VOLUME 17 12 •• NUMBER NUMBER 42 •• SUMMER WINTER 2015 VOLUME 2020
QJA - ESTABLISHED IN 1918 Official Magazine of the Queensland Justices Association
INSIDE
THIS ISSUE 2 COMPANY INFORMATION 3 4
THE CHANGING FACE OF JPS As our older members retire from voluntering as JPs, newer members emerge to fill the gaps. In this edition we talk to three members who have less than six years experience between them, all of whom are making a difference and giving back to their local communities.
PRESIDENT’S PAGE FAREWELL BOARD MEMBER
CHRIS LANCASTER OAM 5 NEW BOARD MEMBER WELCOME
QJA AGM
MEMBER DIRECTORY 6
QJA AWARDS
NEW ATTORNEYGENERAL 7
TECHNICAL NEWS
GUARDIANSHIP LEGISLATONSHIP CHANGES TITLES REGISTRY CHANGES
Angela Sproston
8 BLUE CARD CHANGES
DIGITAL LICENCE
9 MEMBER PROFILES 10 ROLL OF HONOUR 11 Q & A 13 REGIONAL ROUNDUP 15 REGIONAL CONTACTS 16 QJA CONFERENCE
John-Paul Villena
Jonathon Woodgate
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
Patron
The Honourable Chief Justice Catherine E Holmes AC
Board of Directors President
John Carpendale JP(Qual)
Vice President
Bruce Birtwell JP(Qual)
Directors
M: 0419 683 325 E: john.carpendale@qja.com.au
M: 0429 350 230 E: bruce.birtwell@qja.com.au
Julie Arthur OAM JP(Qual)
Brooke Batley JP(Qual)
Joan Kennedy JP(Qual)
Nathan Milne JP(Qual)
Graeme Moorhouse JP(Qual)
Andrea Reynolds JP(Qual)
M: 0417 786 169 E: Julie.arthur@qja.com.au
M: 0477 510 517 E: joan.kennedy@qja.com.au
M: 0411 727 792 E: brooke.batley@qja.com.au
M: 0468 796 826 E: nathan.milne@qja.com.au
.au
M: 0439 964 899 E: graeme.moorhouse@qja.com.au
JP (Qual) 4152 3318 (AH) 2 135 @qja.com.au
dale JP(Qual) 3353 2927 683 325 endale@qja.com.au
Porter JP(Qual) 48 189 ter@qja.com.au
Peter Selleck JP(Qual)
M: 0424 182 201 E: peter.selleck@qja.com.au
M: 0437 439 761 E: andrea.reynolds@qja.com.au
Garth Stephens JP(Qual)
M: 0481 550 721 E: garth.stephens@qja.com.au
Queensland Justices Association State Office
Business Manager and Registrar Wendy La Macchia JP(Qual) E: admin@qja.com.au
Training Coordinator Pamela Currie E: training@qja.com.au
Membership Officer Gabor Beres JP(Qual) E: memberships@qja.com.au
Merchandise Officer Aaron Dunster JP(Qual) E: merchandise@qja.com.au
ACN 009 666 559 – ISSN 1839-2784 8A/108 Wilkie Street, Yeerongpilly, Qld 4105. PO Box 65, Moorooka, Qld 4105 Freecall 1800 061 423; Phone (07) 3392 2455 E:admin@qja.com.au www.qja.com.au
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 in the QJA Journal are not necessarily the views of the Queensland Justices Association or the Board of Directors.© Queensland Justices Association claims copyright to all material published in this Journal. No material may be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the QJA. All enquiries should be addressed to The Editor at editor@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) 2
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
eensland Justices Association
VOLUME 17 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2020
PRESIDENT’S PAGE The changing face of QJA It is refreshing to see the images of younger QJA members on the front page of this edition and to read their individual stories (page 9). The face of QJA is certainly changing as new generations of JPs and Cdecs are recruited to our ranks (mainly via our JP pre-appointment training program). The future leaders and shapers of this organisation will come from this younger cohort of our membership. We welcome the enthusiasm and fresh ideas they will bring to our ongoing quest to elevate the professionalism of JP practice throughout Queensland. Board changes In this edition of the quarterly QJA Journal (pages 4-5), we also farewell Board Director Chris Lancaster Chris Lancaster OAM and welcome his replacement Peter Selleck. Chris’ contribution to and leadership of QJA’s education program over the last 7-8 years has been outstanding and the acknowledged high quality of this program is a lasting legacy to his valuable input. Thank you Chris! 2021 State Conference The next QJA State Conference will be held at the Gold Coast on Saturday 15 May 2021. Planning for this event is well advanced and it is shaping up as a really impressive professional development and peer networking opportunity. Check out the information on the back page of this issue for more detail. QJA Awards The next batch of QJA awards will be presented at the dinner function associated with the 2021 State Conference at the Gold Coast in mid-May. The article on page 6 explains all about these awards. If you are aware of any individual QJA member (or a QJA Branch) whose performance is worthy of association-wide recognition, please read this article and follow the guidelines to submit a nomination by the due date of 28 February 2021. 2020 AGM A summarised version of the minutes of the 2020 QJA Annual General Meeting is included on page 6 of this issue. Recent and emerging technical changes Pages 7 and 8 of this edition outline the recent and emerging technical changes that significantly impact the work performed by practicing JPs and Cdecs. I strongly encourage all QJA members to familiarise ourselves with the detail of these changes (Guardianship legislation, new suite of Enduring documents, new Blue Card procedures and the digital licence project update) so we are all able to properly process the documents submitted by our clients.
Strategic Direction The outcome of a Board planning day held in early September this year was some tweaking of our Vision and Mission statements and the adoption of a revised strategic plan for the coming years. Our Vision: Excellence in JP Services Our Mission: To provide exceptional programs and services that enable our members to be highly competent and professional practitioners Our Strategic Pillars: To Educate, Inform, Advocate, Connect, Govern The Board has drafted a strategic plan predicated on these guiding principles and endorsed a suite of programs and projects to deliver these concepts into practice. QJA Accreditation Program As indicated in the last edition of the Journal, our major strategic initiative for the foreseeable future is to implement a QJA Member Accreditation program which will identify and recognise those members who successfully demonstrate their competence and profesionalism as a practicing JP/ Cdecs. The program’s developmental work is well advanced with alpha and beta group testing to be undertaken in the coming months. In parallel with the member accreditation program, we are also introducing a publicly-assessible QJA Member Directory (see article at page 8). In the coming weeks, all QJA members will be invited to include their details in this directory. Coming out of COVID As the images and stories on pages 13-14 indicate, many of the QJA branches have embraced the opportunities provided by the progressive relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions in recent months - to get out and about and spread the QJA message in their local communities. The more innovative branches also embraced videoconferencing technology to stay connected to their members during the more restrictive phases of the pandemic response. Well done all! What a Year! As 2020 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the unprecedented experience we’ve all endured over the last 12 months. The upside is that we’ve all played our part as a whole community in stemming the COVID tide. Compliments of the Season
John Carpendale QJA President Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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A DIRECTOR’S PERSPECTIVE Farewell QJA Director Chris Lancaster OAM JP (Qual)
It is with sadness that we say good-bye to Chris Lancaster OAM JP (Qual), one of the Directors of the QJA Board. Chris was elected to the Board in 2017 and again in 2019 but due to competing priorities he is unable to complete the second term. Many of you will know Chris as one of our high performing Trainers and Assessors as he has delivered numerous QJA pre-appointment courses over the years. We know from feedback that many of you hold him in very high regard. He will continue to undertake professional development training sessions for the Maroochydore Branch (where he will retain his role as Branch Chairman) and for other branches if needed. The QJA is grateful to have had someone like Chris with the passion for the training and quality processes to ensure that the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) arm of the QJA meets and exceeds accreditation requirements. During 2018 – 2019 ASQA implemented numerous changes to RTO standards and practice and Chris, along with the QJA office staff, spent many hours on weekends upgrading and checking that our programs met these new standards. Chris was also responsible for developing and producing a number of role play videos which were originally designed to complement the pre-appointment course. However, the Board agreed to make these videos available to all members free of charge. You can access these videos here www.qja.com.au
enhance the benefits of the thousands of members across the state of Queensland. I strongly believe that it is so important for all Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations to belong to the professional association to ensure accurate updated information, ongoing support and professional development. I’m a great believer that if you are going to do something then you should do it properly and give it 100%. This is why I have decided to stand down in the role of Director as I am now providing training in a Business College in both Diploma and Advanced Diploma levels which is taking up a considerable amount of my time and not enabling me to give QJA Board membership the time required. I will continue as Chair of the Maroochydore Branch and to be an active member of QJA. I have a high regard for all JPs and Cdecs who give of their time willingly and voluntarily to help those who need their services. I will also continue to provide professional development workshops for branches as required (providing they are held on a Saturday). This year has been a difficult year for all of us with the global pandemic limiting what we can and cannot do and affecting the health and livelihood of many Australians. QJA however has stood the time for over 100 years going through both bad and good times and still going strong. We can all be proud that we belong to a great and strong organisation that is continuing to improve its services to all of its members. My role on the Board revolved mostly within the training arm of the association ensuring the RTO met the standards necessary of it regulator, ASQA and helping to give the many students the best possible training course that we can offer. The world is changing rapidly and we need to be innovative, creative and flexible with the changing times. COVID-19 has made it necessary to change the way the training courses are delivered. Some are now being delivered via a combination of online self-paced learning coupled with virtual classroom sessions. These have proven very popular and QJA will continue with this delivery mode. In conclusion, I would like to pay tribute to the members of the Board who work tirelessly to ensure the organisation meets the members’ expectations. Special appreciation goes to Board members Brooke Batley, President John Carpendale, and immediate past President Keith Revell, as well as the Business Manager Wendy La Macchia.
Chris Lancaster OAM JP (Qual) wears many hats and juggles work, training and Branch Chair responsibilities.
When asked about his time on the Board Chris responded as follows. “It has been both a privilege and pleasure to have been a Director on the Board of QJA for the last few years. During this time, I have seen many innovative changes to 4
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
I have worked closely with members in improving the training resources and professional development opportunities for our members. Thanks also to Board member Joan Kennedy who helped organise the 2019 State Conference on the Sunshine Coast. Thank you all for the opportunity to serve on the Board - it has been an absolute pleasure”. Chris Lancaster OAM JP (Qual)
VOLUME 17 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2020
Welcome new QJA Director
The retirement of Director Chris Lancaster OAM has led to a casual vacancy on the QJA Board of Directors. The Board is pleased to announce Peter Selleck JP (Qual) (pictured below) as the new member of the Board. Peter has more than 40 years business and senior management experience in a wide variety of settings. Now retired, he has been a JP (Qual) and Treasurer of the Maroochydore Branch since 2018. He describes himself as a ‘cunning strategist’ and has an impressive CV. He is sure to bring a myriad of skills to round out and complement the current Board member skill-set. He possesses specialised knowledge of marketing, planning, quality systems, business processes, the application of technology, plus highlevel general management and administration skills. He has been a high achiever in business as he reached the ‘top 50’ at Caltex at the age of 38 with roles that included Service Station Manager with 40 staff, Sales Manager for half of Victorian Retail, Retail Property Manager for NSW, Manager Development – Marketing Technology and Systems for Australia. He has also worked in the oil industry in the USA and was responsible for a budget in excess of $US5 million. Peter’s other interests include a life-long passion for Australian Rules football. He still holds a strong relationship with the Melbourne University Football Club where, at 25 years of age, he was the youngest person to be awarded Life Membership. He remains only one of two members to have ever held all three senior positions of President, General Secretary and Treasurer of the club. We welcome Peter to the Board.
QJA NEWS Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The 2020 Annual General Meeting of the Queensland Justices Association was held at the QJA State Office, Yeerongpilly with some members attending in person and others via videoconference. This is a summary report on the proceedings at the 2020 AGM. The official minutes of the meeting are published in the Member Portal of the QJA website or may be viewed at the QJA State Office. Report on the 2020 AGM – held at the QJA Office, 8A / 108 Wilkie Street, Yeerongpilly starting at 12 noon on Saturday 7 November 2020. (Note: to protect individual privacy, the names of persons associated with the meeting are not published here but are maintained in QJA records) Members present, proxies received and apologies. The QJA President assumed chairmanship for the meeting Present in person – as per attendance list – 18 Present via videoconference – 23 Independent auditor, Leo Manicaros was also present Proxies - as per proxy schedule – 67 Apologies - 15
Minutes of 2019 AGM and business arising Moved RG, seconded KR that the minutes (an abbreviated version of which was published in the Summer 2019 edition of the Journal) be confirmed as a correct record. CARRIED. No discussion. President’s Report 2019-20 (as published in the Spring 2020 edition of the QJA Journal) Moved JC, seconded GM that the President’s Report be received. CARRIED. No Discussion. Directors’ Report 2019-20 (as published in the Spring 2020 edition of the QJA Journal) Moved JC, seconded NM that the Directors’ Report be received. CARRIED. GM drew attention to a typo in the table of director tenure for the Vice President. It was agreed the correct start year should be 2019 not 2029. No other discussion. Audited Financial Statements 2019-20 (as published in the Spring 2020 edition of the QJA Journal) Moved NM, seconded BB that the Audited Financial Statements be adopted. CARRIED. Discussion: It was agreed the final surplus of $31,000 would have been only $7,000 if QJA did not qualify for the JobKeeper subsidy. In response to a question about “general purpose” and “special purpose” accounts and the impact of branch funds, the meeting was advised a program to incorporate all branch financials into QJA’s published accounts was currently being implemented with the objective of achieving this and publishing general purpose accounts for the 2020-21 reporting year. In response to a question about the investment of reserve funds, it was reported that professional advice had been sought on this matter for the Board to consider before the end of 2020. Other Business Several other miscellaneous questions about QJA’s business were asked and answered at the meeting. Details are contained in the formal minutes published in the member portal of the QJA website. Meeting Closure There being no further business, the chairman declared the meeting closed at 12:42pm.
QJA Member Directory
Due to the temporary closure of signing sites across the State during the pandemic lockdown, QJA received an increased number of phone enquiries from the public about finding a local JP or Cdec to witness documents. QJA takes responsibility for the security of members’ personal details very seriously and therefore was prohibited from providing the help callers were requesting. QJA has been taking steps to establish a data base in conjunction with the proposed accreditation program. If members wish to they can sign up for the database and have their details available for the public to find a JP. Members will be able to sign up to make their details available to the public via the member self-service portal.. The database will also have the capacity to include member availability during business hours, weekends and after hours. In addition, you will be able to indicate the range of documents you are able to sign. Registration on the database is voluntary
and each individual member will be able to keep their details up to date via the member portal. Notification about registration and participation will be the subject of an email campaign in the coming weeks. Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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QJA Awards
Each year since 2016 the QJA has recognised members and branches for their dedication and commitment to providing outstanding services to their local communities. Awards are presented at the annual State conference. Unfortunately, due to the inability to hold the State conference as planned in November 2020 no awards will be conferred this year. But the awards will be back in conjunction with the State conference on 15 May 2021. The winners will be announced at the Conference Dinner. Due to the current pandemic and associated restrictions, many members and branches have found it quite challenging to hold regular meetings and deliver professional services in the usual way during 2020. Despite these challenges some have adopted innovative ways of remaining connected with colleagues and with their local community. Perhaps your branch has overcome barriers and has thrived during 2020 and is worthy of a nomination for Branch of the Year. Maybe some of your members have adopted innovative or unique practices that have enabled them to continue to provide services that could see them take home the Member of the Year award, or Emerging Leader of the year award. Nominations for the 2021 QJA awards must be submitted by 28 February 2021. There are four award categories: Member of the Year Community Engagement Branch of the Year Emerging Leader The judging panel is looking for branches, activities and members that stand out from the rest; Branches that have been innovative and proactive in keeping their branch active. Access the forms and judging criteria can be found at www.qja.com.au Here are a few tips to help you with your nomination. Format: • use an easy to read font, such as Arial 11 point • use single line spacing in paragraphs, and double line spacing between paragraphs • Include page numbers • It is a good idea to include paragraph headings as this will make it easier for the judging panel to read • try using the evaluation criteria as paragraph headings – this will help the judging panel enormously, as it will be easy to find the information they are looking for • ensure you proof read the document before submitting it Content: Each submission, in all four categories, will be evaluated against the following five criteria. The judging panel will allocate a score depending on how well each criterion is addressed, so it is important that you cover each section. No 1. Member Engagement and Growth In this paragraph you might include: • how the branch or nominated member connected 6
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
with other QJA members, or introduced them to branch activity • what you did to help grow the QJA membership No 2. Training Excellence In this paragraph you might talk about: • the professional development activities you held, such as workshops, in house presentations or guest speakers • whether the nominated member participated in or delivered professional development activities • did you offer mentoring opportunities or did the nominated member mentor new JPs and Cdecs? No 3. Marketing In this paragraph you might talk about: • what your branch or the nominated member did to raise the profile of the QJA • whether you display QJA branded banners or other merchandise at community events • how you promote the branch and QJA at local community events • perhaps you submitted items / photos to the local paper or online publications No 4. Community Engagement In this paragraph you might include: • whether you participated in or provided services at local community events such as school fetes or special interest groups or minority groups • whether you partnered with other community groups to support the local community No 5. 2020-21 COVID-19 Given that this year has presented some significant challenges, in this paragraph you might talk about how your branch or nominated member overcame and managed barriers and restrictions such as: • social distancing • additional hand hygiene procedures • preventing the spread of infection • providing services to clients within the limitations imposed by Government and local authorities • the use of physical barriers, masks or screens Finally, make sure you get your entry in on time before the closing date.
NEWS DESK
The outcome of the recent state government election has seen Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk returned to office and with her some new faces in the Cabinet. Of interest to JPs and Cdecs is the appointment of the new Attorney-General. Shannon Fentiman MP has been named as Queensland’s
VOLUME 17 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2020 Attorney-General. Ms Fentiman is a former solicitor and will be responsible for the portfolios of justice, women and prevention of domestic and family violence. Prior to being elected to Parliament Ms Fentiman was a Solicitor with Hall Payne Lawyers and an industrial advocate for the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union. She was also Judge’s Associate in the Supreme Court of Queensland to her Honour Justice Atkinson, board member of the Logan Women’s Health and Wellbeing Centre, Secretary of the Centre Against Sexual Violence in Logan and the Duty Solicitor at the Beenleigh Neighbourhood Centre. The QJA welcomes Ms Fentiman to the role of AttorneyGeneral and looks forward to a fruitful working relationship.
TECHNICAL NEWS
Guardianship Legislation changes Changes to the Guardianship legislation commenced on 30 November 2020. There are a number of key items that JPs and Cdecs need to be aware of including: • The enduring forms, General Power of Attorney (GPA), Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA), and Advance Health Directive (AHD) have changed and will superceded by: o GPA Form 1 o EPA Short Form 2 o EPA Long Form 3 o AHD Form 4 • Superceded forms CANNOT be used after 30 November 2020 • Existing EPA and AHD forms (completed, signed and witnessed before 30 November) remain valid • Additional Page, Form 8, has been approved and should be used if there is insufficient room on the original document • The principal and JP or Cdec should sign and date each and every additional page • When signing the Witness Certificate, the JP or Cdec must include the number of pages that make up the completed document • The principal must sign the document prior to the Attorney/s acceptance. The document will be rendered invalid if the attorney signs before the principal • Certifying copy requirements. Endorsing each and every page of an enduring document is no longer necessary. However, the JP or Cdec will be required to endorse the front OR back page with the following: This is a true and complete copy of the original xxxpage EPA which I have sighted. • The JP or Cdec should initial or sign each page of the certified copy
Guidance documents have been developed to support the introduction of these changes. It is highly recommended that you keep these guides handy and familiarise yourself with the relevant sections of: • Queensland Capacity Assessment Guidelines 2020 • Form 9: Enduring Power of Attorney Explanatory Guide • Form 10: Advance Health Directive Explanatory Guide
Things to keep in mind
Before witnessing EPAs and AHDs check that: The forms are in the correct format and not out of date. DO NOT WITNESS SUPERCEDED FORMS The form is complete and that all questions are answered. Score out any blank spaces so that the document cannot be altered The pages are numbered (including any additional pages which, if used, should be attached at the back of the document) The Attorney/s have not signed the acceptance at section 5 The medical practitioner has signed the AHD on page 8 Count the pages and insert the number of pages on the Witness Certificate You have witnessed the principal’s signature AND that you have signed the Witness Certificate. Failure to do so will render document invalid. As JPs and Cdecs can be called to court should there be legal proceedings regarding enduring documents, it is strongly advised that you keep a written record of the evidence you used to support your decision when determining capacity. More information and the forms can be accessed here: Changes to guardianship laws and forms | Your rights, crime and the law | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)
New enduring power of attorney forms from 30 November 2020 To ensure compliance with the enduring power of attorney requirements under the Powers of Attorney Act 1998 (principally s. 44(1)) customers and practitioners should ensure that: • Any Queensland enduring power of attorney to be signed by the principal prior to 30 November 2020 is prepared on the enduring power of attorney – short form (Form 2) version 2 or the enduring power of
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attorney – long form (Form 3) version 2 (the “old enduring power of attorney forms”); and • Any Queensland enduring power of attorney to be signed by the principal on or after 30 November 2020 is prepared on the enduring power of attorney – short form (Form 2) version 4 or the enduring power of attorney – long form (Form 3) version 4 (the “new enduring power of attorney forms”). Practitioners should also ensure that from 30 November 2020 any template or proforma Queensland enduring power of attorney documents are updated for the new enduring power of attorney forms. If a Queensland enduring power of attorney prepared on one of the old enduring power of attorney forms is signed by the principal on or after 30 November 2020, the Titles Registry will not be able to be satisfied that the enduring power of attorney is valid in accordance with the requirements of the (amended) Powers of Attorney Act 1998 (principally s. 44(1) of the Act). For this reason, from 30 November 2020 a request to register an enduring power of attorney on one of the old enduring power of attorney forms that has been signed by the principal on or after 30 November 2020 will not be capable of registration without the deposit of a declaration of validity from a court of competent jurisdiction.
3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
9.
Changes to guardianship laws (including enduring power of attorney laws) from 30 November 2020 Important changes to guardianship laws as a result of the Guardianship and Administration and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2019 will commence on 30 November 2020. These changes will affect some Titles Registry practices, particularly for enduring powers of attorney including: • the Certification of a copy of an enduring power of attorney under the amended s. 45 of the Powers of Attorney Act 1998: • the number of joint attorneys permitted for a matter under an enduring power of attorney; • conflict of interest transactions generally; and • gifts or donations generally. These changes will be reflected in updates to Part 16 of the Land Title Practice Manual to be published on 30 November 2020.
Blue card changes
On 31 August 2020, changes were made to strengthen and streamline the blue card system under the Working with Children (Risk Management and Screening) Act 2000. Major changes include 1. Applications and renewals can be made on line. 2. Photos will be included on blue cards. This means 8
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
10. 11. 12. 13.
that applicants will need a Customer Reference Number (CRN) from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (this is number on driver licence, photo identity card or proof-of-age card). The photo will be linked to the applicant’s CRN. Those without a CRN will need to apply to the Department of Transport and Main Roads to get one. Applicants and card holders must let Blue Card know if there is a change in the person’s police information. No card, no start applies from 31 August so that everyone must have a valid blue card before they start paid work, volunteer or start a business. Organisations must check a card holder’s ID and link them to their organisation before they can start work. Volunteers and students need to be linked to an organisation to continue getting a blue card for free. Individuals can pay for and apply for a blue card before getting a job, so that they do not have to wait for clearance before starting work. A simplified frequency test applies to paid employees, volunteers and students. This means people working with kids for not more than 7 days in a calendar year do not need a blue card. However, this does not apply to business operators as they require a blue card. There are stricter requirements for people who previously relied on an exemption to work or volunteer with children. For example, volunteer parents or individuals who are under 18 years of age who have been issued a negative notice or had their card suspended or been convicted of disqualifying offences or been charged with a disqualifying offence not yet finalised by a court, cannot volunteer in regulated employment. Queensland police and teachers registered in Queensland have a 3-year expiry date on their exemption cards. All card holders must renew their blue card before it expires to continue working with kids. There are new offences and penalties for individuals and organisations who do not comply with the new laws. Further information can be obtained at www.qld.gov.au/bluecard
Queensland digital licence update
The Queensland Government is trialling a Digital Licence. It is a handy app that allows Queenslanders to securely and easily store their driver licences, photo identification cards and recreational marine licences digitally on their mobile devices. It is expected that the Digital Licence will provide a better and safer way for Queenslanders to validate their identity digitally. The first Queensland Digital Licences were trialled in the Fraser Coast region in early 2020. An evaluation of the trial is now being conducted. It will not be compulsory to use the Queensland Digital Licence app. You have the choice to opt-in and your existing physical licences can still be used. More information can be accessed here: https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/projects/digital-licence/ digital-licence
VOLUME 17 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2020
MEMBER PROFILE Each year more than 600 people undergo training to become Justices of the Peace or Commissioners for Declarations through the QJA Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Enrolment in the course includes free associate membership of the QJA for one year. For this edition of the Journal, we spoke to some of QJA’s newer JPs to hear about their JP journey so far. We spoke with Angela Sproston, John-Paul Villena, and Jonathon Woodgate each of whom have been JPs for less than two years.
Angela Sproston It was during the lengthy process of becoming an Australian citizen that prompted Angela Sproston to become a Justice of the Peace. There were visa applications and a plethora of paperwork to complete, much of which required the services of a JP. Angela became very familiar, being on the other side of the signing desk asking for this, that, and the other, to be certified and witnessed. She wanted to do something in recognition of being able to stay in Australia and becoming a JP seemed an obvious choice. ‘I understand how valuable the work is, especially for people doing visas and going through the citizenship process. As I was taking a bit of time off work, I found I had the time to do the pre-appointment course. Once the course was completed and I was sworn in I was on my own as a JP (Qual). I felt I needed a mentor and turned to the QJA Trainer, Stuart Purdie, who had guided me through the training.’ Thanks to Stuart, Angela is now the coordinator for the Merthyr Village site in the inner Brisbane suburb of New Farm. At just 35 years of age, and working part-time in HR, Angela, is not typical of our members who volunteer in signing sites around the State. Trained as a barrister in her native United Kingdom, (but never practiced) Angela finds that she is well positioned to help people with statutory declarations and affidavits. However, she is very careful not to step over the line and provide any legal advice or complete their documents for them. ‘I protect against this by ensuring that I use the everyday language of a lay-person’ says Angela.
John-Paul Villena John-Paul Villena told a similar story to Angela’s. He arrived in Australia ten years ago from his native Chile and decided to make his home here. Going through all of the processes to get that important Australian Citizenship certificate saw John-Paul regularly visiting the JPs.
Now as a qualified JP and, despite working full time, John-Paul volunteers at the Greenslopes Mall shopping centre on Brisbane’s south side. Keen to consolidate the knowledge and skill he learnt during the pre-appointment course; he is pleased that he been mentored by experienced JPs. Commenting on interesting documents he has witnessed he said ‘I think wills can be challenging as everyone I have seen looks different to the one before. Some have been really short with only a couple of pages, while some, particularly if they are prepared by lawyers, can be many pages long. Given that it is such an important document you have to be really careful, and make sure you don’t cause any difficulty for the client’ said John-Paul.
Jonathon Woodgate Jonathon Woodgate JP (Qual) had been suffering from some health and mobility issues decided that it was time to do something mentally challenging. Encouraged by his friends and colleagues, he took the opportunity to do the online JP pre-appointment course through the QJA. Speaking about the course Jonathon said ‘I found that the package offered and the level of support and assistance throughout were great and far better than competitor RTOs. I think the course is stimulating and enjoyable and gave me a great deal of satisfaction when I passed’. Since being sworn in, Jonathon has dealt with a variety of documents and feels a great sense of wellbeing when he has been able to help people. Being part of the local community is important to Jonathon and he is pleased that members from his church are spreading the word that he is now a JP. He finds more people are approaching him for JP services. His experience is growing as he was recently asked to witness a search warrant for the Caboolture Queensland Police Service. Jonathon enjoys being a member of the QJA as he receives lots of updates through the website, emails and the QJA Journal, and is pleased he can purchase stationery and supplies online.
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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.
60 Years QJA Membership
William Dethlefs
50 Years QJA Membership
Graham Andrews Stanley Dorey
Joseph Frendo Arthur Loveday
Barry McCarthy Anthony Simmonds
40 Years QJA Membership
Gary Bielby Reginald Breakwell Doris Crerar
Gail Davis Brent Demnar Thomas Gloste
Bogdan Kochout Terry Marsh Douglas McAully
25 Years QJA Membership
Helen Aldridge Timothy Barclay Thomas Blyth Jeanette Bostock Simon Bullimore Janet Cole
Alan Cook Angela Dogao Randall Dunsdon Brian Flanders Lawrence Fox David Hayden
Noel Hosking Pamela Hosking Andrea Krook Robert Macintosh Colleen Mackintosh Carol Mills
Jack Webster
Paul Parker Peter Peirano Georgina Pickers
Lloyd Priddle Arthur Simpson Peter Wildin
Trevor Wolff Michele Yarrow
Ruth O’ Neill Robert Platz John Purcell Leonard Reidlinger George Robinson John Rogers
Jody Rossner Lorraine Schafer Mark Sheldon Linda Smith Karen Sorenson Sandie-Maree Subloo
Robyn Tesch Jennifer Ward Russell Wilson Ann Wood
Welcome to New Members The following have joined the QJA since the last Journal: Carol Alback Joshua Anderson Lisa Axam Gayle Bailey Sonia Baker Kayne Ballard Shilpa Banerjee Lauraine Barlow Lisa Bartlett Elise Baumann Eva Beard Shannon Bell Kylie Bellamy Stephen Berwick Johannes Beurskens Gregory Bird Louise Birnzwejg Tracey Blair Kyle Bowden Kim Brauer Laura Brazier Lauren Brennan Linda Bretherton William Bristow Loretta Browne Ann Brownshaw Kuot Elijah Buol Jocelyn Burke Michelle Burkett Wesley Bust Christine Button William Cachia Alexis Carew Caitlin Carter Debbie-Sue Casey Maree Clancy Gavin Clark Kimberley Clements
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Alana Colefax Rebecca Collard Sarah Conroy Grace Cooke Colin Anthony Cox Holly Cox Jacqueline Cox Stephen Cripps Brittany Cruickshank Helena Dalton-Bridges Parikshit Dalvi Charmaine DiLegge Sonali Doshi Shyann Doyle Prianjali DSouza James Duffy Jamie Dunne Abbey Durnan Sara Edge Reshma Elder Blake Ericksen Teagan Etheve Graham Evans Stephen Evans Christina Fawkes Brayden Fearby Michelle Ferro Kerri Franks Ngadine Gasmier Loretta Gaudron Sandy Gill Keith Hamilton Deborah Harley Katherine Hirst Hanzel Hizola Jessie Hodder Kimberley Holmes Kathleen Hoy
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
Kenneth Hunt Mandy Hunter Benjamin Irving Samantha Isdale Michael Jackman Simon Jackson Ashleigh Jaremyn Leonie Jenkins Courtney Jenner Danella Jones Cassandra Jorgensen Manoj Jose Lukose Peter Jubb Simranjeet Kaur Ann Kennedy Elizabeth Kennedy Cynthia Khin-Latt Thomas Kozlowski Kym Kropp Andrew Laurens Keith Lawrence Natalie Leung Setha Lingam Phillip Lubowicz Molly Lyall Laura MacColl Lara Manuel-Isaacs Kim Matthews Garry Matthias Rebecca Matthias Leanne McBride Tahlia McCulla Hilary McKenzie Mason McKenzie Stephen mcnally Jaclyn McPherson Donald McTaggart Kathryn Mehonoshen
Anna Meyer Kiah Mietzel Wendy Minty Lenelle Mogg Abdirahman Mohamud Lauren Mullins Emily Murray Sheralee Newman Monique Newton Kayla Neylon Kylie Nilsson Paul Niven Benjamin OBrien Michael O’Brien Robert OGorman Megan Paige Dannielle Peckett Naminda Peiris Benjamin Phan Brianna Phillips Abbey Pilgrim Jonathan Pinto Deanna Pringle Elizabeth Redmond Daniel Rennie Allan Rhodes Daniel Roberts Demi Roberts David Robertson Ondria Rodger Elanor Rowbotham Tiela Rowbotham Alison Samuels John Sanderson Tammara Saunders Lisette Schulz Merrill Schwab Nicole Schwartz
Phillip Sellick Roslyn Sharp Andrea Shaw Amandeep Singh Gail Smith Lea Smith Rachel Smith Robert Smith Rebecca Spencer Katrina Sperling De-Arn Spies Joy Spratt Adrian Squires Kylie Street Ainsley Taylor Monique Taylor Kirsten Tydings Catherine Uhlmann Kelly Voyka Randell Waddell Karen Walker Chris Waters Ava Watson Simone Watson Callum West Ben Whell Kathleen Whitelock Kylie Williamson Helen Willson Amy Wilson Yan Xie Albert Yuen Kang Zheng
VOLUME 17 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2020
Q&A Q1 When I was witnessing a statutory declaration, the client insisted on divulging the content of the declaration, which included some unpleasant remarks and accusations about another person. After witnessing the declaration, the client went on to tell me about problems he was having with the person referred to in the declaration. I became concerned that he may have made a false declaration and was in fact seeking some of revenge on this person. I reminded him of the warning I had given about penalties for making a false statement. My concern is that if the person referred to in the declaration needed to challenge the client’s statement and it turns out that the statement is false and malicious can I be held liable for witnessing a false declaration? A1 The Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations Act 1991 makes provisions to protect JPs and Cdecs in the performance of the functions of the office. Section 36 of the Act states: action is not to be brought against a justice of the peace or commissioner for declarations in respect of anything done or omitted to be done in, or purportedly in, the performance of the functions of office. However, the protection under the Act does not apply if the JP or Cdec carries out an act that they know is not authorised by law or does something maliciously and without reasonable cause. As you have stated that you warned the client about making a false statement before witnessing his signature, it appears that you have carried out your duties and obligations appropriately and should be afforded protection under the act. However, it should be noted that this response is opinion only and is not legal advice. The QJA’s honorary Lawyers, Hall Payne Lawyers, are available to assist our Members with legal matters should you require legal advice. Q2 When providing my services as a JP (qual) many people are surprised to hear that the service is free of charge and in fact that I am unable to take any kind of reward for my services. When I was volunteering at my local signing centre last week, one client tried to insist that I should charge a fee. What is your advice in regard to approaches like this? A2 As you rightly say JPs and Cdecs provide a voluntary service, and accepting any form of remuneration for providing your services would be in breach of section 35 of the Justices of Peace and Commissioners for Declarations Act 1991 which states, “A Justice of the Peace or Commissioner for
Declarations is not to seek or receive, directly or indirectly, any reward in connection with the performance of the functions of the office.” If you are pressed by a client to accept a reward, for example, money, for your services, you need to be polite, but very firm in your response and inform the client that you perform your duties as a community service and that you would be breaking the law if you accept their money. Q3 A client presented me with a document for certification. He had a printed version of the original document which was in Spanish. The document was a form which he had to submit to a foreign government annually which required him to enter his name and contact details, However, the copy he presented was an English version of the completed form. I advised him that I was not able to certify it as it was not a copy of the original. I told him that I was not able to perform the duties of an interpreter. The client stated that other JPs had always done this for him in the past and he was not happy that I was refusing to certify the document. Do you have any advice about how this should be recorded in my logbook. A3 It is recommended that you include the standard details such as: • date witnessed • name of deponent • proof of identification sighted • type of document witnessed and, on this occasion the reasons for refusing to certify the document. Suffice to say that the document you were asked to certify was not a true copy of the original as it had been translated. Q4 I was confronted with an unusual situation the other day when a couple came to have their civil partnership documents witnessed. However, one partner had undergone sexual reassignment and no longer identified with the gender on her birth certificate. How do you manage this? A4 It is the responsibility of the client to provide the JP or Cdec with the appropriate documents for them to fulfil their witnessing responsibilities. A person who has undergone sexual reassignment surgery should apply to the Registrar-General to have their sex reassigned, so that a new document can be issued. Reassignment of sex is recognised by completing form 6, an application to note a reassignment of sex in the birth register. The application must be lodged with the registry accompanied by statutory Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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declarations by two doctors verifying that the applicant has undergone the surgery. Q5 If a client wants to amendment an affidavit for the family law court prior to submitting it to the court, do they have to start again or can it be resworn. A5 Sometimes the affidavit that has been previously sworn and witnessed is later altered or corrected for mistakes, or further information or evidence is added. In such as case the document can be re-sworn. This is done using the usual practice for swearing an affidavit. Once it is re-sworn you should write the following in the area below the original certification and place your seal of office and registration number in the vicinity: Re-sworn/Re-affirmed by the Deponent at ………. On the day of …………….. 20… Before me …………………….. Qualification……………….. Q6 Can you explain the purpose of the Oath of Service for a summons. A6 A summons is a document issued to a person telling them that they must appear in court. A summons has three (3) sections: • the complaint • the summons • the Oath of Service Section 1, the complaint, lists the reasons for the summons Section 2 is the actual summons based upon the information contained in section 1 and is served on the defendant, (the person who is the subject of the complaint) After the summons has been served on the defendant, the person who served it needs to demonstrate to the court that it has in fact been served. This is done by completing section 3, the Oath of Service. Once completed, the Oath of Service is lodged with the court. Your role in completing the Oath of Service is to identify the person and place them under oath or affirmation then witness them signing the document in front of you. Q7 Is it alright to include that I am a JP on my professional business cards or should I have separate cards? A7 The title Justice of the Peace or Commissioner for Declarations should only be used when you are acting as a JP or Cdec. However, it is accepted practice to include that you are a JP or Cdec on your business cards. The post-nominals of JP or Cdec should be placed last on your business card after any professional or academic qualifications. This will raise awareness that you are available to provide JP services. Q8 I was approached by a mother and daughter who 12
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
had prepared a ‘to whom it may concern’ letter. The letter outlined that the mother had lent the daughter the sum of $500 and that the daughter agreed to pay the money back over the next two years. I was asked to witness their signatures and ‘stamp’ the letter. What should I do in this circumstance? A8 You should explain to the clients that a ‘to whom it may concern’ letter would not carry any additional legal weight if you were to witness their signatures and place your seal on the document. However, you are not prohibited from doing so. A better approach might be to ask the clients if they have considered using a statutory declaration. You could explain how it carries legal weight as it is made under the Oaths Act 1867 and that it may be more suited to their purpose. Q9 I have been approached by Police Officers to authorise search warrants and have done so when I am satisfied that the warrant is justified. But I have been told that the search warrant should not include searching for electronically stored information such as that on a mobile phone. Doesn’t this hinder the police from doing their job if they have to find a Magistrate or Judge to do this? A9 While it may appear that way, the authority to search for electronically stored information must be granted by a Magistrate or Judge in accordance with section 154 of the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000. If such a warrant is presented to you, you should refuse to authorise it. If you were to authorise such a warrant it would be invalid as it is outside you legislated responsibilities, and any information obtained would not be permissible in court. If you do refuse to authorise a warrant you should draw a line through it and write ‘Rejected” on it and include the reason for the rejection. This will prevent the Police Officer from presenting the warrant to another JP to authorise. Q10 From time to time I am presented with alreadysigned statutory declarations. What is the best way to deal with this? A10 This is quite common as many people are unfamiliar with the role of the JP and some think that the JP is approving the form as opposed to witnessing the deponent’s signature. In this situation, explain that it is your obligation to see the person sign the document in your presence after they have declared that the information in the statutory declaration is true and correct to the best of their knowledge. The existing signature should be crossed out and initialed by yourself and the deponent and the deponent should re-sign in your presence.
VOLUME 17 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2020
REGIONAL ROUNDUP Hornibrook Branch – Market Day
Bev Nichols (L) and Helen Mc Ewan (R)
Hornibrook Branch partnered with the JP Branch, Department of Justice and Attorney-General to promote the services of JPs to the Redcliffe and Hornibrook community. Former Attorney-General Yvette D‘Ath MP, a great support of the Hornibrook Branch, provided the marquee and a produce basket as a raffle prize. Bev Nichols and Helen Mc Ewan watched the passing parade of people and their “fur babies’ in pull along carts as they sought bargains at the Sunday markets. While they only witnessed documents for one client, (who had driven more than 70 klms to access the service) the day was deemed a success as lots of information about becoming a JP and QJA membership was handed out. The Market organisers are keen to have a JP service and Hornibrook Branch has agreed to have a stall on the first Sunday of the month.
the Mt Ommaney signing site. As part of our overall theme: ‘Connect-Explore-Learn’, Garth reiterated our main aims for 2021 which are to: 1) reach out to more JPs and Cdecs in our precinct 2) commence an Ambassador Program which will involve contacting local cultural and business organisations to arrange ‘JP Info Talks’, 3) continue our mentoring program and professional development initiatives 4) stay in contact with our members via our WSB Newsletter. We also distributed copies of our updated WSB Pamphlet containing the new signing site times, and additional information about verification of identity (VOI) documents for Titles Registry forms. We thank Vivid Property -Your Inner West Property Specialists for kindly printing these for us. In between the main course and dessert, a game of ‘Western Subs Bingo’ was played, followed by several raffle draws. Finally, the WSB Branch wishes you all a holiday season filled with joy, and may peace, love, and good health warm your hearts. WBS Secretary, Sasha Raj.
Townsville Branch – A Family Affair
Western Suburbs Branch
Western Suburbs Branch 2020 end of Year/Christmas Function was held on Monday 9 November 2020, at the Centenary Tavern. It was a great turn out with a total of 36 members and partners registering to attend. QJA Director and Branch Chair, Garth Stephens, welcomed everyone and thanked the committee members for their contributions during a difficult year. In addition, he acknowledged the efforts of all JPs and Cdecs in adhering to the COVID-safe procedures, which were put in place when we were finally able to return to
It is a family affair at the Townsville Branch as 17-yearold twins Mason (1st R) and Hilary McKenzie (kneeling L), son and daughter of Chairman Karl McKenzie JP (Qual) participated in the pre-appointment training course held on the 26th and 27th of September. Once sworn in, when they turn 18 years of age, they will join big brother Lucas McKenzie JP (Qual) on their JP journey. Other young people on the course include 20-yearold Daniel Rennie (4th from R) and 18-year-old Casandra Jorgensen (kneeling L). The Branch wishes to thank Trainer and Assessor, Ian Barnabas (2nd L) for travelling from Rockhampton to conduct the course. Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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Gold Coast Branch
Surfers Paradise Signing Site opens Romi Hellingrath and David Martin (pictured) are at the ready to serve the Surfers Paradise community at the recently opened signing site. Coordinator Romi says ‘after many months of meetings and negotiations I am pleased that the centre is finally up and running.’ The Chevron Renaissance shopping centre has generously provided a dedicated office for the JPs where they can provide COVID-safe and confidential services to the public.
Spring Soiree On Saturday 17th October, Gold Coast Branch held a ‘Spring Soiree’ to welcome new JPs and Cdecs to the Branch. A small gathering of five newly sworn-in members came along to meet the Branch Committee and enjoy the hospitality at the home of Treasurer Helen Morrow. The Branch wrapped up and said good-bye to 2020 at the CSI Club on Tuesday 24th November. Some fun trivia quizzes about Christmas, the QJA and local celebrities made the night a success.
New Gold Coast JPs get to know each other
Merry Christmas to all of our QJA Family The Board and State Office Staff wish you and your families Season’s Greetings and a Happy New Year as we head into 2021. QJA Office Closures The QJA State office in Yeerongpilly will be closed from 21 December 2020 to 3 January 2021 inclusive. 14
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
VOLUME 17 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2020
REGIONAL CONTACT INFORMATION BEAUDESERT CONTACT GROUP Stephen Ryan beaudesert@qja.com.au Telephone: 0408 035 378 BOWEN CONTACT GROUP Anne Maree Bligh bowen@qja.com.au Telephone: 0417 735 990 BRISBANE NORTH BRANCH Judith McGarry brisbanenorth@qja.com.au Telephone: 0411 343 078 BRISBANE SOUTH BRANCH TBA brisbanesouth@qja.com.au Telephone: TBA BUNDABERG BRANCH Debra Faint bundaberg@qja.com.au Telephone: 0415 678 343 CABOOLTURE AND DISTRICTS 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 Claire Brown caloundra@qja.com.au Telephone: 0408 827 323 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS BRANCH TBA centralhighlands@qja.com.au Telephone: TBA 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
GLADSTONE BRANCH Ruth Waite gladstone@qja.com.au Telephone: 0438 741 318
LOGAN BRANCH Christine Gore logan@qja.com.au Telephone: 0419 029 467
GOLD COAST BRANCH Joan Kennedy goldcoast@qja.com.au Telephone: 0477 510 517
MACKAY BRANCH Maria Valena mackay@qja.com.au Telephone: 0422 636 374
GREATER SPRINGFIELD BRANCH Leanne Kendall greaterspringfield@qja.com.au Telephone: 0417 706 549
MAREEBA CONTACT GROUP Ann Vains mareeba@qja.com.au Telephone: 0419 719 616
GYMPIE BRANCH Tom Bushell gympie@qja.com.au Telephone: 0402 132 679
MAROOCHYDORE BRANCH Lee-Anne Bye maroochydore@qja.com.au Telephone: 0414 899 379
HERVEY BAY BRANCH Jo Burnham herveybay@qja.com.au Telephone: 0400 470 936
MARYBOROUGH BRANCH Andrew Baker maryborough@qja.com.au Telephone: 0422 730 890
HORNIBROOK BRANCH Yoko Bell Hornibrook@qja.com.au Telephone:0401 778 640
NOOSA BRANCH Margaret Lewins noosa@qja.com.au Telephone: (07) 3150 0195
HOWARD CONTACT GROUP TBA howard@qja.com.au Telephone: TBA
PINE RIVERS BRANCH Kyra Griffiths pinerivers@qja.com.au Telephone: 0499 199 223
IPSWICH BRANCH Jonathon Janetzki ipswich@qja.com.au Telephone:0419 663 212 KILCOY CONTACT GROUP Kay Jackson kilcoy@qja.com.au Telephone: 07 5424 2461
REDLAND CITY BRANCH Don Charles redlandcity@qja.com.au Telephone: 0447 448 003 ROCKHAMPTON BRANCH Lawrence Fox rockhampton@qja.com.au Telephone: 0448 439 999
LOCKYER BRANCH Sharon Munro lockyer@qja.com.au Telephone: 0499 944 376
ROMA CONTACT GROUP 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: 0404 061 918 SOUTH BURNETT BRANCH Ruth Rimes southburnett@qja.com.au Telephone: 0457 681 159 TIN CAN BAY CONTACT GROUP TBA tincanbay@qja.com.au Telephone: TBA TOOWOOMBA BRANCH Jeni Rengers toowoomba@qja.com.au Telephone: 0418 771 786 TOWNSVILLE BRANCH Tracey Cooper townsville@qja.com.au Telephone: 0423 695 855 WESTERN SUBURBS BRANCH Sasha Raj westernsubs@qja.com.au Telephone: 0417 788 651 WYNNUM MANLY CONTACT GROUP 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
NT
TAS
Lismore Paul Beckey lismore@qja.com.au 0428 560 467
SA
Hobart Barrie Bell hobart@qja.com.au 0419 395 796
Southern Riverina Elizabeth Adam south.riverina@qja.com.au 0427 617 589
Jabiru Karen Beare nt@qja.com.au 0417 891 226 Adelaide Noel J. Lindsay adelaide@qja.com.au 0428 842 024
Sydney (Inner West) Jim Elmore sydney.1@qja.com.au 0408 870 721 Wollongong Peter Pioro wollongong@qja.com.au 0419 638 121
Adelaide Hills Fred Braun adelaide.hls@qja.com.au (08) 8389 9462 Victor Harbor Timothy Barclay victor.harbor@qja.com.au 0403 134 290
Deloraine Annette Powell deloraine@qja.com.au 0427 158 648
Melbourne (Glen Waverley) Simon Bullimore melbourne.2@qja.com.au 0419 756 780
VIC
Bendigo Richard Lancaster bendigo@qja.com.au 0407 345 472 Melbourne (Langwarrin) Robert Bolch melbourne.1@qja.com.au 0412 155 634
INTERNATIONAL CONTACT INFORMATION Hong Kong Luca Ferrerio hong.kong@qja.com.au
New Zealand Brandan Hooper nz@qja.com.au Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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QJA State Conference
You are invited to the QJA State Conference on the Gold Coast in 2021.
State Conference 9am – 4pm Saturday
Full day conference: Members $75
QJA
Non-Members $85
15 May 2021
Confirmed Conference Topics Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) New Guardianship legislation Disability inclusion Full program will be published in the Autumn edition of the QJA Journal
QJA State Conference Dinner Members $65
Non-Members $75
QJA Twilight Function
The conference is being held in conjunction with National Volunteers Week. To show support and appreciation for our members who volunteer their services at home, at work, and signing sites across Queensland QJA is hosting a Twilight Function free of charge to QJA members to be held at 6pm on Friday 14 May.
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Conference Dinner 7pm Saturday 15 May 2021 Twilight Function 6pm Friday 14 May 2021 All events will be held at: Mantra on View
Registrations opening early 2021
View Street
www.qja.com.au
Surfers Paradise: Gold Coast
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
