Justices of the Peace back at Ballarat Police Station

Harry Gibcus, a retired former teacher, is one of the 30 certified Justices of the Peace who are on the roster at the document signing station at Dana Street.

They are among about 150 Justices of the Peace in Ballarat, many who are members of the Royal Victorian Association of Honorary Justices.

Mr Gibcus is one of the roster coordinators at the police station and has been keenly organising for the volunteers to return to witnessing legal documents such as statutory declarations and affidavits and certifying true copies of other documents such as birth certificates.

The service was ceased at the police station in March, following Stage 3 restrictions being put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.

During the past four months, Mr Gibcus has been receiving at least a call a day from community members wanting their documents witnessed.

While police officers, doctors and pharmacists can also sign documents and did so during the lockdown, Mr Gibcus said signing paperwork prevented them from other duties.

He said he was glad to be back in the environment at the police station, where he could help people work through the often confusing process of signing legal documents.

Mr Gibcus, who has been a Justice of the Peace for almost 15 years, was nominated by fellow community members when he lived in Creswick and thoroughly enjoys the community service.

"I am dedicated to serving the community and the police force," he said.

He said those on duty at the police station travel from as far as Meredith, Ballan and Haddon and regularly updated their training.

Social distancing and good hand hygiene must be maintained when visiting the service, while community members are encouraged to bring their own pens.

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