Simon McKenna

I grew up on the coast just north of Byron Bay, where I developed a lasting appreciation for the ocean and the outdoors. Many years later, while completing a four‑year circumnavigation of Australia, I discovered the Whitsundays and immediately knew it was where I wanted to settle once the voyage inevitably came to a close.

Outside of work, I’m a passionate outdoorsman, adventurer and filmmaker. I find real fulfilment in exploring remote places and seeking out some of the world’s last truly wild corners.

Why Law?

Law has always been of interest to me. I have long been drawn to the power of negotiation and agreement‑making that underpins the legal profession. In previous careers, this enthusiasm for confident leadership, problem‑solving and negotiation led me to manage restaurant chains across Australia and, later, to operate my own events and entertainment business. In that role, I was heavily involved in contract negotiations and project management, which deepened my interest in the commercial and legal aspects of business.

When the COVID‑19 pandemic temporarily halted the hospitality and events industries, I saw it as the ideal time to pursue my long‑held passion for law. I haven’t looked back since. Studying law has allowed me to learn new skills while applying my business experience in a fresh and meaningful way.

Why PD Law?

Having grown up in Byron Bay, I witnessed first-hand the rapid growth of the property market—much like what’s now happening here in the Whitsundays. I’ve always been fascinated by that process and wanted to assist people through what is often both a major personal milestone and an important financial investment.

During my studies, I supported myself by working in the mining industry, which gave me a real appreciation for the commercial consequences of major leasing arrangements and contract disputes. So, when the opportunity arose to join PD Law in the Whitsundays, it was a no-brainer.