The national firm has added two new partners along with two special counsel and eleven senior associates.

Paul Graham has joined Sparke Helmore’s Melbourne construction group as partner from Johnson Stokes & Master (Thailand) Limited, while fellow partner Greg Guest has been added to the compensation team.

“These new appointments reflect strong performance across industry sectors, practice areas and offices in a tight market which has seen many competitors report static or negative growth,” national managing partner John Davis said. “It’s pleasing to see performance having a positive impact on both talent attraction and client acquisition.”

Mark Winn has joined the property division as special counsel in Brisbane, from Abbott Tout, along with Sarah Ralph in workplace relations, safety and environment.

“More senior-level lateral appointments are imminent,” Davis said.

“Characteristic of our success this year has been conversion of strategic advisory opportunities, including with QBE Insurance, Challenger Finance, along with prominent Commonwealth Government appointments at a time when some competitors appear to be withdrawing from the Canberra market.”

And according to Davis, the firm’s founders would be heartened to know that after opening in 1882, the firm now operates as a truly integrated eight-office practice recognised for technical excellence and its commitment to the communities in which it operates.

The following people were announced as senior associates: Melinda Andrew and Michelle Tomley (CTP/major claims); Vicky Antzoulatos (commercial litigation and dispute resolution); Anna Brown, Nicki Milionis and Joe Murphy (workplace relations, safety and environment); Renee Gorenstein and Janette McLennan (corporate insurance and risk management); Sharon Jones and Elizabeth Pirozzi (compensation); and Tina van Epen (corporate and commercial).