As the 2007 year comes to an end, I am happy to report that WSG is going from strength to strength. Membership is growing, collaborations among firms continue increasing referrals, and the events continue to grow in attendance.

With over 120 participants at the luncheon in Singapore, members are regarding these as the “must attend” events for networking. The luncheon was held in the exclusive Tower Club where members from every continent were able to network among the extraordinary views of beautiful Singapore from more than 700 ft above the city. Additionally, a WSG Asia Pacific Regional Meeting was held consisting of many important topics for the region. Participants plan to focus on recruiting new members for the unfilled jurisdictions in the region with the goal of making this one of WSG’s strongest assets.

The coming year offers many planned events including WSG’s presence at the Latin American and North American IBA Regional Meeting, the European Regional Meeting, INTA and many more. I would also like your input for ideas to take WSG to the next level. Please share your thoughts on major issues and possible WSG projects, such as climate change or how we can better promote the level of services provided by member firms. I welcome any ideas you may have and hope that you will email me at peter.bartlett@minterellison.com or contact me directly at +61 3 8608 2677.

Enjoy this Holiday Season and I look forward to continuing to make a more successful WSG in 2008.

Peter Bartlett