Ceremonial - French CJ - Welcome Sydney

This matter concerns a welcome ceremony for the Honourable Chief Justice Robert French upon his appointment to the High Court of Australia, delivered by representatives of the New South Wales legal profession. Mr S. Gageler, SC, Solicitor-General of the Commonwealth, and Mr H. Macken, President of the Law Society of New South Wales, addressed the Chief Justice, who was present in court.

The primary legal issue, though not a dispute in the adversarial sense, was the formal acknowledgement of the Chief Justice's new role and his prior extensive experience within the Australian legal landscape, particularly his familiarity with and contributions to the New South Wales legal community. The addresses highlighted the Chief Justice's past judicial appointments and his significant involvement in cases of national importance, including a notable Federal Court decision concerning a regulation made in connection with World Youth Day.

The addresses employed a blend of formal recognition and light-hearted commentary to convey the welcome. Mr Gageler emphasised the Chief Justice's industry, intellect, decisiveness, courtesy, and good humour, noting his frequent presence in Sydney and his pioneering work with eCourt. Mr Macken, in a more jocular vein, offered humorous insights into the perceived dangers of Sydney, contrasting them with the formidable reputation of its legal professionals, and ultimately affirming the profession's commitment to service. The Chief Justice responded by acknowledging the welcome, reflecting on his long association with the Sydney legal profession and his positive experiences working with its members and judiciary, while also touching upon the concept of judicial exchange.

The proceedings concluded with the Chief Justice thanking Mr Gageler and Mr Macken for their welcome.