After an extraordinary 45 years of unwavering dedication to his community, 99-year-old Ian Goyder has officially hung up his hat as a Justice of the Peace in Perth's northern suburbs. The remarkable centenarian's retirement marks the end of an era for local residents who have relied on his services for nearly half a century.
A Lifetime of Service to Western Australia
Mr Goyder's journey as a Justice of the Peace began in 1979, when he first took the oath to serve his community. What started as a commitment to help neighbours with document witnessing evolved into a lifelong passion that saw him become one of Western Australia's most reliable and longest-serving JPs.
'I just wanted to help people,' the humble nonagenarian reflected when discussing his motivation. 'It was never about recognition or payment - it was about being there for my community when they needed someone they could trust.'
The Changing Face of Community Service
Over his four-and-a-half decades of service, Mr Goyder witnessed significant transformations in how justice services are delivered. From the days when handwritten documents dominated his workload to the digital age of electronic signatures and online verification, he adapted continuously to meet community needs.
- Witnessed thousands of statutory declarations and affidavits
- Certified countless documents for local residents
- Provided reliable service through multiple technological revolutions
- Maintained unwavering commitment despite his advancing years
A Legacy That Will Endure
Even as he steps down from formal duties, Mr Goyder's impact on the Perth community remains profound. His dedication has set a benchmark for community service that inspires both current and future generations of Justice of the Peace volunteers.
'Ian represents the very best of community spirit,' said a long-time colleague. 'His reliability, integrity, and genuine care for people made him more than just a JP - he became a trusted friend to countless families across the northern suburbs.'
While officially retired, Mr Goyder's wisdom and experience continue to be valued by his community. His story serves as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to making meaningful contributions to society.
