I started as an articled clerk at Norton Gledhill in 2000. It was a challenging, interesting and rewarding year - and a steep learning curve! My time at Norton Gledhill since articles could be described in the same way. I have been exposed to complex and varied matters and have enjoyed forging relationships with colleagues and clients.

In terms of professional development, I have found there is the right balance between being supervised and guided by principals of the firm and having the opportunity to do the work and deal with clients. There is also a focus on formal continuing legal education through internal and external programmes.

I have really enjoyed the variety in the work that I have been exposed to. I have been involved in advising on large scale property developments, acquisitions and disposals including at Docklands, Riverside Quay, Southbank and golf course/residential developments at Cranbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. I have also been involved in acting for venture capitalists acquiring and disposing of interests in different types of business, including a large scale hotel business, labour hire business and wholesale plant business.

I have had some experience in litigation, in particular working on an administrative appeal on behalf of a client whose winery was excluded from the coveted Coonawarra wine region by a decision to alter the region’s boundary. I was also involved in an interesting and successful Supreme Court appeal of a State Revenue Office decision regarding stamp duty on the transfer of a hotel business.

In 2006 and 2008 I took maternity leave and am currently working 3 days a week.

During my time at Norton Gledhill I have appreciated the consistent focus on quality – working with principals who are experts in their field and who expect excellence. I have also enjoyed the camaraderie with other staff which makes for a supportive and ultimately rewarding work environment.