A Celebration and Thanks – Justice in North Queensland

The North Queensland legal profession recently celebrated a life generously and well-lived.

On 1 November 2024 judicial officers, practitioners, legal academics, and students gathered at the James Cook University (JCU) Townsville campus to celebrate His Honour, retired Justice Keiran Cullinane KC AM. His Honour was present, accompanied by his wife Anne, his son Mr Patrick Cullinane KC and Patrick’s partner Shiobhan Harrison.

Although Justice Cullinane retired from the bench thirteen years ago, he has continued to contribute to the profession through his involvement with JCU. His contribution to both the Law School and the University spans three decades and was marked most recently by the donation to the JCU Eddie Koiki Mabo library of his family’s entire book collection. Ordering and housing the Cullinane Collection was a joint project between the JCU Law School and the Library and involved teams of librarians and other JCU staff. The opening of the collection was used as an opportunity to once again thank Justice Cullinane for his many other contributions over the years.[1]

Several attendees spoke appreciatively of Justice Cullinane’s contribution to justice and legal education in North Queensland. These included his past Associate, Magistrate Cathy McLennan, and Patrick Cullinane KC. Associate Professor Jamie Fellows[2] tied the whole event together with a summary of His Honour’s contributions to the university. There were many.

His Honour served on the 9th to 13th University Councils and on the Strategy Committee and the Ceremonial and Honorary Degrees Committee. He participated in selection committees for senior JCU staff and until several years ago chaired the Foundation for Australian Literary Studies within the Faculty of Arts, Education and Social Sciences. He lectured in Comparative Law and taught Advocacy and Criminal Sentencing. His Honour’s energetic contribution of time and expertise was also complemented by a hefty financial donation which continues to fund university facilities, teaching, and learning.

His Honour sat patiently while the various speakers praised him and his contributions. He appeared, to me at least, a little uncomfortable with the well-deserved attention. When the speeches were done, I went over to pay my respects to the man. He warmly took my hand and with a wry grin, and characteristic twinkle in his eye, he simply said, ‘All this. It’s a bit over the top you know.’

[1] His Honour holds an Honorary Doctorate of Laws recognising his service to the North Queensland community, exceptional leadership at the University, and significant contributions beyond his field.

[2] Acting Dean, College of Business, Law and Governance, Head of Law

[3] Franklin Richards is a Legal Aid Queensland Assistant Public Defender based in Townsville. He was admitted to the bar in 1997 and has worked in private practice, with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service and the Qld ODPP.