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Female-led family law firm expands to Townsville in milestone year

Pippa Colman Family Law Directors_ L to R - Sarah Quilliam, Pippa Colman, Samantha Bolton

What’s happening?

On 3 March 2026, a specialist family law office will open in Townsville as part of the North Queensland expansion of Pippa Colman Family Law.

The Townsville office will be led by Senior Associate Nicole Turnbull, who practises across property and parenting matters, including complex financial settlements involving companies and family trusts.

The firm is led by three female directors and is approaching its 25-year milestone, marking sustained leadership in a demanding sector.

Why it matters?

The expansion brings additional accredited specialist family law capability into the Townsville market.

It strengthens services available to local families who require experienced representation in complex matters.

For Director Samantha Bolton, the move carries personal weight.

“Townsville has always been close to my heart,” Ms Bolton said.

“Having grown up here and with deep family connections to the region, this expansion is both professionally and personally meaningful. Establishing a presence in Townsville allows us to support families in a community I know and value deeply. It is important to us that regional clients have access to the same strategic, high-quality representation available in metropolitan centres.”

The leadership structure also highlights female-led growth in a competitive legal field.

Local impact

Townsville families will gain direct access to specialist family law expertise without relying on metropolitan firms.

The presence of accredited specialists in the region strengthens the local professional landscape and broadens options for clients facing significant life transitions.

The office signals long-term commitment rather than short-term expansion.

By the numbers

  • The Townsville office opens on 3 March 2026, marking the firm’s entry into the North Queensland market.

  • The firm was founded in 2001 and approaches its 25-year milestone in 2026.

  • The team includes three Accredited Specialists and three lawyers holding Master of Laws qualifications, reinforcing depth of expertise.

Zoom in

Senior Associate Nicole Turnbull will lead the Townsville office.

“I am thrilled to be leading the Townsville office and to provide North Queensland families with accessible, specialist family law support,” Ms Turnbull said.

“Our approach is grounded in clarity, preparation and strong advocacy, while recognising that clients are navigating deeply personal circumstances. Being based locally means we can offer responsive, practical advice with genuine insight into the Townsville community.”

Ms Turnbull has also been appointed as an Independent Children’s Lawyer, adding further capability in parenting matters.

Zoom out

Female leadership, longevity and deliberate regional growth form a strong feature angle.

A firm led by three female directors expanding into North Queensland as it approaches 25 years reflects sustained strategy in a demanding sector.

It also signals confidence in the regional market and in long-term service delivery beyond capital cities.

What to look for next?

The Townsville office will open on 3 March 2026.

The firm’s 25-year milestone later in 2026 will further highlight its longevity and future direction across Queensland.

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