Derryn Hinch - High Court challenge

It looks like Derryn Hinch is going to challenge his contempt charges in the High Court next month. This isn't the first time he's tried to challenge a contempt charge in the High Court. Ordinarily I wouldn't bother mentioning a challenge like this but his barrister is former Commonwealth Solicitor General David Bennett QC, who's flare in the court room was much admired when he was SG. His involvement suggests to me 1) that the challenge may have legs and 2) that, in any event, the argument could be entertaining.

Although, last time he was in the HCA his well known temper seemed to get the better of him. The transcript obviously obscures the enthusiasm of Bennett's submissions but:

McGovern v Ku-Ring-Gai Council [2009] HCATrans 48

MR BENNETT QC: ... we say well clearly they are because if one looks at page 159, one of the requirements is the development - - -

GUMMOW J: Now, Mr Bennett, the sound system [in the Court] is quite sophisticated. We are not in the middle of a paddock.

MR BENNETT: No. Well, your Honour, I submit it is an important issue for development applications - - -

GUMMOW J: If you just moderate your voice, we will all receive the wisdom more readily.

MR BENNETT: I am sorry, your Honour, I had the - - -