Christopoulos, Andrew --- "National Conference 2019 wrap-up" [2019] PrecedentAULA 76; (2019) 155 Precedent 46

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NATIONAL CONFERENCE WRAP-UP

By Andrew Christopoulos

Port Douglas in Far North Queensland and picture perfect weather. What more could one ask for?

The Australian Lawyers Alliance National Conference 2019 was held at The Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort from 24–26 October 2019.

Nearly 200 delegates attended this year’s Conference, which celebrated a milestone 25th anniversary for the ALA.

Fiona McLeod SC’s keynote address which opened the Conference was inspiring and extremely well received by Conference delegates.

Significantly, the ALA Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), endorsed by Reconciliation Australia last month, was launched at the Conference. This milestone was marked by a Kuku-Yalanji traditional welcome and spectacular firework display. I am pleased that our RAP will help us to enhance and develop stronger relationships with first nations peoples so that their priorities, perspectives and values are genuinely reflected in our work.

We were also privileged to welcome a very special guest, Bruce Stern, current President of the American Association for Justice. Bruce made the trek all the way from New Jersey to Port Douglas, quite a long journey even by Australian standards. Bruce used his time among us to share his experiences and also to learn a little more about our perspectives down under.

Many presentations were given by leading personal injury lawyers and other professionals practising in related fields. We were informed about significant developments and given invaluable insights on important issues.

In a welcome change to the traditional program format, there were also lighter, fun moments. I’m sure no one will quickly forget the great comedy debate on whether Donald Trump could make Australia great again!

This year’s Civil Justice Award went to George Newhouse of the Civil Justice Project (CJP). Co-founding the CJP in 2016, George supports those who are least able to access justice and whose cases can advance human rights within Australia and the Pacific Region.

Member of the year was the unstoppable Greg Barns, whose advocacy and media work this year has been nothing short of inspirational. Congratulations once more, Greg.

The Conference Gala Dinner took place in the Glade Pavilion where delegates enjoyed fine food and wine and danced the night away to The Tony George Band.

The anniversary celebrations encouraged the engagement and re-engagement of many past presidents and members, and there was a prevailing sentiment among delegates that we are seeing a return to our grassroots.

Thank you to all of the generous sponsors who exhibited at the Conference. Special thanks to our golfing tournament sponsor Dohrmann Consulting, welcome reception sponsor Equity Trustees and dinner sponsor Moelis Australia. Thanks also goes to our special guests and the tireless ALA staff who make it all look so easy.

Planning for next year’s 2020 Conference, taking place on 15–17 October in South Australia’s beautiful Barossa Valley, is already well underway. See you next year!

Andrew Christopoulos is an accredited personal injury law specialist and Principal of AC Lawyers: Sydney, NSW South Coast and the ACT. PHONE [phone] EMAIL [e-mail].