The departure of the avuncular Greg Hammond of Mallesons Stephen Jaques back to Sydney will cause something of a void in London.

For the highly popular fellow dispelled a myth or three in his time heading up the Australian firm's London office. Allegedly, he is the first Aussie to beat an Irish man in the Scotch Whisky drinking stakes.

Rumour has it, and we stress that it is only a rumour, Hammond took on the might of A & L Goodbody on this front. It was tough – but Hammond did it. Will Tim Blue, his replacement be up to the challenge? Only time, and a few bottles of the red stuff, will tell.