LEADR - Association of Dispute Resolvers

This event contributes the following CPD: 1.5 hours for National Mediator Accreditation System and for LEADR accreditation.

RSVP to LEADR on 02 9251 3366 or leadr@leadr.com.au

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A podcast of the recording from this meeting will be available to LEADR members on the LEADR website.

Leta Chen
Sally Wiencke
Peter Singer
Michael Jensen
Naomi Cuckier
Natasha Boehm
Holly van de Huevell
John Roberts
Di McDonald
with Nicole Cullen ex officio as she is currently residing in Port Macquarie.

An introduction to narrative mediation
with Richard Cohen and Stella Levy
Tuesday 2 March

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Thursday 10 December – Christmas Party at Barca, Armadale
with " My top 10 tips for managing the “not so merry” Christmas" with Nicole Cullen.

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What are the top 10 personal qualities that influence the mediation process and which ones do you want to develop?

Thursday 12 November

This event featured some wonderful and thought provoking research into what disputants need from conflict resolvers. Helen Collins, mediation and conflict resolution practitioner and multi-talented LEADR member, synthesised some fascinating material which suggested that what parties need from the mediator is more than process. In an animated and interactive discussion, she articulated these other needs as understanding, engagement, creativity, strength, wisdom, strategic thinking, confrontation, patience, encouragement, humour, courage. Lively discussion, reflection and sharing of experiences reaffirmed these assertions and also indicated that there are many other important qualities of a mediator which are essential in a mediation, and which do not relate only to process or substance.

Helen told some wonderful stories, sharing anecdotes about colleagues and personal experiences as a mediator, which encouraged the audience to follow suit. The result was a warm, interesting and inclusive hour in which stories and ideas were shared and enjoyed. At the end of the session, and based on her research, Helen distilled 10 top qualities essential to mediators. These were:

1. Empathy
2. Multivalent thinking
3. Authenticity
4. Emotional intelligence and impulse control
5. Presence
6. Neutrality
7. Intuition
8. Valuing what the parties bring
9. Artistry
10. Curiosity

A wonderful night was had by all.

Making the private sessions work with Anne Sutherland-Kelly
on Monday 17 August 2009

At the Collins Street Mediation Centre.

Investigations and mediations are an evolving aspect of managing workplace issues. Ongoing conflict in the workplace can be distracting and costly. How you manage conflict in the workplace and workplace investigations and mediations will have an impact on morale and the ongoing relationships of staff.

LEADR in conjunction with Allens Arthur Robinson hosted this Twilight Seminar with a panel of Adam Lunn (Partner), Michael Jensen (Investigator) and Leta Chen (Mediator)

Conflict management systems – international perspectives
with Francis JF Handy
Wednesday 20 May 2009

On 20 May, LEADR (VIC) chapter members and interested others enjoyed an informative presentation on conflict management systems. The session was facilitated by Francis Handy of the Trillium Group, Canada who compared the conflict management systems used in the agricultural sector (specifically, tomato production) in California, Canada and Australia.

The session was well attended and produced a robust conversation challenging the need for pro-active conflict management in the free market, the role of the mediator in such circumstances, the impact of different systems and structures in each of the three jurisdictions on the relationships between producers and distributors and the appropriate response to power imbalances between growers and manufacturers.

Cornwall Stodart’s elegant boardroom provided a comfortable atmosphere for a compelling and thought provoking session.

To listen to a podcast of this presentation, click here >>

The family business sector: opportunities for mediators and facilitators
with Jon Kenfield and Leon Levin
Tuesday 7 April 2009

This interactive sessionprovided an overview of the family business sector – its issues and challenges stimulating discussion of the opportunities to provide mediation and facilitation services to this sector.

Members of the Victorian Chapter commenced the year with a working meeting on board Sally Wiencke’s boat aptly named “the Negotiator”. Heading high into the wind and with the sun setting over Williamstown, they discussed their visions for LEADR in Victoria this coming year.

Strong commitment to continuing to deliver high level member events and networking evenings was expressed. Roles within the committee were agreed and the members of the Executive Committee spent some valuable time getting to know each other better. This event for Committee Executive members was made possible by Sally Weincke and was funded by the Executive members who attended.

[Pictures are of Sally Wiencke, Director on the LEADR Board at the wheel and Victorian Chapter Secrety, Peter Singer casting off.]

Stress management for mediators and conciliators with Dr Pat Marshall
Tuesday 10 February 2009

What causes mediator stress and how do mediators cope? What are the attributes that will stand a mediator in good stead when stressful circumstances arise? Do high levels of emotional awareness help when the going gets tough?

Nicole Cullen (Chair)

Peter Singer (Secretary)

Sally Wiencke ( Director, LEADR Board)

Naomi Cukier

Leta Chen

Tim Connellan

Holly Van Den Heuvel

Natascha Boehm

Mike Jensen.

Find out more, email sally@momentum-cm.com.au

Christmas drinks to wrap up the year with Tania Sourdin speaking on:
Who is the mediator?
Thursday 4 December 2008

The final event on the LEADR Vic Chapter calendar was the annual Christmas party which was held amongst the moose-heads at the Kelvin Club. An apt venue for a virtual romp through mediation history – a session led by Tania Sourdin which looked at the way in which mediators have been portrayed in the mass media and in film and television and the print media. Tania concluded by suggesting that there was room for improvement of the media portrayal of mediators. After the presentation, members enjoyed catching up with each other and there was also a group who went on to “dinner after” – as is our new format for member meetings. Great to see this Christmas event frequented by old and new LEADR members.

From Umbria to the wild wild West… mediator training and advancement
Tuesday 11 November 2008

"The Italian", a very swish restaurant venue, was chosen for the setting to hear the experiences of our Vic Chapter Secretary, Peter Singer, who attended the Advanced Commercial Mediators Course in Umbria Italy. VIC LEADR was determined to sate all members' senses on the evening. There was sumptuous food, fine wine, sparkling conversation, even the outdoor courtyard venue with the balmy weather, all coordinated to attempt to portray the experiences Peter shared with us. The photos of Italy and stories tantalised all. It was a very enjoyable evening.

Peter had responded to the LEADR email promoting the "Advanced Commercial Mediator Course" in August. A number of late cancellations led to the call to Australia to bring in reserves, for those who could withstand a 7 day residential workshop in the heart of Umbria, set in the 600AD built St Pietro di Valle Abbey.

Peter described the 7 day program and the structure for the learning. In particular he focused upon 2 areas which helped change his perspective in handling facilitation work, in his practice. These detailed the handling of highly emotive parties and ways to return discussions to a more rational level and the insight provided by Joanna Kolawski's work on managing different cultures.

He then ran a very engaging experiential which prompted such diverse responses in how to manage a specific negotiating situation from the 30-plus people in attendance. There were those who were determined that their method was the right way and those who positioned their response based upon the targets and those who were willing to be influenced in other ways of thinking.

A full report of Peter's presentation will come in the next newsletter. Also see www.mediatormix.org

Following Peter, Leta Chen, Vic Chapter committee member (right with Michael Tiernan and Gavin Wright) presented a glimpse of a presentation made at the National Conference, by Bill Eddy. Leta described the issues faced with a high conflict individual when attempting to discuss issue substance only. Saly Wiencke then described her positive experience of the national conference to the attendees.

Nicole Cullen who conceived the idea, hosted the evening and announced that Victoria would be hosting the next national conference.

Wednesday 24 September 2008

In a thought provoking and highly interactive session, Tim Connellan, mediator and member of the LEADR Chapter Executive Committee, facilitated a discussion on what to do when a mediation threatens to derail.

The meeting was well attended by a diverse group of professionals including mediators from both legal and non legal backgrounds.

Tim asked probing questions of the audience which focussed on three difficult situations which arise in mediation:

Tim facilitated a veritable brainstorm on breaking impasses and the ensuing discussions featured some colourful and creative examples of mediator strategies and the consequential magical effects. What followed was a highly interactive discussion on topics such as confidentiality, how to deal with emotional exchanges and ethical dilemmas relating to termination of the mediation process.

There was an exciting level of participation in the discussion and a wealth of suggestions for addressing ethical dilemmas. The session was characterised by an inspiring theme namely that there are many and diverse techniques to help the parties to persist and achieve resolution. The session also provided guidance for mediators on how to gracefully terminate the mediation process if the circumstances require.

The Victorian Chapter Executive has recently commenced a new initiative to benefit members and it involves holding our meetings at different mediation venues around town. Over forthcoming months, Members will have opportunities to see various different venues which are available for hire. This meeting was held at Bureaux, 530 Lonsdale Street which offers mediation and training facilities at commercial rates. www.bureaux.com for more details. The Victorian Chapter Executive wishes to thank Bureaux for hosting this event.

The feedback on the session from LEADR members and guests was excellent with participants rating the discussion and the venue highly. The participants called for more sessions like these, in which practitioners can share information and experiences, inspire each other and enhance the tools in their mediation toolbox.

CPD: This event contributes the following CPD:
1.5 hours for National Mediator Accreditation System
1.5 hours for LEADR accreditation.

Tuesday 12 August 2008 . Robyn Roberson, Dispute Resolution Practitioner, ADF and Pete Coster, Defence Equity Coordinator for Victoria/Tasmania, ADF, delivered the Vic Chapter’s most recent event. The meeting was well attended by a diverse crowd of LEADR members and guests, including mediators, lawyers and corporate executives.

The session proved highly stimulating giving a clear picture of the challenges faced by the ADF’s Fairness and Resolution Centres. Located in each State and Territory of Australia, the Centres have had the challenge of implementing a comprehensive interest-based system for the management and resolution of workplace conflict, unacceptable behaviour and complaints within a power-based system such as the ADF. The speakers also highlighted the diversity of approaches, such as conlfict coaching on offer by the ADF.

Two initiatives also undertaken by the Chapter included the showcasing of the facilities offered at the Collins Street Mediation Centre, 15/350 Collins Street; a highly suitable venue available to practitioners on a casual basis. The other initiative included the opportunity for interested members and guests to join for a casual meal after the event; a practice the chapter is hoping to firmly establish as part of its post-event activities.

The Collins Street Mediation Centre provides meeting rooms and support facilities for mediation, arbitration, conciliation and negotiation.

CPD: 1.5 hours for National Mediator Accreditation System, 1.5 hours for LEADR accreditation.

Tuesday 17 June 2008

As a practice, transformative mediation is gaining increasing popularity within the ADR community. At this session, two experienced transformative practitioners, Janine Björkman and Jim Cyngler, demonstrated their skills in a live role play. (Janine is seated on the left of left hand photo. Jim is standing.)

Tuesday 29 April 2008. Practical steps on how to get started in a mediation practice: business development, de-briefing/mentoring and other practicalities presented by Di McDonald and Michael Tiernan.

On Thursday 29 November, members and friends of LEADR met for our annual AGM and Christmas dinner.

On 16 October at 5.30pm Jon Schauder lead a skills-based workshop on resolving high level conflict and Margaret Halsmith, LEADR's National Chair also gave an address.

On 29 March, over 50 LEADR members enjoyed a lively presentation by Alan Parker who displayed his uncontested expertise as a “behavioural scientist” and won over the crowd with his demonstration of a negotiation between a parent and a 15 year old child. As usual, Alan’s presentation was riveting and we are grateful to Alan for inspiring us and to the CMA Centre for hosting this event.

On a cold Melbourne evening on 31 May Julie Walker led an interactive discussion with LEADR members on conflict coaching – a popular new approach which combines coaching and ADR in workplace settings. When Julie is not coaching, she lives on her yacht in Far North Queensland and given we met Julie in the middle of Melbourne’s winter, many of us were envious of Julie’s novel approach to achieving work-life balance.

Nicole Cullen of the Victorian Chapter Executive attended an ADR Strategy Planning Conference held by the Department of Justice on 22 June 2007. Nicole’s report on this government research project was included in the LEADR newsletter.

The research results are contained in number of reports issued by the Department

Copies of these reports are available online at www.justice.vic.gov.au (click on “about us” and “our goals”)