Law and order has featured prominently on the King’s Birthday Honours List this year on the Far South Coast.
Long time Judge Doug Dick awarded an OAM for his distinguished service on the bench including fronting the local courts from Batemans Bay through to Eden.
Judge Dick said he is humbled by this award and sincerely appreciates the recognition of my many years of service to the community.
He commenced legal career in 1975 and was appointed to the bench of the Local Court of NSW in 1995.
“I have held my commission as a Judicial Officer and Coroner for more than 30 years. Courts are the gatekeepers of justice. Courts help protect individual rights,” Judge Dick said.
“My range of judicial functions includes criminal, civil, special, children and coronial jurisdictions. Courts aim to resolve disputes fairly while at the same time, maintain accountability. I hope that by applying laws in a consistent and impartial manner I have promoted public confidence and protected the vulnerable,” he said.
“I am one of 159 Judges who sit on the bench of the Local Court of NSW, the busiest court in Australia. My colleagues are an inspiration to me. They have integrity, knowledge, patience and good judgment. They work under immense pressure all the while exhibiting self-discipline, respectfulness and understanding.
“Making fair decisions in every case that comes before the court is central to public confidence. Listening is important because everyone has a story. Being cautious, showing impartiality and exercising good judgment are tethered to justice. The role of a Judge requires courage, self-control and professionalism hopefully built upon a foundation of compassion and community values.
“I am independent but also feel part of the general community I live in, not removed from it. My role does require me to maintain distance in certain situations to protect fairness and promote trust. I took an oath to apply the law without favour or ill will.
Also honoured former South Coast Police District Commander Darren Brand, who recently transferred up to the Lake Illawarra command, former Federal Liberal politician John Haslem, owner of the Narooma Ice Creamery Kristy Beecham, Batemans Bay community volunteer Margaret Turner and Animal Welfare League official Wendy Cook.
