The Prism – John Baulch SC

After being admitted to the Bar in Tasmania at the age of 21, John Baulch SC practised for period before taking up an appointment in the Public Solicitor’s office in Papua New Guinea where he remained for four years. In 1977, he joined the local Bar in Townsville and was appointed Senior Counsel in 1998.

What is your motto?
John’s family motto is “loyal au mort”. Its history is quite ancient, being derived from a coat of arms which his ancestors took to England with the William the Conqueror. John’s family has not had another motto and, as he admires loyalty, he is content to stick with that.

What is your idea of earthly happiness?
Earthly happiness is a work life balance which enables one to spend time with family and friends.

What could you not live without?
I could not live without my family.

What is your greatest fear?
My greatest fear (as at 23-09-2009) is that Geelong will lose the grand final.

What is your greatest indulgence?
Red wine.

Which skill or talent would you most like to have?
I would love to be a single figure golfer.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Pretentiousness and pomposity.

What is the quality you most admire in a person?
Patience

What is your most marked characteristic?
Impatience

On what occasion do you lie?
When describing my alcohol intake to my doctor.

What is your greatest regret?
That Geelong has only won four (4) premierships in my lifetime.

Which words or expressions do you most over-use?
‘In my opinion’ and ‘in my view’

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would like to have been a better parent

To what do you aspire?
To be an exceptional Grandparent

How would you like to be remembered?
As I would like to be judged, kindly.