New Magistrates appointed

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Jarrod Bleijie has announced the appointment of Queensland’s new Deputy Chief Magistrate and a new Magistrate.

Mr Bleijie said the appointments of Ray Rinaudo and Penelope Hay were approved by Executive Council on Thursday.

“Both Magistrates bring a wealth of legal experience and insight to the court,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Ray Rinaudo has served as a Queensland Magistrate for eight years and filled the roles of Acting Deputy Chief Magistrate and Acting State Coroner over the years.

“His pre-judicial career included important positions, such as President of the Queensland Law Society and Legal Aid Commissioner.

“His Honour takes on a significant role in our legal system.

“Penelope Hay has acted as a prosecution and defence barrister in Queensland for the past 13 years.

“She has experience ranging from criminal to property law and she will hear matters in the Richlands Magistrates Court.

“I congratulate both on their new roles and wish them all the best in their judicial careers.”

Mr Bleijie said the appointments fill vacancies caused by the retirement of two Magistrates.

“To combat the backlog of cases, I have also recently bolstered the Magistrates and Supreme Court ranks by appointing an extra Justice and two additional Magistrates,” he said.

[ENDS] 21 June 2013

Media Contact: Ashley McDermid 0412 731 355 or Katherine Hornbuckle 0402 862 351