Douglas Murphy, Class of 1989
In our first 30 years, almost 30,000 alumni have graduated from Bond University. To celebrate our 30th anniversary, we’re showcasing some of the past students who have paved the way for the next generation of Bondies.
Meet Master of Laws alumnus Douglas Murphy.
What is your current role?
I practise as a Barrister and Mediator.
Where are you based?
I am head of Cedric Hampson Chambers in the Inns of Court, Brisbane and Chancery Barristers+Mediators.
Why did you choose to attend Bond?
I was at a sports law lunch with some newly appointed academic staff (the original) and it was agreed amongst us that I should enrol in the first Masters course to commence in May 1989.
What are your recollections of your time here?
The construction of the university was still being completed. Concrete paths, landscaping of lawns and gardens. The road from the highway to Bond was mostly gravel. There were only four of us in the first term. John Farrer was my first lecturer, in a subject "Company Takeovers". Over the subjects I took, the majority of lecturers were brought in from overseas to teach for a semester.
How has being a Bond graduate helped you in your career?
Have no idea but it is on my bio and CV as well as on websites. I would say that the experience and learning has been very beneficial personally.
What have been your career highlights so far?
Winning cases for deserving clients. Getting to the top of my profession and also championing mediation as a alternative dispute resolution process.
What advice would you give to current Bondies?
Make the most of what is on offer – which is a lot compared with the time when I attended as a student.
What does it mean to you to be a Bondy?
I am glad I attended. I regard it as one of the best educational institutions in Australia.
What is your favourite memory of Bond?
Having dinner in the Princeton Room after lectures with my small group in the period before a liquor licence was granted, which meant the wine couldn't be purchased but could be provided gratis.
Anything else you would like to share?
I regard my attendance at Bond (in its infancy) as an important milestone. It was a part-time venture while practising at the bar and was an enjoyable adjunct to that practice. I wish I had the opportunity to enjoy all the advantages of undergraduates who attended full time. I am sure they had very happy and rewarding times.