December 08 Around the States - Victoria

 

I recall opening our last December newsletter article with “Where has the year gone!?” and find myself feeling exactly the same way after yet another year passing in a flash. In the face of all the increasing demands upon our time both privately and professionally, it is encouraging to see that our members are still giving their professional development the attention it deserves by attending our lunchtime seminars and the annual Summit and participating in Webinars and workshops during the year.

Our September Seminar saw a last minute change of presenter. We were very fortunate to have Gill McDonald of Summit Coaching step in to present “Maximising the value from your coaching program” which received very positive feedback from all that attended.

In October, Anthony Kearns of the LPLC presented “What Toyota Knows but Law Firms Don't - Risk Management in Human Capital Environments”. Anthony’s interesting session explored changing the culture and expectations of new lawyers, associates and partners as a means of reducing the risk to the firm and its clients.

Winston Marsh certainly made an impact at the last seminar for the year. Providing practical, sensible and amusing anecdotes, Winston advised delegates not to dwell on the negativity that surrounds us at the moment – keep thinking positively and manage in that manner.

 

The ALPMA VIC Christmas Luncheon was F – A – B – U – L – O – U – S, as usual. With 70 members, sponsors and special guests in attendance, everyone ate, drank and, of course, networked away at the stunning Bluestone Restaurant. We had the opportunity to recognize our departing Executive Members for their wonderful contribution over the years. It also gave us enormous pleasure to award Harvey Ashton Life Membership to ALPMA (Vic). Harvey’s contribution to the Association has been incredible. A Founding Member in 1997, Harvey has been an active member and Executive Member since 2004, holding various positions including Treasurer and Convener. Leading ALPMA Vic in its continuing success story, Harvey is always willing to put up his hand to fill the Host Executive role at lunchtime seminars, builds strong ties with all of our sponsors, successfully manages the finances of ALPMA VIC and willingly mentors ALPMA Members.

 

Harvey promotes ALPMA both internally and throughout his wider professional network. He has encouraged the attendance of his colleagues at Marshalls & Dent which regularly results in between 3 – 10 Managers, Partners and Senior Associates from that firm at lunchtime seminars, workshops and Legal Management Summits. This feat alone is one that we would like to actively encourage all members to duplicate and we congratulate Harvey on his ability to set the standard in this regard.

 

The Executive Committee met for a strategy meeting in late November to focus on the 2009 professional development program. In its draft form, I have to say that the program is well rounded, thought provoking and we trust will be of interest to all ALPMA members.

 

On behalf of the Executive Committee, I would like to wish you all a peaceful, safe and happy festive season and every success in 2009 and to thank both the previous and current Executive and Learning and Development Committee members and particularly Kerrie Billings and her team who work so hard behind the scenes for ALPMA (Vic). Our success is in no small part due to the efforts of Kerrie, Brenda and Heather!

 

Valmai Trudgen
ALPMA VIC Convener

 

 

ALPMA VIC Christmas Luncheon - Bluestone Restaurant Bar December 08