Ceremonial - Callinan J - Farewell Brisbane

This matter concerns the final sitting of the Honourable Justice Ian Callinan AC in Brisbane as a Justice of the High Court of Australia. The proceedings involved addresses by Mr M. Daubney SC and Mr I. Berry, representing the legal profession, to mark Justice Callinan's departure from the Court. These addresses acknowledged his Honour's distinguished career and significant contributions to Australian law.

The addresses focused on two primary themes: the significance of Justice Callinan's appointment to the High Court directly from the practising Bar, and the qualities he brought to his judicial role. The speakers highlighted the value of his Honour's practical experience as a barrister, his understanding of the pressures faced by legal practitioners, and the broad spectrum of legal issues he had encountered throughout his career. The addresses also touched upon the public perception of judicial appointments, noting that it is simplistic to categorise judges as merely "conservative" or "progressive," and affirming that Justice Callinan had consistently considered matters on their merits with fairness and impartiality.

The speakers lauded Justice Callinan's scholarship, fairness, sensibility, and pragmatism in applying the law to real-life situations, noting his ability to combine rigorous jurisprudence with common sense and humanity. They also acknowledged his Honour's extensive service to the legal profession, including his leadership roles in the Queensland and Australian Bar Associations. The addresses concluded with expressions of gratitude for his service and well wishes for his impending retirement, with a recognition of his broader cultural and artistic interests. Justice Callinan, in his response, expressed gratitude for the kind remarks and acknowledged the presence of his family and colleagues, reflecting on his long career with surprise and a sense of good fortune.