Community & Business
28 May, 2025
Local JP recognised for his long service
A LOCAL Justice of the Peace (JP) had an extra-special birthday recently after he was recognised for an astonishing 50 years’ service with a certificate hand-delivered by the Member for Cook.
Richard (Dick) Eussen was presented with a certificate by Member for Cook David Kempton in recognition of his 50 years distinguished service as a Justice of the Peace for the state of Queensland.
Mr Eussen was sworn in as a JP in the 1970s at the Mount Isa Court House after being nominated by former Defence Minister and Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter.
He was then appointed a Justice of the Peace – Qualified, at the Mossman Court House in 1996, an “upgrade” that required extra study.
“Being a JP is an honour and a way to serve the community,” the Mareeba resident of over two decades said.
“The certificate was also a birthday present as I turned 83 years of age a few days earlier.
“JPs are an important link for people and the state’s justice system for witnessing legal documents and other forms that require a JP witness signature.
“I am in the phonebook and available to witness documents, including by the QLD Police Service. There are no fees charged by a JP and the service is free.”
Mr Kempton said although the role of a JP is voluntary, it carries immense responsibility.
“Congratulations to Dick for 50 years of service as a JP. Mareeba has been truly fortunate to benefit from his integrity and commitment,” he said.
“Fifty years as a Justice of the Peace is an incredible milestone. Dick’s dedication to witnessing and certifying vital legal documents has helped countless individuals while easing the burden on our courts and legal system.”
Mr Eussen was also the first JP appointed in the new township of Jabiru and the Kakadu National Park in 1979 and was the acting magistrate when required.
He and his family resided in Jabiru for a decade before moving to the Daintree and Mossman where he formed the first guided fishing operation on the Daintree River before commencing 4WD tours into the Daintree rainforest, Chillagoe and the Cape York Peninsula.
He is also an outdoor writer, photographer, and author. He is known Australia-wide for his books and adventure stories in national outdoor, shooting and travel magazines about the Australian tropics and for promoting local travel destinations and tourist attractions.
Mr Eussen remains an active JP and is “on call” for anyone wanting JP services for the Queensland Police Service and the public.
