Mr von Einem was the regional coordinating magistrate for Barwon South West, which includes courts at Warrnambool, Hamilton and Portland, for nearly three decades.

Based in Geelong, he retired in 2012 and was a reserve magistrate until ill health meant he left the job in 2014.

South-west Koori Court elder Uncle Lenny Clark said the former magistrate was powerful in his sentencing but "would not go over and above".

"Many people feared to face him (in court) but he was a gentleman and a very nice person who treated everyone with respect," he said.

"Ian was a humane magistrate who wanted to see society and the law give more protection for children and the dysfunctional section of the community.

"He had an affinity with the Aboriginal people and he must be acknowledged for all the good work he has done among our community and throughout the justice system."

Retired Warrnambool lawyer and former Western District Law Association president Tony Robinson said Mr von Einem spent a great deal of time presiding over Warrnambool, Portland and Hamilton courts.

"He could be very intimidating on the bench, especially to a young lawyer but I always enjoyed appearing in front of him," he said.

"He was tough but fair."

Mr Robertson said Mr von Einem was also a keen golfer.

"He had the knack of getting through a packed list of cases but he knew the meaning of 'beyond reasonable doubt'," he said.

"I haven't seem him for many years and am sad to hear of his passing."

President of the Victorian Magistrates Association and family friend Magistrate Timothy Bourke said Mr von Einem was a "straight talker" who loved the western district.

"He knew how to talk to the locals down there and he understood the region very well," he said.

"He was a pretty big person in life as well as on the bench. He was a great role model and mentor for many registrars of the court, as well as magistrates. He certainly gave his time for anybody who sought him out for advice.

"He really loved the south-west district and if ever he got out early, he loved his golf down there in Warrnambool."

Mr von Einem is survived by his wife Jill and their two sons Ben and Adam.

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