Queensland Coastal Pilot Service Pty Ltd v David Richardson

Queensland Coastal Pilot Service Pty Ltd (QCPS) brought proceedings against David Richardson, alleging breach of contract and seeking damages. The dispute concerned Richardson's alleged failure to comply with the terms of a pilotage services agreement. The matter was heard in the Supreme Court of Queensland.

The central legal issue before the Court was whether Richardson had breached the pilotage services agreement by failing to provide services as required, and if so, what damages were recoverable by QCPS. This involved an examination of the contractual obligations of both parties and the assessment of loss flowing from any breach.

Justice Homann found that Richardson had indeed breached the contract. The Court applied principles of contract law, including the requirement for parties to perform their contractual obligations and the rules governing the assessment of damages for breach of contract. The Court considered the evidence presented by QCPS regarding the losses incurred as a direct consequence of Richardson's non-performance.

The Court ordered that David Richardson pay damages to Queensland Coastal Pilot Service Pty Ltd in the amount of $10,000, plus interest and costs.