( 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
Berlinda Jane CUSH
| 06/07/2020
Berlinda Jane CUSH
AKA CUSHY
Late of ?
Queensland Police Academy Class # ? ? ?
Queensland Police Force
Regd. # ?????
Rank: Commenced Training as on ? ? ?
Probationary Constable- appointed ? ? ?
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Acting Detective Sergeant
Stations: ?, PCC, Rockhampton, Boondal CIB – Death
Service: From? ? ? to22 April 2008 = ? years Service
A gifted, dedicated and tenacious investigator, Detective Sergeant Berlinda Jane CUSH tragically took her own life on this day in 2008. We remember your infectious laugh and amazing smile around the Boondall CIB office…
You are missed and loved each and every day.
Blue HOPE stands ready.
Policewoman’s suicide shocks workmates
CourierMail
POLICEWOMAN shot and killed herself with her own gun at a suburban police complex yesterday. The tragedy has stunned workmates.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Belinda Cush, 37, walked into the Queensland Police complex in Wecker Rd at Mansfield, picked up her police-issue Glock pistol, fired a shot into a chair and then turned the weapon on herself.
Queensland Police Union president Cameron Pope said she greeted colleagues when she arrived at the Prostitution Enforcement Task force just after 8am but then did not speak to anyone before the shooting.
“There is nothing that we have seen or that I am aware of that could have prevented this incident,” Mr Pope said. “There has not been a single issue raised that I’m aware of that was an indicator to this incident.”
He said her workmates were struggling to cope with the tragedy, the reasons for which remain a mystery.
” Several police were actually there when it happened, ” he said. “Between the service and the union, counselling is being provided to any number of persons who require it and that’ll be monitored closely to make sure that all the officers who’ve suffered from this can get as much treatment as possible. ”
Det Snr-Sgt Cush worked in various ” high-profile areas of the service ” and was very well-respected, he said.
” I spoke to her officer-in-charge this morning and he was very distressed about the matter and he was very glowing in his description and praise of her, ” Mr Pope said.
” She was very highly regarded by members of the service and certainly her superior officers. There were a lot of platitudes coming out for this lady. ”
In addition to the police chaplains, Mr Pope said officers had a number of support services to assist with the daily demands and stresses of police work.
” In every police establishment there is what’s called a peer support officer who police can approach about any issue. There’s also human support officers who check the daily occurrence sheets and follow up officers involved in major incidents and of course there’s the police chaplains who do a wonderful job, ” he said.
In the past 10 years, there have been two other incidents of police officers taking their own lives at work at Ipswich and Smithfield stations.
” It’s not a prevalent problem, thank goodness, ” Mr Pope said.
The Prostitution Enforcement Task force is one of several ” specialised ” units that operates out of the police building in Wecker Road, and it investigates complaints about illegal prostitution.
A QPS spokesperson said the circumstances of Det Snr-Sgt Cush’s death were being investigated, but it was considered non-suspicious. A report will be completed for the coroner
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or SANE Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263).
Rank: Commenced as NSW Police Cadet on Monday 3 February 1975
Probationary Constable – appointed 14 January 1977
Constable – appointed 14 January 1978
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed 14 January 1986
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Senior Sergeant
Stations: ?, Lithgow HWP, ? , ‘A’ District HWP, Newcastle HWP – Retirement ( 6 August 2004 )
Service: From3 February 1975to6 August 2004 = 29+ years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 15 November 1991 ( SenCon )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 6 April 2001 ( Sgt )
Born: Tuesday 14 January 1958
Died on: Monday 30 March 2020
Age: 62 yrs 2 mths 16 days
Cause: Cancer – Stomach & Gall Bladder
Event location: Home with family
Event date: ?
Funeral date: ? ? ?
Funeral location: ? ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 10 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Wake location: ? TBA ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 2 persons only at a ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Funeral Parlour: Pettigrew Family Funerals – 02 4951 1166
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial located at: ?
CHRIS 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.
Deepest of condolences to his wife Julie and their boys Tiron & Nathan and to their extended family and friends.
Now out of pain, may you forever Rest In Peace mate.
27 November 2019, the 1975 NSW Police Cadets had a luncheon for Chris Manning ( 2nd from left ) who is severely ill. A great day with food and drinks. Most drove between 2 and 3 hours for the special occasion. with ( L – R ) Rob Schwarz, Chris Manning, Jeff Sloane, Grant Duncan, Neal Carr, Charlie Dagostino & Ian Dawson, at Belmont 16s.
MANNING, Christopher Noel
Late of Wallsend
Died peacefully at home
30th March, 2020
Aged 62 Years
Dearly loved husband of Julie.
Proud Dad of Tiron, and Nathan.
Father-in-law of Kristal, and Jackie.
Besotted Pa of Xavier and Hudson.
Cherished brother, brother-in-law and uncle of his family.
A proud Dinosaur.
The family and friends of Chris are advised that His cremation has taken place privately at His request.
A Memorial Service will be held to Celebrate Chris’ Life at a later date.
Brother to Retired NSWPF Member – Kelly French ( # ????? ) & Brother-in-law to Serving Member Insp. Matt French ( # ????? – Kempsey ).
Paul, unfortunately, was still suffering from work related PTSD – even after Retiring from the NSW Police Force.
He collapsed, at home, whilst suffered a heart attack.
His daughter-in-law, Bree, bravely performed CPR until the Paramedics arrived, who then took over CPR and transported him to Coffs Harbour Hospital however Paul did not respond to the treatment and passed away at the Hospital a short time after arrival.
It is hoped that he did not suffer.
May Thornys family remember the good times and know that they did everything possible when needed.
Thorny ” bled blue ” and being part of the Police Force meant the world to him – as too, did his family – even through the darkest hours.
May Thorny forever Rest In Peace.
Paul THORN & Danielle Williams
Paul giving Plasma at the Blood Bank
Paul James THORN AKA THORNY
Paul James THORN
Date listed: 21/3/202011th March 2020, passed unexpectedly, protecting those he loved until the end, late of Boambee East.
He leaves behind his beloved wife Christine, his adored children Chantel, Bradley and their partners Bhodi and Bree.
A cherished son to Simon and Maureen (dec’d).
Brother to Mark, Kelly and their partners Bec and Matt.
Uncle to Bennett, Logan, Alexis, Mitchell, Jaiden, Taj and Jamie.
Beloved friend to many.
Aged 48 Years
Brothers In Arms Please contact Keith Logue & Sons Funeral Directors for Funeral details.
In lieu of floral tributes donations will be taken for a charity close to Paul’s heart, a collection box will be at the Chapel.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001),
Friday 21 September 1979 (No.130), page 4775
ANY person having any claims upon the estate of GERARD PETER JOHNSTON, late of Randwick, who died on 11th January, 1979, must send particulars of his claim to the administrators, Francis Norman Johnston and Kathleen Therese Johnston, c.o. Laurence & Laurence, 54 Carrington Street, Sydney, on or before 4th December, 1979. The administrators will distribute the assets in the estate, having regard only to the claims of which at that date they have notice. Letters of administration were granted in New South Wales on 27th June, 1979. LAURENCE & LAURENCE, Solicitors, 54 Carrington Street, Sydney, N.S.W. 2000 (D.X. 115).
This afternoon, in a quiet and deeply-felt ceremony at the Sydney Police Centre, another thirteen names were added, and the memories of another thirteen dedicated NSW Police Force employees were honoured, at the NSW Police Force Service Memorial:
Coroner urges six-monthly welfare checks after inquest into four police suicide deaths
Posted
In short: A Hobart coroner who investigated the deaths of four police officers who took their own lives has recommended Tasmania Police conduct mandatory half-yearly well-being screenings for PTSD.
What’s next? The Police commissioner says work will continue with the police association to implement changes
The family of one of four Tasmanian police officers who died by suicide between 2016 and 2020 say they hope the findings of a coronial inquest may prevent a similar tragedy in the future.
Coroner Simon Cooper has handed down his findings into the deaths of Constable Paul Hunt, Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds, Constable Simon Darke and Sergeant Robert Cooke, recommending a swathe of welfare supports be implemented.
WARNING: This story touches on themes of depression and suicide.
During last year’s hearings, the court was told how overworked officers were self-medicating with alcohol and drugs, and of significant shortfalls in welfare support — particularly in areas such as fatigue management and protocols around interactions with the Professional Standards Command.
In his findings, Coroner Cooper, acknowledged the fact that these men were all serving police officers was “only part of the whole picture” of their lives, but he said he had “no doubt” that “Sergeant Cooke‘s police service was the direct cause of his death“.
But he said the provision of welfare support and whether it was adequate was a “central consideration at the inquest.”
He called for Tasmania Police to immediately develop and implement a fatigue management policy saying it was essential it was “addressed urgently”.
The inquest heard Robert Cooke had reportedly worked “16-hour continuous shifts for four weeks” during the Central Highlands bushfires in 2019.
This had left him “exhausted and barely functioning towards the end of the third week”.
“Tasmania Police had no fatigue management policy at any time, up to and including as recently as when the evidence at the inquest was publicly taken at the end of 2022,” he said.
“The absence of any fatigue management policy was, I consider, a direct factor in Sergeant Cooke’s death.”
Tasmania Police officers salute at Robert Cooke’s funeral in 2020 .(ABC News: Luke Bowden)
The coroner also recommended six-monthly screenings of all operation police officers for post-traumatic stress disorder.
“Sergeant Cooke obviously suffered from the effects of PTSD for a long time before it was diagnosed,” he said.
“Every health care professional who gave evidence … unanimously agreed that his PTSD was entirely attributable to his service as a police officer.
“Every health care professional also agreed that earlier detection of PTSD increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.”
Tasmania Police investigating the feasibility of “introducing a points system”, whereby an officer’s exposure to severe incidents would be tracked, was also recommended.
When a “critical points threshold” was reached, an automatic referral to a psychologist should be triggered, Coroner Cooper said.
The coroner also called for better support for officers under investigation for misconduct — including ensuring that those who had their phone seized by Professional Standards be given a replacement mobile pre-programmed with well-being support numbers.
“The death of any member of the community by suicide is a tragedy,” Coroner Cooper said.
“The suicide of serving police officers, whatever their individual circumstances, is particularly tragic for serving members of the police force and the community at large.
“My sincere hope is that some improvements and learnings can emerge from the deaths of Constable Hunt, Senior Sergeant Reynolds, Constable Darke and Sergeant Cooke.”
Sergeant Robert “Cookie” Cooke was well-regarded among his Tasmania Police colleagues.(ABC News: Luke Bowden)
Families welcome findings
In a statement, Robert Cooke‘s mother Lyn and sister Michelle said they were satisfied with the findings, particularly the recommendations for a fatigue management policy and screenings for PTSD stress disorder.
“The family miss Rob terribly and hope the findings and increased support for mental health may prevent similar events in the future,” they said.
“[Our] thoughts are with all the families involved in this inquest.”
Commissioner committed to ‘safe model of policing’
Police Commissioner Donna Adams acknowledged it was a difficult time for the families and colleagues impacted by the coronial report.
She said improvements had already been made within Tasmania Police.
Strategies included “a strong peer support group, and a critical stress program” to ensure officers could access the help they needed.
But she said changes wouldn’t end there — and that Tasmania Police would work with the Police Association to examine the coroner’s recommendations.
Police Minister Felix Ellis said the government had allocated funding to “Tasmania Police and the Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management’s nation-leading wellbeing program”.
“Police officers, by the nature of the job, are exposed to some pretty difficult and extraordinary circumstances, so providing that support is important,” he said.
“We want to work to make sure that policing continues to be a career or choice, and that we’re supporting our officers if they do find themselves facing challenging circumstances.”
The former partner of a Tasmanian police officer who died by suicide has told an inquest that he became fixated on jobs which involved suicide — but that he never sought help for his own mental health.
The coronial inquest is examining the death of Constable Simon Darke and the deaths of three other police officers between 2016 and 2020.
Kimberly Freeman told the court that while Constable Darke loved being a police officer, he started to become obsessed with the jobs he attended that involved death by suicide, and she had concerns about him being in possession of a weapon.
Ms Freeman said Constable Darke‘s mental status changed in the months leading up to his death in 2019.
The inquest also heard Constable Darke had worked 23 hours of overtime over three consecutive days whilst he was involved in the emergency response during the 2019 bushfires in the Huon Valley, south of Hobart.
“He told me he had been working long days so there is no doubt in my mind that he was extremely overtired,” Ms Freeman said.
“He picked up as much overtime and shifts as he could and mentioned several times that he didn’t have enough money.”
Darke ‘copped a lot of abuse’ during fire evacuations
Constable Darke‘s father Graham told the court that while he knew his son had problems with some relationships, the long hours during the 2019 bushfires and run of night shifts at a Hobart police station became too much for the 45-year-old.
“My son mentioned he had copped a lot of abuse when he asked people to leave their homes during the fires, he then went onto night shift by himself which in hindsight wasn’t appropriate,” Mr Darke said.
Another ex-partner, Shanna Sweeney, told the inquest she contacted police after Constable Darke threatened suicide in 2011 but did not believe her concerns were taken seriously.
Ms Sweeney told the court that it took a lot for her to speak up because she did not want Constable Darke to get into trouble at work, and was concerned he could be punished if he was seen as being vulnerable.
She said it was common knowledge among Tasmanian police officers that Constable Darke had threatened self-harm, even though he personally denied it.
“There was a perception he would be judged if he got help,” she said.
Ms Sweeney told the inquest Constable Darke did not really talk about his work unless it was “funny“, and never identified a particular event that would have caused him trauma.
The inquest continues.
Key points:
The inquest heard Constable Simon Darke had worked 23 hours of overtime over three consecutive days during the bushfire response in 2019
Ex-partner Shanna Sweeney said she contacted police after Constable Darke threatened suicide in 2011 but did not believe her concerns were taken seriously
She said it was common knowledge among Tasmanian police officers that Constable Darke had threatened self-harm, even though he personally denied it
In memoriam: Constable Simon Graham Darke, Tasmania Police, died suddenly on 6th February 2019. He was 45 years old.
Constable Simon Darke served as a valued member of Tasmania Police for ten years, most recently with Southern Road and Public Order Services.
He was a talented artist, bicycle racer, a caring and kind police officer, adored dad, loving son and brother. A great man who was snatched from us too soon.
He answered the call, never hesitated to help people, and he will forever live through all whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace and intercede on our behalf.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his young family and friends. May care and love of those around you provide comfort to get you through the days and years ahead.
Gone from our sight but not from our hearts.
Simon, a great artist, also owned ‘Spider Signs’ although that business was de-registered on 3 November 2008.
DARKE Family and friends are invited to attend a service to celebrate the life of Simon Graham Darke To be held at: Turnbull Funerals Chapel 71 Letitia Street, North Hobart Friday, February 15, 2019 3.00pm
Special and adored dad and daddy of Cleo, Archie (dec), Hallie and Lacey.
Loved and loving son of Jan and Graham.
Most dearly loved brother, brother-in-law and uncle of Shelley and Mark Spong, Nathan and Tegan, Mitchell, Sophie, Campbell, Abbey and Ainsley; Emerson and Ava.
Loved grandson of Patty and Fred Kean and Bill and Ailie Darke (all dec).
Talented artist, signwriter, devoted policeman.
Sorely missed, we will always love you.
February 14, 2019
Angela Gillam, Geelong, Victoria
February 14, 2019
Condolences to Darke family.
In our thoughts at this time and for whenever you may need us
Colin & Jackie McKenzie,
Howden, Tasmania
February 14, 2019
From all of us, at Salvation Army Street Teams Hobart, we would like to send our deepest sympathies and love to Family & friends of Constable Simon Darke. We are deeply saddened by his passing and we are all blessed to have known Simon.
We will surely miss his friendly chats, sense of humour and assistance at Street Teams.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Mel Street Teams,
Hobart, Tasmania
February 14, 2019
Rip Simon. You were a great friend to our family and we are shocked and saddened by your passing.
Hopefully at peace now xx
Ange & Pete Gillam
Angela Gillam, BC
February 14, 2019
Much respected and loved friend of Ken and Beryl (dec) Rayner. Simon’s friendship and care over the years has been so very appreciated and we are devastated to learn of his passing. So young and such a kind soul. We will miss you Simon.
Ken Rayner, Lauderdale, Tasmania
February 13, 2019
Condolences to all of Simons family and friends.
Forever a part of the Police family. He will be sadly missed.
Karen Westell, Hobart
February 13, 2019
Another Hero taken too soon, may you rest in peace. Condolences to your family at this time of great hurt.
Ian Hobbs, Huonville
February 13, 2019
So sorry to hear of Simons passing, our love and thoughts are with family and friends at this sad time x
Alison Hulm,
Launceston
February 13, 2019
RIP condolences to family, friends and colleagues.
Alex Robertson
February 13, 2019
Wendy Scholes,
GRANTVILLE
February 13, 2019
RIP Blue Brother.
Sincere condolences to Simons family.
Chris Richardson,
St Helens, MO
February 13, 2019
Condolences to family, friends and workmates Serving and police veterans Australia wide are hurting and our collective thoughts are with you at this time. Simon will forever be part of the Thin Blue Line
Mick Cummins,
Geelong, Victoria
February 11, 2019
We are saddened by the sudden loss of our cousin Simon. He will be sadly missed by us from far away. Our prayers, blessings, and love to my family in Tasmania.
Love Phillip, Kris, and Noah Webb, Ohio USA.
Phillip Webb,
Washington Court House, OH
February 9, 2019
Simon was a wonderful friend and neighbour and will be sadly missed. Our condolences to all the family.
Jean & Dave Wallace
February 9, 2019
DARKE Simon, Constable
Simon served as a valued member of the Tasmania Police Service for 10 years, most recently with Southern Road and Public Order Services, and his loss is felt deeply across the agency. The Commissioner, Members and Employees of Tasmania Police are saddened by his passing and offer their deepest sympathy to his family and friends.
We salute the service of Senior Constable Ricky John Hilton, Queensland Police Service, who died suddenly on 12th February 2019. He was 54 years old.
On Tuesday, 12th February 2019, Australia lost a kind police officer, a father, husband and brother, and his leaving has left our world a poorer place. He leaves behind his loving wife and two sons.
His friends describe him as a kind, humble, compassionate and considerate man.
Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow.
Gone from our sight, but not from our hearts.
Family and friends of Ricky are invited to attend a service at Centenary Memorial Gardens Chapel, 353 Wacol Station Road, Sumner, on Wednesday, 20th February, at 11 a.m. To respect his family’s wishes, please donate to Queensland Police Legacy.
Here is Ricky John Hilton’s obituary. Please accept Everhere’s sincere condolences.
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Ricky John Hilton (Ballarat, Victoria), who passed away on February 12, 2019, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends can light a candle as a loving gesture for their loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Ricky John Hilton to show support.
He was loved and cherished by many people including : his spouse Maree; his children, Pierce and Edward; his parents, Max and Marian; his siblings, Nicole, Yvette and Danielle; his siblings-in-law, Scott, Stephen and Mary Anne; his nieces and nephews, Thomas, Louisa, Jack, Patrick, Samuel, Isabella, Caelan, Bridie and Riagan.
