VOLUME 12 12 •• NUMBER NUMBER 42 •• SUMMER WINTER 2015 VOLUME 2015
INSIDE
QJA - ESTABLISHED IN 1918 Official Magazine of the Queensland Justices Association
THIS ISSUE 2 COMPANY INFORMATION
3 PRESIDENT’S REPORT
4 BOARD ELECTIONS – WHO’S IN AND WHO’S OUT
6
8
S TATE CONFERENCE REPORT
AGM REPORT
MEET OUR NEW PATRON We are pleased and proud to advise that the recently appointed Chief Justice of Queensland, the Honourable Catherine E Holmes has kindly agreed to also perform the role of Patron of the Queensland Justices Association. As one of her initial duties in this position, the Chief justice attended the QJA State Conference at Caboolture on Saturday 7 November 2015 and delivered the Opening Address. This well-received speech is reproduced in full on pages 9-10. We’ve also included some biographical notes so you can learn all about our esteemed Patron.
NEW BOARD TAKES OFFICE The 2015 Election for the QJA Board resulted in the appointment of several new directors – read all about the changes on pages 4-5. The new Board is pictured below. The election results were announced at the 2015 Annual General Meeting at Caboolture on 7 November. A report on AGM proceedings is published on page 8.
9 INTRODUCING: QJA’s NEW PATRON CHIEF JUSTICE’S ADDRESS TO STATE CONFERENCE
10 800 YEARS OF MAGNA CARTA 11 ROLL OF HONOUR
12 Q & A QUICK QUIZZES
14
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
Back row: Dave Read, Lance Watson, Bruce Birtwell, John Carpendale, Garth Stephens, Carmelo Pasquale Front row: V-P Marian Vierveyzer, Pres Keith Revell, V-P Raymond Young OAM, Kate Kunzelmann
STATE CONFERENCE SUCCESS Based on attendee feedback, the 2015 QJA State Conference at Caboolture on Saturday 7 November – attracting more than 200 delegates - was an outstanding success. Read the full Conference report on pages 6-7.
15 STATE OFFICE NEWS VALE
16 REGIONAL CONTACTS
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
Mr Raymond Young OAM JP (Qual) Telephone (07) 4927 4155 Mobile 0405 624 648 Email ray.young@qja.com.au
Board of Directors Board of Directors PRESIDENT & CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD PRESIDENT &Patron CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Our Patron DIRECTORS Our Patron
Mr Ray Burrows JP (Qual)
Telephone (07) 3822 1366 Mr Ray Burrows JP (Qual) Mobile 0409 Telephone (07) 3822 1366 499 016 Mr MrHon John Gordon (Qual) The Hon Paul deJersey, Jersey,JP AC, ChiefJustice JusticeofofQueensland Queensland The Paul de AC, Chief The Honourable Chief Email Justice Catherine E Holmes Mobile 0409 499 016 ray.burrows@qja.com.au
Mobile: 0415 589 047 Email Email: john.gordon@qja.com.au VICE PRESIDENTS
David Read JP (Qual) Telephone: (07) 4152 3318 ray.burrows@qja.com.au Mobile: 0405 252 135 Email: dave.read@qja.com.
Board ofDirectors Directors VICE PRESIDENTS Board of of Directors Board
Telephone (07) 3812 1865 Mobile 0438 121 865 Mr Keith Revell JP (Qual) Email bob.pilkington@qja.com.au PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD Telephone (07) 3812 Mr Bob Pilkington&JPCHAIRMAN (Qual)
Mr Bob Pilkington JP (Qual) Immediate Past President
1865 Mr John Carpendale JP(Qua PRESIDENT & CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD PRESIDENT and CHAIRMAN Telephone: (07) 3803 4337 Telephone (07) 3353 2927 Immediate Past President Mr RayBurrows Burrows JP(Qual) (Qual) Telephone (07)3822 3822 1366 Mobile 0438 Mr Ray JP Telephone (07) 1366 Keith Revell JP (Qual) Telephone: (07) 5546 121 8772865 Telephone (07) 3389 2481 MrsMobile: Marian Vierveyzer JP (Qual) 0411 134 841 Mobile 0419 683 325 MobileMobile: 0409 499016 016 Mobile 0409 499 0411 134 841 Email bob.pilkington@qja.com.au Mobile 0415 418 320 Email ray.burrows@qja.com.au Email ray.burrows@qja.com.au Email: keith.revell@qja.com.au Email: keith.revell@qja.com.au Email john.carpendale@qja Email marian.vierveyzer@qja.com.au
VICE PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENTS PRESIDENTS Telephone (07) 3389 2481 Mr Christopher Porter JP(Q Mrs MarianHull Vierveyzer JP (Qual) Mr Doug JPVICE (Qual)
(07)(07) 49273812 4155 MrMr Raymond Young OAM JP (Qual) Telephone Marian Vierveyzer JP(Qual) Telephone: (07) 3389418 2481 Telephone 1865 BobPilkington Pilkington JP(Qual) (Qual) Mobile 0415 320 Telephone (07) 3812 1865 Mr Bob JP Telephone: (07) 4128 0294 Mobile Mobile: 0405 624 648 418 320 Mobile: 0419 148 189 0415 Immediate PastPresident President Immediate Past Mobile 0438 121 865 Mobile 0438 121 865 marian.vierveyzer@qja.com.au Email Email ray.young@qja.com.au Email: chris.porter@qja.co Email: doug.hull@qja.com.au marian.vierveyzer@qja.com.au Email Email: bob.pilkington@qja.com.au Email bob.pilkington@qja.com.au
DIRECTORS VICE PRESIDENT
Telephone (07)3389 33892481 2481 Mrs Marian Vierveyzer JP(Qual) (Qual) JPTelephone (07) Mrs Marian Vierveyzer JP (07)Read 4927 4155 Mr Raymond Young OAM (Qual) Telephone Mr David JP (Qual) Mr Raymond John Gordon JP (Qual) Young OAM JP(Qual) Mobile (07) 4927 4155 MobileTelephone: 0415418 418 320 0415 320 Mobile 0405 624 648 Telephone: (07) 4152 3318 (AH) Mobile: 0415 589 047 Mobile: 0405 624 648 QUEENSLAND JUSTICES ASSOCIATION - ACN 009 Email 666 – ISSN 1839-2784 Email559 marian.vierveyzer@qja.com.au marian.vierveyzer@qja.com.au Mobile: 0405 252 135 Email: john.gordon@qja.com.au Email ray.young@qja.com.au Email: ray.young@qja.com.au Email: dave.read@qja.com.au Telephone (07)4927 49274155 4155 limited by MrRaymond Raymond Young OAM JP(Qual) (Qual) Telephone (07) Mr Young JP The Queensland Justices Association (QJA) isOAM a not-for-profit public company John Carpendale JP (Qual) Mr Keith Revell JP (Qual) Mr John Carpendale JP(Qual) Mobile 0405624 624 648 Mobile 0405 648 DIRECTORS Telephone: (07) 3353 2927 (07) 3803Act 43372001 and is governed Telephone (07) 3353 2927 uarantee operating under the Telephone: Corporations by a Board of Directors. Email ray.young@qja.com.au Email ray.young@qja.com.au BOARD MEMBERS Mobile: 683683 325325 Mobile: 0411 134 841 JP (Qual) Mobile 0419 0419 Mr David Read Mr John Gordon Email: keith.revell@qja.com.au Email john.carpendale@qja.com.au Email: john.carpendale@qja.com.au
JP (Qual) Telephone: (07) 4152 3318 (AH) Mobile: 0415 589Woolloongabba, 047DIRECTORS DIRECTORS Qld 4102. 751 Stanley Street, Mr Christopher PorterMobile: JP(Qual) MrEmail: Doug Hull JP (Qual) Bruce Birtwell JP(Qual) David Read JP(Qual) john.gordon@qja.com.au MrDavid DavidRead ReadJP JP (Qual) 0405 252 135 MrJohn John Gordon JP(Qual) (Qual) Mr Mr Gordon JP POTelephone: Box 8419, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102 Telephone: Mobile: 04194152 148 3318 189(Qual) (07) 3541 4128 0294 Telephone: (07) 4634 (07) (After Hours) Telephone:(07) (07)4152 4152 3318 (AH) Mobile:0415 0415589 589047 047 Email: dave.read@qja.com.au Telephone: 3318 (AH) Mobile: Email: chris.porter@qja.com.au Email: doug.hull@qja.com.au
Registered Office: ostal Address: Mobile: 0429 350 230 8.30am to 4.30pm Mobile: Mobile: 0405 252252 135 Office Hours: Monday –john.gordon@qja.com.au Friday Mobile: 0405 252135 135 Email: john.gordon@qja.com.au 0405 Email: Email: bruce.birtwell@qja.com.au Email: Email: dave.read@qja.com.au Email: dave.read@qja.com.au dave.read@qja.com.au Contact: Free Mr call: 1800 061JP423 - Telephone: (07) 3392 2455 -MrFacsimile: (07) 3392 2955 Keith Revell (Qual) John Carpendale JP(Qual) Telephone: (07) 3803 4337 Telephone (07) 3353 2927 Kate Kunzelmann JP(Qual) Garth Stephens JP(Qual) Email: QUEENSLAND JUSTICESadmin@qja.com.au MrKeith KeithRevell Revell JP(Qual) (Qual) MrJohn JohnCarpendale CarpendaleJP(Qual) JP(Qual) Mr JP Mr ASSOCIATION - ACN 009 666 559 – ISSN 1839-2784 Telephone: (07) 3379 5316 Telephone: (07) 3803 4337 Telephone (07) 3353 2927 Telephone: (07) 3803 4337 Telephone (07) 3353 2927 Mobile: 0411 134 841 Mobile 0419 683 325 Website: www.qja.com.au Mobile: Mobile: 04190411 709 134 775 841 Mobile: Mobile 0481 550 721 Mobile: 0411 841 0419 683325 325john.carpendale@qja.com. 0419 683 The Queensland Justices Association (QJA) is a134 not-for-profit public company limited by Mobile Email: keith.revell@qja.com.au Email acebook: www.facebook.com/QldJusticesAssn Email: kate.kunzelmann@qja.com.au Email: Email garth.stephens@qja.com.au Email: keith.revell@qja.com.au Email john.carpendale@qja.com.au Email: keith.revell@qja.com.au john.carpendale@qja.com.au guarantee operating under the Corporations Act 2001 and is governed by a Board of Directors. Registrar: Angela Yin BA (Journalism), GradDipSocAdmin, MHumanServ, Cert IV TAE, Cert IV Mr Christopher Porter JP(Qual) MrDoug Doug Hull JP (Qual) MrChristopher Christopher Porter JP(Qual) Mr Doug Hull JP(Qual) (Qual) CarmeloMr Pasquale JP(Qual) Lance Watson JP(Qual) Porter Mr JP(Qual) Hull JP
Registered Office: 751 Stanley Street, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102. Mobile: 0419 0419148 148 189 Telephone: (07) 41284128 0294 0294 Telephone: (07) 4942 4608 Mobile: 189 Telephone: (07) 4128 0294 Mobile: 0419 148 189 Telephone: (07) Postal Address: PO Box 8419, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102 Email: chris.porter@qja.com.au Email: doug.hull@qja.com.au Mobile: 0408 879 182 Mobile: 0447 021 591 Email: chris.porter@qja.com.au Email: doug.hull@qja.com.au Email: chris.porter@qja.com.au Email: doug.hull@qja.com.au The QJA Journal by an –Editorial Board on behalf of the QJA.Email: | Editor Mr Keith Revell Office Hours:is compiled Monday Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm Email: carmelo.pasquale@qja.com.au lance.watson@qja.com.au Contact: Free call: 1800 061 423 - Telephone: (07) 3392 2455 - Facsimile: (07) 3392 2955 The views expressed in articlesadmin@qja.com.au & advertisements published in the QJA Journal are not necessarily the views of the Queensland Jus Email: QUEENSLAND JUSTICES ASSOCIATION –-ACN 009 666 559 ––ISSN 1839-2784 QUEENSLAND JUSTICES ASSOCIATION -ACN ACN 009 666 559 –ISSN ISSN 1839-2784 QUEENSLAND JUSTICES ASSOCIATION 009 666 559 1839-2784 r the Board of Directors.© Queensland Justices Association claims copyright to all material published in this Journal. No materi Website: www.qja.com.au eproduced without the written consent of the QJA. All enquiries should be addressed to The Editor at editor@qja.com.au QUEENSLAND JUSTICES ASSOCIATION - ACN 009 666 559 – ISSN 1839-2784 Facebook: www.facebook.com/QldJusticesAssn The Queensland Justices Association (QJA) is a not-for-profit public company limited by The Queensland Justices Association (QJA) is a not-for-profit public company limited by The Queensland Justices Association (QJA) is a not-for-profit public company limited by Registrar: Angela Yin BA (Journalism), GradDipSocAdmin, MHumanServ, Cert IV TAE, Cert IV Fin Serv, JP (Qual) rinted guarantee by Zink operating Print. PO Boxthe 236, Kallangur QLD 4503. Phone 0437 777 079 or visit us at www.zinkprint.com.au. guarantee operating under the Corporations Act 2001 and governed by ofof Directors. guarantee operating under the Corporations Act 2001and and governed by aBoard Board Directors. under Corporations Act 2001 isisisgoverned by aaBoard of Directors.
The Queensland Justices Association (QJA) is a not-for-profit public company limited by The QJA Journal is compiled by an Editorial Board on behalf of the QJA. | Editor Mr Keith Revell Registered Office:under the 751 Stanley Street, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102. Registered Office: 751Corporations StanleyStreet, Street,Woolloongabba, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102. Registered Office: 751 Stanley guarantee operating Act 2001 andQld is4102. governed by a Board of Directors. The views expressed in articles & advertisements published in the QJA Journal are not necessarily the views of the Queensland Justices Association
PostalAddress: Address: PO Box 8419, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102 Postal PO Postal Address: POBox Box8419, 8419,Woolloongabba, Woolloongabba,Qld Qld4102 4102 or the Board of Directors.© Queensland Justices Association claims copyright to all material published in this Journal. No material may be copied or Office Hours: Monday – Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm ving Queensland’s Honorary since 1918 Office Monday Friday 8.30am toto4.30pm Office Hours: Hours: Monday – Friday 8.30am 4.30pm reproduced without the writtenJustices consent of– the QJA. All enquiries should be addressed to The Editor at editor@qja.com.au Registered Office: 751 Stanley Qld 4102. Contact: Free call: 1800Street, 061423 423Woolloongabba, Telephone:(07) (07)3392 33922455 2455 - - Facsimile: Facsimile:(07) (07)3392 33922955 2955 Contact: Free 061 --- Telephone: Telephone: (07) 3392 2455 Contact: Freecall: call: 1800 1800 061 423 by Zink Print. PO Box 236, Kallangur QLD 4503. Phone 0437 777 079 or visit us at www.zinkprint.com.au. Email: admin@qja.com.au PostalPrinted Address: PO Box 8419, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102 Email: admin@qja.com.au Email: admin@qja.com.au Website: www.qja.com.au www.qja.com.au Website: www.qja.com.au OfficeWebsite: Hours: Monday – Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm Facebook:
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Facebook: www.facebook.com/QldJusticesAssn Business Manager and Registrar: Wendy Bus (Accounting), AIMM, JP (Qual) 2 Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918La Macchia Contact: Free call: 061 B. 423 - Telephone: (07) 3392 2455 -IVTAE, Facsimile: (07) 3392 2955 Registrar: Angela Yin 1800 BA(Journalism), (Journalism), GradDipSocAdmin, MHumanServ, CertIV TAE, CertIV IVFin Fin Serv, JP(Qual) (Qual) Registrar: Angela Yin BA GradDipSocAdmin, MHumanServ, Cert Cert Serv, JP Email: admin@qja.com.au The QJA Journal is compiled by an Editorial Board on behalf of the QJA. | Editor Mr John Carpendale Website: www.qja.com.au TheQJA QJAJournal Journalisiscompiled compiled byan anEditorial EditorialBoard Boardon onbehalf behalfofofthe theQJA. QJA. | | Editor EditorMr MrKeith KeithRevell Revell The by The views expressed in articles & advertisements published in the QJA Journal are not necessarily the views of the Queensland Justices Association The views expressed in articles & advertisements published in the QJA Journal are not necessarily the views ofthe the Queensland Justices Association Facebook: www.facebook.com/QldJusticesAssn The views expressed in articles & advertisements published in the QJA Journal are not necessarily the views Queensland Justices Association or the Board of Directors.© Queensland Justices Association claims copyright to all material published in of this Journal. No material may be copied or orthe theBoard BoardofofDirectors.© Directors.©Queensland QueenslandJustices JusticesAssociation Associationclaims claimscopyright copyrighttotoallallmaterial materialpublished publishedininthis thisJournal. Journal.No Nomaterial materialmay maybebecopied copiedoror or reproduced without the written consent Yin of the QJA. All enquiries should be addressed to The Editor atMHumanServ, editor@qja.com.auCert IV TAE, Cert Registrar: Angela BA (Journalism), GradDipSocAdmin, IV Fin reproducedwithout withoutthe thewritten writtenconsent consentofofthe theQJA. QJA.All Allenquiries enquiriesshould shouldbebeaddressed addressedtotoThe TheEditor Editoratateditor@qja.com.au editor@qja.com.au reproduced Printed by Zink Print. PO Box 236, Kallangur QLD 4503. Phone 0437 777 079 or visit us at www.zinkprint.net.au. PrintedbybyZink ZinkPrint. Print.PO POBox Box236, 236,Kallangur KallangurQLD QLD4503. 4503.Phone Phone0437 0437777 777079 079ororvisit visitususatatwww.zinkprint.com.au. www.zinkprint.com.au. Printed
The QJA Journal is compiled by an Editorial Board on behalf of the QJA. | Editor Mr Keith Revell
The views expressed inHonorary articles & advertisements published in the QJA Journal are not necessarily the views of the Queensland Justices Serving Queensland’s HonoraryJustices Justices since1918 1918 22 Serving Queensland’s since or the Board of Directors.© Queensland Justices claims copyright to all material published in this Journal. No material may Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since Association 1918 2 reproduced without the written consent of the QJA. All enquiries should be addressed to The Editor at editor@qja.com.au
VOLUME 11 • NUMBER 2 • WINTER 2014 VOLUME 12 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2015
President’s Report PRESIDENT’S 2014-2015 ANNUAL REPORT You may not have noticed but the Act under which all JPs and Dear Colleagues The Dear QJA Colleagues Registrar, Angela Yin has advised the Board thattime she has This of received the yearanisexciting alwaysjob a offer busy in the UK for starting Augustwith and has time the in Board, the consequently Australasian handed in herof resignation. behalf of the(ACJA) Board Council Justices’ On Associations I have (reluctantly but understandably) accepted national conference in Canberra, the State Angela’s notice. This is a sad day for all of us, as Conference at Caboolture, the Annual Angela has contributed a lot over her four years Meeting, and achievements this year the election with the QJA and hasGeneral accomplished many which a new AGM. the company, and the wider JP haveofbene tedBoard you, at ourthe Members, community. The job opportunity Angela has received(ACJA) is a great The Australasian Council of that Justices’ Associations is a career move and an adventure for Angela and I am sure you join forum for JP associations across Australia and New will Zealand me in her the very best for the next stage her career. We to wishing come together to share experiences, to of learn from each will shortly commence the advertising process, and a notice is later other, to debate matters impacting JPs, and to investigate in this Journal (page 10). opportunities to leverage our collective knowledge which will Dear jurisdiction Colleagues, and it hasultimately been a busy few months for benefit JPs cools in each the As the weather and we with move towards Winter it iscommunity aoftime of the Board the Australasian Council Justices’ serve. This yearpeople it wasstart ACT’s turn toabout host others the annual the we yearallwhen historically to think less Associations (ACJA) national conference, the conference in Canberra. fortunate than themselves, and if youatare wondering how you can State Conference Redlands, the Annual General helpThe you may want to consider putting your as a JPrefreshers. or C.Dec to Meeting, and a number ofrole regional outcomes from this year’s event were an updated goodconstitution use by supporting your local community. If you are a current that provides more planning stability day of a governance, the Board renewal of the honorary justice youFollowing can help your local community by volunteering and a new focus on achievable benefits for all jurisdictions. strategy for the company has commenced with at a local signing centre, courthouse, or Police Station. If you arethe Membership ofBoard this agreeing forum and the cost ofofattending the that the Vision the QJA is to: nervous or uncertain about dealing with some of the documents conferences requires continuous justification to ensure the “Be the Preeminent organisation for Queensland you may encounter then mentoring and professional development Honorary Justices”. QJAare and our Members a real deliverytheof services available. Contactreceive your local QJAbenefit Branch and and discuss outcomes this year’s willthat be aaskey measure. Inthe striving for thisfrom Vision Boardmeeting has agreed an organisation volunteering, mentoring andthe professional development opportunities our Mission and our focus is that we are: “Committed to the available in your area. The annual State Conference was this year hostedbeing by the centre of excellence for Queensland Honorary Justices through a Caboolture Branch who delivered an outstanding conference combination professional development and I am delightedoftoleadership, announce training, the launch of our rst fully online, with high quality speakers in a polished and professional advocacy”. interactive training course. The course is the accredited module for manner which showcased the best aspects of the QJA. Over new Commissioner for Declarations already numberas of we Students The Board planning processthe will and continue to adevelop expand 200 delegates attended enjoying the hospitality of have enrolled and graduated with event Statement of Attainments issued. onthe our Goals so that as an organisation we can concentrate on those St Columban’s College students who provided the venue This new method of delivering the Commissioner Declarations activities that areand relevant and deliver value to you for thehas Members. andcomplements catering, overwhelmingly the feedback been very course our current classroom and correspondence The Australasian Council of Justices’ Associations (ACJA) is a positive. courses. It offers an alternative for individuals who are busy, who forum for JP Associations across Australia and New Zealand live The in remote locations, or forwith whatever reasonspeakers: nd it dif tofor Conference opened high profile thecult Chief public discussion and debate of matters relating to JPs. This year it attend one of our classroom courses. Justice Catherine Attorney-General Yvette D’Ath, was Queensland’s turnHolmes, to host the annual conference convened by and the Director Public Prosecutions Byrne QC, Senior President Ray Burrows who has Mr heldMichel the new office of ACJA The QJAVice remains theoflargest provider of training for Justices followed by practical presentations from the Public Trustee President for 2014. The success of this year’s ACJA conference was of the Peace (Qualied) and Commissioner for Declarations in due to the outstanding efforts of Director John Carpendale who through and the Public Guardian, along with the interesting aspect Queensland and, as a not-for-prot, all monies earned after costsof focus,back dedication, and attention toordetail delivered asupporting remarkable well-being called an update from the arehispassed to the Kinesiologist, local Branchesincluded into programs timetable of and events: from welcome atforum. the Banco court JP wrapped up with aofQ&A Congratulations you, ourBranch Members. With the the addition this new Online coursehosted we bytooffer our Justice Tim Carmody, tomore the locations conference held thepatron Branch team for an at excellent conference. now aCaboolture widerChief selection of course formats than in the Supreme Court building with guest speaker Damien Mealey, Special mention to the MC of the day Mrs Chris Knight who anyone else. In addition, our Students benet from being part of a JPmanaged Branch Registrar, tothe thePoliticians AGMminded dinner held inC.Decs the Balmoral room to6,000 keepcommunity and speakers onsupported time and network of over JPs and of the Brisbane City Hall with guest speaker Justice David Thomas, by over across Queensland, availableduring to helpthe them kept 30 theBranches delegates engaged and entertained day.as President of QCAT. they take their rst steps on their journey as a Queensland Honorary I am delighted to announcewas thatthis theyear 2016 State Justice. The annual State Conference hosted byConference the Redland will City be held in Rockhampton and I look forward to the Rockhampton Branch who delivered an outstanding conference with high quality Branch another outstanding as they The QJA is Registered Organisation (RTO) and thethe speakers indelivering a polished and Training professional mannerconference which showcased have in the past. I also should let you know that we are already compliance requirements we have to adhere to are very high. If best aspects of the QJA. Over 180 delegates attended the event and starting plan centennial conference in 2018, it sounds weoverwhelmingly want to tocontinue delivering training program we must theour feedback has this been very positive. Congratulations long waystandards away but in reality wePresident have to Ray bookBurrows venues in maintain strict of accountability and documentation. This toaChairman Ian Hawes, Senior Vice and does place a burden on the of cefor staff sometimes cause now secure a place so we arecan already considering theBrisbane Redland CitytoBranch team anwhich excellent conference. Special delays processing merchandise orders, new applications, workshop options keep youday advised of how this progresses. mention toand thewill MC of the Mrs Pauline Kilburn who managed bookings, etc. Politicians If this has impacted you,on wetime do apologise. to keep the and speakers and kept the delegates After the Conference up the AGM started engaged and State entertained during thewrapped day. and thisofyear we had 44 people attend in person with over The Board the QJA recognizes that as an RTO we must ensure I 50 am Proxies delightedsubmitted. to announce has been The that key Caboolture changes to Branch the Constitution wesuccessful strictly adhere to the requirements as set down by the Federal in their bid and will be hosting the 2015 State Conference. Board wereand approved and registered bodyrecommended which managesbythethe RTO program we recognize this does The conference details are still to be refined and more detail will with ASIC.burden For allonour Members will be no place a higher our current ofce staff, so we there are investigating follow but at this stage you can note in your 2015 calendars that it will opportunities to streamline ofce to minimize impacts but new Members willprocedures now their annual bechange, held at Bribie Island on Saturday 7thhave November 2015. renewal on other areas. We the willQJA. keep you as these date service as the delivery date they joined Theup-to-date Deputy Returning This year announced we arranged for results the Annual General Meeting of the We QJA new procedures are implemented. Officer the of the ballot for the Board. to be held on the same day as the State conference. Unfortunately
President’s Report
C.Decs operate was Directors changed recently. TheChris Justice of theand Peace and farewelled retiring Doug Hull, Porter, Ron Commissioner for Declarations Act 1991 was updated in December Court and welcomed new Directors Kate Kunzelmann, Bruce 2013. If you haven’t done and so already is worthwhile perusing the Birtwell, Garth Stephens Lance itWatson. updated document and familiarising yourself with the changes. A number legislative changes there have was been no made year, including With theofnew Board elected timethis to sit back and to the Police and Responsibilities as a responsible JP or relax with a Powers full Strategic Planning Day Act, scheduled on Sunday. C.Dec you should keep abreast what changes This was an opportunity for of the new Boardare to occurring bond andand any impacts may have onwhat yourexperiences procedures. To seeskills whatwe legislation connect, to itunderstand and bring has changed you can refer to the Queensland Government to the Board, to assign portfolios of Director responsibilities, to VOLUME 11 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMERwebsite 2014 www.legislation.qld.gov.au or go to the QJA website www.qja.com. review and update the company’s Strategic Plan, and develop au check Acts and Legislation page under the Home tab, theand goals forout thethe next few years. here you can always gain direct access to the very latest version of The Board endorses the aspiration that the QJA should “be the Acts. the Preeminent organisation for Queensland Honorary The PrivacybyActbeing 1988 “committed is an Australian law which regulatesofthe Justices” to being the centre an unintentional set of circumstances resulted in the delayed delivery handling of personal information about individuals. This includes excellence for Queensland Honorary Justices through of the spring edition of the Journal which contained the audited the collection, use, storage and disclosure of personal information, a combination of leadership, training, professional financial reports, the Directors declaration, information about and access to and correction of that information. Signi cant changes development and advocacy”. The Board developed a number the change auditors, regarding came effect ontoas 12th 2014 and with the introduction of ofrecommendation keyinto Goals that, anMarch organisation weexplanations can concentrate on13the recommended constitutional changes. Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) which replaced the National that are relevant and deliver value to you the Members and Privacy Principles and Information Privacy Principles which applies The delayed of the Journal was unfortunate, nevertheless ultimately the delivery community that we serve. The Goals are (in no it to was organisations, and Australian Government agencies. the Boards view, which was supported by the Members present, particular order of importance): that to ensure fairness to those Members who did not receive the AsJournal an less than $3m turnover is exempt 1. organisation T raining -with Delivery and expansion of the accredited containing the AGM documents in time thatQJA the AGM should from the Privacy Act but the Board has agreed that we should ensure quality training. be adjourned until Saturday 8th November. our Privacy Policy complies with the Australian Privacy Principles. While delay was the Board mustawareness ensure complies 2. the Marketing - unintentional Create and improve Director Ron Court has been reviewing our brand Privacy Policyitand has with its obligations and duties under the Constitution and the recommended a few minor technical adjustments to our Policies 3. Membership Improvement of member retentionopenness Corporations and -is committed acting with fairness, and ProceduresAct, to align with the new to requirements. The key aspect and participation and integrity with our Members. Despite the AGM adjourned, of the Privacy Act is protection of your information.being The QJA will the Members who attended following the State Conference never pass yourEngagement details on to -any external third party,had thethe 4. sell Cor ommunity Increase community opportunity to raise questions of myself and the rest of the Board exceptionengagement being the Department of the Attorney-General, Justices - serving your local community motions that wereof to presented. The adjourned ofregarding the Peace the Branch. The Justices thebe Peace and Commissioners AGM heldAct on 1991 Saturday as andDirector the Each ofwas the Key Goals isrequires now8th owned byand a “lead” for Declarations all scheduled JPs C.Decs to minutes keepwho, the from JP both meetings are later in this Journal. I would like to thank all those with support from others, will develop the actions associated Branch Registrar informed of any changes to contact details: Members who took time to attend AGM’s again with delivering that the particular Goal.theThey willand look at apologise new for the inconvenience. opportunities, options for expanded service delivery, 22 Registrar toconsider be notied of change to registered particulars investigate technology and innovation utilisation, confer (1) A person who an appointed of the peace orand an One outcome from theisAGM was the justice overriding support for holding appointed commissioner declarations is tothis notify the the the AGM atwith the external same timeorganisations as theforconference. With in mind collaborate if required to identify registrar of any change theBoard person’s or Caboolture Branch hasideas agreed push back for the name State Conference ideas and bring those tototo the deliberation and date contact details as stated in the register within 30want days so that we may again hold the 2015 AGM on the same day of as the action. Sounds like a lot of work, and it is, but if we to change and and provide anyare reasonable the registrar conference. grow thisthe business ensure we still hereproof in another 100 may theidly change. years werequire cannot sit by. an extensive review of our lease I am then pleased to noteofthat following options relating to the occupancy of QJA House at Woolloongabba I am delighted to welcome Gabor Beres toon thetoHead Office updated team To this process theonQJA passground JP Branch a aid newinthree year lease the will current floor has been signed (see profile on page 15). Gabor brings a changes wealth of financial contact details when a Member advises us that have occurred securing our premises for the future. My thanks to Director Dave Read to postal address,the phone numbersand orinvestigations email (no other information and membership experience with him and is ona our welcome who conducted negotiations behalf. isaddition passed to on). you do want of your detailsappointment passed on tothere the JP theIfteam. Asnot a result Gabor’s After oversome 14note years service to the QJA Board is with Branch please thismeritorious in your update correspondence. has been re-arrangements regarding duties and itkey sadness that I accepted the resignation of Director Bob Pilkington. responsibilities. Cindy now takes on the key role of Training Bobregional has decided to focushave on other pursuits and has therefore resigned Your been very active over the past few and will look Directors after our training courses and students, Aaron from the QJA Board and all related positions effective immediately. It months supporting their local Branches with new Contact Groups will have a key focus on our Merchandise and as additional was obviously a very difficult moment forBranches Bob as it in brings to an end in the Bundaberg region, potential new the North, support theinvolvement training program, whileBoard. GaborSee now takes over 14 for years with QJA article on on Bob successful workshops hosted bytheRockhampton andtheLogan, with the key responsibilities of Accounts and Memberships. laterBranches in this Journal. other organising additional workshops, and a greater focus on growth andI delivery services totoyou, ourallMembers and the Finally, may take thisofopportunity wish our Members broader community so stay tuned. and Till families, next time.our stakeholders, sponsors and supporters a very joyous Christmas, a safe festive season, and good health Till time, for the New Year. andnext happiness
Keith Revell - President Keith Revell - President Keith Revell - President Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918 Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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BOARD ELECTIONS – WHO’S IN AND WHO’S OUT When polling for QJA Board positions closed at 5pm on Friday 16 October 2015, a total of 1356 votes had been cast by 31% of eligible QJA members. The successful candidates were:
Agricultural College (Gatton) to complete a Certificate in Animal Husbandry – having developed an interest in horses as a result of farm holidays spent with his mother’s family in Western Queensland. From this, followed a career with the Queensland Government which took him to such exotic places as Bundaberg, Ipswich, Roma, Warwick, Killarney, Mt Isa and Toowoomba where he now resides. Along the way, Bruce completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in Biology and a Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Management.
President: Keith Revell Vice President: Marian Vierveyzer Raymond Young OAM Board Member: Bruce Birtwell John Carpendale A lot of his time has been spent in Western Queensland and Kate Kunzelmann even now some of his work takes him to places such as Carmelo Pasquale Cunnamulla and St George. His interest in history and his Dave Read family’s connection to droving cultivated his interest in Bronco Craig Stephens Branding and, as a committee member, he coordinated this Lance Watson competition at the Mount Isa Agricultural Show.
INTRODUCING: The following biographical information focusses on the social and personal backgrounds of the four new directors. Here’s what you perhaps didn’t know about them: Kate Kunzelmann is a hard-working manager and committed community worker who finds life is tremendously busy, but not so busy that she cannot share good times with friends. She tends to define herself by her community work and her job, but that doesn’t tell you about her passion for growing roses, or her interest in history and politics. Kate is also dedicated to trivia competitions, usually finding a couple of times a month to attend one with friends. They have lots of trouble with popular music and sport! Her team tends to hover around the middle in the rankings. Kate has a partner, John, also a JP, and a son who lives overseas. She has had many jobs, in education, politics, research and nursing. Her greatest pleasure in her work, although not now a teacher, is in the motivation of students, and making things explainable. Kate’s passion for the QJA has been re-ignited by her association with Marion Vierveyzer, who she admires greatly, and she would like to further increase the female participation on the Board. Her “portfolios” will be education and professional development, and her “area” will be Ipswich and some of Somerset. Kate is also going to be the “apprentice” newsletter editor. She looks forward to hearing from members in Ipswich and Somerset, and seeing what we can do about development, not through directing, but through supporting the members. Bruce Birtwell was born on New Year’s Eve 1953 in Rockhampton, the eldest of seven children who attended schools in Rockhampton, Rolleston, Charleville and Brisbane as his father - a Police Officer - was transferred to these centres in his work. After completing Year 11 at Camp Hill High School, Bruce attended the Queensland 4
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
He has been involved in committee positions with Roma and Mount Isa Show Societies, Parents & Citizens, Junior Soccer and Cricket associations and as coach of junior sporting teams. He has judged carcass competitions and was the Chief Steward of the Roma Show Society carcass competition. Bruce and wife Debbie have three sons (Jason, Craig and Ewan) and two grandsons. He is the Chairman of the QJA Toowoomba Branch and regularly volunteers at the Clifford Gardens Signing Centre. Garth Stephens grew up in Brisbane and enjoyed all the freedom of childhood in the 50’s. He graduated as a primary school teacher in 1970, and became a primary school principal in 1971, moving around the state to schools in Limestone Ridges, Meringandan, Peak Crossing, Coalstoun Lakes, Baralaba, Logan, Toowoomba, and Brisbane. Kids at all these schools were fantastic, each with their own skills and abilities and quirks. He has always been keen on sport and fitness, and coached teams in netball, basketball, and softball over the years. For Garth, it was especially gratifying to see the girls develop their skills and teamwork. Garth and wife Kay are keen walkers who have completed the Overland Track in Tasmania, the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, the Cape to Cape walk in Western Australia, and the Camino de Santiago in Spain. The latter was 800 kms over 35 days – an amazing experience. All these walks have enabled them to travel which is another of their passions. They also regard meeting new people from different cultures overseas and around Australia as an uplifting experience. Volunteering for Cancer Council Queensland in various roles, and for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, has enabled Garth to support community members in need. The coping strategies of cancer patients in dealing with life’s challenges certainly have inspired Garth to reach his goals. He enjoys being retired as it allows Kay and he to “do their own thing” – looking after the grandkids, going to local coffee shops, having a personal trainer to keep fit, travelling (Australia and overseas), photography as a hobby, and being a Civil Marriage Celebrant. Life is good!
VOLUME 12 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2015 Lance Watson’s home is Rockhampton and he has lived and worked throughout Central and North Western Queensland. Married to wife Jenni for 32 years, they have 2 children and 3 grandchildren. Their life has seen them move around the State a little, first to Sarina with Queensland Rail and then to Cloncurry. Lance continued his community work with Scouts and joined the QATB as an Honorary Ambulance Office before taking on the Ambulance Service in Winton and back to Sarina where he continued Scouting as a leader through Cubs and Scouts, later returning as a Group Leader. He was a founding member of the Sarina branch of St Johns Ambulance. The family moved to Moranbah, where with wife Jenni Lance founded the Moranbah Branch of St John Ambulance and became a Group Leader with the Scouts. Returning to their home of Rockhampton, they now live just outside in Gracemere. Lance and Jenni love looking after their grandchildren and helping their children where needed. Their 6 year old Grandson has taken up riding motocross, so it looks as though he’ll be volunteering as a flaggie and steward where needed, with 2 other grandsons following this one. He thinks he’s in for the long haul and empty pockets. He loves Rockhampton - being born and bred here and he seems to keep coming back. The family loves Central Queensland for what it is and there are so many secrets and so much history - it is worth the visit. Lance won’t give too much away - you will have to come to the 2016 State Conference to find out for yourself and you too will see what this great area of Rockhampton, Central Queensland has to offer.
FAREWELL AND THANK YOU Three (3) existing directors decided to not contest the 2015 election, thus bringing to a close their distinguished membership of the QJA Board. As expressed by QJA President, Keith Revell in making presentations to these gentlemen at the 2015 State Conference in Caboolture, their former Board colleagues - and the general QJA membership – all owe the departing directors a debt of gratitude for the time and effort they devoted to Board business over their respective directorship periods. Ron Court was elected to the QJA Board in 2013 and served for one term of two years. He remains the Caboolture Branch Chair, a position he has held since the Branch was formed in 2011 (see Branch history - page 14).
Doug Hull - After 13 years of conscientiously serving QJA members as a Director of the QJA Board, Doug elected to stand aside to create an opportunity for the injection of new blood to the Board in 2015. On top of being a director since 2002, Doug was a QJA Vice President from 2003-2009 and has been a QJA trainer for almost a decade. Over recent years, he has been the director responsible for oversighting QJA’s Registered Training Organisation (RTO) compliance status. During Doug’s period on the Board, QJA has evolved to become Queensland’s largest provider of pre-service training to honorary justices and has re-established itself as the preeminent professional organisation for Queensland JPs & C.Decs. Representing the lifeblood of the Harvey Bay Branch since its inception, Doug was instrumental in that branch successfully hosting the State Conference in 2010. After such enduring and worthwhile service to the Board and the QJA membership, he has earned a well-deserved break. Thank you Doug! Chris Porter joined the Board in late 2010 and for the last five (5) years has been the director responsible for Queensland’s northern region and its far flung branches. After spending his childhood in Africa and his early adulthood in the UK, Chris found his way to Australia in 1977 where he settled, with his family, in North Queensland. Possessing an engineering background and familiarity of both the mining industry and small business, Chris brought a unique set of skills, experience and knowledge to his QJA directorship. Armed with a passion for the principles of QJA and a drive for success, Chris was instrumental in the establishment of several new Northern Region branches during his term with the Board and as a result of his commitment and enthusiasm, the JP support structure for Queensland’s north has been enhanced considerably. With the emergence of other important issues in his life, Chris did not make himself available for the 2015 Board election. He remains heavily involved with the Townsville branch and volunteering in his home town. Thanks Chris for all you have done for the Board and QJA members – especially those from Queensland’s north.
Under his leadership, this Branch has transformed in just a few years from a tentative start to the recent showcasing of its outstanding teamwork, initiative, flair and professionalism in hosting the 2015 State Conference – one of the best ever. Ron will also remain a QJA trainer and assessor – a role he has been performing successfully for several years. In addition, he runs two small businesses – one as a civil celebrant and the other as a children’s entertainer/magician. Thank you Ron for your valuable contributions to the Board over your term of office. Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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By the time the first delegates arrived at St Columban’s College auditorium from 8am, the parking attendants, the reception committee and the registration operatives were all at their stations – ready to process arrivals in a friendly and efficient manner.
Justice’s entertaining and informative speech is reproduced on pages 9-10. In summary, Her Honour provided some personal anecdotes as well as an historical perspective on the role of Justice of the Peace - tracing its origins from medieval England through to Australia’s first settlement and then its evolution over the last 100 years in Queensland. In closing, the Chief Justice made a presentation to the Association’s President, Keith Revell, of a copy of the August 1934 edition of the Queensland Magistrate (the predecessor to the QJA Journal) - to celebrate her first official appearance as QJA Patron.
On entering the auditorium, the immensity of the site became apparent - as did the detailed thought given to its preparation. In the front half of the hall, a total of 28 square tables were carefully positioned – each with eight chairs, all facing the well-illuminated and appropriately-decorated stage. In all, there was seating for 224 delegates.
Then followed the introduction of the local Members of the Legislative Assembly - Andrew Powell MP (Member for Glasshouse), Rick Williams MP (Member for Pumicestone) and Mark Ryan MP (Member for Morayfield). Each gave their personal perspective on the value of the role played by honorary justices in their electorates.
Each table was adorned with a white, starched tablecloth, chilled water jug and post-it notes pad whilst each table-top seating station contained a water glass, individual water bottle, scribble pad and biro. On each seat was placed carry bags containing conference information plus the ample supply of “goodies” donated by conference sponsors and QJA head office. The visual impact was certainly pleasing and impressive.
Mark Ryan MP, Rick Williams MP, Chief Justice Hon Catherine E Holmes, Attorney-General Hon Yvette D’Ath MP, Andrew Powell MP, Cr Greg Chippendale
2015 STATE CONFERENCE As day dawned on Saturday 7 November, the members of the QJA Caboolture Branch’s conference planning committee were already in motion - adding the final finishing touches to the preparations they put in place over the preceding weeks and months.
At 9am, the Conference MC, Mrs Chris Knight, walked to the lectern and called proceedings to order. It was immediately apparent that the audio and acoustics were first-class (thanks to the College students in charge of sound mixing and volume) and the MC possessed an engaging, enthusiastic and humorous personality. The first item on the agenda was a Welcome to Country ceremony. Indigenous Elder (and QJA Caboolture Branch member) Uncle Eric Beutel OAM was invited to introduce fellow Elder Aunty Jacqueline who performed a moving and traditional Jinibara welcome to country song. Then the Moreton Bay Regional Council Division 3 Councillor Greg Chippendale welcomed delegates and guests to his local government precinct - at the same time extolling the virtues of life in colourful Caboolture. The Conference Opening Address was then performed by The Hon. Justice Catherine E Holmes, Chief Justice of Queensland and QJA Patron. The full text of the Chief 6
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
The final presenter in the opening session was the Keynote Speaker, the Hon. Yvette D’Ath, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Training & Skills (and Member for Redcliffe) who reiterated the Palaszczuk Government’s acknowledgement of the important and valuable contribution made to the justice administration system by Queensland’s honorary justices. The Attorney-General also commended the role performed by the Justice of the Peace Branch of the Justice Department in partnership with associations like the QJA in continuing to elevate the consistency, quality and professionalism of the witnessing services delivered to the community by registered Queensland JPs and C.Decs. She also praised the efforts of JPs involved in the ongoing QCAT trail where waiting times for hearing small claims have been halved and over 8,000 matters have been heard with a very high rate of user satisfaction. Before breaking for Morning Tea, QJA President, Keith Revell took to the stage and announced the awarding of Honorary Life Membership status to the two preceding QJA Presidents: Bob Pilkington (2005-2009) and Ray Burrows (2009-2013) both of whom had recently retired after lengthy terms of QJA Board membership. A special presentation was made to each gentleman to celebrate their Life Membership achievement.
VOLUME 12 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2015 The Morning Tea break presented the first opportunity to sample the culinary expertise of the College’s Catering students – and delegates were not disappointed. Curtains to the back half of the auditorium were lifted to reveal longs rows of covered trestles laden with an assortment of cakes, scones, muffins and fruit to satisfy all dietary expectations. Session 2 commenced with the introduction of Michael Byrne QC, Commissioner for the Queensland Organised Crime Commission of Enquiry - whose final report on the enquiry was presented to the Premier just one week earlier - on 30 October 2015. Commissioner Byrne spoke about the extent and nature of organised crime in Queensland as well as its economic and social impacts. He went on to detail the various categories of organised crime (including Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs, Drug Peddlers, Child Sex Offenders and Financial Scammers) and presented case studies to demonstrate the damage such criminal undertakings cause to individuals, families and communities. The Report’s expose of the inner workings of organised crime is intended to assist authorities in their ongoing battle to minimise and eradicate its threats and adverse impacts. At the conclusion of his presentation, Commissioner Byrne took questions from the floor and, in an aside, commented on the high quality of JP-witnessed documents submitted to the Enquiry. The second presentation in this session was by Alan Albury - Redcliffe District Manager, Public Trust Office - who spoke about the role of the Public Trustee and matters associated with Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorney (from a financial perspective). Interestingly, Alan explained the term “will” derives from the Old English concept of dying people documenting a statement to “impose their will” on those family members who survived them. Alan also answered questions at the finish of his presentation. Immediately before the lunch break, President Keith Revell called to the stage the three current Board members (Doug Hull, Chris Porter and Ron Court) who elected not to contest the 2015 election – thus bringing to an end their respective periods as QJA directors. A presentation was made to each to thank them for their valuable contributions to the Board (see individual tributes for Doug, Chris and Ron on page 5). With the Catering students waiting patiently to serve the multitudes, conference was adjourned for lunch which comprised a bed of warm rice served in a disposable cardboard carton and a choice of heated sauces to cater for all tastes and diets. Delegates agreed it was tasty, nutritional and satisfying – a winner all round! The post-lunch session comprised three separate presentations. Firstly, to stir the cognitive juices after a fulfilling lunch (and for something just a little bit different), Kinesiologist & Natural Therapist Marney Perna was invited to speak to delegates about strategies to reduce stress and take better care of our inner and outer self.
Next, Mark Phillips, Senior Investigations Officer, Office of the Public Guardian, spoke to delegates about the role of the Public Guardian and Witnessing Guidelines for Enduring Documents. Given the relevance of the work performed by the Public Guardian to the duties undertaken by honorary justices, this was a really pertinent and important presentation. In particular, Mark explained the definition of “capacity” and the steps witnessing officers should take to satisfy themselves a principal has the capacity to execute an enduring document (EPA or AHD). For guidance, he suggested the Queensland Handbook for Practitioners on Legal Capacity (available from the Queensland Law Society website: www.qls.com.au). The final presentation in this session was from Damien Mealey, Registrar and Manager, JP Branch, Department of Justice on current issues and future directions for his Branch and the 84,000 registered honorary justices. Damien explained the structure of his office and work undertaken by each unit. One of the main challenges for his team is to be able to contact and communicate with all Queensland justices on a regular basis. Although 57,000 have provided email addresses, the remaining 27,000 can be contacted only by post. There is an ongoing program in place to cleanse and update their database to help streamline the communication process. The JPs in the Community program continues to be an outstanding success with 220 signing sites throughout the State and 3,000 registered volunteers. As each month goes by, new sites are approved and new volunteers join the program – each wearing attractive polo shirts (supplied by the JP Branch) promoting the JPs in the Community brand. In answer to a question from the audience, Damien indicated he still supported the 5-year renewal proposal that has been discussed previously but he was unable to indicate when that might adopted by the Government. At this juncture, afternoon tea was taken and delegates once more gravitated to the back of the auditorium to again enjoy the bakery selection and fruit platters prepared and served by the College students. The final session of Conference comprised a Q&A panel presentation with the QJA directors responsible for answering delegates’ questions. Throughout the day, delegates had been encouraged to use the postit notepads on each table to document their questions and attach them to notice boards positioned at the front of the auditorium. An assortment of questions – some technical and some general – were announced to the audience and then answered by individual directors. To conclude the 2015 State Conference, QJA President Keith Revell made some closing remarks. From all perspectives this was a high quality conference with first-class venue, facilities, catering, organisation, time-management, presentations and participation by delegates. The Caboolture Branch organising committee aimed for a Wow factor and they were successful. Congratulations to all involved. The 2016 Conference will be held in Rockhampton. Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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2015 AGM REPORT The following is a summary report on the proceedings at the 2015 Annual General Meeting. The full and official minutes of the meeting are published in the Member Only area of the QJA website (www.training.qja.com.au) or may be viewed in person at the QJA State Office.
Report on the 2015 AGM - held at St Colomban’s College, Caboolture at 4:30pm on Saturday 7 November 2015 1. Members present, proxies received and apologies Members present – as per attendance list – 44 Proxies received – as per proxy schedule – 56 Apologies – 3 (To protect privacy, the names of persons associated with the meeting are not reported here but are maintained in QJA records) The QJA President (Keith Revell) chaired the meeting 2. Minutes of 2014 AGM and business arising from the minutes Moved DH; seconded BP that the minutes (an abbreviated version of which was published in the 2014-15 Summer edition of the QJA Journal) be confirmed as a correct record. CARRIED Member DJ queried why only initials appeared in the published version of the minutes. Chair responded this was to protect the privacy of those involved as the Journal is a public document - the full and complete version of the minutes is kept at QJA State Office and may be examined by members. 3. President’s Report 2014-2015 (as published in the Spring 2015 edition of the QJA Journal) President explained he published his report in advance of this meeting so all members had the opportunity to be aware of its contents. He asked if there were any questions. Member RK advised he did not recall receiving a copy of the Journal containing the President’s Report. Chairman reported that the Journal was distributed in September to all members in either electronic or hard copy format. There were no other questions. President moved his report be received. Seconded DR. CARRIED 4. Directors’ Report 2014-2015 (as published in the Spring 2015 edition of the QJA Journal) President asked if there were any questions about the Directors’ Report. As there were none, the President moved the report be received. Seconded JC. CARRIED 5. Financial Statements 2014-15 as published in the Spring 2015 edition of the QJA Journal) President drew attention to the financial statements being audited by an external auditor (AH Jackson) although under the Corporations Act, this was not required for a company the size of QJA. In response to previous requests, Note 10 was added to detail the extent of Related Party transactions 8
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– i.e. payments made to directors. Member DJ enquired about the review of office accommodation mentioned in the 2014 minutes. President reported the lease on the current premises had been renewed for a fixed (and favourable) monthly rental for a 3 year term. President moved the audited financial statements be adopted. Seconded MV. CARRIED 6. Constitution Changes (as published in the Winter 2015 edition of the QJA Journal) 6.1 Rule 22 be amended to enable anniversary annual renewal subscriptions for New Members President advised meeting that the limitations of previous software – requiring a uniform renewal date for all members – no longer existed and he moved the proposed amendments be adopted. Seconded KK. CARRIED 6.2 Rule 43 be amended to increase the number of proxies held by the Chairman from 50 to 100 President explained that for the 2014 AGM more than 100 proxies were submitted for the Chairman to vote but, as the Constitution limits the number to 50, more than half of the submitted proxies were ineffective. Accordingly, he moved the proposed amendment be adopted. Seconded KK. CARRIED 7. Election of Board for 2015-2017 As the Returning Officer for the 2015 Board Election (John Payne, Solicitor) was unable to attend the meeting, the Chairman asked the Deputy Returning Officer (Wendy La Macchia, QJA Registrar) to read the Returning Officer’s report. Of eligible QJA members, approximately 31% (1356) voted in the election. The results were: President: Keith Revell Vice President: Marian Vierveyzer Raymond Young OAM Board Member: Bruce Birtwell John Carpendale Kate Kunzelmann Carmelo Pasquale Dave Read Garth Stephens Lance Watson 8. General Business Chairman informed the meeting that under section 250S of the Corporations Act 2001, a reasonable opportunity must be allowed at the AGM for members to ask questions or make comments on the management of the company. However, if a member wishes to move a motion on a matter, adequate prior notice needs to be given so that motion can be added to the issued meeting agenda. 8.1 Member RK, speaking for his branch, suggested the number of directors be reduced. Chairman explained this would require an amendment to the Constitution and further explained there needs to be adequate directors so that all QJA members feel they are properly represented and the Board workload can be shared equitably. 8.2 Member RK asked whether a single fee (covering both branch and QJA memberships) could be introduced. Chairman explained there is no obligation for branches to charge a membership fee - the manner of raising branch funds is entirely a branch matter and each branch has adopted its own approach, with some not charging any fee. 8.3 Member RK suggested the AGM be held prior to lunch on Conference Day – rather than after conference business had concluded – so more members might attend. Chairman thanked RK for the suggestion and observed it is an idea worth considering for future meetings. Meeting closed at 5pm.
VOLUME 12 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2015
INTRODUCING : QJA’s NEW PATRON Catherine Ena Holmes was born on 12 October 1956 in Brisbane, Queensland, the daughter of Ernest Holmes, labourer, and his wife Ellen, (née Mackinlay), bookkeeper. She received her secondary education at Our Lady of Sacred Heart College, Corinda (1970-71), and Oxley State High School (1972-73). She then studied at the Australian National University, graduating Bachelor of Economics (1977) and at the University of Queensland, graduating Bachelor of Laws (1980). Holmes completed the Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice at the Queensland Institute of Technology and was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland (1982). She married Arthur Phillip Preston on 1 September 1976. They had two daughters and one son. On 19 November 1984, Holmes was admitted as a barrister of the Supreme Court of Queensland. She worked initially as a Commonwealth crown prosecutor (1984-86), and then commenced practice at the bar in Brisbane. She took silk on 15 December 1999. Holmes served as a founding member of the Women’s Legal Service (1984), a part-time member of the Anti-Discrimination Tribunal (1994–2000) and deputy president of the Queensland Community Corrections Board (1997). She obtained a Bachelor of Arts with honours (1989) and Master of Laws (Advanced) (1998) at the University of Queensland. She was counsel assisting the Forde Commission of Inquiry into Abuse of Children in Institutions (1998-99) and then served as an acting judge of the District Court of Queensland, from 12 August 1999 to 12 November 1999. On 16 March 2000, Holmes was appointed a judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland. She served as the Criminal List judge (2001–04) and the presiding judge of the Queensland Mental Health Court (2005-06). On 26 May 2006, she was appointed a judge of appeal. In 2011-12, she conducted the Commission of Inquiry into the 2010–11 Queensland floods. In September 2015, she was appointed Chief Justice of Queensland. Holmes was featured in ‘A Woman’s Place: 100 years of Queensland Women Lawyers’, published by the Supreme Court Library Queensland in 2005.
ADDRESS TO STATE CONFERENCE The following is the text of the Address delivered by the Chief Justice to the QJA State Conference on Saturday 7 November 2015: Thank you for inviting me to the Association’s conference. I should preface some very brief remarks about the interesting history of Justices of the Peace by telling you, first of all, that I am, in fact, one of you. Section 19 of the Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations Act 1991 provides that every judge is a Justice of the Peace and every judge who has retired or resigned is still a Justice of the Peace. Which means that not only I am one of you but I look like being one until the day I die. Sadly, I am not as effective as I should be. I witnessed a statutory declaration for my neighbour – one of those ‘my wife was driving’ speeding ticket things - and I modestly described myself as
“judicial officer”. The police sent it back to him saying that that wasn’t a proper witnessing occupation. Most embarrassing, and he hasn’t trusted me to witness anything since. As I am sure you know, the role of Justice of the Peace has a fascinating and long history dating back to the 14th century. The role really took form with the Statute of Westminster, 1361. This is some of the wording: “That in every shire of England shall be assigned for the keeping of the peace, one lord and with him three or four of the most worthy in the shire with some learned in the law; and they shall have power to restrain the offenders, rioters and all other barroters and to pursue, take and chastise them according to their trespass or offence”. I didn’t know what a “barroter” was, but Google tells me that it’s an old French term for brawler or fighter. So it’s clearly a species you could still find down in the Valley tonight. Madam Attorney-General, you might want to mention the very longstanding problem with barroters when you introduce the lock-out legislation. But getting back to the Statute of Westminster. Lord Judge, the former Chief Justice of England and Wales has said of the Statute: “Like the jury system it expressly links the decent citizen but, more importantly, the nonlawyer citizen and even more important the nonprofessional judge citizen, directly with the administration of criminal justice. And thus we embodied in our cultures the principle of public participation in the administration of justice...” So today you continue in that tradition of decent non-lawyer citizens participating in the administration of justice. Even when the Wars of the Roses broke out in the 15th century, while the houses of Lancaster and York were at each other’s throats, the Justices of the Peace got on with ensuring law and order amongst the ordinary folk. Back in medieval times they had an interesting mix of administrative and judicial duties, just as you do today. It was perhaps a more troubling mix then, because a Justice of the Peace was just as likely to investigate and arrest someone and then go on to try him. And things were a little racier then. I read in a history of Justices of the Peace that “it was not unknown for a justice to draw his dagger at Quarter Sessions.” In Elizabethan times, Justices of the Peace had some very odd duties, including the supervision of the manufacture of malt, searching for popish books and making regulations in time of plague. A really interesting aspect of the history of Justices of the Peace is the important role they had in the setting up of this country. In 1788, Governor Arthur Philip was commissioned as a Justice of the Peace with the power to appoint other justices; and under a Charter of Justice enacted the previous year, the system for the administration of justice was started in the new colony. Justices of the Peace were given the power to keep the peace, arrest, take bail, bind over on good behaviour and so on, so as to manage the convict labour force. That was how the rule of law came to Australia. Further down the track, my predecessor as Chief Justice, Sir Samuel Griffith, was a Justice of the Peace in Queensland before he became a barrister. I took particular note that the first female Justice of the Peace was sworn into office in 1918, coincidentally – or perhaps not coincidentally - the year in which
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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this Association was founded. The development of the system of stipendiary magistrates over this century meant that it became increasingly unlikely that Justices of the Peace would sit in hearings. It’s interesting, then, that there are again hearing roles for JPs at the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, where I hear from the President that they are extremely hard working and committed. A distinguishing feature of the Justice of the Peace system has always been that it was based on voluntary unpaid service of civicminded people. Today, Justices of the Peace constitute a very fine example of volunteerism. One of the best traits of the Australian community is the willingness of people to work for no financial benefit to assist others; which is precisely what you do. Volunteering brings the rewards of interesting work and engagement with your community, but there are the responsibilities. There does seem a great deal for Justices of the Peace to keep up with. It seems to me a very intricate role with different responsibilities in many different areas. This Conference is an excellent way of keeping up and identifying contentious areas, and I understand the Association also provides a variety of workshops and refresher courses, newsletters and a journal. I would like to give you some good news about another generation coming through. I have a young acquaintance who at 20 is a Justice of the Peace. Knowing I was coming here, I quizzed him about how that came about. He is a student living in a college at the University of Queensland where, of course, other students often have statutory declarations they need witnessing and copies they need certified. So last year, when he was 19, he took the Association’s course over three Saturdays. You will be pleased to hear that he reports that it trained him for everything he has had to do and more. He says it was very practical. The coordinator was a Mr Ron Court whom, with the enthusiasm of youth, he describes as “fantastic”. Ever since then he has been using his qualification in the college. He says he has found it very rewarding and he is encouraging one of his friends to become qualified. Finally, it is a great honour to become patron of this organisation which has almost reached its century. In honour of the occasion I come bearing a gift, a small one, second-hand and one that has seen better days. It’s a copy of the Queensland Magistrate, the official organ of the Queensland Justices Association, for August 15, 1934. Sixteen years after the association was formed, you could get this newsletter for five shillings per annum. On the front is an advertisement for Wolseley cars, completely British built with British capital only, price from 295 pounds. There are articles about a variety of subjects, including unemployment relief schemes, this being in the Depression; some case reports and articles about law; some commentary on whether motor police are an expensive luxury; and a very long article by a New Zealand JP about the advantages of Justices’ associations. It’s a little on the sexist side. There is some remark about a lady barrister who had recently addressed the Justices of the Peace Association; she waves her finger just like a mother. And a truly terrible joke: “A judge told a witness to talk just as if she were at home. The case is still going on”. (I suppose you have to make allowances: it was written only 16 years after the first woman Justice of the Peace was appointed.) And on the back cover an advertisement for the Penguin, a non-electric refrigerator, 24 hours refrigeration for one penny. Now for all I know you have archives full of these, but if you have, spare me that knowledge, and let me think that I’ve come up with an interesting piece of history for you. I’ll hand it on to Mr Revell. Once again, thank you for inviting me here today. 10
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
800 YEARS OF MAGNA CARTA Magna Carta: Law, Liberty, Legacy 2015 marks 800 years since the assenting, by King John of England, to the Magna Carta (great charter) in Runnymede, a meadow west of London, on the way to Windsor Castle. This year, I had the pleasure of taking part in a Magna Carta walk in Runnymede and attending the Magna Carta exhibition in the British Library in London. These two events explained the significance of the Magna Carta, and more fully explained about how the role of the Justice of the Peace was shaped by the Magna Carta. The 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta was an occasion deemed so significant that the Queen unveiled a new sculpture in the middle of Runnymede meadow, The Jurors, which is 12 bronze chairs (signifying a jury) bolted into the ground. They are etched with beautiful engravings, signifying important moments in history of human rights and justice. Some of them include Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese freedom fighter kept under house arrest for 20 years as she campaigned for democracy in Burma, Nelson Mandela who was jailed for 27 years in South Africa for fighting for the end of apartheid and the UN Declaration on the Rights of a Child. The role of the Justice of the Peace preceded the Magna Carta by 20 years, in 1195 by King Richard I, where knights were commissioned to “keep the peace” in unruly areas. However, the Magna Carta which King John sealed in 1215 was a negotiation with the Barons, who, in their view were being taxed unfairly and excessively. Justice was administered in an arbitrary fashion and the Magna Carta regulated the administration of justice, required consent for taxation and established the principle of due legal process. In the centuries to come, Britain would establish the most extensive colonial empire the world had ever seen. Across the empire, from the 1600s to the 20th century, Magna Carta was invoked by emigrant Britons, imperial governors and colonial subjects. It has been said that today Magna Carta competes with the English language as Britain’s greatest export. In Runnymede, in addition to The Jurors sculpture, there is also a large monument erected by the American Bar Association, the representative body of lawyers in the USA, paying homage to the Magna Carta. Upon the death of President John F. Kennedy, a large stone plaque and an acre of land was bequeathed to the USA to signify the late President’s commitment to peace, liberty and justice, especially as under his tenure, overt segregation and oppression of African-Americans was in the process of ending. The Magna Carta is actually now considered more directly influential to the American Constitution than it is in modern British law, where most of the Magna Carta’s clauses have been repealed and superseded by modern legislation. However, this does not diminish the enduring impact of the Magna Carta. The spirit of the Magna Carta is that the law and administration of justice applies equally to all. There is no doubt the modern JPs and C.Decs in Queensland who diligently go about their duties in courts, shopping centres and workplaces are putting the principles of the Magna Carta into practical action every time they administer a declaration or oath, authorise a warrant or witness a signature. Angela Yin, QJA London UK contact (See Regional Roundup p15 for a photo of Angela at Runnymede, UK)
VOLUME 12 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2015
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.
40 Years QJA Membership Philip Hillery
25 Years QJA Membership Stephen Dawson
Christopher Elder
Barry Kelly
Barbara Manning
Carmel Raldini
Welcome to New Members The following have joined the QJA since the last Journal: Gregory Abood
Charmaine Dieckmann
Julia Horn
Gregory Menz
Melissa Simpson
Louise Aldridge
Lauren Donsky
Yue Huang
Wesley Metcalf
Linda Sivyer
Katrina Anderson
Solveig Dowling
Danielle Hyland
Rebecca Middleton
Priscilla Sizer
Paul Anderson
Stephen Downey
Lauren Isaac
Kaylee Millar
Debra Ariel
Amanda Downie
Matthew James
Felicity Miller
Heidi Avolio
Paul Drescher
Anne James
Julie Morris
Julia Azzopardi
Sharyn Dunn
Dianne Jennings
Sharyn Morwood
Marian Bament
Matthew Eames
Matthew Johnson
Mo Mulenga
Coral-Lee Bamford
Sheree Edwards
Ann Johnson
Beverley-Anne Nicholls
Peter Speare
Glenda Bannan
Shelley Ellis
Philip Kearse
Patrick O’Connor
Margaret Staff
Joanne Bartalis
Sean Eriksen
Kellie Kemp
Lynelle Olsen
Tania Stevens
Kathleen Berry
Kenneth Evans
Paul Kennedy
Ashleigh O’Sullivan
Leanne Stonehouse
Rachael Best
James Fairhall
Mary-Louise Keyworth
Nicholas Panzram
Georgina Strohal
Dallas Blackmore
Michael Galloway
Tracey King
John Payne
John Stuart
Robin Bliss
Kevin Garland
Joanne Knight
Natalie Payne
Anthony Bloom
Tracey Ghossein
Debra Krause
Jeffrey Peace
Riley Boland
Katrina Gibbs
Michael Krink
Carolynne Peebles
Brendan Bowles
Elizabeth Gilshenan
Gillian Krink
Angela Perry
Carmen Brady
Adrianna Grant
Kurt Lane
Vivian Petzke
Andre Brocklebank
Simon Greasley
Sarah Lanigan
Jeremy Phillips
Phillip Thompson
Emele Bulewa
Andrew Greenall
Loretta Lashmore
Mariepaule Pollet
Deborah Thomson
James Burrow
Judith Gregory
Jaclyn Lawrie
Sandra Postupalski
Brent Thrush
Kristina Caldwell
Sarah Griffin
Skylah Lee
Brendan Power
Ashleigh Toole
Colleen Callaghan
Philip Griffin
Cathy Lennon
Mitchell Pynsent
Jennifer Townend
Samantha Campbell
Heidie Grimson
Rick Lingard
Peter Rackley
Jennifer Carey
Troy Townsend
Helen Grindrod
Ashley Little
Anna Rankin
Tamara Cassidy
Deanna Haddrill
Yong (Kevin) Liu
Karen Rasmussen
Don Charles
Paul Halman
Gayelene Locke
John Reed
Don Charles
Everard Handley
Caitlyn Long
Paul Reimers
Kellie Chislett
Minna Harri
Steven Lucas
John Rice
Julie Clements
Kim Harris
Steven Lucas
Susanne Richardt
Delaney Walker
Peter Constantine
Susannah Harvey-Jamieson
Steffanie Mackey
Margaret Ripoll
Joanna Walters
Dean Contessa
Samantha Hawthorne
Paula Maher
Robyn Robertson
Jonathan Webber
Barry Conway
Christopher Hay
Craig Marian
Leanne Roche
Debra Whyte
Melissa Cook
Maria Hayes
Felicity Martin
Sandra Rockett
Samantha Wilkie
Richard Cox
Jade Hellemons
Susan Matheson
Taela Roussety
Alison Cox
Felicity Hellen
Bruce McConnel
Owen Williams
Jason Ryan
Sarah Dalton
Carole Hempel
Mandy McIntosh
Kristen Sassella
Gregory D’Arcy
Robyn Herbert
Hamish McIntosh
Ian Saunders
Robyn Davis
Eleanor Hevenor
Robert McKay
Charles Schlecht
Tracy Day
John Hickson
Aleisha McKee
Allison Scudamore
Philip Woods
Cara Dean
Shelley Higgs
Leanne McLurcan
Phillip Shaw
David Wright
Christopher Dent
Susan Hillman
Craig McMahon
Ebony Shaw
Kristie Wyeth
Kerry Dew Evans
Dominic Holland
Andrew McQuarrie
Darryl Shipp
Rachel Young
Belinda Skeels Stamatoula Sklavos-Carmody John Smerdon Shan Ngai So
Maresa Taverner Sharon Taylor Natalee Taylor Kathryn Taylor
Veronica Treloar Michael Tweedie Karyn Varley Rhiannan Veurman
Susan Williams Maree Willis David Wood
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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Q&A The first two questions on this page were asked of the Public Guardian’s Acting Team Leader – Investigations, Mark Phillips at the Caboolture State Conference on 7 November. Thank you to Mark for the following answers:
they have completed Queensland Health’s Statement of Choice. However this is the responsibility of the patient to be informed and the health provider to explain. If any person has concerns about information provided by any health organisation, these concerns should be raised with appropriate authority managing the organisation.
Q1 I understand some public hospitals have introduced a health care choices form (no authorised witness required) and are promoting this as a simpler substitute for the Advance Health Directive. Is this correct?
In relation to your suggestion some hospitals are promoting the Statement of Choices as a substitute for an AHD, as already explained, this is not a proper interpretation of the situation. If JPs are receiving this advice from patients, then the hospital is not explaining the options and this should be raised with the hospital in question as it defeats the purpose of care planning where choices are being provided. An AHD is not necessarily required as it is a choice of the patient, however, the patient should always be explained that choice.
A1 The Office of the Public Guardian has confirmed Queensland Health have commenced a care planning structure to assist patients. The Public Guardian was not involved in this process and it is the initiative of Queensland Health. The internal Queensland Health document is called “Advance care planning - Statement of Choices”. These statements are about outlining choices as opposed to binding directives in an Advance Health Directive. Detailed information regarding this matter can be found at the following link:
http://metrosouth.health.qld.gov.au/acp The Queensland Health form is not a consent form or Advanced Health Directive as defined in the Powers of Attorney Act 1998. The website outlines this in its information. Patients should be aware of this at the time they are complete it as the declaration on the form states: “This document will only be used if I am unable to make or communicate decisions for myself. It will be used by my substitute decision maker(s) and doctors as a guide when making decisions regarding matters of my medical treatment in the future.” This is a very big difference to the Advance Health Directive where the directives in this document are not reliant on a decision by the decision maker but are the decision. The Health Department forms do not have to be witnessed by an eligible witness or signed by a doctor (although a doctor signing is preferred according to their materials). A very good explanation of the differences in these documents with the AHD is found on the website’s FAQ under “What is the difference between the Statement of Choices and an Advance Health Directive?” Considering how the Health Department have structured these forms and their similarities with the Advance Health Directives, there is certainly opportunity for confusion in the community. The onus is on the individual patient to be informed and Queensland Health staff who advise in this area to ensure explanations are clear and concise. This is not always easy at what may be emotional, distressing and potentially confusing times. The issue is when the patient may be of the belief they have made an Advance Health Directive in accordance with the Powers of Attorney Act 1998 when in fact
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Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
Q2 Is it correct that there should be no more than 3 days between the doctor’s statement in an Advance Health Directive and the principal’s signing of the document? Should I witness the document if this time has expired? A2 The Powers of Attorney Act 1998 does not give any direction on this point. However, it is advisable the document is witnessed as soon as possible after the doctor has signed. If it is after three days since the doctor has signed the AHD, this does not preclude the witness from completing the AHD. Q3 When certifying a copy of a passport, what should I do if I detect the printed and perforated numbers on the original are not identical? A3 We understand this comparison may be one of the tests undertaken by fraud detection authorities to ascertain whether a passport is authentic. JPs are not trained in or responsible for detecting possible fraudulent documents. Specifically, regarding copies of documents, the JP is certifying that the copy is a true and complete copy of the original document (which they have sighted) not that the original document is valid or authentic.
However, if during their scrutiny of the document they do happen to identify an anomaly in the document which, on reasonable grounds, may cast doubt on the validity or legitimacy of the document (as in the above case) then this would be grounds on which to decline to certify (or witness) the document. They might also refer the matter to JP Branch for discussion as to whether or not the matter should be reported to the relevant authority for investigation. (Thank you to the JP Branch for assistance in formulating this answer).
Q4 Can I certify a copy of an electronic document? A4 A few people have raised questions about certifying copies of documents. It may sound a simple process but the complication is that there is no legislation or
VOLUME 12 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2015 regulation governing the certifying of copies. Therefore it is entirely up to the receiving body to determine what (if anything) they will accept. You would have noticed in the past couple of years an insistence by Financial institutions that the JP or C.Dec’s name must be printed besides the certified copy statement, and they must be a JP or C.Dec with a seal of office and registration number. Others - such as JP(C.Dec) or Postal Workers etc. - are not acceptable. This was because of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Act 2006 which prescribed additional documentation requirements. Increasingly there are requests to certify electronic documents (such as printed bank statements). Technically unless you see the original document on the computer screen you cannot certify it. Similarly if you are asked to certify a transcript of emails, text messages or voice mails - you have to see or hear the original. The official JAG JP Manual covers only original documents, whilst the QJA’s JP Guide offers an option when certifying electronic documents where you cannot see the original. This is for the client to sign a Statutory Declaration attesting to the authenticity of the document. Either way it is entirely up to the receiving organisation whether they will accept any of the above options. The Queensland Department of Transport is an example where they have decided that they will only accept the original document, they do not accept certified copies of driver licences. Q5 Do I have to see the contents of a document I witness? A5 This applies to Statutory Declarations and Affidavits only. Complaints, Summons, Warrants, JEO’s etc require you to apply your judicial judgement which requires you to read the contents. There may be times where, for personal reasons, the signatory may not wish to reveal the contents of the document to you, nor are they obliged to do so. You may come across this situation in witnessing wills and victim impact statements for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and Victims Assist, as well as other statutory declarations and affidavits. On the other hand it is hoped that the person concerned will also understand that you need to exercise your duties of office prudently. Should a signatory not wish to show you the contents of the document, you can still witness it, but underneath your signature, it is recommended that you write the words: “SIGNATURE ONLY WITNESSED, CONTENTS NOT DISCLOSED”.
Quick Quizzes The content of the QJA professional development website (http://www.training.qja.com.au/) includes a large number of quizzes on honorary justice technical topics. You will need to use your QJA member number and password to assess this site. If you have not already registered to access Members Only – please do so now. To get to the Quiz area after you have logged in, the navigation path is:
QJA Member Content and Professional Development/ JP and C.Dec quizzes Within the Quiz area, technical topics are sorted into thirtythree (33) categories. In this Journal issue we reproduce just a few of them for you to test your technical knowledge. Please answer True (T) or False (F) to each of the following: Wills Q1 The two witnesses for a will and the testator must be present at the same time for a will to be legally witnessed Q2 A beneficiary is a person who dies and makes a will before their passing Q3 A JP(Qual) or a C.Dec must be one of the witnesses to a will Q4 The legislation dealing with the situation where property of a deceased person cannot be dealt with according to a will is the Powers of Attorney Act 1998 Q5 You should refuse to witness a will if you believe the testator has been under any form of duress in drafting the will. Q6 Only one witness needs to actually sight the testator signing the will - provided the other person is present at the time the signing occurs. Q7 A will that is loose-leafed, stapled or pinned is invalid – it must be bound. Certifying Documents: Q1 It is recommended that you purchase a stamp for the most common forms of certification of documents Q2 When certifying a copy, both the original and the copy must both be present. Q3 It is permissible to certify a copy of a foreign language document Q4 If a document that needs to be certified as a true copy has more than one page, the pages must be numbered and initialled by you the JP /C.Dec and the counter party Q5 The certification for an Enduring Power of Attorney is the same as for a normal document Q6 As a certifying officer, it is your responsibility to ensure the absolute authenticity of the “original” document. Oaths & Affirmations: Q1 As a JP(Qual) or C.Dec, you should keep a copy of the Holy Koran with your equipment, in case an Islamic oath needs to be sworn. Q2 The legislation in relation to Oaths in Queensland is found in the Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations Act 1991. Q3 As a JP(Qual) or C.Dec, you cannot refuse to administer an Oath or Affirmation if it is legally required. Q4 An affirmation has legal power equal to that of an Oath. Q5 If a Christian wishes to take an Oath and a Bible is not available upon which to swear it, any book may be substituted in its place. Answers:
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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REGIONAL ROUNDUP Caboolture The Caboolture Branch of the QJA had a rocky start in 2011. Our 1st meeting was held in August with 3 members present and 3 apologies. By the end of 2011 we had 6 members attending a meeting. In 2012 we held our 1st Workshop in Feb with 38 attendees. During the year the Executive Committee held an information day at the Caboolture TAFE’S open day where we gave information on JP(Qual)s and Commissioners for Declarations due for the Community, we also put out QJA membership forms. We also held two information days at North Point TAFE. In the period since the branch was formed we have had 397 members attend meetings, averaging approximately 9.97 members per meeting. The branch has held meetings at various locations [Burpengary, Woodford, Bribie Island, Caboolture Court House, cafes and Church Halls], along with different days [Thursday and Saturday] and times [mornings and evenings] so as to accommodate members lives. Over 2013 and 2014 a total of 221 members attended Refreshers and Workshops covering a wide range of subjects. Our Branch has held a number of local training courses for aspiring JP (Qual) and Commissioner for Declarations which has helped us grow and become known within our area. Our main focus as a QJA Branch is we want to be the best and welcome all. In 2014 the Caboolture Branch introduced a friends and neighbour day at Redcliffe where we invited Hornibrook Branch to attend. It was great to get to know each other’s members in nearby areas and a great day was had by all with good attendances by members from both Branches. The support for the branch is based on supporting its members with Refreshers and ongoing information. To this end the branch passed a motion in 2013 “that any member who attends more than 3 meetings in a calendar year gets a branch donated shirt from branch funds. This was suspended for the 2015 year due to the state conference which was attended by over 200 delegates.
a diverse range of engaging guest speakers and discussion topics. Andrew articulated a vision for the Branch to build on our achievements by continuing with our existing range of activities but striving to make them even better. The presentation of our own Branch banner, facilitated by Erich Jeffrey (Treasurer, pictured left) will add to the growing image of professionalism we seek within our community. In sync with this vision, Lisette Dillon (Secretary, pictured centre) emphasised the importance of publicity and participation as two specific areas where the Branch needed to direct more attention during 2016. An important step in this direction was the AGM appointment of a Publicity Officer, Cheryl Barrett, to join our existing Role Officers— Robyn Francis (Events) and Leif Pedersen (Grants). With this capable team of six, a sleek new banner, and ever-growing involvement from our local JPs and the community, Hornibrook Branch is anticipating an excellent 2016 and beyond! Lisette Dillon, Branch Secretary
Brisbane North It is with great sadness that the Brisbane North Branch reports the death in early October of one of our longest-serving and popular members – Sam Singh. After attending the entry-level JP(Qual) training course conducted by the Branch in 2007, Sam applied himself to volunteering in his local community – in particular at the Stafford City and Chermside Shopping Centres where he became well known and respected by all whose paths he crossed. He is sadly missed by all of us. Vale Sam. John Carpendale, Branch Secretary
Logan
Ron Court, Branch Chair (pictured with Conference Team)
Hornibrook As a symbol of ‘coming of age’, the Hornibrook Branch was proud to display their new banner at the recent AGM held at Redcliffe RSL in September. At the AGM, Andrew Smith (Chair, pictured right of banner) gave an overview of the Branch achievements across the past 12 months that included an impressive variety of functions and events, and 14
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
At a time when Domestic Violence has developed into an issue of public discussion for both State and Federal governments in Australia, the QJA Logan Branch has demonstrated its commitment to the community it serves by organising and hosting a Domestic Violence Forum at Logan on Saturday 31 October 2015. The Forum was very successful and attracted more than 60 attendees – the majority of whom were non Branch members. Presenters at the Forum included the Member for Springwood, Mick de Brenni MP. For eJournal readers, the full text of Mr de Brenni’s enlightening speech is accessible by clicking on the following link:
VOLUME 12 • NUMBER 4 • SUMMER 2015 This initiative of the QJA Logan Branch - to facilitate this discussion forum as a strategy to galvanise the Logan community in confronting and addressing this dreaded society scourge – and at the same time promoting the QJA brand - is to be commended and congratulated.
Redland City The Redland City Branch conducted a Hands-On Workshop at the Redlands Sporting Club, Saturday 10th October. 46 Justices and 4 Commissioners attended. Exercises completed by attendees covered Traffic Infringement Statutory Declarations, Land Title Transfer, Mortgage Documents including a Witness Certificate, Peace and Good Behaviour Complaint and Summons, Family Law Court Application for Divorce and the Various Service Documents. Feed-back from attendees was positive and were looking for another workshop to be delivered in the future.
Warwick Three new office bearers were elected at the AGM of QJA Warwick Branch on the 22nd of October 2015 namely: Julia Keogh (Chairperson), Rhonda Eather (Secretary) and Carolyn Vardy (Treasurer). Members of QJA Warwick Branch look forward to the fresh ideas and projects that Julia, Rhonda and Carolyn will bring to the branch.
STATE OFFICE NEWS INTRODUCING: GABOR BERES
Hi Everyone, please allow me to introduce myself: my name is Gabor (Gah-boar) and I’m the new Accounts and Memberships Officer at QJA. I was born and raised in Hungary, but following my family, I moved to Australia almost five and a half years ago, which I consider my new home by now. The characteristics of life in Australia, and the attitude and values of the Australian people appeal to me greatly, and I really appreciate that I was welcomed and accepted by this wonderful country. And perhaps there may not be a better example of outstanding personal values than that displayed by the C.Decs and JPs who constantly serve their community for no specific personal gain, driven only by the desire to help others. That is why I feel I couldn’t have found a better company of people to work with and be around, and I consider myself lucky for getting the opportunity to fill this position. My many years of experience in financial and customer service related fields prepared me for my current duties and dealings in the office and I trust that it will be put to good use in the everyday interactions with our members. Some of whom I’ve already met and talked to, but I hope that during the course of next year I will have the chance to be in some form of contact will all of you. So if there is anything that I can assist with, may it be a membership related issue, or any other thought, idea or suggestion that you have, please feel free to write or call me and I will welcome the opportunity to work with you.
QJA State Office – holiday closure
Left to Right – Julia Keogh, Carolyn Vardy and Rhonda Eather
London As explained in the article on page 10, former QJA Registrar, Angela Yin, recently visited Runnymede, England during the celebration of the Magna Carta’s 800th anniversary. In the photo below, Angela is pictured at the American Bar Association’s memorial – right of centre with orange & black top.
As in previous years, the QJA State Office will be closed between Christmas and New Year (25 December to 3 January) The Office will close at 12 noon on Thursday 24 December and re-open at 8:30am on Monday 4 January
VALE It is with great sadness we acknowledge the passing of the following members: Paul ANDERSEN Rockhampton Margot BROOK Camp Hill Peter CONSTANTINE Highfields Greg CORDWELL Wynnum Raymond DONNELLAN Caboolture Leo EVANS Chermside Iris JACKSON Brighton Donald MCDONALD Mapleton William MITCHELL Albion Phillip MUTTON Sandgate Keith ROBINSON Sunnybank Hills Annette SHARPE Kelso Samuel SINGH Stafford Hazel THOMAS Thornlands Our sincere condolences to family and friends. Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
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REGIONAL CONTACT INFORMATION BEAUDESERT CONTACT GROUP Valmai Macaulay beaudesert@qja.com.au Telephone: 0418 741 556
FOREST LAKE CONTACT GROUP Reg Connelly forestlake@qja.com.au Telephone: 0403 167 121
MACKAY BRANCH Maria Valena mackay@qja.com.au Telephone: 0422 636 374
BOWEN BRANCH Brian Byrne bowen@qja.com.au Telephone: 0409 445 056
GLADSTONE BRANCH Ruth Waite gladstone@qja.com.au Telephone: 0438 741 318
MAREEBA BRANCH Ann Vains mareeba@qja.com.au Telephone: 0419 719 616
BRISBANE NORTH BRANCH John Carpendale brisbanenorth@qja.com.au Telephone: 0149 683 325
GOLD COAST BRANCH Jack Williams goldcoast@qja.com.au Telephone: 0401 858 683
MAROOCHYDORE BRANCH Angela-Marie James maroochydore@qja.com.au Telephone: 0409 471 008
GYMPIE BRANCH Daphne Horne gympie@qja.com.au Telephone: 0407 766 612
BRISBANE SOUTH BRANCH Samantha Rush brisbanesouth@qja.com.au Telephone: 0403 860 080
HERVEY BAY BRANCH Jan Stafford herveybay@qja.com.au Telephone: 0412 782 743
BUNDABERG BRANCH Dave Read bundaberg@qja.com.au Telephone: 0405 252 135
HORNIBROOK BRANCH Lisette Dillon hornibrook@qja.com.au Telephone: 0404 977 057
CABOOLTURE BRANCH John Geary caboolture@qja.com.au Telephone: 0407 579 139
HOWARD CONTACT GROUP Carrol Bond howard@qja.com.au Telephone: 0411 743 585
CAIRNS CENTRAL BRANCH Margaret Neville cairns@qja.com.au Telephone: 0419 123 090
IPSWICH BRANCH Charmaine Dieckmann ipswich@qja.com.au Telephone: 0411 435 112
CAIRNS SOUTH BRANCH Meredith Gardiner cairnssouth@qja.com.au Telephone: 0409 541 520
LOCKYER BRANCH Sharon Munro lockyer@qja.com.au Telephone: 0400 554 887
CALOUNDRA BRANCH Irene White caloundra@qja.com.au Telephone: 0410 655 975 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS BRANCH Karen Bray centralhighlands@qja.com.au Telephone: 0438 824 361
LOGAN BRANCH David James logan@qja.com.au Telephone: 0421 310 287
SOUTH PINE BRANCH Jeanette D’Arcy southpine@qja.com.au Telephone: 0418 183 008
MARYBOROUGH BRANCH Barbara Jones maryborough@qja.com.au Telephone:07 4122 4835 MT ISA CONTACT GROUP Duncan Cunningham mtisa@qja.com.au Telephone: 0439 746 096 NOOSA BRANCH Margaret Lewins noosa@qja.com.au Telephone: (07) 5471 0617 REDLAND CITY BRANCH Ray Burrows redlandcity@qja.com.au Telephone: 0409 499 016 ROCKHAMPTON BRANCH Jane Comollatti rockhampton@qja.com.au Telephone: 0422 596 387 ROSEDALE CONTACT GROUP Jonathan Brown rosedale@qja.com.au Telephone: 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 Rod Ehrke tincanbay@qja.com.au Telephone: 0448 943 336 TOOWOOMBA BRANCH Jacqueline Oakroot toowoomba@qja.com.au Telephone: 0417 608 405 TOWNSVILLE BRANCH Lesley Richards townsville@qja.com.au Telephone: 0438 790 617 WARWICK BRANCH Brendan Holland warwick@qja.com.au Telephone: 0407 756 377 WESTERN SUBURBS BRANCH Noelene Kidd westsubs@qja.com.au Telephone: 0448 780 491 WOODGATE CONTACT GROUP Maxwell Emery woodgate@qja.com.au Telephone: 0408 728 867 WYNNUM MANLY BRANCH Don Hann wynnummanly@qja.com.au Telephone:0427 021 795
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
Goulburn Elizabeth Adam goulburn@qja.com.au 0427 617 589 Lismore Paul Beckey lismore@qja.com.au 0428 560 467
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
Sydney (Inner West) Jim Elmore sydney.1@qja.com.au 0408 870 721
Deloraine Annette Powell deloraine@qja.com.au 0427 158 648
SA
Sydney (North West) Sharon Atkins sydney.2@qja.com.au 0417 479 412
Adelaide Noel J. Lindsay adelaide@qja.com.au 0407 507 773
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 Allana Waldin nz@qja.com.au
Thailand (Bangkok) Heather Clarke thailand@qja.com.au
Serving Queensland’s Honorary Justices since 1918
UK (London) Angela Yin london@qja.com.au
UK (Norfolk) Derek Hill uk@qja.com.au
USA (Texas) Tanya Conole usa@qja.com.au