Making legal history - bringing the law to the people of Geelong

Inspired by the ethos of bringing the law to the people, rather than the people to the law, Walsh Chambers is named after His Honour Frank Walsh AM QC, a retired judge of the County Court of Victoria. After a distinguished career at the Victorian Bar, His Honour was appointed judge in 1982 and served for 24 years, including sitting on six circuits at Geelong.

Walsh Chambers was officially opened by His Honour and Daniel Crennan QC, representing his mother, former High Court Justice The Honourable Susan Crennan QC – nee Walsh.

The Walsh tradition in the region began many generations ago when Walsh forebears emigrated to Australia to try their luck in the Ballarat goldfields. It is continued by Frank’s son Matt Walsh who, along with David O’Brien and Gary Taylor, purchased the chambers’ freehold premises in Gheringhap Street. Two other Victorian Bar members, Katherine Gladman and Francesca Chettle, have joined them and together they are ideally placed to meet the area’s growing need for quality legal services.

Each of the Walsh Chambers barristers lives locally and they have already demonstrated their commitment to the local community through contributions to community-based charitable events and local sporting clubs.

"The establishment of permanent chambers in Geelong allows clients to confer with counsel locally rather than travelling to Melbourne," said Matt Walsh.

“In addition to chambers we have mediation facilities and conference rooms, and a hot desk facility for barristers and solicitors appearing in Geelong courts.  Chambers are ideally situated near to the Geelong Courts Complex, the TAC and the WorkCover building.  It’s an exciting time for Geelong.

“Already we are being briefed regularly in Geelong, and we are proud to be part of increasing the legal services available to the people in this fast-growing community.”