Samantha Bolton Awarded Sunshine Coast Law Association Life Membership
Image by Raw Lens
The Sunshine Coast legal community gathered on Saturday, 9th May 2026, for the 11th Justin Crosby Memorial Bursary Gala Dinner, an annual event that raises funds for the Justin Crosby Memorial Bursary, fundraising for first-year law students at the University of the Sunshine Coast. This year, celebrating in a circus theme proved to be a ton of fun!
The evening featured canapés, a two-course meal and live entertainment, bringing together legal professionals from across the region in support of the next generation of practitioners.
It was during this special event that our Director, Samantha Bolton, was awarded Life Membership of the Sunshine Coast Law Association (SCLA), recognising her outstanding contribution to the legal profession and the Sunshine Coast legal community.
Accepting the award, Samantha said she was "surprised, honoured and genuinely humbled" by the recognition.
"This event is one that is close to my heart and one of my favourite events of the year," she said.
"What made the evening particularly special was not simply the recognition itself, but the incredible sense of community that exists within the legal profession on the Sunshine Coast.
"We work in an area of law that can often be demanding and emotionally heavy, which makes the support, collegiality and friendships within our profession all the more meaningful."
For many years, Samantha has dedicated her time to supporting and strengthening the legal profession through leadership, mentorship and advocacy. Her contributions have included serving as President of the Sunshine Coast Law Association, President of Suncoast Community Legal Service, Queensland Law Society Councillor, Women’s Legal Service Ambassador and Queensland Chapter Board Member of the College of Law.
Alongside her professional leadership, Samantha is highly respected for her work as an Independent Children's Lawyer, advocating for children and families through some of life's most challenging circumstances.
The evening featured a tribute video from colleagues, peers and friends who reflected on Samantha's leadership, mentorship and longstanding service to the profession.
Reflecting on the recognition, Samantha said the award was ultimately a reflection of the legal community she has been fortunate to be part of throughout her career.
"I feel very fortunate to practise alongside such talented and caring professionals, and to be part of a legal community that consistently shows up for one another, supports younger practitioners and values connection as much as professional excellence," she said.
Samantha also acknowledged the team here at Pippa Colman Family Law.
"I am also incredibly fortunate to work alongside an exceptional team at Pippa Colman Family Law. The culture, care and commitment our team brings each day is something I never take for granted."
The entire Pippa Colman Family Law team are incredibly proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and congratulate Samantha on this outstanding achievement.
All images by Raw Lens
