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My review of Sarah Blake's mediation practice is based on six feedback digests and references. These included feedback from previous clients and fellow co-mediators, many of whom are also listed as referees. Sarah Blake has consistently been rated at a high performance level both by parties for whom she has acted as a mediator and by fellow co-mediators with whom she has co-mediated. A very high percentage of parties would recommend Ms Blake as a mediator – particularly as a cross-cultural mediator (this is supported by the number of parties willing to use her again and their willingness to provide a reference to parties considering her engagement as a mediator in the future). Those who experienced Ms Blake’s strategic approach to preparing for the mediation reported that her style enabled parties to feel confident both in her capacity and in the mediation process as whole. The following response from one party, presents a consistent reflection on parties experiences. “Sarah was very confident and down to earth which made her easy to work with. Sarah made sure that all those involved in the process had a good understanding of what “mediation” is and how it works before commencing the actual planning process. I found that ensured that all those involved did not have unrealistic expectations about mediation and that all involved had the same understanding about what the process would be. I felt that Sarah was very effective in empowering the participants with the result that they had ‘ownership” of the process.” She was congratulated for her understanding of the importance of proper preparation prior to the mediation - enabling the parties to determine whether mediation is the right path for them and if so how they can also prepare properly for the process. Respondents agreed that Ms Blake demonstrated a strong ability to work with people in high conflict situations, assisting them to find ways to work together to identify their issues in dispute and work to develop alternative options for resolution of conflict. Parties and co-mediators all commented on Ms Blake’s ability to ‘listen’ to parties and develop strategies that responded to their needs was a significant strength. Responses also indicate that her professional approach enables her to maintain integrity of process and impartiality. One respondent noted that “I was most impressed with Sarah’s ability to ensure and maintain the integrity of the process throughout. By doing this Sarah ensured that all participants felt the mediation was impartial”. Mention was made of Ms Blake’s exceptional ability and skill when working in cross cultural contexts, particularly when working with Indigenous Australians. Her professionalism and responsiveness were said to demonstrate a high standard of competency in cross-cultural conflict management. One referee spoke that her “manner of interaction with us and the complex issues in a complex cross-cultural context instilled confidence. She had a strong handle on the dynamics of cross-cultural conflict management.” Comments about her cross-cultural capacity indicated that she is highly capable of generating an environment where people feel comfortable and confident with the mediator, the process and outcomes they reach. A wide range of mediator skills have emerged from the feedback received regarding Ms Blake’s capacity as a Mediator. Responses consistently commented that she brings clarity, calmness and patience to the table, and is clear and transparent in the way she works with people and the process that she facilitates. Parties and fellow mediators consistently spoke of her integrity, flexibility, capacity to listen and passion which ensured that the mediations she has conducted have been of a high standard. No reportable negative comments have arisen in the past two calendar years.