Belinda Mash, Lawyer
otherwise known as the ‘the horse whisperer.’
“My life has taught me that everyone — people and animals alike — deserves someone in their corner. I became a lawyer to use what I’ve learned, both in life and in study, to help those who need a voice.”
Belinda Mash, Lawyer
Meet Belinda Mash – our ‘horse whispering’ Lawyer’.
Belinda’s roots run deep in the Coffs Coast – a region that embodies her ‘true blue’ nature. Her early career was anything but traditional. She explored diverse industries, lived in different regions, and embraced opportunities that broadened her perspective and shaped her understanding of people from all walks of life. These experiences continue to shape how she approaches her work and connects with people.
Entering the legal profession later in life has given Belinda a practical perspective that truly sets her apart. She understands and relates to the challenges people face because she has lived them, and she approaches every matter with compassion, clarity, and a genuine desire to help.
Belinda has completed a double degree in Law and Business at Southern Cross University, giving her a strong foundation in both legal knowledge and commercial insight. She is passionate about supporting individuals, families, and small businesses, and she values clear communication and accessible, down-to-earth advice.
A lifelong animal lover, Belinda also has a strong interest in animal law and animal protection, contributing to a growing area of legal practice that closely aligns with her personal values and passions.
Question time! Getting to know Belinda – the ‘horse whispering’ Lawyer at Abbotts & Co Lawyers.
How do you turn a bad day into a good day? OR how do you unwind at the end of the day/ week…
Believe it or not, I don’t really have ‘bad’ days (YET!!) but I do like to unwind by walking my dogs, having a beer (or two..) and swimming (in summer).
Best piece of advice you have ever received (or the worst)?
My Dad- who is quite the perfectionist- told me when I was pretty young “If you’re not going to do it properly, don’t do it at all” I live by this statement and believe if I’m going to do something, anything at all, it can’t be half-a&%ed!
What three things will you always find in your fridge/ pantry – can’t live without?
Chilli, Beer, Milk.
What one meal do you think you have perfected?
Takeaway, definitely Takeaway!
What are three things that you enjoy about working at Abbotts and Co?
I love the laid-back atmosphere, which is a relaxing, stress-free way to work within this field. It allows for friendly but professional interactions with our clients, colleagues and each other.
I promise this isn’t flattery, but my boss is pretty cool! If you’ve met Kieran, you know!
I really enjoy the variety of matters that we deal with. The law is constantly changing; therefore, I am constantly learning.
If you could change one law – what would it be and why?
If I could change one law, it would be the classification of pets as property. I don’t believe animals are merely objects. To me, they are sentient beings with emotions, character and relationships. Changing their legal status would reflect the bonds we have with them and allow for stronger protections against cruelty, neglect, and mistreatment. I believe it would be a change that would bring the law closer to how most of us already feel about our pets.
If you had to give an hour-long TED talk on one topic – what would it be (and what would the title of the talk be)?
There is a theme happening here! My TED talk topic would definitely be about animals. I would ideally like to talk about animals and the law…but I’d be sure to sway off topic and just talk about animals…only an hour? I could talk about animals until the cows come home- ha-ha. Pun intended! The title would probably be something along the lines of “Animals can teach us about being human”
What is your superpower/ one thing which you think people need to know about you?
Although I only speak English, I seem to have a knack for understanding people who speak no or limited English… Maybe I was multilingual in a previous life?!
What is the funniest/ most untrue thing that people assume about you/ you as a lawyer…?
“That I wear suits or fancy clothing every day to go to work in the office.” I sure don’t own a suit, and we don’t have a physical office!
If your style of lawyering were a music genre, what would it be and why?
Country music for sure; with an Aussie twang! Apart from the fact I love Country Music, I am down to earth, loyal, and approachable. I speak plainly and honestly and have strong values. And like any good country song, I have humour when it helps.