Errol Spence recognised for 50 years as a Justice of the Peace

For the past five decades, a Toowoomba man has helped changed the lives of thousands through his work as a Justice of the Peace, and now he has been recognised for his work.

Long-time Toowoomba resident Errol Spence has been recognised by the Queensland Government for clocking more than 50 years of service to the community.

Mr Spence was sworn in as a Justice of the Peace in 1972 while working in Townsville, a moment he said was his proudest in the past half century.

“I was a nervous 30-year-old, and I hadn’t experienced standing in front of a magistrate before, and they put you through the third degree prior to that,” he said.

“I was asked by the bank to become a JP because I was in a position where I needed to witness and sign a lot of documents in the managerial section.

“I’ve been happy to do it ever since – it gives me a sense of pride.”

Errol Spence awarded special recognition after serving as a JP for 50 years. Thursday, December 8, 2022. Picture: Nev Madsen.

During his time as a JP and Commission of Corporate Affairs, Mr Spence worked within the finance world, and the Toowoomba Building Society.

Mr Spence said it was his privilege to be able to help residents get into their first homes, and has witnessed marriage certificates, mortgages, wills, statutory declarations, property transfers, affidavits and other sundry documents.

“I’ve met all sorts of people … it’s felt good to be able to help them,” he said.

“I’ve been proud to be a JP all these years and provide a service to the community.”