News

Mackay moot proves success

11 November 2025

Planning is already underway for next year’s McKays Solicitors High School Moot Competition after the format was successfully revived.

The criminal law moot for legal studies students in years 10 and 11 was hosted by the Mackay firm on 3 November and held at the Magistrates Court.

The firm is expanding the program to give more local schools the opportunity to take part after four joined the inaugural event.

McKays Solicitors Director Marcus Hahn said the standard of courtroom presentation was “truly outstanding”.

“Each team demonstrated remarkable growth and professionalism, far beyond what you’d expect at a high school level,” Marcus said.

“And while there was a winning team on the day, every student who took part walked away a winner – the experience, confidence, and skills they gained will stay with them well beyond the competition.”

Solicitor Chloe Daniel, who was previously a participant in the old format during her high school years, took on the role as mentor.

“I was particularly impressed to see how the students’ advocacy skills developed from the start of the competition to the day of the moot,” Chloe said.

“During our visits to local high schools, we coached them on courtroom etiquette and advocacy – everything from pace and tone of voice, to the Browne v Dunn Rule, to controlling their witness and asking leading questions during cross-examination.

“Watching them confidently and properly put these skills into practice in a real courtroom was incredibly rewarding and a testament to their hard work and enthusiasm throughout the competition.”

McKays has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from teachers and students alike.

The winner of the final was Whitsunday Anglican School, represented by Caitlin Rourke and Emily Wilkins. Caitlin was also named Best advocate of the day.

Director Suzanne Brown said: “The standard of legal reasoning demonstrated by the students was exceptional – confident, articulate and well-prepared.

“It’s inspiring to see such emerging talent right here in our own region. Competitions like this are so important in regional areas, as they give local students the chance to experience the courtroom environment first hand and connect with members of the legal profession without having to travel to a capital city.

“It’s a fantastic way to nurture the next generation of regional lawyers.”

Another highlight of the day was the high level of engagement during the Q&A session that followed the competition.

Students were given the opportunity to speak directly with McKays solicitors, local barristers Scott McLennan and Phillip Moore, and an Acting Magistrate.

They asked about their career paths, what a typical day in the profession looked like, and how they first found their passion for the law. The open exchange created a unique opportunity for students to connect with members of the legal community.

One teacher said: “The students had an incredible time and haven’t stopped talking about how enjoyable the whole day was. We were so appreciative of how supportive everyone at McKays was — from the initial school visits and the feedback after the preliminary rounds, through to the final moot and the thoughtful comments afterwards.”

Another teacher echoed this enthusiasm, writing: “My students haven’t stopped talking about it. Many described it as ‘the best day ever,’ while others are already asking, ‘When can we go again?’”

Following the success of the competition, McKays has also decided to expand its student engagement initiatives by offering additional work experience opportunities for local high school students who are considering a career in law.