The Chisholm Catholic College Mock Trial Team, Dennis Denutoes, has won the 2026 Law Society of Western Australia Mock Trial Competition, defeating Presbyterian Ladies’ College (PLC) in a memorable Grand Final at the Supreme Court of Western Australia on Thursday 29 October. From an original field of 122 teams, Chisholm has finished as the Champions, bringing an extraordinary competition campaign to a successful conclusion.

The Grand Final was presided over by The Hon Chief Justice Peter Quinlan, with Chisholm appearing for the defence in State of Western Australia v Nefertari. The case centred on Vivi Nefertari, who was accused of voluntarily participating in the operation of a pirate-controlled ship. The prosecution argued that she had deliberately assisted the crew, while the defence maintained that her actions were accidental and that she was a passenger rather than a member of the crew. It was a case that required the students to carefully examine the evidence, challenge opposing accounts and establish whether the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Our students rose to the occasion with a performance marked by composure, preparation and an impressive understanding of the law. Jayden Pham, appearing as first barrister, delivered an excellent opening address, clearly establishing the defence case and outlining the legal arguments that would underpin the team’s approach throughout the trial. He was also exceptionally quick to identify opportunities to object, successfully challenging the opposing team on several occasions and impressing the Chief Justice with his confidence and awareness of courtroom procedure.

Eleni Chapman, our second barrister, was outstanding. She remained cool, calm and collected throughout her examination-in-chief, even when facing repeated objections from opposing counsel. However, the highlight of the evening was undoubtedly her closing address. Combining a compelling summary of the defence case with some well-timed pirate-related puns, Eleni delivered a memorable performance that brought the courtroom proceedings to a fitting conclusion. She was a standout on the night.

Our witnesses were equally impressive. Hannah Pollitt faced the challenge of delivering the longest witness statement of the four witnesses in the trial, recalling her examination-in-chief with remarkable accuracy before holding her composure under a particularly strong cross-examination. Andrea Mandujano Liu also delivered an excellent examination-in-chief and demonstrated tremendous poise under cross-examination. In the words of our coach, she “didn’t give an inch”.

Behind the courtroom performances was an exceptional level of teamwork. Annika Rendall, as instructing solicitor, worked in perfect tandem with Jayden and Eleni. The understanding and communication between the three were remarkable, with the team operating like clockwork throughout the proceedings. It was a wonderful example of the trust, preparation and coordination required to perform at this level. Ben Wilathgamuwa also executed his role as Judge’s Associate with precision, speaking clearly and maintaining accurate records throughout the trial.

It is equally important to recognise our two reserve students, Ethan Lim and Emma Dean. The role of a reserve in Mock Trial is often one of the most demanding and least visible. They are expected to prepare the case, understand the evidence and support their teammates to the same standard as those taking part in the courtroom, without necessarily receiving the recognition on competition night. Ethan and Emma have been integral to the team throughout the final’s series, contributing countless hours of preparation and supporting their teammates at every stage. This achievement belongs to them just as much as it does to the students who appeared in the Grand Final. The team could not have reached this point without them.

This achievement also reflects the contribution of the many students who were part of Dennis Denutoes during the qualifying rounds. Although not all continued through to the finals series, each played a role in the team’s journey, contributing to the preparation, development and progress that made this result possible. Their efforts are also an important part of this success.

The standard of the students’ performance was recognised by The Hon Chief Justice Peter Quinlan, who remarked that their work was more impressive than that of university-level students. It was an extraordinary endorsement of the preparation, legal understanding and advocacy skills demonstrated by both teams.

Congratulations must also go to Presbyterian Ladies’ College, who were outstanding opponents throughout the Grand Final. The quality of the trial was exceptional, with both teams demonstrating remarkable preparation, composure and advocacy. It was a privilege to compete against such a talented group of students on such a significant occasion.

The announcement of Chisholm as the competition winners marked a particularly special moment for the team. Not only had our students successfully defended their client in the Grand Final, but they had also secured the overall 2026 Mock Trial Champions, finishing first from a field of 122 teams. To achieve both on the stage of the Supreme Court of Western Australia made the occasion all the more memorable.

A significant part of this success belongs to our coach, The Hon John McKechnie AO KC, whose expertise, guidance and tireless commitment have been instrumental in developing the team throughout the competition. We are also grateful to Ms Natasha Clark, who has worked with the students over several years, helping develop their advocacy, courtroom confidence and Mock Trial skills. Mr Jamie Gotti’s commitment to the team throughout the finals series has been exceptional, and his contribution has been invaluable to the students’ success.

Finally, it was wonderful to see Chisholm staff and students in attendance at the Supreme Court to support the team. Their presence meant a great deal to the students, who were genuinely grateful to have members of the College community there to share in such a significant occasion.

Congratulations to Jayden, Eleni, Hannah, Andrea, Annika, Ben, Ethan and Emma.

Winning the competition is an outstanding achievement, but the way this team has worked together, supported one another and represented Chisholm throughout the competition is just as worthy of recognition. They should be immensely proud of what they have accomplished.

Mr Ryan Dhue
Head of Humanities & Social Sciences