Mick is renowned in North Queensland for being a leading solicitor when it comes to commercial transactions and complex legal issues, especially where ‘left field’ thinking is required.
With 25 years of experience, he has a knack for seeing problems from a different perspective in order to find innovative solutions that are tailored to his client’s individual goals.
His practical, straight-shooting approach in the areas of commercial, corporate, mergers and acquisitions, rural law and property development, is refreshing for clients who want to see solid, tangible outcomes.
Mick knows that providing advice to clients in these areas of business requires not only an understanding of the relevant law, but also a healthy appreciation of the commercial realities involved in each particular transaction.
Mick provides advice to small, medium and large agribusiness operators, local governments, government owned corporations, corporate and family businesses across a diverse range of industries. He has quality experience in the beef, cane, aquaculture, aviation, energy, solar, marine, mining, quarry, health, probity, property development and construction industries and sits on several private advisory boards in that regard. Mick is recommended by Doyles as a Leading Agribusiness Lawyer – Queensland, and is also a director of Mercy Community Services NQ.
When the weather’s good, Mick likes to hitch his boat to the back of his 4WD and set out with his four teenage sons Connor, Harri, Darcy and Sam, exploring the hidden gems of North Queensland.
Jayson has an approachable and genuine style coupled with an ability to take complex legal issues and break them down for clients, so they can gain a full understanding of their matter.
Jayson is known for delivering practical clear advice to clients across regional Queensland. Having grown up in Ingham, Jayson has a strong connection with rural Queensland and a better understanding than most about what makes regional communities tick.
Jayson provides advice to private clients, family businesses, small to medium enterprise and rural enterprise on a range of corporate and commercial matters including all aspects of property law, estate and succession planning, elder law and rural law.
Jayson has an approachable and genuine style coupled with an ability to take complex legal issues and break them down for clients, so they can gain a full understanding of their matter.
Jayson is passionate about helping local businesses and individuals succeed, which is why he has built such a loyal client following and professional network over the past 30 years.
“Clients and community have always underpinned my approach to business. Throughout my career I’ve received unwavering support from the Hinchinbrook and greater North Queensland community, which is why it is important for me to do my utmost to return the favour and achieve positive outcomes for my clients and give back to the community.”
When he’s not at work you will likely find Jayson running one of his four boys to training or a sporting event on the weekend.
As the General Manager of Keir Steele Waldon Lawyers, Matt is a driving force behind the scenes, ensuring that the practice is supported at every turn.
While he might not (yet) have the grey hair to show it, Matt has worked in the legal industry for over a decade, providing commercial leadership and identifying opportunities for growth. Being a Certified Practising Accountant means that Matt has the technical skills to provide the best strategic planning, business development and financial management at Keir Steele Waldon.
Day to day, Matt is also responsible for overseeing the lawyers, paralegals and administrative staff who make up the diverse team at Keir Steele Waldon. He empowers individuals to reach their potential through his calm leadership and excellent communication, while ensuring the team remains client focused.
Prior to his life in the legal industry, Matt earned his commercial stripes in his hometown of Cairns, where he was able to combine his love of business and sport working as an Event Manager, producing a professional golf tournament and also in sports administration with the Cairns Taipans.
Nadette heads up the Wills & Estates team at Keir Steele Waldon Lawyers.
Practicing exclusively in this area for many years, Nadette has an intricate knowledge of estate planning and administration. Her experience spans simple wills and enduring powers of attorney to complex family and business succession planning. Nadette enjoys working collaboratively with clients, exploring different options and crafting comprehensive solutions to best suit their circumstances.
When administering an estate, Nadette guides clients through the entire process, from obtaining probate through to asset distribution and litigation if required. Her meticulous attention to detail combined with her ability explain complex legal issues, means clients are confident that their matter is getting the attention it deserves.
Outside the office Nadette is heavily involved in local netball both as a coach and player. She is a mum to three young children and loves the company of a good book in her “spare time”.
Finding the right commercial lawyer can be tricky. Matthew has the proven experience and right attitude to guide you through your property and transaction matters.
Matt is passionate about achieving the best outcome, which is why he has a loyal following of clients.
“I build strong relationships with the people I work with and I really get to know their businesses. My clients know they can trust me to handle their matters whether it’s a higher-level property acquisition and sale, or a standard conveyance.”
Matt’s been in property law for over 12 years, and currently supervises the conveyancing practice at Keir Steele Waldon Lawyers. He works on a day to day basis with individual, commercial and retail clients on property acquisitions and sales, and has developed a skillset and passion for agri-business, having worked on a number of significant rural sales and property acquisitions in North Queensland.
Matt’s job requires an expert level of multi-tasking. One of his proudest career achievements was recently settling three large commercial and business transactions, including sale of an aquaculture operation, purchase of a pharmacy and acquisition of a transport company, in three days. The trifecta was achievable through relentless work ethic and countless iced lattes.
When he’s not on the tools at Keir Steele Waldon, Matt enjoys his charity work as a board member of the Tropical Brain and Mind Foundation, and is proud of the fact that the board successfully championed for Townsville to be named as Australia’s first Mentally Healthy City.
Kerri Fretwell leads our Family Law Team, bringing more than 28 years of experience and a strong reputation for delivering practical, results-focused legal advice.
Before joining the firm, Kerri commenced her legal career at Giudes & Elliott, where she built a solid foundation in family law and developed the expertise that has earned her the trust of clients and colleagues alike. Known for her straightforward and pragmatic approach, Kerri provides clear, honest and diligent advice in all areas of family law including divorce & separation, property settlements, and children’s matters. She is committed to building trusted relationships with her clients and guiding them through what can often be challenging and emotional time.
Kerri is a lifetime member of Townsville Community Legal Service, reflecting her longstanding commitment to supporting the local community. Born and raised in Townsville, Kerri is proud to call North Queensland home and values the lifestyle that comes with living in the tropics.
Stephen is a seasoned legal professional specialising in Commercial & Corporate Law, Property Law, and Succession Law. With a track record of empowering clients to navigate complex transactions with confidence, Stephen is dedicated to ensuring his clients’ interests are protected and their objectives are met seamlessly.
Known for his personalized attention and expert guidance, Stephen takes the time to understand clients’ business, drivers, and objectives thoroughly, fostering a working relationship based on trust and collaboration. Clients appreciate Stephen’s ability to provide peace of mind and assurance throughout a matter, knowing they have a trusted legal advisor genuinely invested in their success.
Luke is a commercial lawyer who works closely with clients to make sure that the purchase or sale of their property or business, proceeds as smoothly as possible.
“To put it simply, I like helping people do something positive. Buying and selling property is exciting, and it’s fun to be a part of that in someone’s life.”
Luke is a James Cook University graduate and has strong family connections to Townsville and North Queensland.
With over ten years experience, he has a good feel for understanding people and helping them make sense of the legal processes involved in their matter, and how it applies to them.
“In conveyancing, communication is key, whether it’s between us and our client, or us and the other party. I like to make sure that my clients are fully aware of the process and understand what’s going on with their matters, without overloading them with unnecessary information.”
Luke is no stranger to hard work, being husband to an oncology nurse, and the dad of three young kids.
Grace Hooper is a lawyer in the commercial team at Keir Steele Waldon Lawyers. She has experience across both commercial and corporate matters, having assisted clients with business sales and acquisitions, share sales and purchases, corporate advisory work and general commercial transactions since her admission in early 2021.
Grace enjoys helping clients navigate commercial issues in a practical and straightforward way. While she works across a range of commercial matters, she has a particular interest in share sales and purchases. Grace finds it especially rewarding to help clients achieve a clean outcome – reducing or removing liabilities, completing the transaction and realising the value of their hard work.
Before entering the legal profession, Grace completed a degree in science. Outside work, Grace enjoys the gym, spending time n the sauna and relaxing at home.
Riana’s legal career has spanned across both public and private practice, giving her experience dealing with many unique and complex estate administration matters. Riana prides herself on her timely service and regular communication throughout a matter, so that clients are always kept up to date and matters progress as efficiently as possible.
Riana is known for her ability to immediately connect with clients and the commitment she demonstrates (by always doing what she says she will). She is passionate about continually learning and honing her craft to be better able to support her clients.
When she is not working, Riana is busy being a mother to two young kids. On the odd occasion that she finds some time for herself, it is spent with a good book or with good friends and family.
Paige practises in the areas of commercial property and estate planning. She is renowned for her ability to quickly build a rapport with clients and prides herself on timely and commercially astute advice.
Paige conducts property transactions for small businesses and individuals including residential and commercial conveyancing, leasing, easements and rural transactions. Paige also advises clients in relation to estate planning matters such as Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorney.
Paige recently relocated from Townsville to our Ingham office where she has immersed herself in the community. She is the current captain of the Herbert River Women’s Rugby League team and a committee member of the Herbert River Netball Association.
When she’s not at work you’ll find Paige catching up with friends and family, watching her beloved Parramatta Eels or playing local league for Herbert River.
Managing our busy Ingham office, Denise plays an essential role in ensuring the seamless operation of the firm.
With a strong background in legal administration and office management, Denise oversees day-to-day operations, staff coordination, accounts and client service in our Ingham office.
Denise is committed to fostering a positive and productive work environment, supporting our legal team in delivering outstanding service to clients. She is responsible for managing office processes, implementing systems to enhance efficiency, and ensuring that both staff and clients experience a well-organized and welcoming environment.
With 15 years of experience in the legal industry, Denise brings a wealth of knowledge in administration, compliance, and business operations. She is passionate about providing high-quality support that allows our lawyers to focus on achieving the best outcomes for clients..
Lucia has a strong background in family law and business disputes, she specialises in resolving disputes efficiently and collaboratively.
Lucia is dedicated to helping individuals and businesses find practical solutions through structured mediation. With a focus on family law property disputes, commercial and business conflicts, and estate matters, she guides parties toward mutually beneficial agreements while minimising stress and legal costs.
With over 30 years of experience in dispute resolution, Lucia brings a calm, solutions-focused approach to every matter, fostering open communication and constructive negotiation.