Peter DAILLY – March 1, 1994. (Photo by Dean Sewell/Fairfax Media via Getty Images).
Photograph from todays police tribunal concerning drug by Frenchs forest police. Arriving back from lunch, center former Constable Andrew Neilson, with Barrister Peter Dailly (left) and instructing Solicitor James Hall. Constable Neilson … seriously affected by alcohol. An off-duty police officer was too drunk to remember if he was in Frenchs Forest police station the night the duty officer smelt burning cannabis in the station, the Police Tribunal heard yesterday. Constable Andrew Neilsen told the tribunal he had been drinking jugs of Kamikazes – a cocktail of vodka, tequila and Cointreau – and remembered little of the night. March 1, 1994. (Photo by Dean Sewell/Fairfax Media via Getty
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Tuesday 31 October 1989, page 3
Gundy death referred to Royal Commission
SYDNEY: The Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody is to investigate the death of David Gundy, who was shot dead during a police raid on his home in April this year.
Commissioner Hal Wootten, QC, said yesterday that Mr Gundy’s case would be added to the list of deaths to be investigated.
No date has yet been set for the hearing, although it is not expected to start until next year.
It had been expected there would be legal argument as to whether Mr Gundy’s death fell within the commission’s jurisdiction, but yesterday that jurisdiction was not disputed.
In a written submission, counsel for the State Government, Michael Finnane, QC, said armed police involved in the raid had taken up positions at the front and back of Mr Gundy’s house to prevent anyone leaving.
He said in those circumstances the State Government accepted that Mr Gundy and everyone else in the house was “in a real sense in custody of the police officers at the relevant time”.
Counsel assisting the commission, Stephen Norrish, QC, and James Barnett, counsel for Mr Gundy’s widow Doreen Eatts, backed the State Government view.
But counsel for the Police Association, Peter Dailly, said he had been instructed not to make any submission either way.
David Gundy, 32, was killed by a shotgun blast when police from the Special Weapons and Operations Squad raided his home at Marrickville, in Sydney’s inner west, early on April 27.
Detective Sergeant Terry Dawson told the Gundy inquest his shotgun fired accidentally when Mr Gundy attempted to take it from him during a brief struggle.
At the time police were hunting for John Porter, 27, over the shooting of two police officers in the city three days earlier. One of the officers subsequently died.
Porter was not found in the raid on Mr Gundy’s home or at any of the other five Sydney homes raided at the same time. He was arrested in Queensland on May 3 and is now awaiting trial.
At the end of a two-month inquest, a jury found police had acted in the course of their duty and that Mr Gundy’s death was an accident.
Outside the commission, Mr Norrish said the commission would have a brief to investigate the conduct of the inquest and specifically look at some issues not examined by State Coroner Kevin Waller.
He said he could not pre-empt the areas of investigation at this stage. But one possible avenue might be the suggestion that advanced notice of the raid was given to some members of the press.
Service: From? ? pre April 1985? to17 July 2008 = 23 years, 5 months & 13 days Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 24 March 2000 ( SenCon )
Born: Sunday 22 September 1963
Died on: Saturday 20 June 2020
Age: 56 years, 8 months, 29 days
Cause: Stroke ?. Suffered from Cancer of the Brain several years earlier.
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Thursday 25 June 2020
Funeral location: ?
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of the 4 square metre rule at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 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: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( July 2020 )
Peter 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.
In January 2019, Peter was in a Nursing Home at Cronulla, after having suffered a severe stroke.
On the 4 November 2010, Tako received a life saving bone marrow transplant from an unknown donor from Germany.
Tako was told then ( 2010 ) that 2 years post transplant will gravely reduce the return of the disease, but if he could reach the 5 year mark, he will have beaten the beast.
On 4 November 2015, ( 5 years later ) Tako posted a FB status that he had “beaten the beast” and was cancer free.
Tako certainly went through the wars with his health and we wish him a pain free eternity.
Deepest condolences to his wife Samantha, son Mitch & daughter Georgia.
My Peter forever Rest In Peace.
Tako, after his retirement, was the NSW Police Football coach for the team taking part in the Australasion Games.
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this was a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 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: Alan Harris McDonald Funerals, Wagga Wagga, NSW
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( July 2020 )
TONY 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.
Passed away suddenly at his home, the place he loved in Coolamon on Tuesday, 23rd June 2020.
Beloved husband of Debbie.
Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Daniel & Bree, Mitchell and their mother Janice.
Loving stepfather of Katie, Carissa, Sara and Sonia & Peter.
Treasured Pop of Logan, Eli, Riley, Aaliyah, Sophia, Matayo and Maharlah.
Cherished by his four-legged mates Lochie, Benson, Betty and Tilly.
Aged 59. He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.
A Service to Celebrate Tony’s life will be held at the Alan Harris McDonald Chapel, 76 Copland Street, Wagga Wagga on Tuesday, 30th June 2020 commencing at 11:00am.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend.
For family and friends unable to attend the Celebration for Tony’s life, you are invited to watch the service via live-stream at the website: www.alanharrismcdonald.com.au.
If you would like to be recorded in the family memorial book, please contact the team at Alan Harris McDonald on: (02) 6933 7802.
The club is saddened by the loss of Tony Cramp, better known around the club as Crampy. Crampy became involved in the club over the last few seasons and didn’t miss a training this pre season, always making sure the players drink bottles were full and always up for a chat.
Thank you for your contribution Crampy the club was a better place with you in it and we will miss you mate.
Pauline MizzLassiCrampy May you bring laughter to the heavens above, just as you did on earth. Thank you for everything you did for my family and I, something that will never be forgotten. Some tears were shed by my four children with my eldest reminding me how much you helped him in his teenage years. Rest peacefully ????
It is with great sadness that I share this post of a Cabramatta icon. My beautiful Mum, Margaret Rose O’Neill sadly passed away on 30 December 2019 in the Palliative Care Unit at Liverpool Hospital, aged 77.
Prior to Mums death she had been a resident of Coventry Rd, Longfield St and John St ( Cabramatta ) for the majority of her beautiful life.
Her employment included 25 + years working at Lansdowne Nursing Home.
Mum was always well known in the CBD of Cabra, and her means of transport were mainly the local bus and taxi services.
It is without doubt that the staff in the Liverpool Palliative Care Unit is living proof that Angels live amongst us.
During Mums funeral service, my sister Cheryl Mcgrath paid homage to the Students of Cabramatta High School who, on Christmas Day, visited the Hospital and shared their love of man kind as they joyfully sang Christmas Carols to the patients. It was the most beautiful experience and a true acknowledgement of the values being instilled in the Students at Cabramatta High.
Mum will be absolutely sadly missed, but I believe her commitment by always remaining a resident of Cabramatta she will always be remembered as a “True Local” of this beautiful town we call Cabra.
RIP Mum forever in our hearts Cheryl & Tony ????
Class 194 A – May 1983
Some great memories when Tony was our shift supervisor at VKG4 Wagga a fun 9 years. RIP now Big fella. S/C R Nixon, SCO R Faulkner, Sgt Tony Cramp, SCO M Mackintosh, S/C K Burness Kind Regards Michelle Mackintosh ex serial# 8880008
Kenneth Owen EARL
| 07/07/2020
Kenneth Owen EARL
AKA Ken
Late of ?
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # 103
NSW Police Cadet # 1751
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 11490
Rank: Commenced Training as Police Cadet on 28 May 1962 ( Aged 15 years, 11 months, 11 days old )
Probationary Constable- appointed 12 June 1965 ( Aged 19 years )
Service: From28 May 1962 to? ? ? = ? years Service
Went on to be a Barrister & Counsel for 32 years
Awards: National Medal – granted 15 April 1981 ( SenCon )
Born: Wednesday 12 June 1946
Died on: 24? June 2020
Age: 74 years & 12 days old
Cause: ?
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Monday 29 June 2020 @ ?
Funeral location: ?TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of the 4 square metre rule at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 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: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( June 2020 )
KEN 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.
This is a photo of members from my class 103 in 1965 who went from the Academy to Regent Street Police Station. TOP ROW left to right: Les GRAY, Bill OSBORNE, Don McMILLAN ( RIP ), Ken EARL # 11490 ( RIP – June 2020 ), Graham GUNN, Lindsay SPENCE, Graham SPRING. BOTTOM ROW left to right: Danny CUSACK, Don HAMILTON, ? , Ken ?, Bob SEPPING, and Robert WALKER.
Police Training Centre – Redfern Class 103 Attested on Monday, 10 May 1965 John Walker – top row – 2nd from right. ‘possibly’ Kenneth Owen EARL # 11490 – Back row – 9th from right
Congratulations to all the winner on #FoundersDay @stmichaels_golf.
The club could not have asked for a better day to host the Annual Founders Day. With only a small crowd attending the short service, it was still great to see the tradition is still alive and the club is hoping to attract a few more patrons to next years service. A big thank you to Fr Paul Foley for running the mass this mornings mass. Ken Earl (Club President) for enduring a day of waiting inside all day for everyone to finish (due to an injury) to present the winners of the day and Lyndell Undy (Lady President) for all her contributions in making the day run smoothly.
1st President’s Trophy Men’s – John Lee + 7
Runner Up Men’s – Ian Clark + 3 c/b
1st President’s Trophy Ladies – Sandy Dunn + 5
Runner Up Ladies – Lyndell Undy + 2 c/b
2B Winners – Alan & Carolyn Davis – + 11
Runners Up – Pat McKaig & Sandy Dunn + 10
Just a short note for those who knew Ken EARL. I was in the cadets with Ken in 1962. The 6 ft 9 in gentle giant became a very talented Police Prosecutor saving a lot of good cops and then a Barrister. He is presently experiencing ill health and has been on dialysis for some years. He is President of St Michael’s Golf Club and still reports in there. A call from those who knew him might cheer him up a bit. 0417 221 112.
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 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 )
Buried at: Cremated. Ashes will be Interned with Jimmys and a plaque to mark their final resting place will be placed at Palmdale Lawn Cemetery in the future.
Together again and forever.
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( June 2020 )
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
We are very sorry to report that the lovely Betty Jordan died this morning.
Betty joined our Police Legatee family in 1985 when her husband Senior Constable James Jordan died.
She was a long-time dedicated volunteer for NSW Police Legacy, and was instrumental in getting our Local Area Lunches program off the ground – a program that continues to bring together Police Legatees all around the State. She also organised monthly morning teas independent of NSWPL, and created a strong support network for many elderly Police Legatees, where her passion for helping others added genuine warmth to so many people’s lives.
Betty celebrated her 90th birthday in March.
RIP Betty, you will be sadly missed. ????????????
We are very sorry to report that the lovely Betty Jordan died this morning. Betty joined our Police Legatee family in…
Jacks widow – Janet Bailey passed away, peacefully, in her sleep on Saturday 27 March 2021 and will be laid to rest with Jack at the Pinegrove Cemetery on Saturday 3 April 2021. May they both, forever, Rest In Peace.
NSW Penrith Police College Class # 027
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 7224
Uniform # 3565 & 909
Rank: Commenced Training at Penrith Police College on 11 February 1952 ( aged 22 years, 5 months, 2 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed 31 March 1952 ( aged 22 years, 6 months, 22 days )
Constable – appointed 31 March 1953
Constable 1st Class – appointed 1 July 1958 ( 4 months loss of Seniority somewhere )
Liverpool GDs ( 22 Division )( ProCst )( 21 April 1952 – 9 June 1952 ),
was to be transferred to Moss Vale – but that was Cancelled,
Parramatta GDs ( 18 Division )( 10 June 1952 – 20 June 1954 ) – whilst at Parramatta, he assisted the Army at Windsor through the catastrophic floods,
Traffic Branch ( 21 June 1954 – PSB, later STP – Solo Cyclist – Probation ),
Traffic Branch ( 10 August 1954 – 30 June 1955, PSB, later STP – Solo Cyclist – Permanent ),
Liverpool STP – Solo cyclist ( 1 July 1955 – 17 Jan. 1961 ),
Camden – STP ( Cst 1/c )( 18 Jan. 1961 – 13 Feb. 1966 )( 22 Division in those days but 35 Division now ),
Liverpool STP Solo Cyclist ( 14 Feb. 1966 – 16 June 1966 ),
Liverpool STP – STP – Car Crew ( 117 June 1966 – 23 June 1968 )
Liverpool STP – Assistant to Sgt In Charge, STP ( 24 June 1968 – 21 December 1969 )( Promoted to Sgt during this time and Assistant Sgt in Charge of STP, Liverpool,
Liverpool STP – Sgt In Charge, STP ( 22 December 1969 – 6 Sept. 1975 ),
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 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 )
6′ 1.5″ tall, weighed 14 st. 2 lb, had hazel eyes, brown hair and a fair complexion.
He was born in Croydon Park, NSW & Married on 23 October 1954.
He was previously employed at a Parcel Sorter – 2 weeks, Process Worker – 3 months, Fitter and Machinist 6.5 years.
He held the school Intermediate Certificate and held a Trade Certificate as Fitter & Machinist.
He failed his 1st attempt at the Cst 1/c course on 21 August 1956 but Passed on 24 June 1958 – which would explain his loss of 3 months Seniority.
He Passed his Sgt 3/c exam on 20 May 1965 and Passed his Sgt 1/c exam on 13 May 1975.
He was approved to Ride ( as a Solo Cyclist ) on 17 July 1952,
Approved ( O ) on 24 August 1953, ( I don’t know what the ‘O’ represents )
Approved S-hp on 10 August 1954 ( I don’t know what the ‘S-hp’ represents )
Approved to drive Departmental vehicles on 29 October 1958 and approved to drive General Duty utilities & light trucks on 29 January 1964.
He was approved as a High Speed Manual transmission driver on 23 May 1966.
At the time of publication, I have no further information – other than what is posted above.
Cal
25 June 2020
Email received from Jack’s daughter – Lynne on 30 June 2020.
Good morning,
I can’t help but be impressed with the respect you all have for each other even though dad retired around 36 years ago.
Inspector Scott Smith and six Police Officers from Mt Druitt took the time to attend the West Chapel at Pinegrove to honour dad and my mother Janet, Friday 26th June 2020. Family and friends were touched by the tribute and some footage and photos are available.
Dad was devoted to my mum (retired nurse/midwife) who had a stroke in 2010 that affected her right side and speech. Dad maintained the family home and spent every day (unless unwell) with mum. He decided in January this year to sell the home to spend more time with mum. He had a few health issues but was on the mend. He had a strength and determination you had to admire, no excuses.
He passed away peacefully in his sleep early in the morning on Sunday 21st June 2020 close to his loving wife of 65 years.
I have two photos that we used at the service of the graduation of the class of 1952. It was taken at the Penrith academy and they were found when preparing the Braidwood and Schofields properties for sale.
I will soon email them to you and Jody McLeod for your records.
I have another early picture of dad in what appears his motor cycle uniform. A few photos later in his career on his bike and in his uniform at Wagga Wagga with a departmental just before he retired on the 8th September 1984. There is a photo taken at his send off where he was presented with two plaques, one a hand made copper plaque and other memorabilia.
There are more photos and slides to go through and if I locate any that may be of interest to your group I will forward them to you.
I am custodian of his long service good conduct medal which was presented to him by Prime Minister Gough Whitlam who had gone out of his way to congratulate Dad and shake his hand.
I was not aware of his commendation through the fires and if it was written I hope I locate it as I still have some personal items to sift through.
I have his trade certificate, Discharge from the Police Force and other certificates and happy to share if it is of interest.
When stationed at Parramatta he assisted the army at Windsor through the catastrophic floods.
I recall some of his time at Liverpool Police Station through the mid to late 70s and I would often visit him there on my way home from work.
He was on duty at Liverpool ( Feb ) 1977 when the train derailed at Granville and Mum was a nurse at Fairfield where many of the casualties were taken. ( If Jack was stationed at Liverpool in Feb 1977 then his timeline of station attachments must be wrong. Cal )
Dad was proud of his years in the force and valued the mateship. He retired at 55 to spend time and travel around the state with mum in their van and later a Winnebago.
Kind regards
Lynne Bak
nee Bailey
********************
Response:
Hi Lynne,
Our condolences on the loss of your father and I hope that you, and the family, gain strength from knowing that he wasn’t forgotten by those who knew him.
We look forward to attaching any, and all, the photos and video that you might like to share with us and any other memories that you may care to share.
Would also like to attach any funeral pamphlet that may have been made and a copy of his Service record and Eulogy.
much respect
Greg ‘Cal’ Callander
NSWPF # 17463
1975 – 2004
On Thursday 1 April 2021 – Lynne returned an email with the below attachments and also with the sad news that her mother, Janet Bailey, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday 27 March 2021.
Janet will be laid to rest with Jack at Pinegrove Cemetery on Saturday 3 April 2021.
Alfred Henry PESCHEL
| 07/07/2020
Alfred Henry PESCHEL
AKA Alf & Fred
Late of Collie, W.A. – formerly of Hillman – near Rockingham, W.A. and formerly of Fairfield, NSW.
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # 117
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 13492
Rank: Commenced Training a Redfern Academy on 28 October 1968 ( Aged 20 years, 5 months, 6 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed 9 December 1968 ( Aged 20 years, 6 months, 19 days )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed 9 December 1977
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 28 April 1985
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Sergeant
Stations: ?, Daceyville Traffic ( 15 Division )( late 1960s ), Bankstown ( 19 Division )( Solo Cyclist June 1970 ), “possibly” Maitland, Fairfield GDs ( 34 Division )( late 1970s – early 80s ), Breath Analysis Section ( early 1980s ), Traffic Adjudication Section, Fairfield ( 34 Division ) ( Sgt ), Wetherill Park GDs ( 34 Division )( Traffic Sgt? ) – Retirement
Service: From28 October 1968to19 January 1990 = 21 years, 2 months & 22 days Service
Funeral ( Memorial Service ) location: Archer & Sons Funeral Home, Richter Rd, Bunburry, W.A.
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 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 )
The Celebration of the Life of the Late Mr Alfred Henry (Fred) Peschel of Collie, ( W.A. ) will take place at Archer and Sons Funeral Home Chapel, Richter Road, Bunbury,( W.A. ) on THURSDAY 25.06.2020 commencing at 11.00am.
I used to work with Alf at Fairfield in the late 1970s and always found him to be a nice bloke.
Alf had been living in W.A. for many years until his death.
Cal # 17463
Immigrant says new arrivals should be warmly welcomed
Ross Verne
Happy in Collie: Austrian born Fred Peschel has lived in Collie for nine years.
THE settlement in Collie ( W.A. ) of a number of families from Iraq, Iran and Myanmar has brought back memories for Austrian born Fred Peschel.
Fred was born in Vienna, in 1948, and embarked
upon the long journey to Australia by ship at age 11.
“My mum, two brothers and my sister, without a dad, came to Australia as immigrants,” he said.
Fred travelled with his family from Genoa, in northern Italy, their first port of call being Fremantle, before sailing on to Melbourne and embarking on a bus trip to what was then called the Villawood Migrant Hostel.
Fred and his family spent two years at the hostel and he laments the re-naming and re-purposing of his old home.
“I think that’s wrong,” he said of the old hostel’s rebranding as the Villawood Detention Centre.
“They are being detained but they’re not prisoners.”
The immigration issue is very topical at the moment in Collie and Fred feels passionately about recognising any new migrants as people who deserve a chance at a better life.
“We came here for a better lifestyle, which is exactly what these people are doing,” he said.
Although he would go on to become happily married with two children and seven grand children, things were not all good in Australia.
“I couldn’t handle it in school because I couldn’t speak English. I struggled from the age of 11 to 14,” he said.
He describes the difficulty of being a child in a strange land and being unable to speak a word of English.
“It was hard to communicate. I was only 11, only a child.
“It was hard for us to adjust and this is why it will be hard for these new people to adjust.”
He is quick to point out that while he was teased a bit at school because of his difficulties with the language, people were not racist.
Fred got himself a welding apprenticeship at 14 and from there was able to move into the police force, where he worked for 21 years before moving to Western Australia.
Fred lived in Hillman, near Rockingham, from 1990 until 2004 when he made the journey south to Collie.
“We wanted to get away – Rockingham is getting as busy as most Sydney suburbs,” he said.
Fred has now been in Collie for nine years and he feels that as the community has welcomed him, so should they welcome all new residents to the town.
“Because they have been assessed and they’re of apparent good character we should welcome them with open arms, like anyone else.
“Lets not call them asylum seekers. Let’s call them immigrants.
“They’re not seeking asylum, they’re migrating to Australia,” he said.
Fred said the people of Collie should do what they can to make any new arrivals feel welcome.He believes the new arrivals should be happy in Collie.
“That’s all that really matters,” he said.
Fred thinks people should remember that these people are not stepping into public housing, but rather private rentals, organised by Communicare, a non-government agency.
“People are saying they are getting housing above anyone else. That is not true,” he said.
“I think people should dispel the thought that they are getting something more than anyone else.”
Although Fred’s health issues prevent him from being able to contribute directly to helping the new migrants settle, he has faith that the people of Collie will be welcoming.
“If I was to go to another country, I would hope to be accepted as we would welcome other people into our country,” he said.
“I honestly believe the greater majority of the community in Collie will accept them.”
For the information of anyone who used to work with Alf Peschel who was a Constable 1/C at Fairfield when I was there back in the late 1970’s, he is now living in Bunbury, W.A. and is a renal dialysis patient at St John of God Hospital over there.
I AM a renal dialysis patient at St John of God Hospital dialysis satellite unit in Bunbury, under the care of Dr Helen Rhodes, renal physician.
I am informed there are now a number of people residing in Collie and surrounding areas who in due course will require renal dialysis.
I have had renal failure since 1975, only until September 2010 did I require actual dialysis. I am now 66 years of age.
All prospective dialysis patients are required to attend a dialysis seminar in Bunbury, however these dialysis seminars do not fully prepare a person for the trauma of renal dialysis.
If any prospective dialysis patient wishes to contact me with a view to fully explain the actual treatment and have a cuppa, I can be contacted on my mobile 044 8344 695.
I did not have the opportunity to meet a person to fully explain the dialysis procedure to me.
Alfred (Fred) Peschel
Western Australian Government Gazette
Perth, 10 September 2002 page 4606
LG405
City of Rockingham
AUTHORISED OFFICER
It is hereby notified for public information that Alfred Henry Peschel has been appointed as Parking Officer for the City of Rockingham ( W.A. ) and is authorised on behalf of the Council of the City of Rockingham to administer the following legislation
1. The City of Rockingham Parking and Parking Facilities Local Law 20002.
Local Government (Parking for Disabled Persons) Regulations 19983.
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 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: Rookwood Cemetery, Lidcombe, NSW
Grave GPS Location:
-33.884155, 151.055121
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( May 2020 )
IFTIKHAR is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
IFTIKHAR will Possibly be mentioned on the Sydney Police Centre Memorial Wall, Surry Hills
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
No further details are known about this man or his career – other than what is recorded above.
Not known if his death was On or Off Duty, at Work or another place.
Class number and dates of Rank attainment unknown.
Cal
24 June 2020
Aaron David VIDAL
| 07/07/2020
Aaron David VIDAL
AKA AZZA
Late of ?
Son of Serving NSWPF Chief Inspector David VIDAL# 24342
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class # 332
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 52214
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Academy on ? ? 2017?
Probationary Constable- appointed 8 December 2017 ( aged 26 years & 13 days )
Constable – appointed ? December 2018
Constable 1st Class – appointed 8 December 2019
Final Rank = Constable 1st Class
Stations: Sydney City Police Area Command – Day St ( Pro Active Crime Team 2019 – 2020 )
Service: From? ? 2017? to18 June 2020 = 2 years, 6 months & 12 days Service
Employment prior to NSWPF:
Australian Regular Army – enlisted 2009 – aged 17
Served until 2013
2nd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment Amphibious Light Infantry Unit
Police Awards: No Find On Australian Honours
Born: Wednesday25 November 1991
Died on: Thursday 18 June 2020
Age: 28 years, 6 months, 24 days
Cause: MVA – Rider – Off Duty – Returning home from Duty – Not at Fault
Event location: Schofields Road & Windsor Road, Rouse Hill, NSW
Event date: Thursday 18 June 2020 about 5.45pm
ORGAN DONOR
Funeral date: Monday 29 June 2020 @ 10am
Funeral location: St Mary’s Cathedral, College St, Sydney ( opposite Hyde Park ), NSW
All friends and former colleagues are invited to attend
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 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: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( June 2020 )
AARON is NOT mentioned ( BUT WILL BE ) on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
A motorcyclist who died in a crash at Rouse Hill yesterday has been identified as a serving NSW police officer.
Constable Aaron Vidal, aged 28, was travelling home after completing his duties at Sydney City Police Area Command when he was struck by a utility about 5.45pm (Thursday 18 June 2020).
Constable Vidal attested as part of class ‘332’ on Friday 8 December 2017, after which he commenced duties as a probationary constable at Sydney City. He was confirmed as a constable in December 2018.
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller has extended his condolences to the Vidal family on behalf of the NSW Police Force.
“My thoughts are with Aaron’s family and fiancée, as well as his current and former colleagues at this difficult time,” Commissioner Fuller said.
“Aaron was one of six siblings and worked alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal, at Sydney City.
“Dave has always been incredibly proud of his son following in his footsteps and walking the beat side-by-side with him.
“He spent his entire policing career at Sydney City Police Area Command, where he has been part of the Proactive Crime Team since late last year, targeting crimes that directly impact the community.
“On two occasions he had been formally recognised for good police work by members of the community, which shows that he was held in high regard by not only his peers, but the community he served.
“Prior to joining the police force, Aaron served in the Australian Army, which further demonstrates his commitment to serving and protecting the community,” Commissioner Fuller said.
Constable Vidal’s family has requested privacy at this time.
“To lose a child it is a pain that’s impossible to describe to anyone unless you’ve gone through it yourself,” David told me.
David Vidal is a shattered man.
In June last year his life changed forever.
“To lose a child it is a pain that’s impossible to describe to anyone unless you’ve gone through it yourself,” David told me.
David Vidal and his son Aaron were both in the New South Wales Police Force. (A Current Affair)
The father of six is a Chief Inspector in the New South Wales Police Force.
His son, Aaron, followed in his father’s footsteps.
“To stand by him side-by-side in the uniform of the New South Wales Police was one of the proudest days of my life,” David remembers.
Aaron died when his motorbike collided with another vehicle. (A Current Affair)
After serving his country in the army, Aaron fulfilled his dream – to wear the blue uniform.
“I knew he was going to be an amazing policeman … he had the qualities that you look for in a cop,” David said.
“I fully expected if I was in the police force long enough that he’d end up being my boss – he had the most enormous potential.”
Aaron Vidal and his fiancé Jess. (A Current Affair)
Aaron was riding his motorcycle home after a night shift when he was hit by a car and killed.
“In that split second my life changed forever – my family’s life changed forever,” David told me through his tears.
“It was like a part of me had been torn from me.”
Aaron and his fiancé Jess were due to be married but had to defer because of COVID-19.
Aaron Vidal’s son Etzio was born after Aaron died.
But they started their family.
Etzio was born after Aaron died.
“Not much positive has come out of COVID,” David said.
“But that’s one thing we are thankful for because otherwise we wouldn’t have Aaron’s son … my grandson.
“Etzio is our living part of Aaron that we still have.”
Aaron died when his motorbike collided with a car driven by Tommy Balla.
Balla pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death.
Aaron Vidal died when his motorbike collided with a car driven by Tommy Balla.
Judge Stephen Hanley heard he turned in front of Aaron’s motorbike.
But the court also heard the 28-year-old police officer had allegedly breached road rules by illegally lane filtering.
David has been at Balla’s every court appearance.
“The court process was very hard in a lot of aspects,” he said.
“Obviously hearing about the circumstances as to how your son is killed is difficult to hear, no matter how it happens.”
David Vidal. (A Current Affair)
“We’re not looking for vengeance or revenge, we’re looking for justice.”
Facing 10 years in prison – Balla was sentenced to a two-year Intensive Corrections Order – no jail time.
On Friday the case is back before Judge Hanley to determine if Balla qualifies for home detention.
The Vidal family is determined to make a difference and is now helping establish a Road Trauma Victims Support Group to help others better understand the legal process.
“This is really a dire need … there needs to be much more support out there to help victims,” David said.
“They are already going through massive trauma, but to be further traumatised by the process is terrible, we can’t allow that to happen.
Aaron Vidal. (A Current Affair)
“(As a police officer) I’ve told parents that their child’s never coming home, and I’ve walked away.
“Whilst I felt their pain, I could never really understand their pain and now that I’ve gone through it, I know that nobody can understand that pain unless you’ve gone through it yourself.”
The support group is the brainchild of the Highway Patrol’s Crash Investigation Unit boss, Katie Orr.
“I started to think, how do we support these families,” she told me.
“And how do we help the police support these families (with) the ongoing trauma – I guess the police as well – we’re all human, have families, have children.”
She’s seen proof the support group is empowering families impacted by road trauma.
“We had our first Road Trauma Support Group meeting in March this year and we had about 40 families.”
The Vidal’s know nothing will ease their pain, but they want to ensure others facing the same trauma get the support they need.
They want that to be Aaron’s legacy.
“As hard as it is to do all this and it is hard because I’m still grieving – I do it for Aaron, so that his death is not in vain,” David said.
As David showed me a beautiful photograph of his grandson, I asked him: “what happens if Etzio, one day, says to his grandfather, ‘I want to be a policeman’?”
Over 1,000 people are killed on the road and over 40,000 people admitted to hospital annually in Australia*. The numbers are getting worse, not better. It’s time for change. This is an open letter to the NSW Government, the Australian Federal Government, The Director of Public Prosecutions NSW and the Insurance Council of Australia.
As the voice of families who have experienced road trauma we are seeking change. Too many people die on the roads through the criminal act of another. It is our vision that no more families will ever experience the death of a loved one in this way.
The Road Trauma Support Group NSW Australia petition for the following 7 reforms:
1. New language: We seek a new language for reporting road crime. Firstly, the term ‘accident’, risks making crashes seem inevitable and unavoidable. Most often these are NOT accidents but collisions that could have been avoided. Secondly, call it what it is consistently – road deaths caused by a criminal act of another should be called Vehicular Manslaughter or in extreme cases Vehicular Homicide.
2. Stronger deterrent: Stop being soft on road killers and repeat offenders. When a person is killed by a criminal act of another on the road a recommended sentence of at least 5 years with an increase of the maximum sentence to 25 years consistent with the current maximum penalty for manslaughter. Licences are a privilege not a right. People who cause death on the road or have been proven unfit to drive should lose their license for a minimum of 10 years and then they should have to prove they have not committed any offences and have completed traffic offender courses/Victim impact panels.
3. Reform legislation: Urgent Change is needed to the legislative system to ensure justice is served. Greater emphasis should be made to ensure that the judiciary is NOT to give greater weight to the impact on or welfare of the offender over the victims. The Judiciary must consider in their judgement in detail the impact upon the living victims.
4. Support for victims: Formal recognition that every road death leaves behind many living victims. These victims need to be recognised and supported in their grief and assisted through their trauma. Currently perpetrators of road crime get treated better than victims of road crime. The impacts of their illegal acts not only cause death but also a tidal wave of trauma and destruction through families and our community. The knock on ripple effect is widespread and costly.
5. Overhaul of CTP Insurance system: The current CTP system is ineffective, outdated and cruel for people undergoing a traumatic event. We propose a review of current mechanisms in place to support all victims of road crime.
6. Victim Impact Panels: Mandatory attendance for all DUI and repeat road offenders at Victim Impact Panels. The purpose of the Victim Impact Panel (VIP) program is to help drunk and drugged and repeat driving offenders to recognise and internalise the lasting and long-term effects of dangerous and substance-impaired driving. The objective is to create an empathy and understanding of the tragedy, leave a permanent impression that leads to changes in thinking and behaviour and prevents future offences. The right ripple effect.
7. Education: More needs to be done to prevent and manage road crime. Firstly, this means better educating internal stakeholders such as the Police, DPP and Judiciary regarding managing road crime and road trauma victims. Secondly, making road responsibilities and the impact of road crime a formal part of the education process of our youth, driver’s licence applicants and repeat traffic offenders.
* 1,125 deaths in last 12 months to May 2021, 2.4% up on previous 12 months. Source: Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport Regional Development and Communications. Australian Road Deaths Database.
Dead NSW off-duty police officer an expectant father
A motorcyclist who died in a crash in Sydney’s north-west has been identified as an off-duty police officer who was expecting his first child.
NSW Police constable Aaron Vidal, 28, died on Thursday afternoon after he was struck by a ute in Rouse Hill while travelling home from work.
He leaves behind a pregnant fiancée.
Police alleged in court that 37-year-old Tommy Balla drove the ute through a red light at an intersection.
Balla appeared in Blacktown Local Court on Friday on charges of dangerous driving occasioning death and negligent driving occasioning death.
He was granted conditional bail preventing him from driving a motor vehicle and is due to appear before the same court on August 14.
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said in a statement Constable Vidal had been recognised within the force for his commitment to protecting the community.
“On two occasions, he had been formally recognised for good police work by members of the community, which shows that he was held in high regard by not only his peers, but the community he served,” Mr Fuller said in the statement on Friday.
Deputy Commissioner Jeff Loy said Constable Vidal worked alongside his father David, a duty officer, at the Day Street Police Station in Sydney’s CBD.
Constable Vidal had been confirmed as a constable in December 2018 and was attached to the force’s “proactive crime team“.
“He was a man of service – he was a member of the armed forces before he joined the police force and really, a 28-year-old young man on the journey of life,” Mr Loy said.
“There’s a lot of people around that young lady [Constable Vidal’s fiancée] today, also his father, and he has five other siblings – so it’s a big family.
“Police deal with tragedy and trauma but when we lose a young officer in really such a wasteful way in some respects … it really hits us in the heart.”
Police Minister David Elliott said Constable Vidal‘s passing left a significant mark on the police community.
“Mr Vidal was a dearly valued and loved member of the Sydney City Police Area Command since graduating in 2017, and worked alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal,” Mr Elliott said in a statement.
“Both had previously served in the Australian Army and, as proud veterans, continued to serve the community as members of the NSW Police Force.”
A ute driver accused of running a red light before hitting and killing a young police officer in Sydney’s north-west has been released on bail.
Tommy Balla, 37, was turning onto Schofields Road from Windsor Road in Rouse Hill during evening peak last night when he knocked constable Aaron Vidal off his motorbike.
Paramedics were called but the 28-year-old officer died at the scene.
Tommy Balla, 37, has been charged with negligent driving and dangerous driving occasioning death. (Supplied)
On the beat – Mr Vidal (right) with a colleague ( his father – David ) from the Sydney City Police Area Command. (NSW Police)
Mr Balla wasn’t injured in the crash but is now facing charges of dangerous driving and negligent driving occasioning death.
The father of two told the court he believes the traffic lights were amber, not red, when he made the turn.
Police colleagues have today paid tribute to the slain officer.
Mr Vedal worked at Sydney City Police Area Command alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vedal, since graduating as a police officer in 2017.
Mr Balla, a father to two young children, has been released on bail. (Supplied)
The 37-year-old told police he believes the traffic lights were amber, not red, when he made the turn. (Supplied)
He had been involved with the force’s “proactive crime team”, which investigated criminal activity in the inner city and monitored street protests.
“He was a man of service – he was a member of the armed forces before he joined the police force and really, a 28-year-old young man on the journey of life,” Police Deputy Commissioner Jeff Loy said.
Mr Vedal had been planning his wedding with his fiancée.
Mr Vidal pictured with his fiancée. The couple had been planning their upcoming wedding. (NSW Police)
The scene of the crash where Mr Vidal was killed yesterday. A ute driver has now been charged. (9News)
“There’s a lot of people around that young lady (Const. Vidal’s fiancée) today, also his father, and he has five other siblings – so it’s a big family,” Deputy Commissioner Loy said.
“Police deal with tragedy and trauma but when we lose a young officer in really such a wasteful way in some respects … it really hits us in the heart.”
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller also offered his condolences to Mr Vidal’s family.
“My thoughts are with Aaron’s family and fiancée, as well as his current and former colleagues at this difficult time,” Mr Fuller said in a statement.
“Aaron was one of six siblings and worked alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal, at Sydney City.
Mr Vidal with his fiancée. The family has requested privacy as they grieve. (NSW Police)
Mr Vidal served in the army before joining the NSW Police Force. (NSW Police)
“Dave has always been incredibly proud of his son following in his footsteps and walking the beat side-by-side with him.”
Mr Fuller said Mr Vidal had been formally recognised for good police work by members of the public twice during his short career, which “shows that he was held in high regard by not only his peers, but the community he served”.
Before joining the NSW Police Force, Mr Vidal served in the Australian Army.
Do The Work or Pay Later is the message in almost all things but it doesn’t make sense until it’s to late let’s chat tonight and passively see how we are going in life as we head into the weekend.
Also tonight we shall be giving a minutes silence for the Thin Blue Line of the loss of Aaron Vidal former soldier turned Cop along side his father David like so many soldiers do.
Police lined the streets and crowds stood outside St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney on Monday for the funeral of 28-year-old police officer Constable Aaron Vidal from Bligh Park.
The father-to-be died after his motorbike was involved in a crash at the intersection of Windsor and Schofields roads just before 5.45pm on Thursday, June 18 on his way home from work.
His fiancée Jess Loh told mourners at the funeral that the couple were expecting a baby boy.
Channel 7 News reported that Aaron Vidal was an organ donor and two people will benefit from his gift of life.
The driver of the utility involved in the crash, a 37-year-old man from The Ponds has been charged with dangerous driving occasioning death, and negligent driving occasioning death.
Constable Vidal, worked at Sydney City Police Area Command alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal.
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said: “Dave has always been incredibly proud of his son following in his footsteps and walking the beat sideby – side with him.”
Constable Vidal was part of class ‘332’ and started duties as a probationary constable at the Day Street Police Station in December 2017. He was confirmed as a constable in December 2018.
He joined the Proactive Crime Team at the end of last year, targeting crimes that directly impact the community.
Commissioner Fuller said: “On two occasions he had been formally recognised for good police work by members of the community, which shows that he was held in high regard by not only his peers, but the community he served.”
“Prior to joining the police force, Aaron served in the Australian Army, which further demonstrates his commitment to serving and protecting the community,” he said.
PARRAMATTA, Australia — As a police officer, David Vidal has seen many bodies, but he cannot rid himself of the moment he had to identify his high-achieving son.
“That image of Aaron on the table, lying with his life and soul squeezed out of him, replays in my head again and again,” said Vidal, Chief Inspector, to Parramatta District Court on June 4. “I cannot burn that from my memory.”
Constable Aaron Vidal, an expectant father in his dream career alongside his father in the New South Wales Police Force, was killed on his way home from work in June 2020.
The four-year Army veteran’s motorcycle was hit by a car driven by wannabe rapper Tommy Balla, who had run a red light in an intersection in Sydney’s Hills District.
Josephine Vidal, Jessica Loh and Chief Inspector David Vidal speak to reporters about the death of Constable Aaron Vidal outside Parramatta District Court in Sydney, Friday, June 4, 2021. (AAP Image/Luke Costin)
“I know he did not do it with intention (of killing Aaron),” he said. “But no one on the roads today does not know the potential running a red light could and, in this case, did have.”
Vidal told the court how his son’s death stripped him of his best friend and passion for policing.
Vidal’s mother lost a piece of her soul. His broken-hearted younger sister forfeited her empathy while a younger brother was robbed of his best man at a future wedding.
Jessica Loh, widowed by the crash, said her life of excitement had turned to a daily struggle, as she cares for their baby born after the crash.
She recalled receiving a doctor’s call confirming the gender of her baby minutes after saying goodbye to her husband at a funeral home.
Father-of-two Tommy Balla (centre) leaves Parramatta District Court in Sydney, Friday, June 4, 2021. Balla faced a sentence hearing after pleading guilty to dangerous driving occasioning the death of Aaron Vidal, a police constable on his way from work to his pregnant fiancee at home. (AAP Image/Luke Costin)
Her last message from Vidal came minutes before he died.
“Got out early, babe, jumping on the bike now,” he texted.
But, uncharacteristically, he never showed up, said Loh.
“I called and messaged repeatedly but still no response.”
A check of a traffic website sparked her worst nightmare before she drove to the crash site.
“I kept repeating, ‘Hang in there, babe, I will be there soon,” she said.
While police officers would not tell her if he was OK, she quickly saw the answer for herself; the constable’s body in the wreckage, his bloodied bag on the ground nearby.
“I felt numb, sick, and empty,” she said. “I started thinking I would lose our baby next.”
The “violent and meaningless tragedy” left her envious of those in her mothers’ group who had husbands to go home to, she said.
“I have a beautiful baby boy, and I am very happy to have him in my life,” she said. “But with each exciting milestone, there’s a reminder of what’s missing.”
Balla, 38, who broke down in tears when the court adjourned for lunch, is due to be sentenced later on June 4.
A man is set to be spared jail time for causing a devastating collision that killed a beloved young police officer and father-to-be last year.
Constable Aaron Vidal died when his motorcycle slammed into the ute driven by Tommy Balla, who had run a red light at Rouse Hill in Sydney’s northwest on June 18, 2020.
Constable Vidal, 28, had just finished a shift in the city and was riding home to his pregnant fiancee Jessica Loh when his life was cut tragically short.
Constable Aaron Vidal and Tommy Balla.
Balla, 38, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving occasioning death and told Constable Vidal’s family during a hearing at Parramatta District Court last month he would never forgive himself.
Facing 10 years in jail, Judge Stephen Hanley on Monday sentenced him to a two-year prison term to be served in the community by way of an intensive corrections order.
But the court heard Balla first needs to pass a home detention application in order to avoid the jail time. If unsuccessful he will serve his sentence behind bars.
The judgment came after Judge Hanley found Constable Vidal had himself breached the road rules by illegally lane filtering just before he hit the side of Balla’s Mitsubishi Triton as it turned across Windsor Road.
Constable Vidal with his father and fellow officer, Chief Inspector David Vidal.
The court heard witnesses reported seeing the motorcycle moving “fast” past several stationary cars stopped at the intersection, travelling at up to 50 to 60km/h.
Judge Hanley said the speed limit for lane filtering – an “inherently dangerous” manoeuvre – was 30km/h and as a police officer Constable Vidal should have known better.
“I’m satisfied the (crash) would not have occurred if the victim was observing the rules … and in that sense contributed to the collision,” he said.
The court heard the young cop, however, was faced with a green light and was entitled to believe no vehicle would be illegally travelling across the intersection. The speed limit on Windsor Road is 80km/h.
Tommy Balla was on a call using his cars wireless Bluetooth system when he ran a red light and killed a young police officer. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Dylan Coker
Balla proceeded to turn across the “very busy” intersection at peak hour onto Schofields Road two seconds after the turning arrow had turned red, the court heard.
He claimed not to have noticed the red lights and said in his police interview he believed it was still amber.
At the time the father-of-two was speaking on the phone via Bluetooth and had his 21-month-old child in the front passenger seat.
Judge Hanley said Constable Vidal’s “tragic and unnecessary death … occurred as a result of (Balla’s) inattentiveness”.
He accepted Balla was “sincerely and profoundly” remorseful and had been living “in his own prison” due to serious mental health issues and public humiliation from media reporting.
“I accept he has excellent prospects of rehabilitation and I would be very surprised if he reoffended,” he said.
There was no evidence Balla was affected by drugs or alcohol, and he had a good driving record, the court heard.
Judge Hanley said the crash occurred in a “split second” and found neither Balla nor Constable Vidal would have seen each other coming.
Chief Inspector David Vidal and partner of Aaron Vidal, Jessica Loh, arrive at court on Monday. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Dylan Coker
Constable Vidal had followed his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal, into the NSW Police force in 2017 after previously serving in the Australian Army.
The father and son worked together at Day Street police station in the CBD at the time of Constable Vidal’s death.
At the time he was excitedly expecting the birth of his first child, a boy named Etzio, and was engaged to be married to his soulmate Ms Loh.
Judge Hanley said Constable Vidal’s family had suffered “immeasurable pain” from the loss of a “larger than life” young man who brightened every life he touched.
He said Balla’s family had also become “innocent victims” in the fallout from the crash, saying there were “no winners” from the tragic incident.
Balla has been granted bail as he awaits the outcome of his home detention assessment.
Aaron Vidals fiancee Jessica Loh and father Chief Inspector David Vidal embrace at the constables funeral at St Mary’s Cathedral. Picture: Rohan Kelly
‘Aaron was my hero’: Family mourns police officer killed in crash as motorist assessed for home detention
The family of a police officer who was killed when a motorist ran a red light and hit the father-to-be say they will feel the loss of their son, husband and friend for the rest of their lives.
It’s been just over a year since Constable Aaron Vidal, 28, suffered fatal injuries in a crash with a Mitsubishi Triton ute at the intersection of Windsor and Schofields roads in Rouse Hill. Tradesman Tommy Balla, 38, had run a red light. He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving occasioning death.
Chief Inspector David Vidal and his sons fiancée Jessica Loh outside the court on Monday. Credit: Nick Moir
On Monday, Parramatta District Court heard Balla would be assessed to serve two years’ imprisonment in home detention, with Judge Stephen Hanley describing him as profoundly remorseful and living “in his own prison”.
Balla had made a “split-second decision” to proceed into the intersection, which was a “misjudgement”, Judge Hanley said.
“If he’s not suitable for a home detention order, he’ll have to serve a term of imprisonment of two years,” he said.
Outside court, Chief Inspector David Vidal, who held a photo of his son, linked arms with Constable Vidal’s fiancee, Jessica Loh, as the pair told reporters, through tears, that they continued to feel the loss of him every day.
“We’re heartbroken and devastated as we were a year ago when we lost Aaron,” Chief Inspector Vidal said. “And we will continue to [feel this way] for the rest of our lives. Aaron was my hero.
“His parents are heartbroken, his siblings are heartbroken, his fiancee is heartbroken, his friends and his colleagues are heartbroken. Probably worst of all, he leaves behind a son he will never know.”
Chief Inspector Vidal said his son had dedicated his short life to protecting others and serving his country: first in the Australian Army and then in the NSW Police Force, where they worked alongside each other at Sydney City police area command.
He added that, while nothing could bring his son back, more needed to be done to support victims of road trauma. He called on the NSW government and community to introduce better education programs, judicial reform to increase prison sentences for offenders, and increased support for the loved ones of victims of road trauma.
Ms Loh said the couple’s son had got her through the last year, but she wished Constable Vidal had been alive to see him.
Chief Inspector Vidal added they would do everything they could to ensure Constable Vidal’s son knew what “an incredible human being Aaron was”.
Ms Loh told Balla’s sentence hearing last month she had been waiting for her partner to arrive home but checked a traffic website and raced to the crash site, where he had died.
After farewelling her partner in the funeral home, she received a call confirming the gender of their baby and went back inside to hold his hand and tell him they would be having a boy.
Balla said he had learnt a “very cruel life lesson … that things can change rapidly for the worst” and his actions are a “haunting reality”.
“Knowing Mr Vidal will never experience the joy of becoming a father hurts me the most,” he said, adding that Ms Loh had given birth to “a baby boy he will never get to meet because of me”.
“I do not ask or expect forgiveness … as I will never forgive myself.”
Judge Hanley on Monday said the statements given had been a “deeply moving and emotional experience” and no one present was unaffected by the “substantial loss”, which for Constable Vidal’s family is “immeasurable and everlasting”.
The judge said after watching dashcam footage of the crash, the right-hand turn traffic light from Windsor Road into Schofields Road had turned from amber to red, and was red for approximately two seconds before Balla crossed the solid white line and entered the intersection. Constable Vidal entered from the other direction on a green light and collided with the side of the ute as it turned.
Judge Hanley said, based on witness accounts and the footage, the victim was attempting to get in front of a stationary vehicle on his motorcycle and “most likely lane filtering in a speed and manner in breach of the road rules”.
But despite his manner of driving, the off-duty police officer was “entitled to believe there would be no vehicle illegally traversing” across Windsor Road.
The judge said the “tragic and unnecessary death” occurred as a result of Balla’s inattentiveness. However, he was satisfied he did not deliberately or intentionally ignore the red light warnings.
He was further satisfied the collision would not have occurred if the victim was observing the specific road rules around lane filtering, at a speed of 30km/h or less, but reiterated Balla caused the fatal crash by illegally crossing the intersection in circumstances dangerous to other road users.
The judge believed Balla was profoundly remorseful, to a level rarely seen in his more than four-decade career in law, and was satisfied he had excellent prospects for rehabilitation.
“I would be surprised if he ever reoffended,” the judge said, adding that Balla “will remain in his own prison … unless he can find a way out”.
Judge Hanley hoped all of those affected “will not be anchored to this for the rest of their lives”.
The judge convicted Balla, who remains on bail, and ordered a home detention assessment, with the intention of imposing a two-year intensive correction order to commence when the part-heard sentence returns to court in August.
Dept. records indicate he was attached to Hurstville at the time of Retirement. Other records indicate Sutherland.
Service: From3 June 1954 to28 October 1989 = 35 years, 4 months, 25 days Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours – although
NSW Police Imperial Service & Good Conduct medal – granted ? May 1971
NSW Police Long Service & Good Conduct Medal – granted 25 June 1980
Police Medal – with 35 year Clasp – granted 29 October 2008
National Police Service Medal – granted 22 December 2016
Born: Monday 9 August 1937 at Waverley, NSW
Died on: Tuesday 9 June 2020 at Sutherland, NSW
Age: 82 years, 10 months
Cause: Complained of headaches but wouldn’t go to Hospital until he suffered a Stroke where he suffered another Stroke. He had been diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer 2 months earlier.
Event location: Sutherland Hospital, NSW
Event date: ?
Funeral date: 17 June 2020
Funeral location: Woronora Memorial Park, Sutherland, NSW
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???Unknown
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 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: Olsens Funerals, Sutherland, NSW
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: Nil
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( June 2020 )
KEVIN 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.
Kev is remembered, by his many work mates, as having NSW Number plates KEV-000 displayed on his vehicle(s) – an old yellow Chrysler then a gold Holden Statesman at Hurstville.
He is also remembered as being a great bloke by his work mates.
He has been highly respect by all that have worked with him and is being greatly missed by his wife, children, grand children, sister & brother-in-law.
If everyone had Kevin’s integrity and loved and cared for their family and friends as Kevin did, the world would be a much better place.
