REGIONAL ROUNDUP

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.