The award was established in memory of Allens Arthur Robinson partner and construction lawyer Tom Yuncken who was killed in October last year in a cycling accident.

The award is sponsored by the Law Council of Australia, and recognises excellence in the field of construction law and practice. Applicants for the award had to demonstrate excellence in the provision of construction law services to clients; academic and practical abilities in construction law; their contribution to the field of construction law and practice; and maturity, self-reliance and leadership.

Clayton Utz national construction and major projects head Doug Jones congratulated Trevor on his award: “There was a strong field of candidates and we are delighted and proud that Trevor has been acknowledged in this way. Trevor’s winning the award recognises the hard work he has done over recent years and also reflects the quality of the Clayton Utz construction team in our Melbourne office and nationally.”

Thomas said he was honoured to be the inaugural recipient of the Tom Yuncken Award. “Tom Yuncken was a highly skilled construction lawyer and by all accounts a very generous man who was a mentor to many younger lawyers,” Thomas said.

“I feel truly honoured to receive this award, which not only encourages younger lawyers to be high achievers but is also a tribute to a man who made a great contribution to the legal profession.”