One of the Gold Coast's Longest Established
and Most Well-Regarded Law Firms

A Legacy You Can Trust

Our firm has a rich history and the story of origin bears deserving of retelling.

In 1951, Peter Collas joined David Hill as solicitors in a little country practice at Miles, Queensland, which was the founding partnership of our firm.

Peter Collas had, after active service in the Second World War, completed his law degree at University of Queensland. In fact, he started doing some reading, preliminary reading of the law during his time as a prisoner of war through books sourced via the Red Cross.

As was the custom in the immediate post-war period, the labour market was fiercely scarce following the sacrifice of so many young men. Similarly, young professionals were highly sought after. Recently graduated solicitors wanting work would place an advertisement in the Courier Mail calling for prospective opportunities.

David Hill answered the advertisement published by Peter Collas with a single line letter: "I saw your ad. I want to see you."

With that, Peter Collas drove with his young wife Isobel and their new baby Duncan across a dusty and corrugated Warrego Highway to the town of Miles. Upon his arrival, he found a gentleman in the middle of the crossroads lighting a fire. His name was David Hill and his soon to be business partner in the new legal firm that they created. The partnership deal was solemnised with a refreshing drink and a splash of brandy in Duncan's milk in order to afford the baby a better sleep.

Unsurprisingly, the partnership did well, as did Duncan with his uninterrupted sleeping habits.

The firm soon moved to Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast, which was then a burgeoning seaside village on the Gold Coast, then known as the South Coast.

David Hill and Peter Collas set up under a house at Burleigh Heads in what was David Hill's late mother's home. Their then partner, Ray Bradley, also a veteran, remained at Miles for the time being.

The firm progressively built its reputation and client base and was instrumental in bringing through the profession leaders within the profession, both past and current. Among them were Gino Moro, Ian Short, Colin Greatericks, and Michael Bowman.

Gino Moro retains his presence at the firm today after 50 years' service as a legal practitioner in Queensland. Bill Ross started his articles under Peter Collas in 1980 and remains a partner today. In 2022, Chris Barron was admitted to the partnership of the firm and he brings with him the vitality and energy that aspiring young practitioners are known for.

For 75 years, we have provided exceptional legal services with the same integrity and dedication that has defined us from the start. Despite development of the firm over the past seven decades, the core values remain of commitment to clients and community for the delivery of first-class legal advice and outcomes.

Our commitment to community goes beyond legal services — we proudly undertake significant pro bono work as honorary solicitors to numerous not-for-profits, community groups, and sporting organisations. Today, we continue to serve a substantial local and international client base to achieve optimal outcomes.