From humble beginnings

McInnes & Co was established in 1975 by Peter McInnes as an insurance and property law firm. It operated from a small office in Edward Street, Brisbane. In or about 1978, Peter was joined by partner, John Wilson and the firm became known as McInnes Wilson. After experiencing a period of growth, McInnes Wilson moved into new premises at 80 Eagle Street, Brisbane.

Peter and John are credited with laying the foundations of the strong culture the firm is renown for today.

Photo – Left to right: Peter McInnes and John Wilson

Growing our offering

Over the next decade, the firm tripled in size from 9 staff to more than 30 employees. By this time, McInnes Wilson had developed a booming high-profile property practice and an expert niche in the plaintiff compensation litigation space.

A prized, but unusual purchase, Peter successfully bid for the Brisbane City Council ex-ferry, the “MV Fortitude”, which became the firm’s beloved boat for client and staff entertainment over the next decade.

Photo – McInnes Wilson’s private vessel, the MV Fortitude

Paul Tully named Managing Partner & expanding outside of Brisbane

Commencing at McInnes Wilson in 1985 as an Articled Clerk in the insurance practice, Paul Tully was named the firm’s first full-time Managing Partner in 1996.

With a strong rural background and a keen interest in horse-racing, Paul remained at the helm for the next 28 years, successfully guiding and growing the firm’s practice areas, capability and geographical reach.

In 1996, the firm opened our Maroochydore office to align with the opening of the local Magistrates and District Courts and the firm grew to more than 150 team members.

Photo – Paul Tully

Becoming a genuine player in the industry

In 2009, the firm incorporated as an IPL as McInnes Wilson Lawyers Pty Ltd. The firm established a Sydney office in 2013 to meet its national, institutional clients’ needs, thereby rounding out coverage across the Eastern seaboard of Australia.

By 2015, with over 250 team members, the firm offered genuine full-service capabilities across all areas of law for Government, institutions, financiers, developers, well known corporate clients, SME’s and individuals.

Client race-days at Royal Randwick & Eagle Farm were regular events on the client entertainment calendar.

Employer of Choice

The firm enjoyed exponential growth over this period with offices opening in Adelaide (2016), Canberra (2016) and Melbourne (2018).

In 2021, the firm received its first Employer of Choice award in the Australian Business Awards, recognising the firms progressive focus, development and support of its team members.

In July 2023, Cathy Reynolds commenced as Chief Operations Officer and on 1 January 2024, the firm appointed its first ever female Co-Managing Principal, Allison Langford together with Mark Woolley. Glenn Caligaris was appointed Chairman of Principals.

Together this leadership team guides the firm supported by division heads and a recently expanded corporate services team.

Photo – Managing Principals with the Heads of our Corporate Services

To national strength

Today, we provide a genuine national offering and exceptional service to our valued clients with more than 400 team members across 6 offices. Despite almost doubling in size in the last ten years, we’ve maintained our values and cultural DNA.

“If we keep doing what we’re doing, stay strong to our core values, then we’ll continue to succeed.” – Glenn