The Brandon & Gullo Team

Ashley and team are passionate about supporting their clients during often difficult times. They have extensive experience in personal injury law so you’re in very good hands.

Ashley Gullo

Ashley co-founded Brandon & Gullo Lawyers with partner Rob Brandon in 2006. Under his leadership, the firm has expanded significantly, earning a place on the BRW Fast 100 list in 2013, 2015, and 2017. As a highly successful Personal Injury lawyer, he brings extensive experience in negotiating complex claims on behalf of his clients.
Ashley has successfully pioneered a culture within the corporate world that makes room for family commitments. By creating a flexible workplace and hours for his employees – rarely seen in the legal industry – Brandon & Gullo Lawyers has become a sought-after workplace in Southeast Queensland. Ashley serves as special counsel to one of Australia’s largest religious organisations, which operates globally and encompasses a university, bank, and schools.
Ashley is a skilled negotiator and the author of the Negotiate Well series. Ashley, together with his wife Karen, teach on personal finance bringing together wisdom on personal wealth building and principles of generosity and generational prosperity. Ashley also speaks at business conferences and forums both in Australia and internationally, and mentors numerous entrepreneurs.
Ashley is consistently recognized by the state’s Defendant Insurance Solicitors and Barristers as one of Queensland’s leading lawyers in Work Injury compensation and Motor Vehicle Accident compensation. Since 2018, he has been acknowledged annually in the prestigious Doyles Awards for his expertise in these areas.

Director | Founder | Lawyer

Karen Gullo

Karen is the General Manager and co-founder of Brandon & Gullo Lawyers. She brings a unique blend of sharp business knowledge and a heart for community to everything she does. With a background as a social worker and growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, Karen combines financial expertise with a passion for helping others.
In addition to managing multiple businesses, Karen is the co-author of a finance course alongside her husband and Managing Partner, Ashley. She also a member on several boards, championing local community initiatives and charitable causes.
When she’s not in the office, Karen and Ashley are busy raising their three children and running a commercial lime farm.

General Manager

Susan Gaskell

Susan Gaskell is a Principal (non-director) at Brandon & Gullo Lawyers and a dedicated member of our Personal Injury team. Sue has been passionate about personal injury law since her early studies.
Originally admitted as a lawyer in England and Wales in 2006, Sue’s law career began with one of the UK’s largest law firms, where she gained hands-on experience while attending law school at night—showcasing her drive and resilience. After graduating, Sue spent the next 11 years working as a solicitor. In 2007 Sue embraced an exciting new chapter, moving to Australia to join a leading personal injury firm. Drawn to the Sunshine Coast’s beauty, Sue joined Brandon & Gullo Lawyers in 2017, bringing her wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to her clients.
Sue is passionate about helping those injured due to others’ negligence, guiding them through treatment, rehabilitation, and achieving the maximum compensation they deserve. She’s known for her transparent, supportive approach, making a stressful process as smooth as possible. Her expertise and care have not gone unnoticed—in 2024 Sue was a finalist for the Sunshine Coast Businesswomen’s Network Professional Businesswoman of the Year and has been recognised by Doyles as a ‘Rising Star’ in Personal Injury law.
Outside of work, Sue loves spending time with four children, exploring the beautiful beaches and parks of the Sunshine Coast, and cheering on her kids’ sporting teams.
Sue was also recognised by Doyles as one of the country’s ‘Rising Star’ Personal Injury Lawyers!

Principal (non-Director)

Kirk Watterston

Principal (non-Director)

Kirk is a Principal (non-director) at Brandon & Gullo Lawyers and has been recognised by Doyles as a leading lawyer in Personal Injury.

“Dealing with an insurance company is difficult at the best of times, so trying to do that whilst you’re injured is extremely difficult. I enjoy helping people take on insurance companies and ensuring that they secure the compensation that will get their lives back on track.”

Zac Smithers

Zachary Smithers joined Brandon & Gullo Lawyers in 2020, bringing dedication and drive to each of his matters. A University of the Sunshine Coast graduate with First Class Honours, Zac was admitted as a lawyer in 2018.
Zac is passionate about advocating for clients who have faced unexpected challenges due to personal injuries. He fights for fair outcomes with empathy and determination, ensuring his clients receive maximum compensation while navigating the process with honest, transparent guidance.
Outside the office, Zac thrives on staying active and enjoying the great outdoors. He’s a keen participant in touch football, CrossFit, and camping adventures, as well as beach trips with friends and family

Senior Associate

Emily Wilson

Emily is a dedicated member of our team, having made a difference in the lives of our clients since 2017. With additional experience in commercial law and wills and estates, Emily brings a well-rounded approach to her work.
Passionate about helping clients, Emily finds fulfilment in advocating for those seeking the treatment and outcomes they deserve. She also leverages her commercial law expertise to navigate and strengthen claims for self-employed clients, ensuring they receive tailored and effective support.
Outside the office, Emily enjoys true crime podcasts, discovering new dining spots, and spending quality time with her family on the beautiful coast.

Senior Associate

Elliott Hynes

Elliott has been a valued member of Brandon & Gullo Lawyers since 2016, starting as a Legal Clerk and progressing into one of our Lawyers. While completing his studies, Elliott gained invaluable experience working closely with Managing Director Ashley Gullo, where he developed a deep appreciation for helping clients access treatment and compensation after unexpected incidents.
Elliott’s dedication and passion for law shine through in his work each day, making him an integral part of our team.
Away from the office, Elliott is a devoted Manchester United supporter and a keen follower of the English Premier League. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter and discovering new cafes on the coast.

Lawyer

Romy Close

Romy joined Brandon & Gullo Lawyers in 2019 as a Law Clerk, Romy has progressed to one our lawyers. As a graduate of Queensland University of Technology with a Bachelor of Laws, Romy is passionate about helping clients navigate their personal injury cases. She takes pride in providing support and guidance during what can be a difficult time, ensuring her clients feel cared for every step of the way.
Outside of work, Romy enjoys spending quality time with her husband and son, burying her nose in a good book and embracing the joys of family life.

Lawyer

Elias Rundell

Elias joined Brandon & Gullo Lawyers in 2020 as a Law Clerk and has since progressed into one of our lawyers. With a people-first approach, Elias is passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of his clients, working tirelessly to achieve the best outcomes for them.
When he’s not advocating for his clients, Elias embraces the Sunshine Coast lifestyle. He loves spending time outdoors and making the most of the region’s natural beauty.

Lawyer

Sam Boaza

Riette de Jager Marketing & Communications Lead

Sam has been an integral part of Brandon & Gullo Lawyers since 2013 and now serves as our Office Manager. A graduate of the University of the Sunshine Coast with a Bachelor of Business,
Sam works closely with the lawyers and General Manager Karen Gullo to ensure the office operates seamlessly and our clients receive exceptional service.
Outside of the office, Sam enjoys diving into a good book, cheering on the Rugby League, and staying connected with friends through social activities. Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, Sam developed a deep love for food, making her our resident foodie!

Office Manager

Riette de Jager

Riette is our Marketing and Communications Lead at Brandon & Gullo Lawyers, having joined the team in 2023. With a wealth of experience in the marketing and communications industry, Riette plays a key role in supporting our team to deliver exceptional work. Her extensive international background includes working in London with a corporate events company, as well as experience in Public Relations, Marketing, and Stakeholder Engagement across Rural and Regional Australia.
Riette is passionate about using her expertise to develop clear communications that simplify complex ideas for both the team and clients.
Outside of work, Riette enjoys travelling, attending theatre performances, and exploring new cuisines and wines.

Marketing & Communications Lead

Taylor Blair

Taylor is a Managing Paralegal, working alongside solicitor Zachary Smithers. With a legal career spanning over a decade, Taylor has been an essential part of Brandon & Gullo Lawyers since 2015. She also brings valuable experience in conveyancing from her time at another Sunshine Coast law firm.
Taylor thrives on the challenges of personal injury work. She embraces the unique nature of every case and brings her dedication and expertise to each one.
Outside of work, Taylor’s talents extend far beyond the legal world. She enjoys sewing, baking, and Samba dancing. Fun fact: Taylor is also a qualified secondary school teacher!

Managing Paralegal

Zoe Worth

Zoe is a Senior Paralegal who works closely with Associate Lawyer Emily Wilson, bringing her extensive legal experience to our Team. Since joining Brandon & Gullo Lawyers in 2018, Zoe has contributed her expertise across conveyancing, estates, business, and commercial law. With an extensive legal career, Zoe has worked with firms in Toowoomba, Brisbane, and the Sunshine Coast, making her a seasoned professional in the field.
Outside the office, Zoe enjoys relaxing with a good book, capturing moments through her love of photography, and exploring new destinations through travel. She also cherishes quality time with friends and family.

Senior Paralegal

Shani Chamberlain

Shani is a dedicated paralegal, working alongside Principal (non-director) Susan Gaskell. With over a decade of experience in the legal profession, Shani brings a wealth of expertise to her role at Brandon & Gullo Lawyers. Shani’s exceptional organisational skills and experience ensures she supports both clients and her team to achieve great outcomes.
Shani values building personal connections with clients and taking the time to understand their unique stories.
Outside of work, Shani loves spending quality time with her husband and two young children, catching up with friends, and unwinding with a pizza and a glass of wine.

Senior Paralegal

Michelle Higginbotham

Michelle joined Brandon & Gullo Lawyers in 2020 as a paralegal, working closely with Principal (non-director) Susan Gaskell. With exceptional multitasking skills and a strong background in customer service, Michelle is dedicated to guiding clients through the complexities of their claims with care and compassion.
She takes the time to understand each client’s unique situation, striving to achieve the best possible outcomes for them.
Outside the office, Michelle enjoys spending quality time with her young family, indulging in shopping, baking delicious treats, and relaxing with her favourite TV shows.

Law Clerk

Elliot Lloyd

Elliot is a Law Clerk on Zachary Smithers’ team. He was awarded a Bachelor of International Studies in 2012 and a Bachelor of Laws in 2016 from the University of Wollongong. Elliot was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of NSW in 2016 and predominantly practiced criminal law until relocating to the Sunshine Coast to work as a Law Clerk at Brandon and Gullo Lawyers. He enjoys working with his team to achieve the best outcomes for clients and helping people in their time of need.
When he’s not in the office, Elliot is experiencing everything that the Sunshine Coast has to offer. He enjoys off roading, camping, and the beach.

Law Clerk

Leneyah Pugh

Leneyah Pugh is part of Elliott Hynes’ team and a recent Bachelor of Laws graduate from the University of the Sunshine Coast. Passionate about making a positive impact, Leneyah is dedicated to helping clients navigate their legal matters with care and expertise.
Outside of work, Leneyah enjoys expressing her creativity through sewing and baking, adding her own personal flair to everything she does.

Lawyer

Sam Higgins

Sam Higgins is a dedicated paralegal who works closely with Lawyer Elliott Hynes. While currently studying a Bachelor of Laws at Queensland University of Technology, Sam finds great fulfilment in helping clients navigate their claim journey, offering support and guidance to those facing challenging situations.
Passionate about people, Sam values time spent with friends and family. Outside of work, you’ll often find him on the golf course or watching the English premier league.

Paralegal

Graciella McKenzie

Graciella is a paralegal on Lawyer Romy Close’s team. She is currently studying a double degree of a Bachelor of Laws and Business Honours at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Graciella has completed multiple research internships with her professors and is a keen learner. She loves the personal and people focused side of Personal Injury law and is passionate about helping people make their lives easier during a really difficult time.
Outside of work hours, Graciella enjoys exercising, cooking for her loved ones, and spending time at the beach.

Paralegal

Flynn Purvis

Flynn is one of our paralegals, part of Elias Rundell’s team. He is currently undertaking a double degree of a Bachelor of Laws and Criminology at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Flynn made his first impression here at Brandon & Gullo Lawyers as work experience student and officially joined the team in 2025. His dedication and passion for wanting to help others navigate the challenges that come with personal injury law, has made him a wonderful asset to the team.
When he’s not in the firm or studying in the library, Flynn enjoys hanging out with friends and family, playing cricket or the guitar.

Paralegal

Jasmine Waddell

Jasmine is a paralegal in Susan Gaskell’s team and is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Laws at Australian Catholic University. Driven by her passion for justice, Jasmine finds fulfilment in her work knowing she is helping achieve meaningful outcomes for clients.
Outside of work, Jasmine stays active with Pilates and Jujitsu and loves starting her day with sunrises at the beach.

Paralegal

Annalise Witney

Annalise is a paralegal for Principle (non-director) Kirk Watterston. She and is a Law (Honours) graduate from Griffith University and has previous experience working in Wills and Estates, Criminal, and Family law.

“I chose to work in law because I found that it’s not just a job. It's more about helping people, even in the most difficult times. My family and friends, the people in my world, have benefited from the help of a lawyer and I want to do the same.”

Paralegal

Sienna Higgins

Sienna joined Brandon & Gullo Lawyers as an Administrative Assistant in 2024 and has quickly become an invaluable member of our team. Sienna is a friendly face when clients first walk through the doors and lends a helping hand to the team and our clients in various capacities. Known for her exceptional organisational skills, attention to detail, and team-oriented approach, Sienna plays a key role in ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Outside of work, Sienna enjoys sewing, spending time at the beach, and travelling with friends.

Administration

David Solymosi

Administration

David Solymosi is an Accounts Assistant at Brandon & Gullo Lawyers and is currently studying for a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Known for his dedication, David goes above and beyond to support both our clients and the team.
Outside of work, David enjoys reading, playing basketball, and is passionate about helping the youth in his community.