Page:R v McBride (No 4).pdf/30

 145․ The personal references recorded that Mr McBride has "a rare combination of humility and at the same time a passion for justice". Another reference relates to his participation in Alcoholics Anonymous and suggests that a non-custodial sentence would make a "huge and positive difference" both to Mr McBride and to other members of Alcoholics Anonymous who he helps to stay sober. It also records that separation from his therapy dog would be "extremely damaging".

146․ Amongst the additional bundle of references that were tendered are a mix of references from members of his family, long-time friends of his as well as those that have known him through his work as a reserve legal officer or a full-time member of the ADF. A common theme of the references relating to his time in the military is his sense of duty, his sense of professional responsibility, his intelligence and hard work. The long-time friends talk of his empathy, kindness and compassion. One of the references, which recognises the significant emotional toll taken on him by his tours of active service, attempts to address the offending conduct and describes it as "an appalling lack of judgment".

147․ The intensive correction order assessment report does not record any remorse in relation to the offending. It records the following:

148․ Mr McBride has no criminal history.

149․ Some further aspects of Mr McBride's subjective circumstances are addressed in the next section of these reasons which relate to specific submissions on factual matters made on behalf of Mr McBride.