GERRY & TRANTOR

In the matter of *Gerry & Trantor*, heard before Watts J, the dispute concerned the division of property and an application for spousal maintenance. The wife sought maintenance to enable her to undertake studies for retraining and re-entry into the workforce.

The court was required to determine the assessment of contributions made by the husband, both directly and on his behalf, to the parties' property. Additionally, the court had to consider the wife's claim for spousal maintenance, specifically the duration required for her to complete her studies and re-enter employment.

Watts J made orders pursuant to s 79 of the *Family Law Act*. The primary order stipulated that the wife must discharge the National Australia Bank mortgage on the property within 60 days. Upon her compliance, the husband was to transfer his interest in the property to her. If the wife failed to discharge the mortgage within the specified timeframe, the parties were to sell the property, with provisions for achieving the best reasonably obtainable price, including potential assessment by the President of the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales and sale by auction if necessary. Proceeds from the sale were to be applied first to sale costs and the mortgage discharge, with the balance then paid to the wife, subject to a further order.