1

DURHAM

DURHAM

Queensland Police Force

Sub-Inspector

Died  26 November 1906

Suicide – Firearm

 

 

Death of a Police Inspector.        

SUPPOSED SUICIDE.

BRISBANE, Monday. — Police-inspector Durham was shot dead at Hughenden on Sunday.   It is stated to be a case of suicide, but the whole affair is shrouded in mystery, and the officials here are very reticent. Some months ago Inspector Durham and other officers at Cairns were the subjects of an inquiry concerning the confession by a blackfellow of a   murder, and alleged extortion by ill-treatment. The outcome of the Inquiry was that Durham was reduced from inspector to sub-inspector, and transferred from Cairns to Hughenden. Durham, who was regarded as a smart officer, came of good family in England, and entered the police service as a cadet officer.

Evening News ( Sydney )  Monday  26 November 1906  page 5 of 8

 http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/115673815?searchTerm=sub%20inspector%27s%20suicide&searchLimits=l-australian=y#pstart12200824




FORD

 FORD

New South Wales Police Force

Sub-Inspector

Attempt Suicide – firearm

 

 

ACCIDENTS AND FATALITIES

[BY TELEGRAPH.]

Sudden Death of a Sub-Inspector’s Wife.

Attempted Suicide of the Husband.

Sydney, Monday.

Barrier Miner ( Broken Hill )  Monday  20 July 1896  page 2 of 4

A telegram from Orange reports that at the police barracks there Mrs. Ford, wife of Sub-Inspector Ford, who was suffering from an affection of the heart, was suddenly seized with a fit. Doctor Crase was called in and found that the patient had become nearly exhausted by violent spasms. He went for some chloroform to be administered to her, but on his return, after only a few seconds absence, he found that Mrs. Ford had died from syncope in the interim. Inspector Ford had been sent for and arrived a few minutes before his wife’s death.   He was distracted with grief and fired three shots from his revolver in an attempt to take his own life. One shot struck him in the jaw but inflicted no serious injury ; the others missed. The inspector, however, lies seriously ill from grief and shock.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/44135896?searchTerm=sub%20inspector%27s%20suicide&searchLimits=l-australian=y




John McDONALD

John McDONALD

New South Wales Police Force

Sub-Inspector

 

Freeman’s Journal ( Sydney )  Saturday  14 October 1899  page 12 of 28

RECOGNITION OF DUTY WELL DISCHARGED.

SUB-INSPECTOR McDONALD PUBLICLY TESTIMONIALIZED.

No. 4 Division as it is officially phrased, but more popularly known as St. Patrick’s Parish, is in imminent danger of losing that fame so obligingly but unmeritably thrust upon it by a section of the press as the abode of ” the Rocks Push. ” Leaving out Parliamentary and Municipal elections, the chief public gatherings of the past two years have been those in which the people have spontaneously risen to give voice to generous recognition of deserving police officers leaving them either through retirement or well-merited promotion. This big hearted recognition of duty well done by members of a Force which watches over them night and day has been characteristic of this end of the city from the time when Inspector Anderson was promoted out of their midst to the present ; and that it is creditable to the citizenship of a law-abiding, peace-loving people, who will deny?

Recently, after a service of 26 years in the district, Senior-Sergeant John McDonald was promoted to a Sub-Inspectorship and the charge of Paddington district, and that a long service marked by a faithful performance of his duty was not lost upon the residents of No. 4 Division was proved by the fact that Mr. P. Nolan (who usually acts as secretary of such movements) was immediately requisitioned to receive the nucleus of a fund to fittingly entertain Inspector McDonald on his departure. The outcome was a valedictory presentation on Thursday last in the Federation Hall, Church Hill, in which upwards of 120 residents, ladies and gentlemen, took part. Refreshments were laid in true banqueting style, and it was during a lull in these proceedings that the presentation was made.

Alderman R. G. Watkins presided, and there were present amongst others : Mr. W. J. Spruson, M.P., Aldermen P. F. Hart and G. Smail, W. O. Healy, J. P., Very Rev. P. LeRennetel, E. O’Farrell, P. Nolan, J. Kilbeg. C. J. Morrissey, J. Keane, T. J. Purcell, J. Lynch, A. Ryan, G. Humphries, T. J. McMahon, T. O’Neill, W. Gunther, P. McManus.

The chairman called upon Mr. W. J. Spruson, M.P., to make the presentation on behalf of the residents.

Mr. Spruson said it afforded him the keenest pleasure to be associated with a movement such as that to honour a deserving public servant. An occasion like the present served not only to credit the district and to honour the man, but to show the authorities that in promoting men like Inspector McDonald they had the full approval of the people amongst whom their duty was cast. He then read the following address:-

” To Sub-Inspector John McDonald. Dear Sir, — Your promotion, to the rank of Sub-Inspector of Police and your transfer to the district of Paddington provide a fitting opportunity for an expression of the high regard in which you are held by those who have known you during your 26 years’ service in No. 4 Division of Sydney. An unstained record of 30 years’ service — a commendable, deliberate, and cautious method in the rigorous yet dutiful discharge of duty — and the frankness and fearlessness of character’ displayed alike in your official capacity and personal relations, which have earned for you a substantial recognition at the hands of your superiors, merit the warmest acknowledgment from your fellow-citizens. We trust that a capable discharge of the duties of your new position, and a continued display of those estimable qualities which have characterized your career in the past, will pave the way for further advancement, and retain for you that official and popular approbation which is the best reward of faithful service. (Signed— W. J. Spruson, P. F. Hart, R. G. Watkins, Virgoe, Son, and Chapman, Thomas Playfair, Patrick Keane, W. Owen Healy, T. J. McMahon, W. W. Aitkin, J. M. Stevens, B. Byrnes, J. A. O’Shea, M. Finnan, A. B. Holmes, James Inglis and Co., P. Le Rennetel, Geo. E. Smail, P. Nolan, John Keane, R. J. Lukie, Robt. Miller, John Bridge and Co., Ltd., James Dugan, John Smith, E. Resch, Rodolph Tudor, J. Lynch and Co., C. F. Cullen, D. A. Kenna and Co., D. A. Renard and Co., Ryall and Son.) ”

Mr. Spruson then presented the address, accompanied by a valuable gold watch (suitably inscribed), albert, and locket.

The address is a beautiful specimen of illumination in morocco portfolio form, beautified by touches of scenery about that portion of Port Jackson which has been the neighbourhood of his duty. The cover bears an elaborate monogram.

Sub-Inspector McDonald (who rose amidst enthusiastic applause) said he could not affect to feel anything but moved by the demonstration of esteem which marked his departure from the district in which he had served so long. Such a recognition of duty could not but prove an incentive to further devotion to the service with which he was indentified. His only regret was that his promotion entailed his severance from a district where he had so long served, and where had his wishes been consulted he would have served to the end. One thing he could assure them — that he would endeavour to prove that the confidence of the people of No. 4 Division was not misplaced ; and the handsome present they had just given him, as well as the warm feelings they expressed, would be regarded by him as long as he lived, and after him by his children, as something to be proud of. (Loud applause )

The toast of Sub-Inspector McDonald’s health   and future success was proposed by Aldermen Watkins, Hart, and Smail, Father Le Rennetel, Mr. W. O. Healy, and Mr. E. O’Farrell.

In honour of the presence of a number of ladies their health was briefly but warmly moved by Mr. T. O’Neill, and enthusiastically received. Mr. J. J. Keenan suitably responded. Mrs. McDonald was presented with several rich and costly gifts.

 

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/111077771?searchTerm=sub%20inspector%20james%20smith&searchLimits=l-australian=y




John COADY

John COADY

New South Wales Police Force

Sub-Inspector

Stationed at:  Wingham – 2 years, Taree – 9 years,

Kempsey – 6 years, Scone until 1906 – Retired

late of Woollahra

Joined NSW Police Force – Mounted Police

83 old

Died  1920

Laid to Rest in the Vault, with his wife, at Waverley Cemetery.

 

OBITUARY.

Sub-Inspector John Coady.

On the 12th ult., at his residence, 26 Edgecliffe-road, Woollahra, John Coady, late Sub-inspector of Police, Scone, passed to his reward, at the age of 83. He was only six days ill before his death.

The late sub-inspector was a native of Freshford, County Kilkenny, Ireland, and came to New South Wales in 1860, allured thither by the gold fever 0f those days.

He spent several years on the Gulf diggings at Moruya, and afterwards joined the mounted police. From the Sydney depot he was sent to Wingham, Manning River, as senior-constable in-charge. After, two years he was transferred to the charge of Taree. There he remained nine years, and was promoted to Kempsey; and, after six years in Kempsey, was transferred to Scone, where he remained until 1906, when he retired from active service, and lived ever since at Woollahra.

He had an honourable and striking record of service well rendered, and of duty well fulfilled. He had many thrilling stories to tell of encounters with bush rangers and notorious criminals — notably, the famous Fred Ward, the bushranger ( known us Thunderbolt ), the Dora Dora blacks, the Breelong blacks, and others. As a bushman, the late sub-inspector was famous, and it was largely due to his close pursuit that Thunderbolt had to quit the coast districts of the Manning and Hastings rivers, and confine his operations to the tablelands, where he was finally captured, at Guyra. On one occasion, the ex-sub-inspector tracked Thunderbolt to Tomalla Tops, the plateau whence the Hunter, the Manning, the Barrington, and other rivers take their rise. On that occasion he captured the camp of the bushranger, but Thunderbolt made good his escape. The ex-sub-inspector was often heard to tell how he’d have caught the bushranger, too, but his mount was too slow on the mountain side. Thunderbolt was remarkable for the splendid horses he always rode. On that occasion 13 horses were taken at the bushranger’s camp and brought to Taree, where they were sold by public auction.

The deceased was the father of a large family. His wife predeceased him by two years. His son, James, died some years before, as also did his daughter, Sister Mary Ignatius, who died at Moree three years ago. He leaves three sons and four daughters to mourn their loss. They are Rev. Father J. J. Coady, P.P., Taree. Rev. Mother Francis, Brigidine Convent, Cooma; Sister Mary Francis, superior of the Convent of Mercy, Narrabri ; and Sister Mary Raymund, Dominican Convent, Strathfield ; Mary and Vincent, Woollahra ; and William, Queensland.

During the last 13 years he was a familiar figure at the Holy Cross Church, Bondi Junction. He was always at morning Mass, and was a daily communicant.   His death was as holy as his life. The Rev. Father Smith administered the last Sacraments several hours before he died, and he was conscious right to the end. His remains were laid to rest in the vault at the Waverley Cemetery, where rests the remains of his late beloved and faithful wife.— R.I.P.

 

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/105968754?searchTerm=sub%20inspector%20james%20smith&searchLimits=l-australian=y

 

Home of John COADY - 26 Edgeworth Drive, Woollahra, NSW
Home of John COADY – 26 Edgecliff Rd, Woollahra, NSW

 

Home of John COADY - 26 Edgecliff Rd, Woollahra, NSW
Home of John COADY – 26 Edgecliff Rd, Woollahra, NSW

[divider_dotted]

 

 




DAVIS

DAVIS

New South Wales Police Force

Sub-Inspector

Died  ?

Funeral  20 July 1914

 

LATE SUB-INSPECTOR DAVIS.

The Sydney Morning Herald  Tuesday  21 July 1914  page 10 of 16

The funeral of the late Sub-Inspector Davis, of the Redfern division of the police, took place yesterday at Waverley Cemetery. There was a large attendance of members of the police force, among others being Superintendent Mitchell (representing the Inspector-General) and Superintendent Goulder, Inspectors McLean, Brooke, Spence, Childs, Kendall, Kelly, and Brack ;

Sub-Inspectors McCrimmon, Jones, Bannon, Stephens, Spence, Branston, Gumley, Fullerton, and Baxter; Senior-Sergeants O’Dea, Mankey, Sherwood, Evans, Doig, Allen, King, and Smith;

Sergeants Harrison, Hamilton, Sexton, Walker, and Bennett;

Senior-Constables Ross, Roche, Scott, Curtis, Morrow, Paine, Hickey, Leonard, and Archinall;

Constables Philpott, Anderson, Comans, James, Collins, Gillard, Davy,   Jackson, Gilbert, Cummings, Laycock, Hargrave, Healey. McCormick, Shanahan, Keogh, Moylan, Bowman, King, Walker, Williams, Spencer, Asquith, Jackson, Hollis, Wood,

Detective Moore, Ex-Superintendent Sherwood, ex-Sergeant Meehan, ex-S.C. Trinder, ex S.C. Burke.

Among the civilians present were Messrs. T. P. D. Holden, M.L.C., M. McCabe, A. E. Powell.

At the cemetery gates about 100 members of the police force assembled, and followed the hearse to the grave. After the usual burial service a Masonic service was conducted by Bro. Rees, W.M., of the Lodge Zetland Australia.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/15524163?searchTerm=sub%20inspector%20james%20smith&searchLimits=l-australian=y#pstart1278549

 

 




James SMITH

James SMITH

New South Wales Police Force

Sub Inspector

Joined the NSW Police Force in 15 January 1868 – Mounted Police

Previously stationed at:  Maitland ( 2 years ), Singleton,

Wollombi as Senior Constable,

Muswellbrook as Sergeant

April 1883 – promoted to Senior-Sergeant

1891 – promoted to Sub-Inspector

27 years Service

Illness – Suicide – Firearm

Born  1846 ??

Died  Thursday  31 December 1896 around 8am

50 old

Funeral  2 January 1897

leaves behind a wife & 7 children

 

 

Grave of Sub-Inspector James SMITH
Grave of Sub-Inspector James SMITH

Grave of Sub-Inspector James SMITH
Grave of Sub-Inspector James SMITH

Narrabri Cemetery
[google-map-v3 shortcodeid=”6b1aaeab” width=”350″ height=”350″ zoom=”12″ maptype=”roadmap” mapalign=”center” directionhint=”false” language=”default” poweredby=”false” maptypecontrol=”true” pancontrol=”true” zoomcontrol=”true” scalecontrol=”true” streetviewcontrol=”true” scrollwheelcontrol=”false” draggable=”true” tiltfourtyfive=”false” enablegeolocationmarker=”true” enablemarkerclustering=”false” addmarkermashup=”false” addmarkermashupbubble=”false” addmarkerlist=”-30.316353,149.792236{}catholicgrave.png” bubbleautopan=”true” distanceunits=”km” showbike=”false” showtraffic=”false” showpanoramio=”false”]

 

James Smith was a brother of Mr. G. Smith of Oak Farm, Rosemonte, near Goulburn, NSW, and his father, who died a few years ago, was a well-known gardener of that place.

Father’s name:  George

Mother’s name:  Isabella

 

The Sydney Morning Herald ( NSW )  Friday  1 January 1897  page 5 of 8

SUICIDE BY A SUB-INSPECTOR OF POLICE.

NARRABRI, Thursday.

This morning Sub-inspector James Smith, the officer in charge of the Narrabri police district, was found dead. A report of a shot was heard and deceased’s son, who rushed into the room, found his father lying on the bed with a revolver on his breast. From appearances that weapon had exploded in the   mouth and the bullet had passed into the brain. During the past fortnight Mr. Smith had been indisposed, and it is stated that when unwell he always became very despondent and developed symptoms of melancholia. Only one chamber of the revolver was discharged, and death was apparently instantaneous. Deceased was 50 years of age. He joined the police force 27 years ago, and, beginning as a constable, worked his way up to his present rank. During the past six years he has had charge of the Narrabri police district. Deceased leaves a widow and seven children. An inquest was opened at the courthouse this morning and adjourned till Monday.

Later particulars of the death of Sub-inspector Smith show that the deceased left three letters, one addressed to his wife, the second to Mr Kenyon, P. M., ( Police Magistrate ) and the third to Mr A. R. Stafford, of Barry and Stafford. In one letter he stated that he felt his mind was becoming unhinged and preferred death to living the remainder of his life in an asylum. The deceased had arranged all his affairs, leaving everything provided for. The Masons will accord the deceased a Masonic funeral, which takes place tomorrow morning. The family are left provided for.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/14082580#pstart1362053

 

[divider_dotted]

 

Singleton Argus ( NSW )  Saturday  2 January 1897  page 2 of 6

The Late Sub-Inspector Smith.

Many old residents of Singleton will regret to hear of the death of Police Sub-Inspector James Smith at Narrabri, an account of whose tragic end is published in another column. Sub-Inspector Smith joined the police force about 1868, and after doing duty at Maitland for about two years he was transferred to Singleton, where he remained for some time under Inspector Thorpe, and afterwards he was stationed at Wollombi with the rank of senior-constable.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/83250054?searchTerm=sub%20inspector%20james%20smith&searchLimits=l-australian=y#pstart8378896

 

[divider_dotted]

 

Singleton Argus ( NSW )  Saturday  2 January 1897  page 6 of 6

SUICIDE OF A SUB-INSPECTOR.

Sub-Inspector James Smith who has had charge of the division at Narrabri aged 50 years, committed suicide on Thursday. He got up as usual, and went round the barracks, and at 8 o’clock went back to his bedroom. A few minutes later Senior-Sergeant Thomas Clarke, hearing a report of firearms rushed into the bedroom, and found the sub-inspector stretched on his bed with a bullet wound in his head. Death was instantaneous. The revolver was quite hot when the sergeant took it from the dead man’s hand. The only cause that ran be assigned for the terrible deed is that the sub-inspector had been ailing for the last three weeks, and his wife has also been ill for some time, and is at the present moment in a very bad condition.

Great surprise was expressed locally at the news, and also regret. Sub-Inspector Smith was well liked both in his official and private capacity. He was a member of the Masonic order, and also the M.U. ( Manchester Unity ) Order of Oddfellows. The deceased inspector joined the mounted police on January 15, 1868. On leaving the depot in Sydney he was sent to the north-western district, being first stationed at Maitland. From that place he was transferred to Muswellbrook as sergeant, and was promoted to senior-sergeant in April, 1883. In 1891 Mr Smith attained the rank he held at the time of his death, and was appointed to the Narrabri sub-district.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/83250061?searchTerm=sub%20inspector%20james%20smith&searchLimits=l-australian=y#pstart8378900

 

[divider_dotted]

 

The Maitland Weekly Mercury ( NSW )  Saturday  2 January 1897  page 3 of 16

Suicide of Sub-Inspector Smith at Narrabri.

Narrabri, Thursday

Great excitement prevailed in town this morning when a report became current that police Sub-Inspector James Smith had committed suicide at his residence between 8 and 9 o’clock by shooting himself through the head with a revolver, death being instantaneous. The report was immediately confirmed, and the particulars furnished go to show that the Sub-Inspector had been suffering from some slight illness for the past week, and had been subject to fits of melancholia for some time previous, but the commission of such a rash act was never dreamed of by his friends. The greatest sympathy is felt for his wife and family. An inquiry will be held during the day. Alater telegram states that Mr. Smith got up as usual, and went round the barracks. At 8 0’clock he went back to his bedroom, and a few minutes later Senior-Sergeant Clarke, hearing the report of firearms, rushed into the bedroom and found the Sub-Inspector stretched on his bed with a bullet wound in the head. Death had been instantaneous, and tbe revolver was quite hot when the Sergeant took it from the dead man’s hand. The only cause assigned for the terrible deed is that the Sub- Inspector has been ailing for the last three weeks, and his wife had also been ill for some, and at the present moment is in a very bad condition. Great surprise is expressed in town at the news, also   regret. Mr. Smith was well-liked both in his official and private capacity. He was a member of the Masonic Order, and also of the Manchester Unity Order of Oddfellows. The late Mr. James Smith, or ” Long Smith ” as he was generally called by other members of the force to distinguish him from another officer of the same name, was well-known in the Maitland district, where the news of his death will create some excitement. Mr. Smith joined the police force about the year 1868, so that he had served 28 years and would in the natural course of events have retired in a couple of years’ time. In the 70’s he was stationed at Singleton under Inspector Thorpe, who has since retired, and later with the rank of senior-constable he was in charge at Wollombi. He was also stationed at several other places, and for a number of years prior to 1896 be was a senior-sergeant at Muswellbrook, in which year he was superseded by Senior-sergeant Cowan, now of East Maitland. Mr. Smith then went to Narrabri, with the rank of sub-inspector in charge of the sub-district of Narrabri, which is a most important one, including as it does Moree. During the miners’ strike at Greta, Mr. Smith was one of the officers engaged there. He was 50 years of age, and, as stated in our telegram, leaves a wife and family. Mr. Smith was a fine soldierly man in appearance, and was a noted strict disciplinarian.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/126319284?searchTerm=sub%20inspector%20james%20smith&searchLimits=l-australian=y#pstart13710107

 

[divider_dotted]

 

 




Paul Taras STEFANIW

Paul Taras STEFANIW

Victoria Police Force

Leading Senior Constable

Suicide – firearm

Born  7 November 1964

Died  30 November 2012

49 old

 

Paul STEFANIW
Paul STEFANIW

http://resources2.news.com.au/images/2012/03/09/1226295/494722-peter-and-paul-stefaniw.jpg

Peter and Paul (right) Stefaniw. Since our program, sadly one of the twins, Paul Stefaniw, the Victorian policeman has died. He was 49. His twin brother, Peter, also a policeman, says that between them, the twins have given nearly 60 years of police service. As well as paying tribute to his brother, Peter has asked us to mention Beyond Blue which helps people struggling with depression. For memories of Paul click through to this page. For other support services: Lifeline http://www.lifeline.org.au/ 131 114 Mensline http://www.mensline.org.au/ 1300 789 978 Kids Helpline http://www.kidshelp.com.au/ 1800 551 800 http://www.sbs.com.au/insight/episode/webextra/606/Two-of-a-Kind

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paul had been going through a marriage breakdown leading up to his death and was on sick leave.

He spent time, leading up to his death, visiting various friends and family ( which was his way of saying his goodbye’s ) but no one was aware of the mental anguish that Paul was going through.

He spent time putting his ‘affairs’ into order before, eventually, going to a beach where he left three notes, to various people, and then shot himself.

May you forever Rest In Peace mate.

 

Cal

[divider_dotted]

STEFANIW. – The Funeral Service for the late Leading Senior Constable Paul Taras Stefaniw will be held at the Victoria Police Academy, Viewmount Rd, Glen Waverley on MONDAY (Dec. 10, 2012) at 10.00 a. m. followed by a Burial at Fawkner Memorial Park, 1187 Sydney Rd, Fawkner at 1.30 p. m. Vigil Prayers will be recited at the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, 91 Buckley St, Essendon on SUNDAY (Dec. 9) at 6.00 p. m.
Funerals
Published in Herald Sun on 05/12/2012

– See more at: http://tributes.heraldsun.com.au/archivenotice/3023621/view?random=1406736702268#sthash.JN8EWTYC.dpuf

 

STEFANIW. – The Funeral Service for the late Leading Senior Constable Paul Taras Stefaniw will be held at the Victoria Police Academy, Viewmount Rd, Glen Waverley on MONDAY (Dec. 10, 2012) at 10.00 a. m. followed by a Burial at Fawkner Memorial Park, 1187 Sydney Rd, Fawkner at 1.30 p. m. Vigil Prayers will be recited at the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, 91 Buckley St, Essendon on SUNDAY (Dec. 9) at 6.00 p. m.
Funerals
Published in Herald Sun on 05/12/2012

 

[divider]

 

Wednesday, 16 April 2014

My deepest condolences to the Stefaniw family… I met Peter and Paul at interstate Police basketball championships back in the 80’s… Both very lovely blokes… Very sad to hear this news… Felicity Harley
Wednesday, 16 April 2014

Deepest sympathy for your sad loss. I went to kindergarten and primary school with Paul & Peter. His birthday was the first boys party Cheryl and I had been invited to. My thoughts are with Peter and his family. Carol

Tuesday, 15 April 2014

I am very sorry to here this on SBS Twins. Condolances to all who new Paul

Wednesday, 25 December 2013

I’m allways sad my dealest friend Paul isn’t here!Marietta

Wednesday, 30 October 2013

Miss you Paul, you were a wonderful person, I think of you often and will always remember your greeting to me in the office “Woof”, and our discussions about your dogs and cats.

Tuesday, 22 October 2013

Stef, still thinking of you mate and you are truly missed. I still cant believe you have left us!! A true friend and a top fella. Dont forget “its ok”.

Wednesday, 29 May 2013

Not a day goes past that I don’t think about you, missing you always x

Monday, 7 January 2013

Paul, Since hearing the news of your passing, it has been very difficult, both with a heavy heart and with many tears shed, to write what I feel.
You have given me many fond memories in my life, from our many wonderful times during our years in Plast, as well as the times you visited Adelaide to celebrate birthdays or just for a visit. I will cherish these memories forever.
Today, our Christmas Day, I wanted you to know that you are sadly missed and that my thoughts and prayers and heart are with you, Peter, Roxy and your family.
Vichnaya Pamyat

Monday, 24 December 2012

Thinking of the Stefaniw family during this difficult time especially on the eve of christmas. Its funny I never met Paul but felt like I knew him through hearing lovely positive stories about him from my mum and our friend who attended the same Church and through an ex partner who is also VicPol. I felt deeply saddened as a human being,a fellow ukrainian and an ex “plastunka” on hearing of his passing. Clearly a beautiful soul as evidenced by the tributes on this site and all that knew him. Gone too soon though Paul will live on in many hearts. Rest in Peace Paul. Love, Solace and Strength to your twin brother Peter, your beautiful children and all the Stefaniw family.

Friday, 21 December 2012

Le vent souffle
l’amour s’ecoule
le temps s’arréte
et avec toi, je reste

Wednesday, 16 April 2014

My deepest condolences to the Stefaniw family… I met Peter and Paul at interstate Police basketball championships back in the 80’s… Both very lovely blokes… Very sad to hear this news… Felicity Harley
Wednesday, 16 April 2014

Deepest sympathy for your sad loss.I went to kindergarten and primary school with Paul & Peter.His birthday was the first boys party Cheryl and I had been invited to.My thoughts are with Peter and his family. Carol

Tuesday, 15 April 2014

I am very sorry to here this on SBS Twins. Condolances to all who new Paul

Wednesday, 25 December 2013

I’m allways sad my dealest friend Paul isn’t here!Marietta

Wednesday, 30 October 2013

Miss you Paul, you were a wonderful person, I think of you often and will always remember your greeting to me in the office “Woof”, and our discussions about your dogs and cats.

Tuesday, 22 October 2013

Stef, still thinking of you mate and you are truly missed. I still cant believe you have left us!! A true friend and a top fella. Dont forget “its ok”.

Wednesday, 29 May 2013

Not a day goes past that I don’t think about you, missing you always x

Monday, 7 January 2013

Paul, Since hearing the news of your passing, it has been very difficult, both with a heavy heart and with many tears shed, to write what I feel.
You have given me many fond memories in my life, from our many wonderful times during our years in Plast, as well as the times you visited Adelaide to celebrate birthdays or just for a visit. I will cherish these memories forever.
Today, our Christmas Day, I wanted you to know that you are sadly missed and that my thoughts and prayers and heart are with you, Peter, Roxy and your family.
Vichnaya Pamyat

Monday, 24 December 2012

Thinking of the Stefaniw family during this difficult time especially on the eve of christmas. Its funny I never met Paul but felt like I knew him through hearing lovely positive stories about him from my mum and our friend who attended the same Church and through an ex partner who is also VicPol. I felt deeply saddened as a human being,a fellow ukrainian and an ex “plastunka” on hearing of his passing. Clearly a beautiful soul as evidenced by the tributes on this site and all that knew him. Gone too soon though Paul will live on in many hearts. Rest in Peace Paul. Love, Solace and Strength to your twin brother Peter, your beautiful children and all the Stefaniw family.

Friday, 21 December 2012

Le vent souffle
l’amour s’ecoule
le temps s’arréte
et avec toi, je reste

– See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/heraldsun-au/paul-stefaniw-condolences/161446933#sthash.uw0TN08I.dpuf




John McNALLY

John McNALLY

( the First Victorian Policeman killed ‘ on duty ” )

Victoria Police Force

Sergeant

Murdered – shot

Born  1826

Died  16 October 1856

30 old

 

McNally, John (1826–1856)

Intelligence was received on Saturday morning last, at the Detective Office, that on the preceding Thursday, the 16th inst., two of the mounted police force, Sergeant [John] McNally and Constable Moore, proceeded at seven o’clock on the night in question to a tent believed to be occupied by the notorious William Turner, alias Gipsy Smith, who stands charged with various acts of highway robbery, and with dismounting a constable from his horse near Castlemaine several months ago, and with escaping from custody.

On approaching the tent, the officers recognised Turner, who attempted to make his escape. The officers immediately closed with him, and, during the struggle, shots were fired from the tent, one of which entered the breast of Sergeant McNally, who fell dead on the spot. Several other shots were fired, and wounded the constable (Moore) severely in the face and other parts of the body.

As soon as the intelligence reached the Camp at Mount Ararat, the police went in search of the bushrangers, who, however, succeeded in eluding their vigilance. A woman was arrested in the tent. An active search is in progress, and it is thought the criminals cannot long escape detection. The gang, supposed to be under the leadership of Turner, is, without doubt, the same as that which committed the late daring acts of bushranging near Moliagul.

http://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/mcnally-john-15338

[divider_dotted]

 

John McNally - VicPol - 1st VicPol to be murdered on duty - plaque 2Sgt John McNally

Sergeant John McNally became the first member of the Victoria Police to be feloniously slain in the line of duty when he was murdered at the Cathcart diggings on 16th October, 1856.

http://hotel-lima.com.au/wp-content/themes/clean-start-master/thumbnaillarge/VictoriaMap.png

Whilst trying to arrest a suspect (Gypsy Smith) over a string of armed robberies, an associate of the suspect intervened and fired his shotgun, killing Sergeant McNally and seriously injuring his partner, Constable John Moore. The two offenders then made their escape. Seven days later, the pair were arrested near Amherst and charged with the murder of McNally. One of the offenders was hanged in 1857 and the other received a sentence of fifteen years hard labour.

The offender, William Smith (Gypsy Smith) was transported to Botany Bay at the age of 15 for stealing a handkerchief. He went on to become a hardened bush ranger who, between the years of 1852 and 1856, became the notorious ‘Gypsy Smith’, a subject of fascination for the newspapers and police as he and his gang of desperate convicts created fear among the gold diggings of Victoria.

Sergeant McNally is buried in Cathcart Cemetery on a hill known as McNally’ Hill. The Cemetery is in a natural bushland setting and is very well maintained.

The emergency department at Ararat Hospital is known as the John McNally Emergency Department.

Cathcart is approx. 4.6 km from Ararat and is approx. 345 m above sea level. There is no town at Cathcart, it is only an area. It was a large attraction for Gold Miners in the early 1800′s.  People from England, Ireland, Scotland, America, Switzerland, Germany, France, Russia and China descended on Cathcart to look for gold. Also many other from Australia took their families there as well.

There were many stories about horse thieves and murderers in the old days and these were dealt with tough justice by a self-established vigilante committee.
After the first rush the lead was lost and most miners moved on to other diggings except one of the original party J. P. Rodd who was in partnership with an American Negro Richard Davis (alias Black Harry). They traced the gold deeper and hit another lead calling it Blackman Lead. This attracted 3,000 diggers to the area, other leads were discovered each causing a new rush of miners.
The general area became known as Cathcart and with time the name was given to the Township where stores, school, hall and hotels had sprung up. There were many tents and lean-to shanties.
Today there is little evidence of the hustle and bustle of the frenzied gold diggers and their lively community of dreamers. Except maybe the Cemetery, which is on the Ararat- Pomonal Rd.

 

[divider_dotted]

http://www.npm.org.au/honour-roll/mcnally

Sergeant John McNally:  The system of registered number for police hadn’t been introduced when Sergeant John McNally was murdered on the Mt Ararat goldfield in 1856.  He had joined the Victoria Police Force the previous year after service with the Royal Irish Constabulary.

On October 16, 1856 Sergeant McNally and Constable John Moore where told that William Turner, a wanted robber was staying in a tent in a camp about two miles away.  Turner tired to flee but the police wrestled him to the ground.  Turner called for help from his associate, William Twigham.  Also known as Cockney Bill, Twigham came out of the tent armed with a double-barrelled shotgun.  He fired, killing Sergeant McNally and wounding Constable Moore.

Turner and Twigham escaped and a reward of  £400 was offered for their arrest.  They were arrested a week later at the Adelaide diggings after being recognised by a shopkeeper.

After a trial held at Castlemaine, Twigham was convicted of murder and sentenced to death.  he was hanged at the Melbourne Gaol on March 11, 1857.

Turner pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter and was sentenced to 15 years hard labour on the roads and other public works.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[divider_dotted]

Life of Sergeant John McNally’s murderer subject of new book

ARARAT – A book chronicling the life and times of the man responsible for the murder of police sergeant John McNally in 1856 is nearing completion.

The text, which is yet to be titled, tells the story of William Sydenham Smith and how his life of crime led to him crossing paths with Sergeant McNally.

Sergeant McNally was the first member of the Victorian Police force to be slain in the line of duty.

The research team of Marion McAdie, Greg Vivian, and Ian Batty along with author Laurie Moore have spent over 12 months on the book.

Mrs McAdie said she along with the genealogical society wanted to find the facts surrounding the murder of Sergeant McNally.

“Unfortunately, after much research we still know little about McNally or his partner Constable John Moore, who was wounded in the same incident,” she said.

The book uses Smith’s history to provide a broader context to the death of McNally.

“Like the public perception of most Australian bush rangers, Smith comes across in most accounts as a one-dimensional person,” Mrs McAdie said.

“His origins from England as a transported convict at the age of fifteen, his brutal treatment for minor misdemeanours at the hands of a ruthless system, his heroism in saving lives during his imprisonment, and his eventual participation as a free man in colonial New South Wales and Victoria, have never been mentioned before.

“As in many cases of murder by bush rangers, the victim hardly rates a mention and we hope that this book may help recognise the heroism and positive contributions made by the early police on the goldfields.”

Mrs McAdie said she believes it is an important story because it tells of how a young William Smith was transported to Botany Bay at the age of 15 for stealing a handkerchief.

“It traces his experiences as a convict around Sydney, Norfolk Island and Tasmania before he escaped in a whale boat from Tasmania,” she said.

The book goes on to show how the young boy became a hardened bush ranger who, between the years of 1852 and 1856, became the notorious ‘Gypsey Smith’, a subject of fascination for the newspapers and police as he and his gang of desperate convicts created fear among the gold diggings of Victoria.

The story culminates in the events at Cathcart diggings on October 16, 1856 when the bush rangers were confronted by Sergeant McNally and Constable Moore, leaving one dead and the other wounded.

“After the eventual capture of the bush rangers near Maryborough, Smith’s mate was hanged but a strange fate awaited Smith, and this is detailed in the forthcoming book,” Mrs McAdie said.

Although the story revolves around a bush ranger, it is set among the goldfields of 1850s’ Victoria.

It touches on the lives of many ordinary people, the legal system, the squatters, and the impacts of convicts who came in large numbers to look for gold and rob and terrorise the infant community.

“It is a good read and one that is set in Sydney, Norfolk Island, Tasmania, Melbourne, Yackandandah, Moliagul, Maryborough, Amherst, Beaufort, Ararat, Cathcart and Hay in New South Wales,” Mrs McAdie said.

The book’s author, Laurie Moore retired from Sydney to live in Western Victoria thirteen years ago.

Mr Moore’s first book involved nearly ten years of research by Mr Moore and his wife Dianne.

It told the story of the last declared outlaw in Australia, Jimmy Governor, who was the fictional character, Jimmie Blacksmith, in the book written by Thomas Keneally.

Since then he has written ‘Shot for Gold’, a bush ranging story that happened near Smythesdale, a draft for a book on the Clark Gang of Braidwood, and has now put together the history of the killing of the policeman, Sergeant John McNally, and the convict and bush ranging events that led to his death in October 1856 at Cathcart.

Mrs McAdie said despite all the hours of research the team still can’t place an exact location of the burial site of sergeant McNally.

“We would love to hear from people about the exact location,” she said.

“We think the site is located in the north west corner of the now Cathcart cemetery.”

The team hope to have the book finished by the 157th anniversary of the event on October 16 this year.

[divider_dotted]

 

Sergeant John McNallyPrint Page Print this page

Plaque at gravesite commemorates Police Sergeant John Mc Nally who was murdered whilst on duty in October 1854.

Sergeant John McNally became the first member of Victoria Police to be feloniously slain in the line of duty when he was murdered at the Mt Ararat goldfields on 16th October, 1856. Whilst trying to arrest a suspect over a string of armed robberies an associate of the suspect intervened and fired his shotgun, killing Sergeant McNally and seriously injuring his partner, Constable John Moore. The two offenders then made their escape. Seven days later, the pair were arrested near Amherst and charged with the murder of McNally. One of the offenders was hanged in 1857 and the other received a sentence of fifteen years hard labour.

Location

Address: Phillips Flat Road, Cathcart Cemetery, Cathcart, 3377
State: VIC
Area: AUS
GPS Coordinates: Lat: -37.319616
Long: 142.888729
Note: GPS Coordinates are approximate.

View Google Map

Details

Monument Type: Plaque
Monument Theme: People
Sub-Theme: Crime
Actual Event STart Date: 16-October-1854
Actual Event End Date: 16-October-1854

Dedication

Approx. Monument Dedication Date: 1974
Front Inscription
In memory Sgt. John McNally who was murdered whilst in the execution of his duty 16-10-1854. Erected by Victoria Police Department 1974.

Source: MA,RHSV

Monument details supplied by Monument Australia – www.monumentaustralia.org.au
[divider_dotted]

The John McNally Medical Imaging Unit at Ararat Hospital

With substantial donations from the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation the Ararat Hospital was able to purchase an image intensifier for its surgical department and new X-Ray equipment for the Medical Imaging Unit. This was a joint project between the Blue Ribbon Foundation and the local community through the Ararat Branch and was dedicated as a Police Memorial in memory of Sergeant John McNally who was murdered at the Mt Ararat Goldfields in 1856.

http://www.remember.org.au/Memorials/Hospitals/The-John-McNally-Medical-Imaging-Unit-at-Ararat-Ho

[divider_dotted]

 

The John McNally Emergency Department at Ararat Hospital

 

In 2003 works commenced on a complete redevelopment of the Ararat Hospital and the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation was able to contribute to the re-building of the emergency department. This was completed as a joint project in partnership with the local community through the Ararat Barnch of the Blue Ribbon Foundation. Today the Ararat Hospital Emergency Department can provide state of the art emergency & trauma care to the people of Ararat and surrounding districts. This project, commissioned as a Police Memorial in May 2004, was the first stage in a continuing relationship with the community of Ararat and their public hospital.

Sergeant John McNally became the first member of Victoria Police to be feloniously slain in the line of duty when he was murdered at the Mt Ararat goldfields on 16th October, 1856. Whilst trying to arrest a suspect over a string of armed robberies an associate of the suspect intervened and fired his shotgun, killing Sergeant McNally and seriously injuring his partner, Constable John Moore. Sergeant McNally’s sacrifice is acknowledged through this an other projects installed at the Ararat Hospital.

http://www.remember.org.au/Memorials/Hospitals/The-John-McNally-Emergency-Department-at-Ararat-Ho

[divider_dotted]

 

 

 




F. C. Derry

F. C. Derry

Victoria Police

Sergeant

Suicide – Firearm

Died  7 October 1893

38 old

 

The Argus ( Melbourne, Vic. )  Monday  9 October 1893  page 6 of 8

SUICIDE AT THE RUSSELL STREET BARRACKS.

SERGEANT DERRY SHOOTS HIMSELF.

On Saturday morning Sergeant F. C. Derry, who acted as clerk to Superintendent Sadlier, committed suicide by shooting himself at the Russell street barracks. No reason can be assigned for his act. He was happy in his domestic relations was well advanced in grade in the force, held a comfortable position as clerk to the inspecting superintendent, and was almost, if not quite, a total abstainer from intoxicants. In these circumstances and the additional favourable features of good health and a happy temperament, the members of the force have been compelled to the opinion that his act was the result of some sudden impulse which cannot be explained. Derry was 38 years of age, and a married man with a wife and two  children. He entered the Permanent Artillery in 1874, and a year later joined the police force. In May, 1887, he was promoted to the rank of senior constable, and in February, 1892, to a  second class sergeant. His clerical ability which in 1884 carried him with honours through the officers examination, marked him as specially suitable for a position on the office staff, and when Sergeant Crampton was promoted to the rank of sub- inspector and left the office of the inspecting superintendent, Derry was appointed to take his place as chief clerk. In his new position Derry worked untiringly and with much success, and having a talent for organisation he devoted himself to the task of making a success of the police brass band, of the committee of which he was chairman. His efforts and the efforts of those associated with him were an unqualified success as the record of two years, during which £5OO or so has been raised by the band for charities testifies. On Saturday morning Derry seemed in his usual health and spirits, but soon after he had entered his office Constable McGuinness heard a pistol shot, and upon running into Derry’s room he found him lying on the floor with a smoking pistol in his hand. Sergeant Byrne was called, and though he saw that the pistol bullet having entered the sergeants mouth, was still embedded in his brain, and had undoubtedly caused instant death, he ordered the body to be at once removed to the Melbourne Hospital. This was done, and Dr Desailly examined the patient but his examination confirmed the opinion of Sergent Byrne. The bullet had evidently been fired while the pistol was held in the mouth, and it had caused immediate death. Mr Sadleir examined the sergeants papers and found them correct in every particular, and he then communicated the fact of his death to the chief commissioner. An inquest will be held to day at noon.

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/8699349?searchTerm=sergeant%20crampton&searchLimits=l-australian=y|||l-category=Article|||sortby#pstart313778

 




Barrie John BROWN

Barrie John BROWN – AM

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. # 10118

Rank?

Stations?

Service:  NSW Police:  From  ?  to  ? ? 1969

Service: Commonwealth Police / Australian Federal Police:  From  ? to  ? ? 1996

AFP Regd. #  ?

Awards:  Member of the Order of Australia ( AM ) – granted 26 January 1982 in recognition of service to the AFP

National Medal – granted 3 September 1985

1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 1 May 1987

Born?

Died on:  Tuesday  22 July 2014

Cause: Cancer

Age?

Funeral date:  Saturday  26 July 2014

Funeral location:  Chapel of Fred Ward (Brindabella) Gardens, Curtin

Buried at:  Cremated

[alert_blue]BARRIE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue]

 

 

Barrie John BROWN, age unknown, former Regd. No. 10118.

Barrie resigned from NSW Police in 1969 and joined the Commonwealth Police and later the AFP where he served until 1996.

He regularly met with retired NSW Police in the RPA (ACT) Social Luncheon group. His funeral has been held.

 

 

[divider_dotted]

 

 

 

Obituary

Printed: Saturday  2 August 2014

BARRIE JOHN BROWN AM

Passed away peacefully on 22.7.2014 surrounded by his loving family.

Adored husband of Jann, loved so much as a father and friend by his children Caryn and Stephen and their partners.

Amazing and devoted, proud grandfather to Kaela and Alana.

Special mate to brother Dennis and his family.

Supportive friend to many, with a great heart.

Barrie never lost his gentle, caring manner through two years of fighting cancer.
He was a much respected police officer, volunteer and car racing enthusiast.

His private cremation took place last Saturday, followed by a celebration of his
life, with good friends present in the Chapel of Fred Ward (Brindabella) Gardens, Curtin.

http://tributes.canberratimes.com.au/obituaries/canberratimes-au/obituary.aspx?n=barrie-brown&pid=171934397

logo

 

[divider_dotted]