Catchwords:

CIVIL PROCEDURE — summary disposal — want of due despatch — delays by self-represented appellant in prosecuting an appeal — new circumstances come to light — not in the interests of justice to dismiss proceedings

CIVIL PROCEDURE — Court of Appeal — objections to competency of appeal — uncertain whether leave to appeal required — appellant has attempted to comply with orders to file a summons seeking leave to appeal — appellant’s notice of appeal filed two days out of time — not in the interests of justice to dismiss proceedings

CIVIL PROCEDURE — summary disposal — dismissal of proceedings — non-appearance of plaintiff — plaintiff withdrew legal representation mid-way through hearing and later left the courtroom— whether r 29.7 of the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules (2005) (NSW) applies where a party leaves the court room mid-way through a hearing

CIVIL PROCEDURE — Court of Appeal — pro bono referral — party terminated previous pro bono referral — issue of principle emerged on appeal satisfying the “special reasons” requirement in r 7.36 of the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules (2005) (NSW)