Magistrates in Hervey Bay, Bundaberg and Gympie rotating

Magistrates across Hervey Bay, Maryborough, Gympie and Bundaberg have been appearing in their neighbouring cities in recent weeks. Here’s why.

Magistrates across the Wide Bay have been playing musical chairs as a combination of leave and a retirement leaves neighbouring courtrooms in need.

In a response to the Chronicle, the Office of the Chief Magistrate of Queensland confirmed Magistrate Trinity McGarvie had moved from her position at Bundaberg Court House to take over from Hervey Bay Magistrate Stephen Guttridge, who recently retired.

She has now been the magistrate at Hervey Bay Court House for a number of weeks.

Ms McGarvie had previously been a prominent defence lawyer on the Fraser Coast and served as a magistrate at Mount Isa before Bundaberg.

Magistrate Kurt Fowler remains the magistrate at Maryborough Court House, but, as explained in the statement, has been overseeing other areas, including Gympie, in recent weeks.

Wide Bay Magistrates (from top left) Kurt Fowler, John, McInnes, Chris Callaghan and Trinity McGarvie.

Magistrate Chris Callaghan remains in his position at Gympie Court House, the statement confirmed

“Magistrates may be absent for a number of reasons, including leave and professional development,” it read

“Wherever possible, the Chief Magistrate will allocate another magistrate to preside over the court to ensure there is minimal impact on court operations.”

Acting Magistrate John Milburn has also covered some of the sittings in Maryborough while Magistrate Fowler has been relieving in Gympie.

The OCM also confirmed Magistrate John McInnes was the new appointment for the Bundaberg Court House.

He has been transferred to Bundaberg from Southport for two years.