Receiving this year’s Justice Peter Dutney Memorial Prize means the world to Bowes Legal Associate Courtney McErlean.
The proud Rockhampton local was awarded the annual prize by the Central Queensland Law Association (CQLA). It is presented to a lawyer with five years or less post-admission experience who demonstrates professional excellence, work–life balance, and meaningful community involvement within the Central Queensland region.
“I have grown up in regional Queensland and practised here, and to be recognised with such a prestigious award truly means everything to me,” Courtney said.
“It is not just the award itself, but what it stands for that makes this so meaningful.
“This award recognises lawyers who demonstrate a commitment to their professional work, while also valuing work-life balance and giving back to the community.
“I am inspired by the past recipients who have made contributions not only through their legal careers, but also in areas of theatre, sport, volunteering, business, mentoring and other social pursuits.
“Giving back to both my community and my profession has always been a genuine passion of mine, and for me, the two are deeply connected. This award reflects the values I hold most dear, and I am incredibly honoured and grateful for this recognition.”
Courtney was recently appointed as the Rockhampton Office Leader, a role that reflects her “growing leadership within the firm”.
She also volunteers regularly at the Central Queensland Community Legal Centre, providing free legal advice to those in need.
Outside of the law, Courtney is an active member of the Emu Park Surf Lifesaving Club (EPSLSC), where she served as the Club Training Officer for the 2024/25 season. Her dedication to surf lifesaving is extensive undertaking tasks from writing submissions to the Wide Bay Education Board, to attending meetings, coordinating trainers and club activities, and carrying out her patrol duties.
Courtney was nominated for the award by Principal and founder of Bowes Legal, Jane Bowes, who described Courtney as “a quiet achiever”.
“She doesn’t seek the spotlight, yet her talent, dedication, and character shine through in everything she does,” Jane said.
“She demonstrates maturity beyond her years, is commercially astute, and has become both a trusted solicitor and a valued advisor to me running the firm.
“No task is beneath her, and no challenge is above her. She is, quite simply, the kind of lawyer and community member who reflects the values this award was created to honour.
“She devotes countless hours outside of her professional role, demonstrating passion, discipline and leadership. I am beyond proud of her.”
In June this year, Courtney was awarded Trainer of the Year by the Emu Park SLSC Committee, “a testament to her leadership and dedication to developing the next generation of lifesavers”.
“Beyond her professional work, Courtney demonstrates a remarkable commitment to her community. I am often blown away with how much she gives back to her local community for someone as young as her,” Jane said.
“She demonstrates a willingness to show up and volunteers her time when so many her age would not prioritise this. She is selfless beyond measure.
“Courtney also contributes as a Director of REACH Limited, a not-for-profit organisation providing vital social housing in Rockhampton.
“She also contributes her time to Walk n Talk, a local men’s mental health charity, where she is actively involved in its annual golf days, lawn bowls events and regular meetings with the charity.
“Once a month, she attends the charity’s golf nights, offering not only free legal support but also a friendly ear and genuine encouragement to the local men who participate.
“Her involvement reflects both her professional generosity and her personal compassion for an important cause in our local community,” Jane said.
Courtney extended her sincere thanks to the award judges, the CQLA, Jane, the team at Bowes Legal, and all those who have supported her professional journey.
In the office, Courtney is not only known for her technical skills but her genuine care for clients and connection to the community.
“Clients trust Courtney. Not only because she is technically capable, but because she is genuine and a proud Rockhampton local,” Jane said.
“She relates to clients on a personal level and advocates fiercely on their behalf. She balances compassion with commercial awareness, making her an invaluable asset to the firm and to the clients we serve.
“Courtney’s professionalism and integrity have made her both a trusted solicitor and valued advisor within Bowes Legal. She exemplifies the values the Justice Peter Dutney Memorial Prize was created to honour.”
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