The highest-performing female law graduates across the state have been recognised with an award honouring a trailblazer.
Nine fledgling lawyers received a Una Prentice Award from the Women Lawyers Association of Queensland (WLAQ) at the College of Law in Brisbane last Tuesday night:
- Matisse Reed, University of Queensland
- Anna Stirling, Griffith University
- Julie Dalling, Queensland University of Technology
- Izzie Forsyth, Central Queensland University
- Aesha Ziad, University of Sunshine Coast
- Jessica McGregor, University of Southern Queensland
- Michele Du Buisson, James Cook University
- Jessica Wood, Bond University, and
- Sara Aramini, Southern Cross University
Una Prentice was the first person (of either gender) to graduate from the Faculty of Law at the University of Queensland in 1938. She was also the first female barrister admitted in Queensland, and the first female prosecutor for the Commonwealth Crown Solicitor.
With a bequest each year, WLAQ honours and celebrates her memory by recognising the highest-achieving female law graduates at each of the law schools across Queensland.
Una Prentice Trust Patron, Justice Debra Mullins (former WLAQ Treasurer and WLAQ Honorary Member), presented the awards.
WLAQ President Jessica McClymont KC
WLAQ President Jessica McClymont KC said the awards symbolised more than academic excellence.
“They represent the embodiment of dedication and passion,” Jess said.
“Each recipient of this prestigious award carries forward the torch that Una Prentice ignited, reminding us that barriers can be broken, glass ceilings shattered, and dreams realised.
“We must also reflect on the challenges that our top female law graduates from across Queensland have overcome – the late nights studying, the rigorous examinations, the countless hours spent in pursuit of knowledge, while also often working full or part time. Their commitment inspires us all.”
Jess paid tribute to the families, friends, mentors and supporters of the graduates, saying “their encouragement, guidance and belief in their abilities have been instrumental to the graduates’ success”.
WLAQ also launched its Ladder Mentoring Program for 2024 at the awards event.
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