Meet the team
At Brennans Solicitors, we pride ourselves on delivering comprehensive and personalised legal services to clients throughout Queensland.
Brennans has been servicing the Sunshine Coast for over 45 years and with our commitment to excellence and our client focused approach means our clients receive the highest standard of legal representation.
Meet the Brennans Solicitors team, your dedicated partners in navigating the complexities of commercial law on the Sunshine Coast. Our experienced team is committed to providing personalised legal advice and innovative solutions to help your business succeed.
Nicole has developed her expertise in a wide range of areas and advises on a range of issues including:
Commercial and property:
- Commercial building sales and purchases;
- Development of residential, commercial and industrial land;
- Leasing (commercial, retail, industrial);
- Residential conveyancing;
- Business sales and purchases;
- Contracts and Agreements;
- Shareholder agreements and Share sales and purchases.
Pharmacy Law
- Pharmacy business sales and purchases;
- Pharmacy relocations;
- Advising on and ensuring compliance with the Pharmacy Business Ownership Act.
Wills, Estate Planning & Will Disputes:
Nicole provides her clients with practical advice in all aspects of Wills and Estate Planning, Estate Administration, Succession Planning for structures, Superannuation Succession Planning and Estate Disputes.
Nicole’s expertise in Wills and Estate Planning means she can provide advice and assistance to clients in a range of matters including:
- Wills (including Testamentary Trusts);
- Enduring Powers of Attorney & Advanced Health Directives;
- Superannuation Binding Death Benefit Nominations;
- Granny Flat Agreements and Family Loans;
- Estate Administration;
- Probate and Letters of Administration;
- Property transmission applications;
- Advice to executors and beneficiaries of estates;
- Family Provision Applications;
- Will and Estate disputes;
- QCAT Guardianship and Administration matters;
- Disability Law.
Commercial Litigation:
- Breach of contract;
- Property disputes.
Nicole Downs
Principal Solicitor
Nicole was admitted as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2002 and to the High Court of Australia in 2006. Nicole went on to develop her skillset as a senior associate at a national law firm in Brisbane, where she provided advice and assistance to clients on large commercial projects to now managing and owning Brennans Solicitors.
Nicole assists private clients, small to large businesses, and corporate clients. With her strong understanding of clients’ commercial operations, coupled with her experience gained over the last 20 + years, Nicole delivers a practical and results-driven approach to clients’ matters.
As a dedicated solicitor, Nicole combines professionalism and expertise with a genuine commitment to her clients. She is known for her approachable nature, clear communication, and ability to guide clients through complex legal matters with confidence and care. Nicole values building connections and contributing positively both professionally and personally.
Nicole is a proud mum of two energetic boys and balances her busy life with a passion for health, fitness, and giving back to the community.
Professional Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Laws
- Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice
- Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland
- Solicitor of the High Court of Australia
Memberships
- Member of the Queensland Law Society
- Member of the Sunshine Coast Law Association
Joseph practices in the following areas of law:
Property, Commercial, and Residential Matters
- Acting in residential and commercial property sales and acquisitions
- Advising on and preparing leases, including residential, commercial, retail, and industrial leases
- Assisting with the sale and purchase of businesses across various industries
- Preparing mortgages and release of mortgages
- Providing independent legal advice to guarantors
Estate Planning and Administration
- Preparing Wills, including those incorporating Testamentary Trusts, Enduring Powers of Attorney and Advance Health Directives
- Advising on Superannuation Binding Death Benefit Nominations
- Preparing and advising on Granny Flat Agreements and family loan arrangements
- Managing all aspects of Estate Administration
- Obtaining Grants of Probate and Letters of Administration
- Lodging Property Transmission Applications and Record of Death
- Providing legal advice to executors and beneficiaries
Joseph Lyons
Solicitor
Joseph Lyons leads the Commercial and Property department at Brennans Solicitors, where he practises across a broad range of matters, including business transactions, leasing, commercial and residential conveyancing as well as retirement village and nursing home transactions.
In addition to his Commercial and Property expertise, Joseph also practises in Estate Planning, assisting clients with the preparation of Wills (including Testamentary Trusts) and Powers of Attorney.
Demonstrating his commitment to ongoing professional development, Joseph completed a Graduate Diploma in Wills and Estates through the College of Law.
Outside of work, Joseph and his partner are busy raising their young son, embracing the adventures of family life and making the most of every moment together on the Sunshine Coast.
Professional Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice
- Graduate Diploma of Applied Law (Wills and Estates)
- Admitted as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland
Professional Memberships
- Queensland Law Society
- Sunshine Coast Law Association
Mackenzie Winsen
Solicitor
Mackenzie Winsen is an experienced legal professional with a strong focus on Commercial and Corporate litigation matters. Her experience in Commercial litigation, Corporations law and broader business and commercial law, allows her to provide strategic, results-driven advice to clients across a range of industries.
Mackenzie also brings valuable expertise in taxation and state revenue, offering clients clear guidance through complex regulatory and financial frameworks. Known for her practical approach and attention to detail, she is committed to delivering effective legal solutions tailored to each client’s needs.
Outside of work, Mackenzie enjoys spending time with her husband and keeping up with the adventures of their energetic puppy, who ensures there’s never a dull moment.
Mackenzie practices in the following areas of law:
Commercial litigation
- Representing clients in disputes arising from contracts, business transactions, or commercial relationships
- Advising on risk management and dispute resolution strategies before escalation to court
- Conducting pre-litigation negotiations and settlement discussions
- Preparing and filing court documents, pleadings, and submissions
- Managing discovery, evidence, and witness preparation for hearings or trials
- Representing clients in mediations, arbitrations, or alternative dispute resolution processes
- Advising on remedies such as damages, injunctions, or specific performance in property and commercial disputes
Corporations Law
- Advising directors and officers on their duties and responsibilities under corporate legislation
- Providing guidance on shareholder agreements, rights, and disputes
- Advising on compliance with corporate reporting, disclosure, and regulatory obligations
- Managing corporate records and ensuring ongoing statutory compliance
Business and Commercial Law
- Advising businesses on their day-to-day legal obligations, including compliance with relevant laws and regulations
- Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating commercial contracts such as supply agreements, service agreements, and terms and conditions
- Providing guidance on buying and selling businesses, including due diligence and transaction documentation
- Advising on shareholder rights, director duties, and corporate governance matters
- Managing and resolving commercial disputes, including breach of contract and business disagreements
- Advising on financing arrangements, loans, and security agreements
Taxation and State Revenue
- Advising businesses and individuals on compliance with federal, state, and local taxation laws
- Assisting with tax planning for corporate reorganisations, mergers, and acquisitions
- Advising on duties, levies, and other state-imposed charges applicable to businesses
- Providing guidance on GST, income tax, payroll tax, and other relevant taxes
- Helping clients understand and manage risks associated with tax legislation changes
- Supporting strategic business decisions with a clear understanding of tax implications
Professional Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice
- Admitted as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland
- Admitted as a Solicitor of the High Court of Australia
- Masters of Laws (2026)
- Diploma of Business
Professional Memberships
- Queensland Law Society
- Sunshine Coast Law Association
Safeguard your business, assets and rights.
Choosing the right legal representation is crucial to achieving the best outcomes for your legal matters. At Brennans Solicitors, we understand the importance of trust, expertise, and personalised service. Our commitment to excellence and our client-focused approach ensure that we provide top-tier legal solutions tailored to your unique needs. Here’s why Brennans Solicitors is the right choice for you.
Experience You Can Trust
We are experts in commercial law and offer a wide range of specialised legal services
We have a deep understanding of the local market and legal landscape on the Sunshine Coast
We provide Personalised service and legal advice that address each client's unique needs and concerns.
We offer clear communication, ensuring our clients are well informed and understand the process
We are a proactive legal team, offering advice and Strategy planning to help clients protect their interests
We have a proven track record of successful outcomes, backed by decades of experience.
Client Reviews
services
- Business Contracts and Advice
- Commercial Transactions
- Leasing & Licensing
- Pharmacy Law
- Residential Conveyancing
- Commercial Conveyancing
- Property Development
- Retirement Village
- Manufactured Home Parks
- Litigation and Dispute Resolution
- Wills, Estate Planning & Disability Law
- Probate & Administration of Estates
Commercial & Business Transactions
Property, Conveyancing & Developments
Wills, Estates & Probate
Litigation & Dispute Resolution
Contact
K1 Building,
12/16 Innovation Parkway,
Birtinya, Sunshine Coast
QLD 4575
PO Box 7223, Sippy Downs
QLD 4556