemen, Centenary Year is here!

As the calendar page is turned to reveal the third month of 2018, the momentum of QJA’s centennial year is well and truly into full swing.

The Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympic Games have come and gone. The 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games will soon be starting – what excitement that will bring to the people and communities of Queensland! (note: QJA directors Keith Revell and Joan Kennedy, along with many other QJA members, will perform important duties as Games volunteers). Our summer is now finished (though some of the heat and humidity lingers!) as we work our way into autumn.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of our organisation, a number of events are being planned at different times during the year and at multiple locations throughout the State. Although the true centenary anniversary will occur on 17th September (see story p 10), the culmination of our centenary year celebrations will occur in early November (3rd) when we hold our Centennial State Conference at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. On that evening, the iconic Brisbane Storey Bridge will be illuminated in QJA colours!

From the past As part of our centennial celebrations, the look and feel of the QJA Journal will be a little different in 2018. To give our readers a sense and feel for the origins of our organisation and its progress across the last 100 years, each edition of the 2018 Journal will contain elements of the regular member publications that preceded the current magazine. In this issue, the front page includes an image from the August 1934 edition of our member magazine then called the Queensland Magistrate. As well, page 4 of this Journal includes an image of the editorial page from the same magazine. This 1934 document is the earliest QJA publication we have been able to locate thus far. Subsequent 2018 QJA Journal editions will include more images from QJA magazines published in different generations. We trust readers will appreciate and enjoy this glimpse into QJA’s history.

Centennial badge A commemorative gold Centennial Badge (see story page 7) has been minted (one for each QJA member) and we have asked all QJA Branches to work with us to organise local presentation functions so that, wherever possible, badges can be presented to members face to face.

This will occur progressively throughout the year at a time that is convenient for individual Branches.

This process will allow all QJA members to participate in celebrating the QJA centenary year.

Workshops and functions In addition to the badge presentation ceremonies, many Branches are planning workshops and functions in 2018, each of which may choose to adopt a centenary flavour. The content of QJA’s 2018 International Women’s Day event at the Sherwood Services Club on Sunday 11 March has been structured to celebrate the centenary of QJA which coincides with the 100 year anniversary of the appointment of the first female justice of the peace in Queensland (Matilda Hennessey - see article on page 10). Several other Branch events are planned for 2018 and we expect most of these will take the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate QJA’s memorable milestone.

Centennial Conference and Gala Dinner Since late 2016, a planning committee has been at work making preparations for the 2018 Centennial Conference and Gala Dinner. More intense planning and organisation will continue in 2018. Following the 2017 Board election, chairmanship of this committee passed from former director Raymond Young OAM (who did not contest the election) to fellow committee member Joan Kennedy (now a QJA director). Raymond (from Rockhampton) continues to be an integral part of the planning committee along with representatives from other regional centres such as Townsville, Hervey Bay, Toowoomba and Gold Coast as well as a couple from closer to Brisbane.

The structure of the 2018 conference business program will be unlike anything QJA has previously been able to achieve. Presenters from a wide range of specialities and disciplines are being recruited. In addition to three keynote plenary sessions (for which all delegates will assemble in the same room), there will be three break-out sessions where delegates will need to choose between three alternative sessions (each addressing a different stream of interest and conducted in different rooms). The objective of the breakout sessions is to allow delegates to actively participate in conference proceedings. The planning committee is committed to making the QJA centennial conference a truly exceptional event that delegates will enjoy and remember for a long, long time.

Other Centennial activities The QJA Board has commissioned a research project to formally document the organisation’s history since its establishment in September 1918. It is intended to have this document published later in the year so all QJA members will have the opportunity to read, reflect and enjoy. QJA centennial merchandise includes the QJA centennial polo shirt which is now available for purchase. Throughout 2018, we are conducting a competition which encourages members to have themselves photographed, wearing their centennial polo shirt, at unique or unusual venues. Details are available on the QJA website (www.qja.com.au).

Till next time

John Carpendale, QJA President Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

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Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 1 • AUTUMN 2018

MEMBER PROFILE – HELEN MORROW This year sees Gold Coast Justice of the Peace Helen Morrow celebrate 46 years as a JP and she wishes to share her views about this wonderful journey with fellow JPs.

The world for honorary Justices was changing as well, and once Helen returned to Queensland she successfully undertook the JP (Qual) examination, and became duly qualified. Once again Helen’s JP duties focused on clients in her office and signing affidavits for the law office next door.

Helen claims that when she became a JP it was not for a public spirited or communityminded reason; that emerged later.

In 2006 a change of scene for a six month contract saw Helen relocate to Townsville. Here she registered to do witnessing duties at the Townsville Court House. This was an eye-opener for Helen as she was unprepared for the number of Domestic Violence Orders and Civil Protection Orders and other similar documents presented to her. She had not encountered these types of documents in ‘real life’.

Helen says ‘It made me realise how much I did not really know about witnessing.’

Way back then, 46 years ago, most company financial statements prepared by accountants had to be signed by the company directors in the presence of a JP. Helen worked in a busy accounting office on the Gold Coast, with only one JP in house. The office policy was that if an accountant prepared the financial statements, it was not ethical to sign off as the JP as well. What a dilemma!

Helen came to the rescue as she felt sorry for the insurance agent in the next office, as he was often requested to ‘pop in to the office to witness some documents’. Fortunately this fellow was always obliging, but not always available.

Helen had the ideal solution, she would become a JP. Helen says ‘I remember the day I was sworn in in the old Court House in Scarborough Street Southport, in 1971. There were four of us, deemed to be fit and proper persons, who took the Oath that day’. Helen’s duties as a JP were not confined to witnessing directors’ signatures, as even then, in the days before mobile phones, texting and Facebook, word got around that there was another JP alive and well and working on the premises.

As time marched on, life took Helen in many different and exciting directions, first to England and then to Hong Kong.

No chance of witnessing Queensland documents there!

After this experience and realising the breadth of the scope of duties of JPs Helen reflects on how much admiration she has for those who give their time so generously at signing centres. Not just for their knowledge and witnessing skills, but also for their compassion and people skills demonstrated on the job.

Back on the Gold Coast and Helen is a very active participant in her local QJA Branch and in 2013 was elected Treasurer, a position she still carries out with due diligence today. Helen is keen to continue in this position.

She is a member of a committee that has taken a strong interest in professional development training and domestic violence issues, and recently hosted a forum and workshop highlighting domestic violence issues.

Helen wishes to leave us with the following message.

‘For me, it has been a great pleasure to work closely with other committee members and JP colleagues. This has led to an expansion of my knowledge and skill, and the development of great friendships. Being a Justice of the Peace is a wonderful journey that keeps on giving’

NEWS IN BRIEF Law Society Church Service

Raymond Young OAM (Rockhampton Branch) His Excellency, the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, Honourable Chief Justice Catherine Holmes, Wendy La Macchia (QJA Registrar)

QJA Registrar Wendy La Macchia JP (Qual) along with former QJA Board member, Raymond Young OAM, were in good company at the Law Year church service on Monday 12 February at the City Tabernacle Baptist Church Brisbane.

And, while we are on legal matters, Queensland Magistrates Courts

will be disrupted by the Commonwealth Games from 4 - 15 April 2018, therefore the following arrangements have been put in place: • There will be no hearings involving police held in Magistrates Courts throughout the State; • Contested sentences (without police witnesses), lengthy sentences, civil matters, domestic violence mentions and applications, and other matters not involving police (e.g. traffic matters where there are no police witnesses required) will proceed in all Magistrates Courts (except in Southport, Coolangatta, Beenleigh and Beaudesert); • Southport and Beenleigh Magistrates Courts will operate with only one arrest court and one domestic violence court to hear urgent domestic violence matters only - due to access and traffic movements; • Coolangatta Magistrates Court will be non-operational with all arrest matters to be dealt with in the Southport Magistrates Court; Beaudesert Magistrates Court will be non-operational with all arrest matters to be dealt with in the Beenleigh Magistrates Court.

Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

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Editorials of the Past As we move through our centennial year members may find it interesting to take a look back at our past. The front cover of this edition - the Journal from 15 August 1934 illustrates how things used to look and how much things have changed. On page 3 we have included the editorial from the same edition. It makes you wonder why the editor, F.T. Grove, concluded that an editorial about employment schemes and the Australian rice industry would be of interest to members of the Justices’ Association.

The pilot is also being trialled at signing sites in Robina, North Lakes and Garden City. Greater Springfield branch members attended an introduction evening in December 2017 delivered by an Officer of the RBDM with the assistance of Brendon Balogh of the JP Branch, DJAG. QJA Members had the opportunity to get some hands on experience with the tablet which was provided by RBDM, as well as create their QGov account and register as a service provider for RBDM.

It is also interesting to note that, in 1934 the membership fee was 12/6d which, according to the Reserve Bank of Australia Calculator, is worth $60.54 in today’s money, about what we pay today!

International Volunteer Day

Greater Springfield Branch member Leanne Kendall seen here using the electronic device to verify the client’s identification

Since 9 January, when Orion Springfield signing sites reopened for business after the Christmas-New Year break, many clients have taken advantage of the new streamlined process.

Ray Burrows (QJA Past President), Elaine Housen (Chairman Redland City Branch), Graeme Moorhouse (QJA Director), Patricia Swan (partially obscured) and Greg Smith (Roster Coordinator)

Redland City Branch was among 25 volunteer organisations participating in the International Volunteer Day Expo held in Redland City in December 2017. Two Branch members, Greg Smith and Ray Burrows, were nominated for the Redlands Volunteer of The Year.

Online Identity Verification Pilot The start of 2018 saw members of QJA Greater Springfield Branch assist with the rollout of a trial of the Online Identity Verification pilot introduced by the Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages (RBDM) in conjunction with Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG).

January is a busy month for RBDM with many parents applying for their child’s birth certificate in the lead up to the start of the new school year. Although the application process is completed online, parents still need to attend the RBDM office or a courthouse to have their identification documents verified.

Orion Springfield Shopping Centre was chosen as one of four signing centres for the rollout of the Online Identity Verification (OIV) pilot which trialled the use of hand held electronic devices such as tablets to verify clients’ identification documents.

In the busy weeks leading up to school returning, this initiative expedited the issuing of birth certificates and saved clients both time and travel expenses.

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Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

The pilot is currently being evaluated by the RBDM to establish its effectiveness and may be rolled out to more signing sites in Queensland. Participants at the pilot sites are meeting in February to provide feedback. The OIV will cover all “life event” certificates, including marriage and death certificates.

As QJA Greater Springfield Branch President, Jim Middap said, “This is an excellent example of QJA supporting the community through collaboration with DJAG and RBDM.” Leanne Kendall, one of the JPs participating in the trial, reported that it was proving to be a very efficient way of confirming identification and recognised the value of the mobility of the device.

QJA Training Videos The QJA has commissioned a number of training videos to be used for online training courses.

Several Maroochydore Branch members and others, including Board Director and Greater Springfield Treasurer, Bronwyn McEntee, took part in the filming at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

Photo shows Mike Lean (Maroochydore Branch) and Bronwyn McEntee

VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 1 • AUTUMN 2018

Upcoming events Maroochydore The Maroochydore Branch is planning to hold a refresher course on Saturday 16 June 2018. It will be held at the University of the Sunshine Coast and will feature excellent speakers including Inspector Peter Brewster of the Brisbane CIB who will talk in relation to cybercrime and Detective Sgt Glenn Elliott of Maroochydore Police who will talk on search warrants.

Inspector Peter Brewster has travelled the world researching how other countries combat and deal with the continually increasing problem of cybercrime throughout the world.

This midyear refresher course will also pay recognition to the centenary of Queensland Justices Association now in its 100th year of service to the community since it first commenced in 1918. The refresher course will be followed by a celebration dinner.

Redland City Branch Redlands City Branch is holding a professional development workshop on Saturday 24 March 2018 at the Redland Sporting Club. Participants can look forward to a stimulating afternoon as they listen to speakers, Magistrate Deborah Vasta from the Cleveland Court, Police Inspector Anthony Ridge and Tracey Jackson Prosecutions Officer for the RSPCA. Speakers’ sessions will be followed up by some handson activities in capacity guidelines for witnessing EPAs, National Land Title Documents, Bail affidavits, and Notice of Intended Marriage.

Brisbane

2018 International Women’s Day QJA theme - Progress through Justice QJA is celebrating International Women’s Day with a brunch function on Sunday 11th March 10am to 1pm at the Sherwood Services Club, Corinda. This year’s theme is “Progress through Justice”, reflecting on changes in law and social policy affecting women and equity. Proceeds from the raffle will be donated to UN Women to help create brighter futures for girls and women. Keynote speakers include 2017 Woman Lawyer of the Year, Dr Kerri Mellifont QC.

Centennial Badge The QJA celebrates is centenary this year culminating with the Centennial Conference at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday 3rd November. A Centennial Badge has been commissioned to celebrate one hundred years of momentous achievement.

Branches are asked to organise a special centennial celebration locally to distribute the badges to members. This is also a great opportunity to engage with your community by inviting district community members and promoting this through your neighbourhood media.

New Journal Editor Following the election of a new Board of directors in November 2017 – when four new directors were elected - there has been a reorganisation of some roles and responsibilities amongst Board members. These changes include the transition of the position of QJA Journal editor from John Carpendale to Joan Kennedy.

For the last issue (Summer 2017), John continued to perform as editor while Joan assumed the deputy role.

With the current issue (as indicated on page 2), the role transition is now virtually complete with Joan functioning in the primary role (Editor) while John performs the supporting role of Deputy Editor. It is proposed to continue this arrangement for the balance of the term of the current Board.

It is early days yet, but over time we can expect to see some exciting new innovations and initiatives in the Journal under the guidance and direction of the new Editor.

Branch Leadership Program For the first time in 2017, QJA introduced a program of regional discussion forums involving representatives of the leadership teams from clusters of QJA Branches and representatives of the QJA Board of directors. Based on feedback received, the 2017 program was regarded as very successful and highly regarded by Branch committee representatives.

In fact, Branch leadership representatives strongly urged QJA to make this program a permanent part of association business. The Board has been pleased to endorse this concept and the 2018 program of regional Branch leadership forums is currently under development and will be rolled out in the coming months.

The objectives of this program continue to be to: • Allow Branch leaders to provide the Board with constructive feedback on the running of QJA and Branch business; • Allow the Board to outline its expectations/vision for the role of Branches within QJA and the function of the Branch network; • Enable Branch leaders (and prospective leaders) to share with and learn from each other about the different ways they function; and • Provide a networking opportunity between the Board and Branch leaders As this program develops and matures, it is expected to assist in facilitating the identification and encouragement of Branch-based individuals who have the capability to perform effective leadership roles within QJA. Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT - DEALING WITH AN ANGRY PERSON QJA Director, Trainer and Assessor, Chris Lancaster OAM, has prepared the following helpful advice about dealing with the angry person.

In the course of your duty and role as a Justice of the Peace (Qualified) or a Commissioner for Declarations, it is quite possible that you may be confronted with an angry person.

Knowing how to best handle such a situation is important and will help you resolve and deescalate the situation.

Anger is a natural human emotion. When managed properly it is not a problem. Some angry people need to vent it out of their system before they will engage appropriately with you.

Anger is often used to express strong feelings and their way to deal with a situation.

It can range from mild to intense rage. It is often caused by frustration, hurt, being frightened, disappointed, worried or embarrassed. It is essential that even if the person is overreacting and exhibiting anger that feels out of proportion, do not argue or get drawn into what could become a” ping pong” match.

If you should encounter an angry person, it is important to remain calm and try to establish the cause of his/her anger. Being angry back will only make the situation worse and will not solve the problem. According to experts, there are some careful responses you should undertake to calm a “hot head” that may confront you. There are also several effective tactics that you could use to control such a situation.

Let the angry person know that you understand that he/ she is upset.

Let them know that you truly understand and feel for them. Show them empathy, put yourself in their shoes and try to see things from their perspective. It is better to say “I understand how this must make you feel right now.

Wow- that really is a problem for you”. Rather than just “I understand what you are saying.” Never say “I understand.

I have been there too!” The upset person doesn’t care; in the heat of the moment they feel their experience is unique to them.

Reflective and active listening is a basic building block to all kinds of effective communication especially with someone who is seething with anger. The effect of simply

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Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

stating what’s behind the anger is rather like pouring water onto a fire. It soothes and calms the person’s feelings.

Repeating back what you are hearing the angry person say is connecting, reassuring and calming. The person feels heard, listened to and understood.

Here are some techniques for you to try: 1. Ask what the angry person wants from you.

Ask such questions as “What is it that you want or need right now?” Or “What do you think would fix the problem for you and how could I help to make this possible?”

Anger quite often stems from frustration; the person is frustrated sometimes stemming from a perceived wrong. It may be something that has happened to them, some bad news they have heard and they feel frustrated and cannot see a solution or an answer to solve their problem.

By listening and repeating back to them the problem outlined to you, let them know clearly that you understand, care and are engaged with them to try to find the answer to their situation. By analysing the problem, its cause and then exploring possible solutions, the person begins to calm down, feels understood and listened to and will work with you to explore the options further to remedy the issue.

It is imperative that you always remain calm, giving undivided attention to the angry person. Never become angry yourself as this may escalate the problem to a level where you may lose control of the situation.

Always remain calm and look for a cause and a solution.

2. Offering help, where possible, may calm an angry person.

Offer help only if you can, and say clearly what you can and can’t do. Never promise to do something that cannot happen or that you have no power or ability to deliver.

Remember a JP or CDec cannot give legal advice, only procedural advice and it may mean suggesting they seek help from a government department or other agencies.

Always use the word “can’t” rather than “I don’t want to ...”

Use such words as “I’m sorry, I wish I could help you but I can’t do that.” You should keep the conversation moving along in a productive way. After the person expresses what he or she wants, then decide what, if anything, you are able to do and then let them know.

3. Setting limits can help deal with an angry person.

Set limits about what you can tolerate. Such as saying “I’m willing to listen to you, but you must stop yelling at me.” If the person becomes extremely aggressive or even violent or threatening then you should always ensure your own personal safety. Keep a safe distance and do not put yourself in any danger.

Always have someone else with you if possible as extreme violence or threatening behaviour may even mean a quick call to Security or the Police. So make sure you have access to the relevant phone numbers. If the person swears at you or abuses you, do not take it personally. They are simply taking their frustration out on you. You are simply

VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 1 • AUTUMN 2018 the1.sounding board for their and frustration.

How re-framing cananger help you deal with an angry person.

4. How re-framing can help you deal with an angry person.

Tense situations can escalate due to miscommunication.

So once the person has told you why he/she is angry then confirm what you have heard. e.g. “You say you are angry because this is the third time it has happened to you. Is this the problem?”

ense situations can escalate due to miscommunication.

T So once the person has told you why he/she is angry then confirm what you have heard. e.g. “You say you are angry because this is the third time it has happened to you. Is this the problem?”

5. Remain calm.

2. Remain calm.

Speak in a calm tone or voice. Do not raise your voice or Speak yell in inresponse to the angryDo person.

Useyour calm butor a calm tone or voice. not raise voice assertive body language.

Try to avoid slouching or crossing yell in response to the angry person. Use calm but your arms. These canTry communicate assertive body gestures language. to avoid boredom slouchingoror crossing These gestures that you are your closedarms. to communication with can them.communicate Keep your boredom that are closed to communication with body relaxedorbut be you assertive. them.are Keep your body but be to assertive.

If you seated, inviterelaxed the person take a seat. If standing, plantseated, your feet firmly onperson the floortoand with If If you are invite the takestand a seat. your shoulders back and chest out.

Make eye contact with standing, plant your feet firmly on the floor and stand with theyour other person. back Your body language will demonstrate shoulders and chest out. Make eye contact whether calmperson. and in control yourself and of the with you the are other Your ofbody language will demonstrate whether you are calm and in control of situation. and acting of the situation.

Byyourself doing this, calmly and with empathy and in a professional and courteous manner you may well and defuse By doing this, acting calmly and with empathy in a theprofessional situation. Responding well to angry people is likely to and courteous manner you may well defuse build person may isend upto the positive situation.relationships Responding and well the to angry people likely thanking you andrelationships appreciating and that the you person gave them build positive maytime endtoup listen and showed you cared.that It will create lessto thanking you andthat appreciating youalso gave thematime stressful experience you.you cared. It will also create a listen and showedforthat less stressful experience for you.

Safety Tips and Stranger Danger Safety andvolunteer Stranger Danger Many of ourTips members at public signing sites and

areMany less inclined to see clients in theirathomes days. of our members volunteer public these signing sites Despite being in a public place, security can be an issue if and are less inclined to see clients in their homes. youDespite are confronted with the ‘angry person’ at one of these being in a public place, security can be an issue sites. if you are confronted with the ‘angry person’ at one of these consider sites.

Please your own personal safety. Here are some points you might like to consider when choosing to So you need to consider your own personal safety. Here volunteer in public places: are some points you might like to consider when • choosing Does facility in provide tothe volunteer publicsecurity? places: • Do you have easy access to the security number • Does the facility provide security? and is it keyed into your phone? (which you should • Do you have easy access to the security number keep handy)Is the area well lit? and is it keyed into your phone (which you should • Could attract the attention of others if you keepyou handy)? found yourself in an • Is the area well lit?unsafe situation?

• Is there Couldan you attract the attention of others if you • escape route? found yourself in an situation?

For those seeing clients in their unsafe own homes personal safety • Is there an escape route? is paramount. It might be wise to look at your environment to see you would clients deal with angry For how those seeing in an their ownclient. homes personal safety is paramount. It might be wise to look at your environment to see how you would deal with an angry client.

Saturday 3 November 2018 QJA Centennial Conference and Gala Dinner

JUSTICE ACROSS THE GENERATIONS Join us at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre for this once in a lifetime event Invited guest presenters include: Governor of Queensland, His Excellency the Honourable Paul De Jersey QJA Patron the Honourable Chief Justice Catherine Holmes and many other prestigious speakers Registrations now open: Conference:

Members $70 (Early Bird $60)

Gala Dinner:

Members $95 (Early Bird $85)

Pay by 31 July to take advantage of the Early Bird discount For more information and to register, visit the QJA website: www.qja.com.au

Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

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MOMENTOUS EVENTS FROM 1918 QJA established The following is an extract from the Thursday 19 September 1918 edition of the Brisbane Courier: A general meeting of justices of the peace in Brisbane who have applied to become members of the Queensland Justices Association was held at the association offices, Fitzroy Building, Adelaide Street, Brisbane on 17th last, about 40 justices being present. In the absence of the president, Mr A Petrie MLA, a vice-president took the chair.

After discussion it was decided to form an association of justices of the peace of Queensland and to write his Honour, Sir Pope A Cooper, to accept the position of patron. Alderman J W Hetherington was re-elected president, Messrs J D Bell, George Down, T McWilliam, A L Petrie, and W E Moxon were elected vice presidents, and Capt.Taylor, Messrs S Knowles, I Dixon, W Johnson, B G Harding, E G Oxley and A J Leaver were elected councillors.

The councillors were deputed to draw up the necessary rules and regulations and submit them to a future meeting.

Messrs Morris and Fletcher were appointed hon solicitors and Messrs Flack and Flack hon auditors. Circulars will be sent out to all justices who have not already enrolled. So far 200 justices have enrolled and 40 others have promised to do so.

The objects of the association include among others, to assist in raising and maintaining the status of the office: to help members in the performance of their responsible duties, to educate public opinion in the direction of removing the appointment of justices from the political arena: to promote support, and protect the status and interests of justices of the peace generally; and to promote the honourable practice, to repress malpractice, to settle disputes, and to decide all questions of usage or courtesy between justices.

Matilda Hennessey appointed as JP

On April 24 1918 Miss Matilda Hennessey of Mackay was created a Justice of the Peace in the State of Queensland.

She was the first woman to have the distinction of attaching the letters “J.P” to her signature. Miss Hennessey held many distinctions in her career as a public servant, and her record in the Justice Department is looked on as something romantic in the prosaic life of a clerk of petty sessions.

Amongst other things, she was the first woman to solemnise marriages as a district registrar, she was the first – and perhaps only - to appear in the police courts as an official, and she was the first female clerk of petty sessions.

When a young woman, Miss Hennessey was appointed to the office of the Mackay clerk of petty sessions. Immediately she was recognised as a woman with marked ability, gifted with an aptitude for the comprehensive duties of the office, and fired with ambition.

In time she occupied the desk usually allocated to the deposition clerk, but the late Mr J Macallister, the then police magistrate, directly refrained from calling her into court.

Mackay at the time held a reputation for having an unusually large volume of litigious business and the police courts were busily occupied with minor and major criminal charges.

In the latter case it was preferred by bench, bar and police that the deposition clerk should be one whose susceptibilities would not easily be outraged. One can imagine the consternation caused in the conservative minds of the legal fraternity of the court, when Miss Hennessey claimed her privileges of office, and demanded that she should take depositions.

Ponderous arguments were used to dissuade her and the police magistrate invoked the aid of the solicitors to convince the ambitious young woman that it was inadvisable to press her just claims. The interpreters of the law were routed by a woman. “There is nothing in the law done by a man that cannot be performed by a woman” was the argument used

by Miss Hennessey.

In her particular niche in the court room she demonstrated the truth of her assertion. The Justice Department took her at her word and later promoted Miss Hennessey to clerk of petty sessions at Esk. She cheerfully accepted the post, was accorded a flattering farewell by the citizens of Mackay, and became a zealous worker in the responsible duties allotted to her.

As the Queensland Justices Association celebrates our centenary this year in 2018, it is worth noting that it is also the centennial anniversary of the appointment of Matilda Hennessey, the first female Justice of the Peace in Queensland.

Looking back through historical files we find that the Mackay Daily Mercury Newspaper reported on Saturday 31 December 1927, the following about Matilda Hennessey and her many talents. It appears she was a great women’s pioneer: 10

Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

The Home Secretary’s Department created Miss Hennessey the first woman justice of the peace, and the whole of the civil service watched the experiment with interest. Summonses were issued daily by Miss Hennessey.

Ruminating on this ‘experiment’ of female JPs this 1927 article notes that “Whether there will be additional women justices of the peace is at present a Cabinet secret”.

As for what happened to Matilda, well we know that on the eve of her marriage she resigned from her position as it was prohibited by law to employ married women in the Public Service.

VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 1 • AUTUMN 2018

ROLL OF HONOUR Members should note that the Roll of Honour recognises the length of Membership of the QJA. Members wishing to receive the official distinguished service certificate as a Justice of the Peace for the State of Queensland should contact their local State Member of Parliament.

The Board wishes to acknowledge the long service given by the following Members.

50 Years QJA Membership

Graham Bousen

Charlie Cobb

40 Years QJA Membership

Shirley Barton Raymond Brinsmead William Clarke

Jan East Bernice Lippiatt Edward Mullan

John Cranley

Raymond Hawdon

Garth Stephens Margaret Whelan Peter Williams OAM

Maria Williams Julian Wilson Bernard Wriede

Kyra Griffiths Dale Hare

Frances Herriott Patricia Moffat

Ian Russell AO OBE

25 Years QJA Membership Dulcie Benn John Cazey

Cynthia Davies Carol Frost

Janice Morgan Glen Stevens

Welcome to New Members The following have joined the QJA since the last Journal: Jennifer Adams Stephen Afoakwah Rebecca Ahluwalia Lorretta Aisthorpe Daniel Akech Tammie Alexander Cassandra Arbuthnot Katrina Arnold Claire Avery Steven Bacon Ramin Bahrambeigi Sashi Bali Helen Banks Charlene Barnett Alexis Barton Birtejinder Batth Audra Beerling David Bennett Julianne Bernhagen Guru Bharadwaj Aguer Bior Kaylene Blines Tahlia Blow Ronelle Bobongie Lauren Bond Rochelle Bond Karin Bongers Danica Bosworth Stella Boyle-Feury McLean Brealey Tanya Bridge Joanne Brooker-Clark Linda Brunello Sarah Burns Donna Butcher Lucy Byrnes Jennifer Byrnes Gabrielle Camm Aliesha Canavan Theodore Castrisos Gordon Cavanagh Sandra Cenzato-Loveridge Suresh Chakkingal Vanissa Chalmers Karley Chapman Claire Charlton Jeanyan Chibnall

Annette Christie Joseph Chung Richard Cormac Clancy Suzanne Clemence Rachael Coffison Alan Colegrave Wendy Collins Robert Constantine Kaylene Cossart Dalton Cowley Anne Crowley Karen Cumberlidge Brian Cunningham Anne Rosalind Curphey Louise Curtis Karen Cutting Donald Daniels Sudeshna Dasgupta Glenn Davey Joshua Davis Susan Davis Jessica Deguara Vivienne Devlin Craig Dioth Russell Dooley Shane Douglas Kenneth Dowd Stephen Dunn Judith Eason Andrea Edwardson Belinda Elderton Darren Elderton Ricker Feril Louisa Filius Lynn Fleming Kathryn Foster Heather Fowler Rachelle Fullerton Wayne Gaddes Denise Gair Lynda Garland Gregory Gerard Jennifer Giroud Mostyn Gooley Georgina Gordon Susan Green Wendy Grigg

Lynette Gullsdorf Caroline Hager Graeme Hall Amii Hamaton Michelle Hammer Nellicia Hammond Taal Hampson Therese Harbrow Keryl Harman Emily Hart Amelia Heslop Breanna Hickling Marcus Hooper Tania Howkins Nicholas Hughes Anne Hunter Susan Hunter Sophie Ivelja Sophie Ivory Elizabeth Izett Sean James Nicolas Jarvisto Jeffrey Jones Celeste Jones Colleen Kaefer Neasa Keane Christopher Kearney Mary-Lou Kelly Michelle Kelso Philip Kendall Kirstin Keogh Melinda Kidd Kylie King Breigh-Anna Kingsley Christopher Kooloos Matthew Kristic Nikarri Kristic YEHONG LAI Katherine Lam Simon Laurenson Rebecca Le Alicia Lee Rhys Lee Hong Lea Letizia Steve Lin Karla Lindsay Joel Little

Tori Lyons Shelly Maifredi Amy Maloney Padampreet (Micky) Singh Manchanda Darren Manson Raymond Martin Tania Martin Terrence McCallum Angus McClelland Sandra McDade Neil McGaffin Susan McGaffin Chimene McKinnon Wendy McKinnon Peter McMurtrie Richard McShane Emma McWilliams Michelle Medynski Melisa Mehic Amanda Mesic Glenda Millar Gregory Mitchell Anthony Mitton Kenneth Murphy Rebecca Norton Lynda Odgers Andrew Oliver Lawrence On Derek Palethorpe Neil Passfield Raimi Paulette Beverley Pearse Ronelle (Renee) Pedersen Brett Peel Patrick Plumb Elizabeth Power Keith Prince Joady Raph Aimee Rasmussen Kirsten Reid Daryl Rixon Alison Roberts Matthew Roddy Julie Ronque Anne Rowe Robyn Rutyna

Ramon Salomon Susanne Schluter Amy Seekamp Charmaine Seymour Paula Shean Leigh Simon Fiona Smith Lynette Smith Kirsten South Angela Sproston Jennifer Stangret Kylie-Ann Stewart Abby Sutherland Julie Taylor Anne Temple Julie Templeton Charity Thom Christian Thompson Ian Thompson Mikhael Tooma Peter Truasheim Melissa Uridge Mariette van Heerden Matthew van Mourik Richard Vanderiet Annie Veerman Mark Vincent Kirsten Walpole Elizabeth Waterhouse Jo Webb Alexander Whetton Joanne Whitford Karen Wickens Darren Williams Kaylee Williams Kevin Wood Jessica Wood Chantel Woodhouse Bren Woodward Sandra Woolnough Alana Wright Kellie Yates Mindy Zhang

Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

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Q&A Q1 We often get asked to witness proof of life documents for those claiming pensions from other countries. Generally there is an English translation or explanation so that the JP knows what the client is requesting. However, I was recently presented with a document in German with no English explanation and I declined to sign the document.

I would have liked to assist the client, but without any translation I felt uncomfortable. The client was disappointed and commented that other JPs had signed it in the past. What advice can you give me about this please?

A1 Queensland Justices have no authority to sign international documents - this is the realm of the Notary Public. However, it is entirely up to the jurisdiction in which the document is intended for use as to whether the authority of a Queensland Justice is acceptable. It is known that many JPs and CDecs do sign international proof of life documents which are accepted by international jurisdictions as clients report that their pensions are paid.

However, these documents are generally multilingual so that the Justice can understand what is being asked of them. Further, when signing these documents, by adding the rider “For and in the State of Queensland” beside the seal of office, the Justice is confirming the extent of their powers and does not intend to mislead the receiving jurisdiction. In this particular case the JP made the decision not to sign on reasonable grounds i.e. that she did not understand what she was being asked to sign. The JP could have requested that the client get the document translated by a National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) accredited interpreter. However, this may incur unreasonable costs and time delay to the client.

Alternatively, and provided that the Justice is comfortable with this decision, and records it in their log book, the client, or a third party who is bilingual, could be placed under oath or affirmation to confirm the contents of the document. A third option is to use an internet translator such as Google translate or similar.

The JP or client is able to either scan the document and have it translated or type the text into the text box, choose the language, and see the translation.

Q2 A client visited our signing site the other day with 3 copies of an affidavit. The document was quite lengthy with a number of exhibits. The client requested that the JP witness each one separately.

Is this the correct procedure?

A2 The rules for making an affidavit are set out in Part 7 of the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 1999. These Rules refer to an affidavit in the singular not in the plural. There is no reference to completing multiple affidavits. Clients may have been advised to provide three copies when lodging an affidavit with the Court, and understand this to mean that they need to complete and sign three separate affidavits.

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Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

The court requires an original as well as a copy to be served on each party and a copy for the deponent’s records. The court will keep the original and stamp it with the court seal. The copies will be stamped with the court seal and returned to the deponent for serving.

A question about signing affidavits was published in the 2016 summer edition of the Journal which can be referred to for further information.

Q3 I haven’t been a JP for very long and mostly use my qualification at work where I am required to certify copies of original documents and have no experience with documents for Blue Cards, Yellow Cards and White Cards. Can you clarify what responsibilities JPs have when witnessing these documents.

A3 The Working with Children (Risk Management and Screening) Act 2000 makes provisions for Blue and Yellow Cards. The object of the Act is to promote and protect the rights and interests and wellbeing of children and young people in Queensland through a scheme requiring the screening of persons employed or volunteering in particular employment or carrying on particular businesses. Under this legislation these employment entities and businesses are defined as Regulated Organisations and may include child care services, education, sport and cultural activities.

A Blue Card is issued by the Queensland Government to persons who have been adequately screened to be eligible to work or volunteer with children. There is a suite of application forms approved under the legislation which JPs and CDecs may come across including: • BC form; for new or continuing employees or volunteers • BCB form; for self-employed people • E form; for exempt employees • EB form; for exempt businesses • AO form: for adults regularly residing at addresses where family day care services are provided.

Completion of the BC form is undertaken by the applicant and the Regulated Organisation (RO) representative, i.e. the employer. The RO is responsible for verifying the applicant’s identity by sighting original identity documents. Therefore your input as Justices is not usually required. However, there are exceptions.

Applicants residing more than 50km from the organisation’s business address or applicants with impaired mobility, which prevents them presenting original identification documents in person, will need to have their original identity documents verified by a person prescribed under the Act. Under this legislation JPs and CDecs are prescribed persons.

The applicant should present you with the required original identity documents and a Confirmation of Identification form for you to complete once you have verified the identity of the person before you. It is not the responsibility of the JP or CDec to confirm the applicant’s usual place of residence is more than 50km

VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 1 • AUTUMN 2018 away or their mobility status as this responsibility rests with the RO. Forms AO and EB are completed by the applicant and require a prescribed person to complete the identity check on Parts E and F of the form. When submitting the form the applicant is asked to supply photocopies of the identity documents if possible. There is no requirement under the legislation for certified copies on this occasion.

All forms are available on the Department of Justice and Attorney General website.

Yellow Cards are issued by the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services under the provisions of the Disability Service Act 2006.

This card is issued to people who work or volunteer in the disability services sector. This form is completed by the applicant and the employer and or service provider and does not require input from JPs or CDecs.

White Cards are issued by the Workplace Health and Safety Electrical Safety Office Worker’s Compensation Regulator. People working in the construction industry must undertake training with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that conducts General Construction Induction training. On completion of this training, which is most frequently completed online, the applicant must make a statutory declaration about the date and time they took to complete the training. The role of the JP or CDec here is to witness the statutory declaration on the printed form. The Observer section will often be blank and is not completed by the JP or CDec. This is a selfdeclaration which can be completed later.

Q4 A lady came to see me recently requesting that I “JP this for the prison”. She handed me a statutory declaration, which was only partially completed with her name and address, and a photograph of two children who were not with her on the day.

The client could not articulate what she wanted to include in her statement and expected that I would instruct her what to write. When I asked her for clarification, she replied that “the others do it all the time, I’ll come back another time” While I fully understand that we don’t give advice, what information could I have given to help this lady?

A4 The client is responsible for the content of any statutory declaration they are making. However, in order to assist clients it is reasonable to ask questions or make general comments which encourage clients to give more consideration to the document being witnessed.

In this instance, it is known that the receiving agency, Queensland Corrective Services, require that when sending photographs through the mail to a prisoner, that they should be accompanied by a statutory declaration.

The declaration should state the relationship of the children to the declarant and to the prisoner and that the declarant gives consent for the prisoner to receive accompanying photographs. The JP Branch of the Department of Justice and Attorney General issued a bulletin in 2014 addressing this matter. The bulletin concludes that it is reasonable for the JP or CDec to inform the client that the receiving agency may refuse the statutory declaration if it does not comply with their

requirements.

Q5 Letter to the Editor I refer to my letter of 19 March 2015 and your reply of 10 April 2015 and to the Q&A regarding EPS’s at page 13 on the current Journal.

I would like to know what action should be taken in the (hopefully) rare event that a JP (Qual) rejects an application to witness on various grounds given the possibility that the Principal’s advisers may shop around to other JPs. A couple of years ago I rejected an application to witness an EPA but in straight forward circumstances. In that case an elderly son of the Principal presented alone saying his ninety plus year old mother was outside the library premises in a car and too frail to present to the JP. I suggested he contact the Adult Guardian.

For example, having assessed the Principal as being incompetent; having a relative and probable Attorney state they are present to assist the Principal the latter being too aged to really comprehend the content of the EPA: when asked to read the introductory notes the Principal was unable to do so. Other grounds may also be relevant.

As I mentioned in my letter of 19 above the JP environment has not changed with library clients located within three metres of the JP desk are able to overhear conversations. Thus it is virtually impossible to have an in depth discussion with the Principal of EPA’s. Your letter of 10 April acknowledges this. We do the best we can under the circumstances as outlined in my March letter referred to above.

I would be grateful if you could address this possible problem at para two above in the next edition of the Journal. If you think it requires further discussion a general bulletin from the JP Branch of the Attorney General’s department may be worthwhile.

John “Des” Martin ML. JP (Qual) Buderim 30.12.2017 A5 The author raises a valid concern about the potential for an older person to be taken advantage of by others.

JPs can only be responsible for their own actions and cannot pre-empt what others may do. However, where you are concerned about the welfare of a client and you have satisfied yourself that the client does not have the capacity to: •

understand the nature and effect of decisions about a matter;

•

freely and voluntarily make decisions about the matter; and

•

communicate the decisions in some way.

Record this in your log book, and you may wish to report your concerns to the Public Guardian as the Office is charged with the responsibility to investigate allegations of abuse, neglect or exploitation of adults with impaired decision-making capacity.

Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

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REGIONAL ROUNDUP As 2017 drew to a close, many Branches celebrated with a Christmas function while other Branches report getting down to the business of justices with workshops and professional development activities. In the following reports we also see some community-minded signing activity and participation in community events.

Mareeba Mareeba Branch pictured below, enjoyed their final meeting for 2017 with a celebratory Christmas luncheon at the Mareeba Leagues Club.

informative presentation on Land Titles Documents. We also heard from Mr Stephen Jensen, Director and Senior Solicitor of Monkey Conveyancing and Mr Jack Graham (JP Qual) Director and Law Practice Manager of Monkey Conveyancing.

They entertained the audience with stories and challenges about working in the real estate industry and what it is like in the real world to deal with land titles documents. Of great interest were the common errors made by Justices when witnessing land transfer documents. The participants rated the workshop as a success, not only for the content and quality of information, but spoke very highly about the well organised function and catering.

The workshop attracted 50 participants who travelled from other branches including Greater Springfield, Brisbane and Logan to attend.

L to R around the table: Mick Dwyer (Chairman) Merle Searle (Treasurer) Allison Scani Peter Tubman: Lysle Emmitt: Ann Vains (Secretary); Lyne Nowell

Hornibrook Hornibrook Branch celebrated their end of year function with a dinner at the Redcliffe RSL on Tuesday 12 December. The Honourable Yvette D’Ath Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Training and Skills joined members for their Christmas celebration dinner at the Point Restaurant at the Redcliffe RSL. Ms D’Ath commended the volunteer work carried out by the Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations in the community.

Gold Coasters keeping busy at the Professional Development Workshop

Helen McEwan (Vice Chair) Yvette D’Ath, Bev Nicholls (Chair), and Robyn Francis (Secretary)

Gold Coast Getting off to a good start for 2018 the Gold Coast Branch held its first workshop for the year. Mr Gerard Ross, Senior Land Titles Officer, came along and gave a very 14

Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

The workshop also saw the launch of the Gold Coast Professional Development Record Book. This book is designed to support JPs and CDecs to maintain a record of all professional development activities.

Enquiries for this resource book should be directed to goldcoast@qja.com.au Informal Discussion Group The Branch is looking forward to some lively discussion as the informal discussion group starts up again on Friday 23 March continuing on the last Friday of each month throughout the year.

VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 1 • AUTUMN 2018

Hervey Bay

Mackay

The Branch members at Hervey Bay were very pleased to see that Glenyce Hull was elected to the QJA Board and wish her well as she takes on the local Directorship for the Fraser Coast and North Burnett Region.

2018 is shaping up as a good year as Hervey Bay Public Library comes on board as a signing site each Monday.

Volunteers at Hervey Bay signing sites are kept busy witnessing anywhere from 40 to 120 documents a month.

Social Coordinator Diane Lucey is busy organising the social scene calendar, members can look forward to four to six functions in 2018.

All members are invited to attend the General meetings which kicked off on Saturday 17 February at the RSL with a presentation from the local Police Sergeant. Next meeting is 14 April.

Mackay Branch celebrated Christmas with a dinner at Sorbello’s Italian Restaurant on 6 December 2017.

Special guests for the night were Raymond Young OAM, former QJA Board Director and Julienne Gilbert MP Member for Mackay. Members were able to meet the guests socially and enjoy the good food (as shown in the following photographs).

.

Raymond Young OAM, Julieanne Gilbert MP, Carmelo Pasquale QJA Director

Eddie Froast (Chairman), Loretta Lashmore (Secretary) and Phil, Pialba Place Security, who sets up the site each Wednesday and Saturday

Brisbane North A professional development session was held at the February Brisbane North meeting where members witnessed a presentation by Karalise Goodwin from the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy.

Brisbane North Branch Chairman Stuart Purdie presents a Certificate of Appreciation to Karalise Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

15 10

REGIONAL CONTACT INFORMATION BEAUDESERT CONTACT GROUP Bernice Lippiatt beaudesert@qja.com.au Telephone: 0481 554 805

GLADSTONE BRANCH Ruth Waite gladstone@qja.com.au Telephone: 0438 741 318

LOGAN BRANCH Brooke Batley logan@qja.com.au Telephone: 0411 727 792

BOWEN BRANCH Mikki Menzies bowen@qja.com.au Telephone: 0467 239 680

GOLD COAST BRANCH Joan Kennedy goldcoast@qja.com.au Telephone: 0477 510 517

LOGANHOLME CONTACT GROUP Pauline Harris loganholme@qja.com.au Telephone: 0428 916 557

GREATER SPRINGFIELD BRANCH Paul Howard greaterspringfield@qja.com.au Telephone: 0473 221 078

MACKAY BRANCH Maria Valena mackay@qja.com.au Telephone: 0422 636 374

GYMPIE BRANCH Tom Bushell gympie@qja.com.au Telephone: 0402 132 679

MAREEBA BRANCH Ann Vains mareeba@qja.com.au Telephone: 0419 719 616

HERVEY BAY BRANCH Loretta Lashmore herveybay@qja.com.au Telephone: 0448 784 854

MAROOCHYDORE BRANCH Eva Marie Seeto maroochydore@qja.com.au Telephone: 0417 635 0788

HORNIBROOK BRANCH Robyn Francis hornibrook@qja.com.au Telephone: 0439 327 242

MARYBOROUGH BRANCH Andrew Baker maryborough@qja.com.au Telephone: 0422 730 890

HOWARD CONTACT GROUP Carrol Bond howard@qja.com.au Telephone: 0411 743 585

NOOSA BRANCH Margaret Lewins noosa@qja.com.au Telephone: (07) 5471 0617

BRISBANE NORTH BRANCH Peter Twine brisbanenorth@qja.com.au Telephone: 0488 233 870 BRISBANE SOUTH BRANCH Diane Rippon brisbanesouth@qja.com.au Telephone: 0418 233 141 BUNDABERG BRANCH Dave Read bundaberg@qja.com.au Telephone: 0405 252 135 CABOOLTURE BRANCH Sara Gault caboolture@qja.com.au Telephone: 0439 866 682 CAIRNS SOUTH CONTACT GROUP Ralph Powell cairnssouth@qja.com.au Telephone: 0434 510 333 CALOUNDRA BRANCH Helene Baker-Daines caloundra@qja.com.au Telephone: 0413 758 600 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS BRANCH Karen Bray centralhighlands@qja.com.au Telephone: 0438 824 361 ESK CONTACT GROUP Joesph Brischetto esk@qja.com.au Telephone: 0417 198 053 FOREST LAKE CONTACT GROUP Reg Connelly forestlake@qja.com.au Telephone: 0403 167 121

IPSWICH BRANCH Deanna McDonald ipswich@qja.com.au Telephone: 0408 195 277

REDLAND CITY BRANCH Ray Burrows redlandcity@qja.com.au Telephone: 0409 499 016

KILCOY CONTACT GROUP Kay Jackson kilcoy@qja.com.au Telephone: 07 5424 2461

ROCKHAMPTON BRANCH Lawrence Fox rockhampton@qja.com.au Telephone: 0448 439 999

LOCKYER BRANCH Kerrie Price lockyer@qja.com.au Telephone: 0401 796 857

ROMA BRANCH Brian O’Rourke roma@qja.com.au Telephone: 0437 557 768

ROSEDALE CONTACT GROUP Jonathan Brown rosedale@qja.com.auTelephone: 0408 068 169 ROSEWOOD CONTACT GROUP Alan Broughton rosewood@qja.com.au Telephone: 0468 802 689 SOUTH BURNETT BRANCH Ruth Rimes southburnett@qja.com.au Telephone: 0457 681 159 SOUTH PINE BRANCH Michelle Goswell southpine@qja.com.au Telephone: 0438 084 889 TIN CAN BAY CONTACT GROUP Rod Ehrke tincanbay@qja.com.au Telephone: 0448 943 336 TOOWOOMBA BRANCH Jeni Rengers toowoomba@qja.com.au Telephone: 0408 771 786 TOWNSVILLE BRANCH Tracey Cooper townsville@qja.com.au Telephone: 0423 695 855 WESTERN SUBURBS BRANCH Paul Humphreys westernsubs@qja.com.au Telephone: 0409 877 613 WYNNUM MANLY BRANCH Amanda Hilhorst wynnummanly@qja.com.au Telephone:0423 028 160

Branches conduct regular meetings (at least five per year), conduct training, operate signing facilities, have defined revenue streams and a formalised structure. Contact groups meet on an “as required basis” and generally exist to operate signing facilities and to deal with other local issues. For details of what is happening in your local area, including professional development opportunities, please feel free to phone any of the numbers above and your local contact will be happy to assist.

INTERSTATE CONTACT INFORMATION NSW

Southern Riverina Elizabeth Adam south.riverina@qja.com.au 0427 617 589 Lismore Paul Beckey lismore@qja.com.au 0428 560 467 Sydney (Inner West) Jim Elmore sydney.1@qja.com.au 0408 870 721 Sydney (North West) Sharon Atkins sydney.2@qja.com.au 0417 479 412

Sydney (Western Subs) Marie McCabe sydney.3@qja.com.au 0434 992 107

Adelaide Hills Fred Braun adelaide.hls@qja.com.au (08) 8389 9462

Hobart Barrie Bell hobart@qja.com.au 0419 395 796

Wollongong Peter Pioro wollongong@qja.com.au 0419 638 121

Victor Harbor Timothy Barclay victor.harbor@qja.com.au 0403 134 290

Launceston Vanda Stevenson launceston@qja.com.au 0417 707 330

TAS

VIC

Devonport Dennis Wheelton devonport@qja.com.au 0418 334 431

Melbourne (Langwarrin) Robert Bolch melbourne.1@qja.com.au 0412 155 634

NT

Jabiru Karen Beare nt@qja.com.au 0417 891 226

SA

Adelaide Noel J. Lindsay adelaide@qja.com.au 0407 507 773

Deloraine Annette Powell deloraine@qja.com.au 0427 158 648

Melbourne (Glen Waverley) Simon Bullimore melbourne.2@qja.com.au 0419 756 780

Bendigo Richard Lancaster bendigo@qja.com.au 0407 345 472

INTERNATIONAL CONTACT INFORMATION Hong Kong Luca Ferrerio hong.kong@qja.com.au 16

New Zealand Brandan Hooper nz@qja.com.au

Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918

Taiwan Charles Trappey taiwan@qja.com.au

UK (Norfolk) Derek Hill uk@qja.com.au

USA (Texas) Tanya Conole usa@qja.com.au