Justice of the Peace (JP) - Ms Shirmaine Cheung

Shirmaine Cheung volunteers as a JP at the Brisbane Magistrates Court.

"I love the feeling of being able to contribute to the community and do what I'm best at, including handling documents and dealing with people and bringing my language skills and understanding of cultural sensitivities to the JP work."

Describe your volunteering role?

I volunteer at the Brisbane Magistrates Court and the JP Signing Centre at Centro Springwood. The role varies between the two different locations. The courts can be quite business-like - issuing police search and arrest warrants, and then quite emotional - assisting people with emotionally difficult situations such as divorce applications, applications for consent orders regarding children or property, and applications for Justice Examination Orders regarding a family member or a friend who may have mental issues. It's much more than just witnessing signatures. The shopping centre work is a different atmosphere again. I enjoy the community spirit and it is gratifying to hear people's feedback that they really appreciate having access to the JP service in their local vicinity.

What motivated you to volunteer?

I had been travelling between Australia and Hong Kong and other parts of Asia with my banking and commerce work and decided to take a few years off to spend some quality time with my family. In my line of work, it would be very difficult to find a part-time position that fits in with my family commitments. I prefer to use my spare time for a worthwhile cause - something that will benefit not just myself but also other people in the community. So, I decided to use my skills to volunteer. I was good with handling papers and experienced in dealing with people. I knew I had a lot to offer as a volunteer JP. I also wanted to keep my skills up while I wasn't working. Being a volunteer JP is a perfect fit for me. Not only does it give me the opportunity to continue practising my skills, but it also allows me to stay in close touch with members of the community and be involved in things that are happening around us. I love to be able to give something back to my community.

How much time do you commit?

I started as a JP in 2006. I volunteer one day a week at the courts and one day a week at the Springwood Signing Centre. To become qualified, I undertook a JP training course which took six weeks to complete and passed an examination at the required level. I have taken time out from my JP volunteering at the courts in 2009 to undertake further studies on languages. The JP Branch has been very accommodating and flexible. They always welcome me back with open arms.

What do you get from volunteering?

I enjoy keeping in touch with what's happening close to home in Australia as well as further away overseas, and being part of the action. I also enjoy meeting people from all walks of life, different backgrounds and cultures. I love the feeling of being able to contribute to the community and doing what I'm best at, including handling documents and dealing with people, bringing my language skills and understanding of cultural sensitivities to the JP work. I love to see that big smile on people's faces when I finish with their documents. That smile is one of relief and joy, and that is the greatest reward for me as a volunteer JP.