NSW Police Training Centre – Redfern – Class # 084A
NSW Police Cadet # 1381
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. #9782
Uniform # 2837
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Police Academy as a Police Cadet on Tuesday 9 July 1957 ( aged 15 years, 8 months, 26 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed 13 October 1960 ( aged 19 years, 0 months, 0 days )
Constable – appointed 13 October 1961
Constable 1st Class – appointed 13 October 1966
Detective – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed 13 October 1970
Leading Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ? ( N/A )
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 15 December 1976
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 5 November 1983
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Inspector – appointed ? ? ?
Chief Inspector – appointed ? ? ?
Superintendent – appointed ? ? ?
Chief Superintendent – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: = ?
Stations: As a Cadet: Liverpool ( 22 Division )( 9 July 1957 – 4 January 1959 )( Station Duty )( Cadet ), Granville ( 18 Division )( 5 January 1959 – 25 April 1960 )( Station Duty, School Crossing & Charge Room ), Liverpool ( 22 Division )( 26 April 1960 – 12 October 1960 )( Public Safety Bureau office ).
As a Constable: ( 9 Division )( 13 October 1960 – 21 June 1961 )( GDs ), Lidcombe ( 9 Division )( 22 June 1961 – 9 January 1977 )( GDs ), Albury ( 40 Division )( Riverina )( 10 January 1962 – 8 January 1977 )( GDs ), Queanbeyan ( Southern )( 9 January 1977 – 10 January 1984 )( GDs ), Forbes ( Parkes )( 11 January 1984 – ? ), ?
Service: From 9 July 1957 to? ? ? = ? years Service
Retirement / Leaving age: = ?
Time in Retirement from Police: ?
Awards: National Medal – granted 6 November 1980 ( Sgt )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 8 June 1988 ( SenSgt )
2nd Clasp to National Medal – granted 27 September 1996 ( Sgt )
* Bravery Medal ( BM ) – granted 4 December 1978 ( Sgt 3/c )
*Sgt Hill displayed considerable bravery in attempting and finally undertaking the rescue of a woman from swollen flood waters in hazardous circumstances in the ACT.
( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( May 2023 )
ALWYNE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Upon joining the NSWPF via the Police Cadet system, Alwyne was described thus:
6′ 1″ tall, 12 st 4 lb in weight.
Brown eyes, with black hair and Medium complexion.
He was a native of Camperdown, NSW and was single at the time.
His previous employment was that of a Truck offsider for 2 months.
Upon being Sworn In he measured at 6′ 2″ tall and was 13 stone in weight.
He was a Police Cadet for 3 years, 3.5 months.
He obtained a mark of 76.5% at the completion of Training Class 084A.
He passed his typing test on 31 March 1961 with 37 wpm.
He completed a 3 day course in Civil Defence between 13 – 15 June 1967.
He passed his Constable 1/c course on the 24 September 1963.
He failed his Sgt 3/c exams twice ( 15 May 1970 & 18 May 1973 ) but passed the exam on 16 May 1974.
He passed the Sergeants Course # 8 – Class 1 of 1978.
He married on the 29 September 1962.
He was appointed a Special Constable for the State of Victoria.
He was certified Competent to drive General Duty utes & light trucks on 8 January 1964. He was Authorised to drive Four Wheel Drives on 10 September 1974.
He successfully completed the Supervision Course at Albury Technical College during the year 1972.
He obtained a Short Hand speed of 130wpm on the 1 January 1960.
“Awarded” the Australian Insignia of the Bravery Medal in recognition of his actions on 20 March 1978 when, in company with Sergeant 3/c R. L. Burrage, he assisted in the rescue of a woman from swollen flood waters at Reedy Creek in the A.C.T. Signed: Mervyn T. Wood, Commissioner – 19 Jan. 1979.
Allan was renowned for wearing shorts and thongs 365 days a year.
* Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Thursday 18 January 1979, page 1
18 AWARDS MADE FOR BRAVE CONDUCT
Drowned rescuer earns medal
Mr Daniel Primmer, who drowned after becoming snagged in debris while trying to rescue a woman trapped by flood waters in Reedy Creek, ACT, on March 20 last year, has been awarded a Bravery Medal posthumously.
Mr Primmer was one of six people to be awarded the Bravery Medal for their part in rescuing the woman.
Altogether, 18 awards for bravery were announced yesterday by the Governor-General, Sir Zelman Cowen, on recommendations made to him by the Australian Decorations Advisory Committee. Thirteen Bravery Medals and five Commendations for Brave Conduct were awarded.
The rescue attempt at Reedy Creek took place where the stream crosses Sutton Road, near Queanbeyan.
A car driven by Mrs Rosanna Perry, 33, of Bungendore, was swept off a bridge by the flood waters.
Mr Primmer and a companion, Mr John Henjack, who also has been awarded the Bravery Medal, tied themselves with rope secured to a guide post and held by five men, and attempted to swim to the woman.
The two were swept away before they could reach her, and although Mr. Henjack was pulled to safety, Mr Primmer became snagged in debris, and drowned.
Sergeant Alwyne Hill and Senior Constable Robert Burrage, of the NSW Police, who were also involved in the rescue attempt, have been awarded Bravery Medals. With other police officers, they made three attempts to reach the stranded woman, using a rope, which failed, and then made several attempts to swim to her.
Mr Robert Perrott, of Bungendore, who also entered the flood waters but was swept away and managed to reach the bank downstream, has also been awarded the Bravery Medal.
Senior Constable Brian Bock, of the ACT Police, received a Commendation for Brave Conduct in the rescue attempt. He took charge of a NSW Emergency Service boat which eventually he manoeuvred close enough to rescue the woman.
Mr Ronald Scott, Mr Graham MacDonald and Mr Kenneth Beazley, all of Malua Bay, NSW, were each awarded a Bravery Medal for their actions during the successful rescue of three people stranded on a rocky outcrop after they had lost their boat in heavy seas.
On September 18, 1977, the three rescuers had put to sea from Guerilla Bay, and in the face of a souther’y gale reached the three people whose boat had become disabled, been washed up on the rocks and destroyed.
Mr MacDonald had jumped from the rescue boat, and persuaded the stranded people to swim to the boat, where they were all picked up and returned safely to shore.
Mr Scott, the owner of the rescue boat, was praised for his handling of the boat. Mr Beazley’s award said that “in taking part in a sea rescue in such hazardous conditions” he had displayed considerablecourage.
The Bravery Medal, for an act of bravery in hazardous circumstances, was awarded to:
Kenneth William Beazley, Malua Bay, NSW; Robert Lynton Burrage, NSW; Mark Forrest, Busby, NSW; John Donald Albert Harrison, Vale Park, SA; John Tony Thomas Henjack, Queanbeyan, NSW; Alwyne Grant Hill, NSW; Craig Anthony Hilton, Cheltenham, Vic; Graham Charles MacDonald, Malua Bay, NSW; Robert Leslie Perrott, Bungendore, NSW; Daniel Francis Cotter Primmer, Narrabundah, ACT (posthumous); RonaldMaplemore Maplemore Scott, Malua Bay, NSW; Malcolm Coubrough Shanks, Roseberry, Tas; Grahame Clement Sheen, NSW.
Commendations for Brave Conduct were made to: Brian Maurice Bock, ACT; Graham Tilka Glover, Seacliff Park, SA; Sam Laria, Cabramatta, NSW; John Domenic Pick, Hyde Park, SA; Dr William Thurlow, Elizabeth Beach, NSW.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( September 2022 )
JACKO is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Det Sgt Tony Jackson 17677 attested Sept 1977 class 156.= 68 years old
Passed on 28/09/2022 at Calvary Rockdale Hospice.
In recent years Tony had an eye removed that had melanoma cancer and had undertaken continued treatments until a month or so ago but cancer had spread further.
Throughout his illness Tony was always positive and an inspiration to family and friends.
qualified Electrician – longtime and always resident of St George area
1977 – 81 GDs No. 15 Div
Early – mid 80’s CI Duty No. 1, 15, 12 & 31 Div
Oct, 1984 designated Detective
Thence CIB Motor Squad and Region SW Homicide Squad
Early 2000’s retired from VMO (Violent & Major Offenders), Crime Agencies
Son of retired Inspector Russell Jackson ( Traffic and IA ) and June ( both aged 94 )
Loved father of daughters Melissa and Nikki.
Throughout his illness Tony was always positive and an inspiration to family and friends.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: Peninsula Funeral 99995211
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( October 2021 )
ARTHUR is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
A wonderful Retired Police Day and BBQ at Mona Vale PS yesterday ( Thu. 7 Sept. 2017 ) compliments of the Northern Beaches LAC under the command of Supt Dave Darcy# 20783 and his team including Pat Chipchase # 8781202, Jason Christopher# 31625 and Damon Flakelar # 31418. Of particular interest was young Probationary Constable Jake, on his 2nd day in the job, in a photo taken with our oldest Northern Beaches RPA Member, Arthur Neville # 5823 ( who was a Boss at Mona Vale in the 1980s ) and Supt Dave Darcy. All those attending were presented with a ‘Retired’ lapel pin. Thanks to Supt Darcy and all who were on hand to make this memorable event possible. Photo courtesy of Dave Whiteman ( 7 Sept. 2017 )
Arthur married Doreen Margaret NEVILLE – nee MAES in 1949 and they had two children.
Arthur NEVILLE, WWII Service Record
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Cal
13 October 2021
Leon ELELMAN
| 08/05/2023
Leon ELELMAN
AKA ?
Late of Taree area, NSW
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # 110
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 12489
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Academy on Monday 20 February 1967 ( aged 19 years, 6 months, 6 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 3 April 1967 ( aged 19 years, 7 months, 20 days )
Constable – appointed 8 April 1968
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed 8 April 1976
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = ?
Stations: ?, North Sydney STP, Manly STP ( early 1970s ), Phillip St ( 1974 – 75 ),
Service: FromMonday 20 February 1967 to? ? 1979 = 32 years Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours
Born: Thursday 14 August 1947
Died on: Sunday 12 April 2020 @ 5am ( Easter Sunday )
Age: 72 years, 8 months
Cause: Cancer – Prostrate
Event location: Manning Base Hospital, Taree, NSW
Event date: Sunday 12 April 2020
Funeral date: ? ? ?
Funeral location: ? ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 10 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 2 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( April 2020 )
LEON is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NOT WORK RELATED
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
At the time of publication, I have no further information about this mans life after he left NSWPF.
Cal 220420
Crowdy Harrington Marine Rescue
The unit’s previous unit commander, Bek Brown decided to step down from her position at the last meeting. Deputy unit commander, Leon Elelman is now promoted to unit commander and Cheryl Rowe is promoted to deputy unit commander.
The Crowdy Harrington unit thanked Bek for all her hard work over the last 18 months as unit commander and wish her all the very best in future endeavours.
The unit also congratulated Leon and Cheryl in obtaining their new positions and wished them every success in their new roles.
Crowdy Harrington Marine Rescue welcome two new emergency vehicles
Rob Douglas
Happy days: Crowdy Harrington Marine Rescue members (left to right) Maria Seach (operations), Mary Thomas (treasurer/ administration), Susan Worsley (training officer), Leon Elelman (deputy unit commander) and Bek Brown (unit commander) after picking up their new vehicles. Photo: Rob Douglas.
It’s out with the old and in with the new. Crowdy Harrington Marine Rescue has welcomed two, new emergency vehicles to their ranks on the back of a grant and fundraising efforts.
The organisation received $72,000 from the Emergency Volunteer Support Scheme that was put towards the purchase of the vehicles.
Further fundraising efforts completed the purchase and ensured the vehicles could be fitted with required accessories such as a toolbox, canopy, roof racks, electric brakes and tow package.
Unit commander Bek Brown said the vehicles are a crucial asset to the crew’s operations.
“They’re vital for training, meetings, fundraising and transporting fuel to the boat,” Bek said.
One of the key roles for the new ute is to transport a large fuel tank to the rescue boat.
“After each rescue, the tank needs to be refueled,” Bek said.
The vehicles were picked up from Mid Coast Automotive Group earlier this week after Marine Rescue livery was completed.
Crew members have said goodbye to an outdated land cruiser and an obsolete ute. They have each clocked up more than 350,000 kilometres.
The land cruiser joined the Crowdy Harrington family before the new millennium while the ute dates back to when Paul Keating was Prime Minister.
“They’ve served their purpose,” Bek said.
Deputy unit commander Leon Elelman said the rescue crew has come a long way in the last decade.
He said changes to the command, fresh ideas and a strong effort from volunteers has created a tight knit group.
“We’re like a big family,” he said.
You couldn’t wipe the smile off his face when talking about what the new vehicles bring to the table.
“It’s a boost to morale,” Leon said.
The organisation is the eyes on the water between Diamond Head and Black Head.
As a volunteer group, they welcome all funds and assistance. About three-quarters of funds held by the organisation are raised by members.
To find out more about the crew or to donate, visit www.mrch.org.au or call 6556 1564.
April 18 2017 – 4:59PM Harrington Markets 2017 Leon Elelman, Heather Parker & Wendy Hoare
Brett Emerton boots from the 2006 FIFA World Cup to be auctioned
19 Apr 10 @ 11:38am by David Campbell
A PIECE of Australian soccer history will be up for grabs at Ingleburn next month.
Ingleburn Rotary Club is holding a fundraising event at Sweeney’s Function Centre where a pair of Socceroo and local hero Brett Emerton’s football boots from the 2006 FIFA World Cup will be auctioned.
Emerton, a former Gunners player and Macquarie Fields High School student, is expected to be a part of the Australian team at this year’s World Cup in South Africa.
All funds raised on the evening will go towards the PCYC’s Burn Rubber Burn program, which helps people in wheelchairs develop training regimes.
Ingleburn Rotary Club president Leon Elelman encouraged people to support the evening.
“The boots were made for Brett at the last World cup and are only one of six pairs in existence.”
A similar pair of Emerton’s boots sold for about $2000 recently.
Bam Bam played NSW Police Football and was widely known and liked and was a great bloke.
He suffered a heart attack in his sleep.
Inquest into the death of Brenton Hasler at Tweed Heads on the 30 November 2006.
Finding handed down by Deputy State Coroner MacMahon on 30 January 2008.
On Thursday 30 November 2006 police were conducting an operation on the Pacific Highway at Sextons Hill near Banora Point in northern New South Wales. The operation was directed, in part, at detecting unregistered and wanted vehicles.
Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) equipment was being used to assist in this process. S/C Mahaffy was the ANPR operator and S/C Hamilton positioned himself some 225 meters further north along the Pacific Highway at a stopping site. The stopping site was just south of Terranora Road. The operation commenced at about 0830.
S/C Bowmer was also to assist in the operation.
The traffic was very heavy and on his arrival S/C Bowmer decided to facilitate traffic flow by arranging for the traffic lights at the intersection of Terranora Road and the Pacific Highway to be turned off and the traffic managed manually.
S/C Bowmer parked the police vehicle he was driving at the ANPR stopping site near that of S/C Hamilton. As this was occurring a rider was travelling on the Pacific Highway on a Honda VFR 750 motorcycle. He was negotiating through the traffic and was overtaking vehicles on the nearside on the incorrect side of the edge line. This was contrary to the motor traffic laws.
S/c Mahaffy, who advised S/C Hamilton, observed this.
As a result S/C Hamilton stopped what he was doing and walked onto the road and directed the rider to stop. The rider refused and accelerated away.
S/C Hamilton yelled to S/C Bowmer to stop the rider and S/C Bowmer having returned to his vehicle followed him. By this time the rider was out of sight.
S/C Bowmer proceeded along the Pacific Highway looking for the rider. After examining a number of side streets S/C Bowmer observed a bike on Darlington Drive, Banora Point, just off the Pacific Highway. He exited the Pacific Highway and followed it.
The bike rapidly increased speed and S/C Bowmer decided to commence a pursuit and did so with lights and sirens operating. Shortly before the intersection of Lochlomond Drive and Darlington Drive the bike left the road and collided with a tree.
S/C Bowmer came on the scene shortly thereafter and provided assistance to the rider. CPR was commenced and an ambulance was called.
On arrival the ambulance officers found the rider to be unconscious, without pulse and not breathing. CPR was continued and he was taken to Tweed Heads Hospital however the rider was declared to be life extinct shortly after his arrival at the hospital.
Elizabeth Alice Hasler subsequently identified the deceased as being her husband Brenton Craig Hasler.
On 2 December 2006 an autopsy was performed at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Newcastle, by Dr. K. Lee, a senior specialist forensic pathologist. Dr Lee found that the cause of Mr. Hasler’s death was multiple injuries.
Legislative Provisions.
The role and function of a Coroner is contained in section 22, Coroners Act, 1980 (the Act).
That section, in summary, provides that at the conclusion of an inquest the coroner is to establish, on the basis of the evidence available, the identity of a deceased person together with the date, place and the cause and manner of their death.
Life Extinct Certificate, Dr. B Beal, Tab 1. 5 Identification Statement, Tab 2. 6 Autopsy report, 2 April 2007, 10.at Tab 66.
Section 13 (1) (a) of the Act provides, in addition, that a coroner has jurisdiction to hold an inquest if it appears to the coroner that a person has died a violent or unnatural death.
Section 13A (1) (b) also provides that a coroner who is the State Coroner or a Deputy State Coroner has jurisdiction to conduct an inquest where it appears that deceased died, or there is reasonable cause to suspect that the person has died, as a result of or in the course of a police operation. Section 13A (2) provides that where the jurisdiction to hold an inquest arises under both section 13 and section 13A an inquest is not to be held except by the State Coroner or a Deputy State Coroner.
On the facts as set out above it is apparent that Mr. Hasler’s death was one that came within the meaning of section 13(1)(a) in that it occurred as a result of injuries he sustained in circumstances that appeared to come within the definition as a result of or in the course of a police operation, in this case a police pursuit.
As such either the State Coroner or a Deputy State Coroner is required to conduct the inquest into his death.
Issues for Inquest:
In this inquest the identity of Mr. Hasler together with the date, place and direct cause of his death are not in dispute.
On the evidence available I am comfortably satisfied that Brenton Craig Hasler died on 30 November 2006 at the Tweed Hospital and that the cause of his death was multiple injuries sustained by him when the motorcycle he was riding left the road and collided with a tree.
The manner, or circumstances, of Mr. Hasler’s death was, however, the subject of examination in the course of the Inquest.
The issues inquired into during the course of the inquest were as follows:
• Was Mr. Hasler the rider of the motorcycle that failed to stop when directed to do so by S/C Hamilton?
• Were the circumstances sufficient to justify the commencement of a pursuit?
• What was the applicable police policy?
• Did S/C Bowman comply with the policy, as he understood it, during the course of the pursuit and should he, at any time, have discontinued the pursuit?
• What caused Mr. Hasler to lose control of the motorcycle and did the manner in which S/C Bowman conducted the pursuit cause, or contribute to, that loss of control of the motorcycle?
• Following Mr. Hasler suffering his injuries was assistance provided to him in timely manner?
• Were the NSW Police critical incident guidelines complied with?
• Are there any recommendations that should be made in accordance with section 22A?
The Evidence:
During the course of the inquest evidence was taken from the following witnesses
• Senior Constable Brett Andrew Mahaffy (the officer operating the ANPR equipment on the Pacific Highway),
• Senior Constable Troy Anthony Hamilton, (the officer who directed the rider of the motorcycle to stop),
• Michael Francis Murphy (a truck driver in traffic near the ANPR site at the time that the motorcycle rider was directed to stop),
• Sergeant Mark Anthony Garner (a police officer in traffic near the ANPR site at the time that the motorcycle rider was directed to stop),
• Bruce Roy Austen, (who was driving on Darlington Drive in the opposite direction to that of the Mr Hasler and Senior Constable Bowmer and saw the motorcycle lose control)
• Kellie John, (who saw the collision of the bike with the tree from her lounge window which overlooked the park in which it occurred),
• Mark Raymond Rabjones (who saw the incident from his driveway and provided assistance to Mr. Hasler following the collision)
• Senior Constable Paul Bowmer (the officer who conducted the pursuit of the motorcycle rider),
• Inspector David Richard Driver (the officer responsible for the investigation of the death of Mr. Hasler in accordance with the critical incident guidelines).
In addition statements from witnesses not called to give evidence, relevant police policy and guidelines, maps, vehicle inspection reports and diagrams were also made available.
Was Mr. Hasler the rider of the motorcycle that failed to stop when directed to do so by S/C Hamilton?
S/C Hamilton, after the rider of the bike failed to stop as directed, followed in the direction the rider had taken. He subsequently arrived at the site where Mr Hasler had been injured. During evidence he was asked whether Mr. Hasler’s bike was the bike ridden by the rider that had failed to stop as directed. He thought that it had been and explained why he had come to that conclusion.
Sergeant Garner, who had seen the bike on the Pacific Highway and had also seen S/C Hamilton direct it to stop. Sergeant Garner also attended the crash site and had the opportunity to observe Mr. Hasler’s bike. He also was of the view that the bike was the same as that he had observed on the Pacific Highway and gave his reasons during the course of giving evidence.
I accept the evidence of S/C Hamilton and Sergeant Garner on this point and am satisfied that Mr. Hasler was the rider who failed to stop when directed to do so by S/C Hamilton at the ANPR stopping site that morning.
Were the circumstances sufficient to justify the commencement of a pursuit?
Mr Hasler was directed to stop by S/C Hamilton and failed to do so. He then accelerated away. S/C Hamilton gave him the direction to stop as a result of information he had received from S/C Mahaffy. S/C Hamilton then yelled to S/C Bowmer stop the bike after which S/C Bowmer followed the bike. S/C Bowmer did not know why S/C Hamilton wanted the bike to be stopped and gave evidence that when he was able to stop the rider he intended to administer a random breath test while waiting for S/C Hamilton to attend.
There was some debate during the course of the inquest as to when the pursuit of Mr. Hasler commended and I will return to that debate later however on the evidence it is my view that Mr. Hasler’s failure to stop as directed by S/C Hamilton was sufficient to justify efforts to be taken to apprehend him notwithstanding the fact that the officer doing so might not initially know the reasons for S/C Hamilton’s request that they do so.
In any event I accept S/C Bowmer’s evidence that he observed Mr. Hasler accelerating his motorcycle in Darlington Drive to a speed that was well in excess of the speed limit applicable. I consider that at that point S/C Bowmer had sufficient cause based on his own observations, subject to the application of the relevant protocols, to seek to apprehend Mr. Hasler.
What was the applicable police policy?
The guidelines for police pursuits are contained in the NSW Police Safe Driving Policy (the Policy).
The policy deals with the qualifications and experience of police officers authorised to engage in a pursuit and the vehicles that may be used. The evidence, which I accept, is that S/C Bowmer was appropriately qualified and experienced and his vehicle was also appropriately classified to conduct a pursuit. The Policy, at Part 6, deals with Urgent Duty and Pursuits. An urgent duty is defined as being duty ‘which has become pressing or demanding prompt action’.
A pursuit is defined as commencing ‘at the time when you decide to pursue a vehicle that has ignored a direction to stop’
On the commencement of urgent duty or a pursuit the relevant officer is required to make certain notifications to senior officers at VKG and thereafter undertake those duties or the pursuit in accordance with any instructions given by the appropriate senior officer.
Evidence was given at the inquest that the Policy underwent and adjustment by the introduction of a Coded System of Safe Driving from 11 November 2005
That system made it permissible for an officer to perform urgent duty ‘without first informing police radio in the execution of a traffic stop.
However, should the driver of the other vehicle attempt to avoid apprehension or appears to be ignoring requests to stop, and a decision is made to pursue the vehicle – then a pursuit has commenced’.
At inquest there was a difference of opinion as to how the relevant policies were to be applied to the circumstances that occurred 30 November 2006.
One view, that held by Counsel assisting and Inspector Driver was that when S/C Bowmer left the ANPR site with the intention of stopping Mr. Hasler a pursuit had commenced and, as a consequence, the obligations provided for in the guidelines came into force. The other view, the one held by S/C Bowmer and apparently other officers, was that he (S/C Bowmer) was able to commence urgent duty until he approached the motorcycle for the purpose of a traffic stop. If, having indicated to the vehicle that it was to stop, he formed the view that other vehicle was attempting to avoid apprehension or appearing to ignore his request to stop, he would have to decide, as he did in this case, if he was going to commence a pursuit. He was of the view that it was only at that time that he would have had to advise VKG that he was in pursuit. In this case the motorcycle rider had refused to stop.
I accept that S/C Bowmer did not know this however it must have been implicit in the circumstances of the ANPR operation and in S/C Hamilton’s call to ‘stop the bike’. That was the basis of S/C Bowmer’s actions in following him.
It was clearly the intention of S/C Bowmer to stop the rider. To follow him to administer a random breath test whilst awaiting S/C Hamilton’s attendance seems to me to be somewhat artificial. I consider that on a reasonable interpretation of the policy the pursuit commenced at the time S/C Bowmer left the ANPR stopping site with the view of stopping the bike.
On that interpretation he was at that time obliged to inform VKG of the pursuit and to implement the other instructions contained in the policy.
As I indicated during the course of the inquest I am not, nor do I intend to be, critical of S/C Bowmer in respect of his interpretation of the policy. It is clear from the findings of other Coroners and the various interpretations placed on the policy during the course of this inquest that the issue of the interpretation of the policy has been a live one for some time.
The introduction of the Coded System of Safe Driving in November 2005 does not, in my view, clarify the obligations of officers that find themselves in such situations. Indeed it is my view that it probably makes it more confusing by adding another element to the equation. The policy needs to be clear and unambiguous so that officers responsible for its implementation are able to act with confidence in situations that they are required to face in their duties. I propose to make a recommendation pursuant to section 22A on this subject.
Coded System of Safe Driving ,2. See Decision of SDSC Magistrate Milledge in William Spence 1 July 2004 and DSC Magistrate Pinch in Colin John Holmes 29 November 2004.
Did S/C Bowman comply with the policy, as he understood it, during the course of the pursuit and should he, at any time, have discontinued the pursuit?
S/C Bowmer gave evidence that having entered Darlington Drive he observed the motorcycle ahead of him and formed the view that the rider was exceeding the speed limit. He also formed the view that the rider had probably seen him and was seeking to avoid apprehension.
At that time S/C Bowmer decided to commence a pursuit. He attempted to contact VKG to advice of the pursuit but was initially unsuccessful but was able to do so some 9 seconds later.
From the VKG records it would seem that there was a period of 21 seconds form the first attempt to advise of the pursuit to the time that S/C Bowmer advised VKG of Mr. Hasler’s collision and of the need for an ambulance.
The shortness of the pursuit is also emphasised by the recordings contained in the in-car video recordings from S/C Bowmer’s vehicle. The pictures in that recording commence at 9.15.37 with a view of Mr Hasler’s motorcycle 160-180 meters ahead of the police vehicle about to take a left hand bend. The motorcycle is then out of sight. At 9.15.51 a splash of water is observed (as Mr. Hasler’s motorcycle passes through a storm water drain).
The inquest has had the opportunity to traverse the route that was travelled and to observe that part of the pursuit that was recorded on the in-car video. We have also had to evidence of a number of witnesses who observed aspects of the pursuit. A police pursuit is, in its nature, dangerous. It is required to be conducted with skill by the officer involved in order to ensure the safety of the general public who might be in the area (particularly-as in this case where it is a residential area), the police involved in the pursuit and, of course, those that are being pursued.
As far as the manner in which S/C Bowmer conducted the pursuit is concerned the evidence establishes to my complete satisfaction that it was performed in a competent fashion and during its short duration no event occurred that would, in my view, have required it to be terminated. There was, as I have indicated above, some delay in S/C Bowmer accessing VKG to advise that a pursuit had commenced however this was minimal and had, as far as I can see, no bearing on the course of the pursuit.
Counsel assisting has suggested that whilst she does not criticise S/C Bowmer she suggests that looked at in hindsight and taking into account all the now known circumstances perhaps the commencement of the pursuit by S/C Bowmer was not appropriate. I feel however that I must try and put myself into the circumstances that existed on 30 November 2006. I cannot second-guess S/C Bowmer. It seems to me that S/C Bowmer’s do not warrant any criticism whatsoever.
having regard to S/C Bowmer’s understanding of the policy, and having regard to the circumstances in which he found himself, I am satisfied that the NSW Police Safe Drive Policy was complied with.
Following Mr. Hasler suffering his injuries was assistance provided to him in timely manner?
What caused Mr. Hasler to lose control of the motorcycle and did the manner in which S/C Bowman conducted the pursuit cause, or contribute to, that loss of control of the motorcycle?
Mechanical defect did not contribute to the incident see evidence of Graeme Bruce Lawrie expert vehicle examiner ‘there was no mechanical defect or failure with the vehicle that may have been a contributing factor towards the collision.’
Mr Hasler lost control of the motorcycle when he was unable to negotiate the bend in Darlington Drive. (See evidence of Michio Justin McMillan).
‘It is obvious from the physical evidence available that the motorcycle rider, Hasler, has not anticipated or negotiated this bend. Hasler has braked hard and after skidding the motorcycle has left the road and mounted the raised concrete cutter onto the grass.
’ Mr Hasler was travelling at a great speed. I accept the calculations of S/C Craig Stewart Norton that the motorcycle was travelling at between 129km/h and 135km/h as being indicative of that speed.
Also: Bruce Roy Austin, ‘very, very fast’ Kellie John from her lounge-room: ‘I could hear the bike coming, I assumed it was a bike, it was very loud and so I turned around to look out my window because I was thinking – I could hear them coming very fast and I was thinking how are they going to slow down to go through the roundabout’
S/C Bowmer’s pursuit did not contribute to the loss of control. Statement 21/03/2007 para 2319 Statement 28/12/2006 para 13 and 14. McMillan statement 28/12/2006 para 12. Norton statement 12/01/2007 para 8. Austin 6/11/2007 89 23 John 6/11/2007 98 at 35
I have had the benefit of observing the in-car video and hearing the evidence of those who were present. It is undisputed that S/C Bowmer was travelling some distance behind Mr Hasler and at a slower speed.
It is not suggested, and I find that it was not the case, that S/C Bowmer’s driving or the manner in which he conducted the pursuit contributed to Mr Hasler losing control of the bike.
I am satisfied that the cause of the collision was due to the motorcycle being ridden at excessive speed for the conditions and that on reaching the bend in the road Mr. Hasler was unable to negotiate it thereby losing control, mounting the gutter and thereafter continuing for some time until colliding with a tree.
Were the NSW Police critical incident guidelines complied with?
The relevant policy is the Guidelines for the Management and Investigation of Critical Incidents. That policy was tendered in evidence.
In accordance with the policy Inspector David Richard Driver was appointed to investigate the circumstances of Mr Hasler’s death. That investigation was a detailed and thorough one and a number of recommendations were made that go to police procedures that should be given serious consideration. The investigation identified a number of non-compliances with the guidelines. These are identified in Inspector Drivers report. They did not, in my view, affect the integrity of the investigation of Mr. Hasler’s death. It is, however important that such guidelines be complied with strictly in all critical incident situations as compliance ensures that the best evidence is available for any review that subsequently takes place and, at a minimum will free officers involved from any unjustified criticism.
Formal Finding:
Brenton Craig Hasler died on 30 November 2006 at the Tweed Heads Hospital. Mr. Hasler’s death resulted from multiple injuries he received when the motorcycle he was riding left the road at speed and collided with a tree during the course of a police Section 22A Recommendation:
To the Commissioner of Police:
1. That the NSW Police Safe Driving Policy and the Coded System of Safe Driving be integrated and reviewed and clarified with a view to ensuring that ambiguity as to the obligations officers who are required to engage in traffic stops, urgent duties and pursuits are removed.
2. That consideration be given to the inclusion of a knife in the equipment carried by highway patrol vehicles to assist officers who find themselves needing to free persons who might be trapped in motor vehicle collisions or other such situations.
Strike Force Sari headed up the investigation into this murder.
Class 206A
AAP General News (Australia) 08-30-2000 NSW: Man charged with murder of former police officer.
A court’s been told a former Sydney policeman whose body was found dumped in a river was killed to stop him earning a share of a lucrative Olympic-related security contract.
GRAEME ADAMS’ business partner, 29-year-old SIMON CHRISTOPHER CROWTHER-WILKINSON, was charged with his murder this morning.
According to police facts tendered to Manly Court, Mr ADAMS was a silent stakeholder in CROWTHER-WILKINSON’S firm Excell Security Pty Ltd.
The company had recently won a $1.6 million contract to supply staff to security giant and Olympic sub-contractor Chubb Security Australia.
But police allege that rather than share the proceeds, CROWTHER-WILKINSON and another associate shot and killed Mr ADAMS, wrapped him in chains and dumped him in the Hawkesbury River, north of Sydney, on June 6 or 7.
The accused man has been refused bail and will appear in Central Local Court on September 6.
08-30-2000 NSW: Ex policeman murdered over Oly security contract, court told
By John Kidman, Crime Reporter
SYDNEY, Aug 30 AAP – A former Sydney policeman whose chained body was found dumped in a river had been shot in cold blood over a lucrative Olympic-related security contract,
a court was told today.
Detectives allege the two men charged with the slaying stood to gain his share of a $1.6 million personnel deal struck with industry giant and Olympic sub-contractor Chubb Security Australia.
The killing had “all the hallmarks of an execution-style murder”, according to a statement of police facts tendered in Sydney’s Manly Local Court.
“There is evidence of premeditated and deliberate planning well prior to the event,” the document read.
Mr Adams’ business partner, Simon Crowther-Wilkinson and another of his associates, private security agent James Cowie, were arrested by strike force police early today following a high-profile investigation.
Mr Adams, a one-time police prosecutor who left the force to start his own companynine years ago, was pulled out of the Hawkesbury River off Dangar Island, to Sydney’s
north, by a local fisherman on July 12.
An autopsy revealed he had been shot in the back of the head from close range.
He was also wrapped in a 135 kilogram length of chain.
It was initially believed Mr Adams had last been seen alive by Crowther-Wilkinson at 10pm on June 6 after they dined at Antos Pizzeria and Pasta in suburban Chatswood.
However, it is now alleged that the version of events was a smokescreen to divert suspicion.
According to receipt records, the accused man bought cigarettes and drinks at a Chatswood service station at 9.25pm the same night.
Neither the owner nor staff of the pizza parlour were able to place the men at the eatery, police allege.
According to the fact sheet, mobile phone checks also revealed both Crowther-Wilkinson and Cowie made or received calls near Dangar island on the night of the murder.
Crowther-Wilkinson denied ever having been to the area or having access to or owning a boat, it said.
Despite this, detectives alleged evidence would show he was in possession of an aluminium runabout at the time of the homicide.
It was also claimed Crowther-Wilkinson bought 15m of chain and a number of metal clamps like those found on Mr Adams’ body at a Brookvale hardware shop a week before the murder.
“Direct lies and inconsistencies exist in the versions of (both) Wilkinson and Cowie,”the facts stated.
Mr Adams had been a silent 51 per cent partner in Excell Security with Crowther-Wilkinson until his death but took little part in the company’s day-to-day business.
In the weeks before his death, he allegedly tried to gain financial records which showed he may not have been receiving his due profit share.
Police allege he expressed concerns over the matter to his accountant.
By contrast, Crowther-Wilkinson is said to have told an Excell employee that “he did not want to give up any profits made through his Olympic contract”.
Both accused men were today refused bail and will appear in Central Local Court next month.
A week before his disappearance in 2000, murder victim Graeme Adams told his accountant he was afraid of former associates in the security company Blue Falcon Agency and thought he was being followed, the Supreme Court heard yesterday.
Accountant Eric de Haarte said Mr Adams had formed another company, Excell Security, after leaving Blue Falcon and had told him he had ”sort of tricked” Blue Falcon by taking their database of contacts for security guards.
Mr Adams had expressed apprehension about two principals in Blue Falcon, Peter Murrant ( # 22195 ) and Andrew King.
Mr Murrant, who had been a serving police officer at the time he was a principal of Blue Falcon, had been investigated by the Police Integrity Commission and had later been convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to periodic detention.
”He told me he thought his former partners [Mr Murrant and Mr King] considered him a snitch,” Mr de Haarte said.
Mr Adams disappeared on June 6, 2000. His body was recovered, weighed down by chains, in the Hawkesbury River near Dangar Island on July 12 that year.
A partner of Mr Adams in Excell Security, Simon Christopher Crowther-Wilkinson (referred to in court as Wilkinson), was later charged with Mr Adams‘s murder. Wilkinson is now on trial before Justice Virginia Bell.
Questioned by Paul Byrne, SC, for Wilkinson, Mr de Haarte said Mr Adams had indicated that he wanted his involvement in Excell Security to be kept ”more or less secret” so that he was ”essentially invisible”.
Mr Adams had a 51 per cent shareholding in Excell Security but Wilkinson, with 49 per cent, did the day-to-day work.
Janelle Johnson, a girlfriend of Mr Adams at the time of his disappearance, said in evidence that according to what Mr Adams had told her, Blue Falcon went broke in June 1999 and Mr Adams himself was in debt as a result. He had blamed Mr Murrant and Mr King for ”taking money on the side”.
Ms Johnson said that four or five weeks before he disappeared, Mr Adams had made no attempt to discover the financial position of Excell Security though he had concerns about it.
On 28 March 2003 the appellant, Simon Crowther-Wilkinson, was sentenced to imprisonment for 20 years with a non-parole period of 15 years for murder. His co-accused, James Cowie was found not guilty. He appeals against this conviction but not against the sentence.
The appellant had been a silent partner in a partnership with the deceased in a security company, Excell Security Pty Limited (“Excell”). The deceased’s body was found floating in the Hawkesbury River wrapped in plastic, metal 3/8 inch steel galvanised chains and 12 mm D-shackles. The Crown case was that he had been shot once in the back of the head, consistent with a .22 calibre bullet having been fired by either the appellant or James Cowie, with the other present and assisting or encouraging the killer. The deceased’s body had then been transported to the Hawkesbury River and dumped from a small aluminium boat.
A NSW Police critical incident team will investigate the death of one of its own officers after a policeman was found dead near Wagga Wagga.
Concerns were raised for the male officer’s welfare with colleagues heading to the Sturt Highway about 30km from Wagga Wagga on Wednesday afternoon.
The officer’s death is non-suspicious circumstances, and a critical incident team has been formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the matter.
Police say a critical incident investigation has been launched after the death yesterday of a police officer near the Sturt Highway 30km from Wagga Wagga. “At this time there is no evidence the incident is suspicious.”
Police Statement: A critical incident investigation has been launched after the death of a police officer near Wagga Wagga. Police were called to the Sturt Highway about 30km from Wagga Wagga around 4.25pm yesterday (Wednesday 11 April 2018) after concerns were raised for the welfare of an officer. Ambulance paramedics responded to the location but were unable to revive the officer. At this time there is no evidence the incident is suspicious. A critical incident team has been formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the matter.
That investigation will be subject to independent review.
Police disappointed at close of Operation Tortoise
It would have been difficult to escape a random breath test in Wagga across the Easter long weekend.
It follows a Highway Patrol crack down on fatigue, drink and drug-driving.
With thousands hitting the roads for the holiday, Riverina police conducted more than 6600 random breath tests across four days.
These numbers come at the close of Operation Tortoise, with double-demerits in force until midnight on Monday.
Despite the low number of drivers busted drink driving, acting-Senior Sergeant Stephen Sivewright said the behaviour of drivers across the region had been disappointing.
“The message isn’t getting out there,” Sergeant Sivewright said. “People are still speeding.”
He said road users continued to put the lives of their passengers and other people in danger, with more than 200 drivers issued speeding fines.
A further 25 infringements were issued for not wearing seatbelts and 308 drivers were busted for other traffic offences.
“People shouldn’t have to die for drivers to listen,” Sergeant Sivewright said. “This should be a wake-up call.”
His words follow the tragic death of an elderly driver on a Riverina road, near Jindera, on Monday morning.
This death brought the number of fatalities on Riverina roads to six this year.
“That’s ridiculously high,” Sergeant Sivewright said. “Up until March 28, there were 59 fatalities on state roads – a definite increase on last year.”
Police say the results of this year’s initiative to reduce the holiday road toll are concerning.
It follows Wagga Highway Patrol’s launch of Operation Safe Arrival on December 22.
Acting Senior Sergeant Stephen Sivewright on Tuesday said local officers, combined with resources from Sydney, had already performed thousands of random breath tests across Wagga.
The Highway Patrol chief said of more than 8520 tests, ten drivers had been caught drink driving.
In addition, Sergeant Sivewright said 225 drivers had been fined for speeding across the region, which was more than half the combined number of traffic-related offences, during that period.
“We are concerned about the 10 drink driving offences,” Sergeant Sivewright said. “We’d like that to be zero.”
Double demerits will apply from Friday, December 22 with all Traffic and Highway Patrol Command staff on duty until New Year.
Sergeant Sivewright urged Riverina drivers to stick to the speed limit, to make a plan-b and to get to their destination safely.
Highway Patrol want you to survive the drive home this Christmas | Video
Madeleine Clarke
Wagga’s Highway Patrol force are gearing up for the busy Christmas period with Operation Safe Arrival kicking off today.
Double demerits will apply from Friday, December 22 with all Traffic and Highway Patrol Command staff on duty until New Year performing random breath tests, mobile drug testing, speed enforcement and vehicle and driver compliance checks.
Acting Senior Sergeant Stephen Sivewright said the Riverina cluster will be boosted by additional resources from Sydney.
“We’ll have all our vehicles out on the roads during the day and night time so the public can see us.”
The Wagga Command is made up of 20 officers and nine vehicles.
“With more people going away, wanting to get there, they can get distracted by their mobile phones, we’ll be out there trying to deter people from committing offences,” Sergeant Sivewright said.
“For those travelling long distances we hope they have had at least eight hours sleep before they begin their journey, and stop every two hours or when tired.
“Personal responsibility is the key to road safety in NSW. We urge those on our roads over the school holidays, Christmas and the New Year to help us keep everyone safe on NSW roads.”
Last Christmas and New Year period saw 40 people die on Australian roads, up from 34 the year before.
NSW was the worst state for fatalities, claiming 12 of the dead.
I have decided to support NSW Police Legacy’s largest annual fundraiser in remembrance of all deceased NSW Police Force Officers.
I’m raising funds to continue providing essential financial assistance and social programs and experiences to the widows, widowers and dependent children of deceased police officers.
Through here you can easily support this great cause.
I would also really appreciate it if you could share my page above or comment below so more people know about it.
Click ‘Donate Now’ to make a secure online donation.
Thanks so much for your support!
.
Stephen Sivewright
Donated AUD $53.00 online in support of David Clarke
Stephen Sivewright, from Diddine Brahman Stud at South Lismore, was awarded junior and senior reserve champion bull at the Sydney show, making it three out of four Royal Easter Shows he has entered where he has won reserve champion.
Service: From pre 21 December 2001 to Friday 14 August 2015
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: Saturday 12 September 1970
Died on: Friday 14 August 2015 during the morning
Cause: Cancer
Age: 44 years, 11 months, 2 days
Funeral date: Friday 21 August 2015 @ 2pm ( wear blue jeans & AC/DC t-shirt )
Funeral location: St John’s Anglican Church, 98 Kendall St, Cowra
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial 1: NSW Police force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, A8 ( right wall )
Memorial 2: Police Memorial Wall at the new Deniliquin police station, Charlotte St ( February 2018 )
the Thin Blue Line Rose
JENNIFER is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
I regret to advise the death of Serving member, Senior Constable Jennifer Louise EDGERTON, this morning – Friday 14 August 2015.
EDGERTON Jennifer “Jenny”
Passed away 14th August 2015, aged 44 years.
Late of Cowra & formerly of Moama.
Beloved partner of Klint & loving mother of Connor & Cooper.
Beloved daughter of Ross Edgerton & Lois Camps (Dec) & sister of Suzanne & Daniel (Dec).
Jenny’s family & friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral to be held at St John’s Anglican Church, Cowra, commencing at 2.00pm on Friday 21st August 2015.
Thence for private cremation.
By request, please attend wearing blue jeans & AC/DC t-shirt, if possible.
2/1/2019, Deniliquin Times.
Eight honoured on police memorial wall’ –
Seven former local police officers and a former police chaplain were honoured during a police reunion in Deniliquin.
They were the first to be added to the police memorial wall at the new Deniliquin police station.
Enjoy car racing with dad and uncle Robert. Reggie Renault was the go.
You chose a job that I chose too.
I left Cowra when you were a child to pursue my dream.
You left many years later to pursue your dream.
Your life was cut short far too early.
I knew you as a princess a small child.
I never saw you in uniform but knowing your parents they were both immensely proud of you.
I speak not only as a former Cowra resident, and we both shared childhoods there, I also speak as a member of which you too belonged the NSW Police Force.. Rest In Peace Jennifer your duty has been done.
I hope you find peace.
I think Cowra has lost a cherished daughter.
My heart goes out to your parents and close relatives that I personally knew.
