TWO new probationary Sheriffs have graduated and have now been stationed at Coffs Harbour courthouse, bringing the Sheriffs office staff up to ten.

The new Sheriffs, Mr Grant Kerrison and Ms Lyndall de Vries come from the largest group of graduates ever, as reported in News Of The Area on May 7, and have been on the job at the courthouse since the start of May.

Mr Kerrison has a background in hospitality and decided to become a Sheriff to be more involved with helping people in the community, and Ms de Vries had previously worked as a court officer, and wanted to engage more with the public in the court system.

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Ms de Vries said, “For me getting posted to Coffs Harbour was like winning the lottery, as I had spent time in Woolgoolga on holiday many years ago, and I just love the Coffs Coast lifestyle.”

The probationary Sheriffs will work towards completing their Certificate III in Government (Court Services) over 12 months in the workplace.

Current Officer in Charge of the Coffs Harbour Sheriff’s Office, Acting Inspector Andrew Jones said, “Our officers are responsible for providing court security, some civil enforcement and administering the jury service.

“They are there to set people at ease where possible and provide a safe environment for everyone.”

“Most people are on their best behaviour when attending court, but many of them are not having their best day, and part of our job is to be aware of that and take it into account when interacting with them.”

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh was on hand on Monday to welcome the new probationary officers and to thank them for their commitment to ensuring our justice system continues to operate safely.

By David TUNE