A sentencing judge dealing with standard non-parole period offences is not required to nominate a point on a scale of seriousness by reference to a notional mid-point. The use of descriptors such as 'low end of the middle of the range' adds nothing of value to the process of instinctive synthesis. The judge must identify all factors relevant to objective seriousness but need not classify the offending on a hypothetical continuum. An aggregate sentence of 30 years with a 20-year non-parole period for 17 child sexual offences against nine victims over 28 years was upheld as not manifestly excessive.
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