Ceremonial - Kirby J - Welcome to Brisbane - CER

This matter concerns a ceremonial sitting of the High Court of Australia in Brisbane. The proceedings involved addresses by Mr C.E.K. Hampson, QC, President of the Bar Association of Queensland, and Ms J. Schafer, President of the Queensland Law Society, welcoming Justice Michael Kirby to his first sitting in Brisbane as a Justice of the High Court. Justice Kirby also delivered a response. The sitting was attended by numerous judges from the Federal Court of Australia and the Supreme Court and District Courts of Queensland.

The primary legal issue, though not explicitly framed as such, was the formal introduction and welcome of a new Justice to the High Court in a significant regional centre. The addresses and response touched upon the importance of the High Court's presence and accessibility in Queensland, the career and contributions of Justice Kirby to the law, and the broader themes of judicial service, law reform, and the pursuit of justice.

The addresses from the Bar and the Law Society highlighted Justice Kirby's extensive judicial experience, his commitment to law reform, international law, and human rights, and his perceived inclusivity. Justice Kirby, in his response, acknowledged the warm welcome, reflected on his long career in various legal roles, and expressed his commitment to continuing his service on the High Court. He also touched upon the history of the High Court and the significant contributions of judges from Queensland. The proceedings underscored the collegiality within the Australian legal profession and the importance of regional engagement by the nation's highest court.