Series 02: Alan Gibson Stewart papers, 1987-1989 - Page 611
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where preferences had put the independent Ted Mack in front; and also by the Liberals in Bligh, where there was another close vote.
So it was, more than two weeks after election day, that I found myself in court to answer a summons instigated by the plaintiff: Nelson John Meers, of Nield Avenue, Balgowlah.
The venue was a small modernistic courtroom in the new Supreme Court building in Queens Square. The light coloured panelling, gleaming chrome railings, and bright coloured plastic chairs contrasted oddly with the sombre eighteenth-century wigs and gowns of the members of the bar.
On one end of the bar table, Mary Gaudron QC, the Solicitor General, represented the Returning Officer; and beside her, John Coombs QC, friend, represented me. On the other end, Rod Meagher QC, President of the Bar Council, argued for the Plaintiff, claiming that the ticks and crosses were invalid. The learned counsel stood up, one by one, and cited various authorities from piles of legal tomes, while the judge listened patiently.
Outside in the corridor, I met a dejected looking Bruce McDonald. There was no sign of Meers. I was told that he was holidaying on the Gold Coast, relaxing after the grind of the election.
His Honour was not convinced by the Plaintiff's