As a member of the Queensland Development Tribunal, I was responsible for hearing and deciding appeals, including against development application. Development Tribunals are typically formed of 2-5 members, one of which is nominated as chair, and held onsite in a relatively informal setting between appellants, respondents, and sometimes other parties. They are a great alternative to the Planning and Environment Court for simple design and siting matters in low density construction.The sitting Tribunal was required to gather information from those present at the hearing, then consider the evidence and decide to uphold or replace the decision being appealed, or direct the original decision maker to remake their decision.I found it to be a great experience to be given the responsibility of such a role. I had the opportunity to be a tribunal member on several tribunals, and chair one tribunal. I was able to further develop my skills in legal issues such as natural justice and rules of evidence, various development legislation, and documentation of decision making including writing the decisions.