The Sunshine Coast legal fraternity raised $45,000 for the Suncoast Community Legal Service (SCLS) at its fifth annual fundraising wine dinner hosted by leading compensation law firm Travis Schultz & Partners (TSP).
This sold-out event welcomed 220 lawyers to Venue 114 for the evening to raise awareness and essential funds for SCLS. As an independent community organisation, SCLS provides free advice and referral services relying on the support of Sunshine Coast lawyers, volunteers and the public. Every cent raised at the dinner will go towards helping vulnerable members of the community gain access to justice.
This year the inspiring keynote speech was delivered by the Honourable Deb Frecklington MP, Queensland Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity. The Attorney-General highlighted the importance of community legal services and access to justice, and how these services are being supported.
The evening featured a three-course meal paired with premium wines from the award-winning Geoff Merrill Wines, with insights shared from the winemaker Geoff Merrill.
Fundraising efforts were bolstered through a raffle and a live auction led by Grant Smith from Century 21, where a variety of items, including jewellery and weekend getaways, were bid on.
TSP Managing Partner, Travis Schultz, emphasized the firm’s commitment to supporting SCLS and the local Sunshine Coast community, saying: “Nights like this make me very proud to be a part of the local profession. I’ve been working in this field since 1989, and it’s heartening to see what can be achieved when we come together to support an essential cause like SCLS. Over 100 local lawyers volunteer their time and expertise to the service, and they continue their support with events like this. A lot has changed during my career, but one thing that remains steadfast is this profession’s commitment to values and giving back. The funds raised annually help the service to keep serving the less fortunate in our neighbourhoods where we work and live. Thank you to everyone for your generous support.”
SCLS President Noela L’Estrange added; “SCLS is delighted with the generosity of our local profession, which continues to fund legal support for the most vulnerable in our community. There are increasing calls on the Service, with our population rapidly growing.”
SCLS CEO Marla Edwards also shared; “Last night was truly special, and we continue to gain valuable insights into our community through these important opportunities to come together in support of our common cause.”
Since its inception in 2021 this event has raised over $180,000 for Suncoast Community Legal Service.
Travis Schultz & Partners remains committed to hosting this annual event to raise awareness and support for SCLS, ensuring that everyone in the community has access to legal services.