1989 commendation for his devoted duty during the Newcastle earthquake.
Born: Sunday 13 March 1949
Died on: Monday 25 October 1999
Cause: Fatal heart attack in the meal room of Cessnock Police Station
Age: 50 years, 7 months, 12 days
Funeral date: Thursday 28 October 1999
Funeral location: the church his father helped build in Mayfield.
Buried at: Cremated at Beresfield Crematorium, NSW
Memorial location:
Unknown with David Bell
Memorial stone for David Bell at Beresfield Crematorium
DAVE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * BUT SHOULD BE
As of May 2021, Dave Bell is still NOT Mentioned on the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra.
Senior Sergeant Dave Bell was the Sector Supervisor at Cessnock Police Station.
On Monday 25 October 1999 he suffered a fatal heart attack in the meal room while he, Senior Constable Mick Wood & Constable Tracey Ward were having morning tea together.
Dave is still not on the list for remembrance day, despite numerous requests/inquiries with Northern Region.
Handshake At End Of Long Arm Of The Law
Newcastle Herald
Thursday April 6, 2000
Andrew Kelly
FIFTY Lower Hunter police and community members were honoured yesterday in a ceremony at Maitland Town Hall.
Awards were presented to several officers for bravery and outstanding policing, and to members of the community who have given up their time to help the police.
Hunter Region police commander Terry Collins presented six officers with the first clasp to the National Medal, recognising 25 years service, including a posthumous honour to Senior Sergeant Dave Bell, who died on duty at Cessnock last October.
Mr HICKEY (Cessnock) [11.45 a.m.]: I bring to the attention of honourable members the death of Senior Sergeant Dave BellatCessnock police station on Monday 25 October. I extend my sincere sympathies to his wife, Noelene, and their four daughters. The Cessnock community has lost a truly remarkable police officer who was extremely dedicated to his position as team co-ordinator and worked very hard building up the morale of the men around him. I first met Dave Bell at the Cessnock police station in early April and was impressed by his positive attitude to his team and his devotion to the community. He was quick to point out that if any problems existed with manning levels, as had been constantly heralded by the former Mayor of Cessnock, Merv Pine, those problems lay with District Inspector Phelps for not allocating the necessary manpower to Cessnock.
Merv Pine’s continued concern in itself had placed pressure upon those at the Cessnock police station to perform above and beyond the normal benchmark, first to appease the mayor and, second, to avoid pressure being applied to the men at the station. Dave Bell raised the issues that I had referred to him: the manning of the station and police carrying out the duties of corrective services officers during court sitting days. He suggested that it would be more beneficial for front-line policing if those duties were returned to corrective services officers.
While being shown around the station by Dave I asked him about the job of escorting prisoners from the holding bays to the court, which I considered left the police in a dangerous situation. Dave was concerned about the safety of the officers but suggested that I should raise the matter with the Minister and the department. Dave Bell’s record shows clearly what the community knew already: that he was a dedicated officer.
Senior Sergeant David Bell joined the New South Wales Police Service on 31 July 1972. After attending the Redfern academy he was stationed at No. 24 division and later worked at Miranda, where he performed highway patrol and general duties. He was promoted to the rank of constable on 11 September 1973. On 28 July 1974 Senior Sergeant Bell was transferred to duty on the metropolitan special traffic patrol car crew, and performed duties in that role until 30 September 1975, when he accepted a transfer to Maitland highway patrol. In 1977 he was promoted to the rank of constable first-class, and he devoted 11 years to this specialist class of duty. In 1981 he was promoted to the rank of senior constable.
Senior Sergeant Bell transferred to East Maitland police station in a general duties role, and in the same year achieved the rank of sergeant third-class. On 25 June 1988 he was transferred to Maitland station, where he served the community for eight years. On 14 December 1988 he received the National Medal, which rewarded him for 15 years of police service. The following year he received a commendation for his devoted duty during the Newcastle earthquake. On 28 August 1996 Sergeant Bell was promoted to the rank of senior sergeant when he took up the position of patrol tactician at Cessnock police station. He later performed general duties.
At the time of his passing Senior Sergeant David Bell was stationed at Cessnock station as the team co-ordinator for all staff at Cessnock and outlying stations. Affectionately referred to by police and colleagues as “Dave“, Senior Sergeant Bell had a unique form of respect from police of all ranks. He was a great believer in preserving the traditional ideals, attitudes and respect instilled in police during their early police days. He shared a concern for each and every person at the station, as well as the community in general. His workmates have described him as a true gentleman and scholar.
In the short time I knew Dave, I realised that was completely true. He expected from his troops a high standard of professionalism but showed equal fairness in his discipline. Nothing was a problem to him, especially when it came to his men. His door was open at all times to anyone with a concern or problem, and his confidentiality was always assured to all. I believe that, because of Dave Bell’s service to the Cessnock community, his memory should be highlighted.
Mr WHELAN (Strathfield – Minister for Police) [11.50 a.m.]: The untimely passing of Sergeant David Bell at the age of 50 is tragic. It is, indeed, a great tragedy for his wife, Noelene, and his four daughters and granddaughter. David was much loved, not only by his family but by everyone who serves in the Police Service in the area in which he worked. He was a great and strong member of the community. Yesterday I spoke to his widow and expressed sympathy for the untimely loss of such a dedicated officer. It appears to be true that the harder one works the more dedicated one becomes and that often leads to an early and untimely death. That seems to be what happened in this case.
Dave worked very hard in both the community and the Police Service. He was well respected and revered by other police for the work he did. This is a sad time. Such is the depth of feeling in the community about the untimely passing of such a wonderful police officer who was dedicated to law enforcement in New South Wales and spent so much time looking after the community that I have asked the Deputy-Speaker to represent me at Dave’s funeral today. He will be sadly missed by everyone in the New South Wales Police Service.
Bruce I am lost without u…you are Locked safe in my heart….36020…
Memorial: NSW Police Force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, F13 ( right wall )
BRUCE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
Bruce IS mentioned on the NSW Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre F3 ( Right Wall )
Funeral location:
Bruce GALLAGHER
Snr Const Gallagher’s daughters Jordann and Jessica with their father’s hat and photo. Picture: SYLVIA LIBER
Illawarra Mercury 28 April 2008
Thin Blue Line pays silent tribute to one of their own
IN a week clouded by grief, the region’s police demonstrated a show of unity yesterday at the funeral of colleague, Senior Constable Bruce Gallagher.
Onlookers were held breathless as more than 160 police formed a guard of honour and another 40 officers, led by Lake Illawarra police Superintendent Mick Plotecki and two mounted riders, escorted the cortege from Hansen & Cole at Kembla Grange.
Snr Const Gallagher‘s daughters Jessica, 17, and Jordann, 15, did their father proud, marching with his police hat and photo.
The 39-year-old Lake Illawarra police officer died suddenly from a heart attack last Thursday.
Jessica and Jordann remembered their dad as a loving man who was always ready with advice and support.
“I was always so proud to tell people my dad was a police officer,” Jessica told yesterday’s service.
“Dad, I am so grateful you taught me so much in life … I know you would not have left us if you didn’t think we could cope.”
Jordann added: “From the very first time you held me to the last time you saw me, you were always there for me no matter what, and I will never forget those memories.” Brother Mark Gallagher read a message on behalf of Snr Const Gallagher‘s wife Shirlena.
“You were my best friend, my husband and father to our two wonderful girls, but most of all you are my soul mate … I will never let you go. You will stay in my heart forever. Wait for me sweetheart, because one day I will be in your arms again.”
Mr Plotecki said Snr Const Gallagher displayed a strong work ethic that had earned him many accolades from the time he joined the force in May 2002. ( 2001 )
“Bruce’s name was often put forward as being involved in very meritorious and commendable police work,” he said.
“I have no doubt he had the potential and capability to add an even more significant contribution to his chosen profession.
“My last duty as Bruce’s commander is to pass on a message to his family, on behalf of the people of NSW. It’s a simple message, consisting of two words: ‘Thank you’. You were a real credit to your police uniform.”
Chief Inspector Bob Noble said that after meeting Snr Const Gallagher‘s wife and daughters, it was clear he was a reflection of a loving, supportive environment.
“The importance of family support in policing is paramount and it is for this reason that Bruce’s family has been, and will forever remain, a part of the police family,” he said.
Chief Insp Noble read a letter from colleague Senior Constable Chris Warren who said his close friend’s sudden death had left everyone in a state of shock.
The two men had joined the force at the same time, representing “two older blokes who were fulfilling a lifelong desire”.
Police chaplain Gordon Bradbery, who conducted the service, encouraged Snr Const Gallagher‘s grieving police colleagues to look after themselves.
Shirlena Gallagher, wife of the late Senior Constable Bruce Gallagher, joined police yesterday in remembering those lost. Picture: WAYNE VENABLES
Illawarra residents have been urged to “whinge” less and appreciate the good work of the NSW Police Force.Uniting Church minister and police chaplain Reverend Gordon Bradbery told yesterday’s Police Remembrance Day service that people “whinged” too much about peripheral concerns when they should be thankful for the things that were really important.
Assistant Commissioner Robert May, Wollongong Police Commander Wayne Dedden and Lake Illawarra Commander Mick Plotecki were among those who attended the service at Wollongong’s Wesley Church on the Mall.
Shirlena Gallagher, wife of Senior Constable Bruce Gallagher who died of a heart attack on April 17, also attended the 20th annual national day of remembering.
Another Illawarra officer to lose her life in the past 12 months was Constable Elise Krejci, who was killed in a car accident on Picton Rd, three days after Snr Const Gallagher’s death.
Back from a visit to Third World countries in South America, Rev Bradbery told the service that he had witnessed terrible scenes that made him appreciate living in Australia. “What a great country we live in, what a land of opportunity,” Rev Bradbery said. “But suddenly I am aware that on occasions like this, when we gather to remember the safety and security that we have in our community, how it has come at a cost. “I am conscious of the fact there are men and women who have lost their lives in the interests of policing this state – what it is when we don’t have to live in a land where our police wear flak jackets and carry machine guns.” He said that in appreciating these blessings, the community must also acknowledge they had come at a cost, sometimes in police lives.” They have gone beyond, they have given not only of themselves, but ultimately their breath and their pulse.”
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Police Academy on ? ? ?
Probationary Constable – appointed 17 August 1964
Constable – appointed 17 August 1965
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( NO )
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed 26 August 1973 ( loss of Seniority )
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 9 October 1980
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 7 December 1986
Final Rank: Sergeant
Stations: ?, ‘R’ District ( 1965 )( Newcastle? ), Newtown circa 1968, Newtown PCYC (Police Citizens Youth Club ), Redfern Police Academy, ?
Awards: National Medal – granted 2 March 1961( Det SenCon )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 7 October 1991 ( Det SenCon )
Retired: April 1993 – 29 years Service
Cause of Death: Illness from long time heart problems
Born: Wednesday 19 April 1944
Died: Sunday 26 October 2014
Age: 70 years, 6 months, 7 days
Time with NSWPF: 29 years,
Age at Retirement: 48 years, 11 months
Time in Retirement: 21 years, 6 months, 25 days
Funeral: Friday 31 October 2014, 10.30am
Eastern Suburbs Crematorium,
Military Rd, Matraville.
Funeral location
Wake: The Henson ( formerly Henson Park Hotel ), Illawarra Rd, Marrickville.
Brian ‘ Chicka ‘ MOORE
rugby league lost a great player and a true gentleman of the game over night. Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore. One of Newtown Jets Immortals and an ambassador for our great game
Chicka Moore RIP
The Newtown Jets have lost one of the most iconic figures of their 108-year history following the passing of former player, coach and Team of the Century member, Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore.Mr Moore passed away from a long illness yesterday aged 70. Newtown Jets director and media manager Glen Dwyer says Moore will forever be remembered by the Henson Park faithful for his significant contribution to the foundation club.”For the baby-boomer generation, Chicka Moore was the living definition of Newtown,” Dwyer tells RLW.”He never had the privilege of being in a premiership winning first-grade side or playing in a Test match, yet no one who saw him in his prime would deny that he was one of the best centres of the period.”He was a tall, long striding, majestic running centre. In the days where men were starting to grow their hair longer Chicka with his bald head was a landmark at Henson Park.”His combination with fellow centre Bob Keyes was marvellous and I’ve heard lots of judges say that if Reg Gasnier and Graeme Langlands weren’t around, Brian Moore and Bob Keyes would have been the Australian Test centres without doubt.”Moore played for Newtown during a difficult period, with the Bluebags only making the finals three times during his 11-year career. However, there were a couple of highlights to savour.Arguably the finest moment of his career came in 1973 when he almost single-handedly helped Newtown to a remarkable comeback win over St George in the final of the 1973 Wills Pre-Season Cup.
“Newtown were down 15-2 at halftime and the heat was horrendous,” says respected rugby league historian Terry Williams.
“They won 17-15 and that was largely on the back of Chicka. He basically took St George on on his own. In attack he cut the Dragons to pieces out wide and when they had the ball he became a road block.
“In that form he could match any centre in the world.”
Moore represented NSW on three occasions between 1963 and 1970 and was Australia’s top tryscorer during the 1967-68 Kangaroo tour, despite not playing in any Tests.
Unfortunately, he had the misfortune of coming through in the same era as RLW Immortals Bob Fulton, Reg Gasnier and Graeme Langlands and probably didn’t represent Australia as much as he should have.
A Newtown man through and through, Moore also held the distinction of being the Jets’ last-ever first grade coach taking the reins for the 1983 season following Warren Ryan’s resignation.
A respected police officer, in 2008, Moore was inducted into the NSW police Team of the Century while in 2009 he was awarded the NSW Police Medal for diligent and ethical service during his 29-year career in uniform.
“For all his footballing achievements he probably affected more people’s lives in his role as a physical instruction trainer at the police academy,” Williams says.
“There’s a whole generation of young coppers for one or two decades who were put through their paces by Chicka.
“He used to wipe the floor with all these young blokes who were 20 years younger than him.”
“He was just a really memorable character,” Dwyer continues.
“He was a marvellous personality and a great ambassador for the Newtown club.”
BRIAN ‘CHICKA’ MOORE (1944-2004)
* 173 games for Newtown (90 tries, 270 points)
* Four games for NSW (2 tries, 6 points)
* 11 tour games for Australia (10 tries, 30 points)
Newtown Jets legend Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore dies after long battle
October 27, 20146:18PM AAP
Newtown legend Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore has passed away at the age of 70.
ONE of the Newtown Jets’ rugby league players of the century, Brian `Chicka’ Moore has died following a long battle with illness.
Moore was a great of the now defunct NRL club, playing with the blue bags from 1962 until 1973 and also coaching the Jets in 1983.
Six years after he was named at centre in Newtown’s Team of the Century, Kangaroos international Moore passed away aged 70 over the weekend.
“Chicka was a player with an incredible try-scoring record,” said the NRL’s head of football, Todd Greenberg.
“In his 173 matches for Newtown, he scored 90 tries; that highlights what a player he was. In full flight, he was simply magnificent to watch.
“He was also a Kangaroo tourist and represented NSW, and then coached Newtown during its final year in the NSWRL.
“In 2008, he deservedly found a home at centre in Newtown’s Team of the Century. He will be missed by the game which he served so magnificently.”
Brian “Chicka” Moore (19 April 1944 – 26 October 2014) is an Australian former rugby league footballer and coach.
He played in the New South Wales Rugby Football League premiership for the Newtown “Bluebags” from 1962 to 1973 – scoring 90 tries during his long and successful career. He later coached the club for its final season, the 1983 Winfield Cup Premiership. He represented New South Wales in 1963, 1965 and 1970. He also represented Australia, touring Great Britain and France with the 1967/68 Kangaroos, playing 11 minor tour matches but no tests.[1] During the 1970s Moore captain-coached in the Newcastle Rugby League with the Macquarie club.[2] While playing football, Moore also served in the New South Wales Police Force and in 2008, rugby league’s centenary year in Australia, he was named at centre in a NSW Police team of the century.
In 2008 Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore was named in the Newtown Jets team of the century. He died following a long illness on 26 October 2014.[3][4]
Probationary Constable – appointed 13 December 1954
Constable 1st Class – appointed 13 December 1960
Senior Constable – appointed 13 December 1965
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 1 April 1970
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 13 January 1978 –
Retirement – Medical discharged on 17 June 1983
Stations: As a Cadet: M.O. Unit ( Method of Operation ) – January 1952,
Maroubra ( 15 Division ) May 1952,
Traffic Branch – December 1952,
Parramatta ( 18 Division ) February 1953,
Liverpool ( 22 Division ) June 1953,
Burwood ( 9 Division ) November 1953,
Liverpool ( 22 Division ) June 1954
Sworn in and stationed at: Regent St ( 2 Division ) December 1954,
Metro Supt. Office ( 20 Division ) July 1956,
Liverpool ( 22 Division GD’s ) January 1957,
Liverpool ( 22 Division – Inspectors Clerk ) February 1958,
Liverpool ( 22 Division GD’s ) December 1960,
Liverpool ( 22 Division – Outfit Cyclist ) November 1961,
Liverpool ( 22 Division – Licencing ) December 1961,
Liverpool ( 22 Division – Licencing Sgt ) September 1970,
Campbelltown ( 35 Division – Licencing Sgt ) May 1974,
Redfern ( 7 Division GD’s ) October 1975,
Fairfield ( 34 Division GD’s ) April 1978 until retirement on 17 June 1983
Service: From 14 January 1952 to 17 June 1983 = 31+ years Service
Awards: Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal – granted on 1 June 1977
Born: Monday 25 November 1935 @ Kempsey NSW
Died on: Monday 25 November 1985 – England
Cause: Heart attack
Age: 50 years
Funeral date: ? ? ?
Funeral location: ? ? ?
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial: Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Camden Valley Way, Leppington, NSW, OPPOSITE THE CAFE’
GPS: -33.9556 150.832
NOEL is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance* Not work related
Noel in his latter years
Noel is in the centre of the top row. This is part of a group photo of the Sergeant’s Course # 2 of 1971.
TUESDAY 21 SEPTEMBER 2010
I FOUND THIS NAME PLATE IN THE GARDENS OF THE FUNERAL HOME AT LEPPINGTON, ON CAMDEN VALLEY WAY. THE MEMORIAL IS OPPOSITE THE CAFE’.
NOEL THURGOOD WAS A SGT 2nd Class AT FAIRFIELD IN THE LATE 1970’s.
…….
I EVENTUALLY LOOKED UP THE PHONE BOOK AND FOUND THE WIFE OF NOEL THURGOOD, Grace, WHO TOLD ME THAT IT WAS, IN FACT, OUR NOEL THURGOOD AND THAT HE DIED ON HIS 50th BIRTHDAY.
NOEL AND HIS WIFE WERE VISITING FAMILY IN ENGLAND AND NOEL WAS IN THE LAUNDRY OF THE PREMISES THEY WERE VISITING WHEN HE COLLAPSED AND DIED.
I REMEMBER THAT NOEL HAD LIGHT BLUE EYES AND A STY OVER ONE OF HIS EYE LIDS.
HE WAS A NICE AND GENTLE MAN.
MAY HE FOREVER REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND.
Cal
Robert John Fredrick CROKER
| 21/05/2015
Robert John Fredrick CROKER
AKA BOB
Late of Urunga & formerly of Orange, NSW
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # 141
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 16439
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 1 July 1974
Constable – appointed 1 July 1975
Senior Constable – appointed 1 July 1983
Final Rank = ?
Stations: ?, Cowra ( 1996 ) ( suffered a heart attack ) then Light Duties, Orange ( Light Duties ),
Service: From? ? pre July 1974?to? ? ? = ? years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 29 March 1991 ( Sen Con )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 6 April 2001 ( Sen Con )
CROKER, Robert John Fredrick (Bob).
Retired Police Officer
August 11, 2012
Suddenly at Urunga, late of Urunga and formerly of Orange.
Loved father of Alison and Matthew (both of Orange).
A loved brother, brother-in-law and uncle to all his family.
Always remembered by Sue.
Forever In Our Hearts
Aged 59 years
The family and friends of BOB are kindly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Byng Street, Orange on Monday (August 20, 2012), commencing at 12 p.m.
By family request, donations in lieu of flowers may be made at the service to Police Legacy.
NORMAN J. PENHALL
FUNERALS
A.F.D.A. F.D.A. (N.S.W.)
William Street, Orange.
Phone (02) 6362 3751.
Published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Aug. 17, 2012
Memorial location: All Nations Park war memorial, Separation St, Northcote, Vic.
James, Andrea and Joshua Kilmartin.
First Constable Andrea Walsh at a service honouring the late Sergeant Brian Kilmartin.
Servicemen and women honoured the late Sergeant Brian Kilmartin.
[alert_blue]BRIAN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue]
* NOT JOB RELATED
The Funeral of Sergeant BRIAN KILMARTIN will be held in the Chapel of the Victoria Police Academy, View Mount Rd, Glen Waverley on THURSDAY (October 10) at 2.00 pm.
POLICE HONOURS
Brian’s interment will take place at the Tatura Lawn Cemetery (Winter Rd) on FRIDAY (October 11) at 12.00 noon.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Heart Foundation would be appreciated. Envelopes at the Service.
The Age, Tuesday October 8, 2013
Messages:
KILMARTIN. Brian Gerard.
11.6.1964 – 30.9.2013
Beloved husband of Andrea.
Loved and loving father of Joshua and James.
Youngest son of Tom (dec. ) and Pat (Kyabram/Tatura) and brother of David and Chris, Tony and Angela, Dennis and Rosemary, Brendan and their families.
KILMARTIN. Brian. Killer, you are a legend of the job and will never be forgotten.
Steve “Trigger and Robyn Waite.
KILMARTIN. Brian. Always knowledgeable, always approachable. Best Sergeant we ever had. Rest In Peace
Nick and Jo Parissis.
KILMARTIN Brian Sergeant 24519
Members past and present of Northcote Police Station are saddened by the sudden loss of our highly respected work colleague and friend.
Killer, you were a man of few words but those words were always full of wisdom and humour. You will be sadly missed.
Condolences to Andrea, Josh, James and the Kilmartin family.
KILMARTIN. Brian. Sergeant 24519
Management and Staff of North West Metro Region, Division 5 extend their deepest sympathy to Andrea, Josh and James on the loss of Brian. Our thoughts are with you.
KILMARTIN. Brian. Sincere sympathy to our friend Andrea and Joshua and James on the loss of your beloved husband and father, Brian. He will be sadly missed
David, Rosemary, Linda, Sheryl, Judy, Grace, Alyx and all at North Balwyn Eye Clinic and Specialist Centre.
KILMARTIN. Brian. The Members of the Doncaster Junior Football Club are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our fellow member and friend. Sincere condolences to Andrea, Josh and James.
KILMARTIN. Brian. You will be missed by all of your old detective buddies and friends at the High Street Blues.
KILMARTIN. Brian. Thank you for your friendship, memories and wonderful sense of humour. You always made me laugh. I can’t believe you’re gone. Much love to Andrea, your beautiful boys and the Kilmartin family. Muzza Porter and family.
KILMARTIN. Brian. Sgt. 24519 Good man, great Sergeant Sadly missed by all at Reservoir Police Station.
KILMARTIN Brian Loved son-in-law of Judith Robinson, brother-in-law and uncle of Louise, Sarah and Aaron, Aimee, Samuel and Jessie Lucas; Peter, Sharon, Christopher, Laura and Alex Robinson; Paul, Elsa, Matthew and John Robinson. Simply the Best
KILMARTIN. Brian. Sergeant 24519 The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force regret the passing of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
KILMARTIN. Brian. Cherished nephew and Godson of Bill (dec. ) and Marie Davies. Loved cousin of Jill, Denise, John, Anne, Nick and Cathy. Forever in our hearts
KILMARTIN. Brian Gerard. Loved brother of Dennis and Rosemary. Uncle of Thomas and Anna. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal.
KILMARTIN. Brian. From those heady days at Carlton and Fairfield until now. Killer, you will be sadly missed. Ray and Leanne Foster.
KILMARTIN. Brian. The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Sergeant Kilmartin and extend their deepest sympathy to his family. At Rest
[divider_dotted]
Northcote police officer posthumously honoured with Breavington Award
Julia Irwin, Northcote Leader
A NORTHCOTE police officer known for quietly going beyond the call of duty was posthumously recognised for his outstanding service to the community.
Peers at Northcote police station were unanimous in their decision to honour the late Sergeant Brian Kilmartin with the Breavington Award, which was presented to his widow Andrea and sons Joshua, 16, and James, 14, after a ceremony at All Nations Park war memorial last week.
Sergeant Kilmartin died from heart failure on September 30 last year, aged 49.
The award for policing excellence is presented annually in memory of former Northcote police officer and World War II prisoner of war Corporal Rodney Breavington.
Northcote police Senior Sergeant David Yates described the late Sergeant Kilmartin as a dedicated, kind and caring police officer.
“He was particularly caring when it came to the elderly,” Sen-Sgt Yates said.
“When an elderly man was reported missing in Fairfield, Brian came back on his own time and continued the search. That was the kind of man he was.”
During Tuesday’s ceremony, a plaque honouring Sergeant Kilmartin and former posthumous Breavington Award winners Senior Constables Mark Bateman and Fiona Robinson (killed in a car crash in May 2000), was unveiled on the war memorial usually reserved for military personnel.
Corporal Rodney Breavington, a former Fairfield resident, was executed by the Japanese in Singapore in 1942 during World War II after escaping from a prison camp where thousands of allies were held.
He and three other prisoners were forced to dig their own graves before facing a firing squad.
Breavington pleaded with his executioners to shoot him and free the other men but his captors ignored the plea.
He refused a blindfold and clutched a photo of his wife as he was shot dead.
Darebin RSL spokesman Bill Mountford said police, like other servicemen and women, put their lives on the line.
He said it was fitting that recipients of the Breavington Award who’d lost their lives while serving their communities should get recognition with a plaque on the war memorial.
But Mr Mountford said he hoped there would be no need for any more plaques to be awarded posthumously.
GPS of Grave: Lat: -34.4880559530445 Long: 150.81964650639043
Memorial: NSW Police Force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, A29 ( left wall )
Chief Inspector Graeme Donnelly
GRAEME is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance* NOT WORK RELATED
Death of Chief Inspector Graeme Donnelly, 52 old around 11.30am, today, Friday 16 August 2013, who was riding his push bike with a mate around Lake Illawarra ( the actual lake ) this morning and was riding up Mt. Terry when he stopped and said to his mate that he didn’t feel well.
Whilst standing next to his bike, he suffered a massive heart attack.
An Off Duty passing Paramedic commenced CPR and called for assistance. Helicopter assistance was also considered and I am informed that the Paramedics worked on Graeme for a lengthy and extended period and was conveyed to Hospital under Police escort but, unfortunately, he never regained consciousness from the time he fell.
He was aged 52 and was a Chief Inspector ( for those who don’t know him ) and a really nice bloke.
May he forever Rest in Peace and look over the rest of us.
The funeral for Graeme will take place on Monday, 26 August, at 1.00pm at St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral in Harbour Street Wollongong. Guest’s to be seated by 12.40pm.
I would expect this to be a big funeral with standing room only – out onto the street.
He was a highly respected policeman who sought relief from his demanding role as chief inspector in his passion for cycling.
Tributes have flowed for long-serving officer Graeme Donnelly, 52, who died of a heart attack while riding around Lake Illawarra last Friday.
Friend and cycling companion Wally Erven said Insp Donnelly loved cycling because it allowed him to de-stress.
“Being in the police force, it gave him a separation,” he said.
Insp Donnelly was the father of junior Australian cycling champion Aaron Donnelly – and Mr Erven said the apple hadn’t fallen far from the tree.
“Aaron’s not a professional cyclist for no reason – it’s in his genes and he got that from his father.”
Wollongong acting superintendent Tim Beattie said the policing community had been shocked to learn of Insp Donnelly’s death.
Insp Donnelly spent his career based in Wollongong until about 12 months ago when he transferred to Sydney and was attached to a specialist police unit.
“Graeme was a highly respected member of the police force who performed a significant amount of his service in the Illawarra area,” Supt Beattie said. “He is regarded by all those who knew him as being a good bloke.”
A tribute has also been posted on the Cycling NSW website.
“His loss is greatly felt by the Illawarra Cycle Club and the NSW cycling community,” the statement read.
Insp Donnelly’s funeral will be held at Wollongong Catholic Cathedral, 36 Harbour Street, at 1pm on Monday.
He was one of a kind and his death will leave a hole in the life of his family, friends and the police force.
On Monday a sea of blue police uniforms surrounded an overflowing St Francis Xavier Catholic Cathedral in Wollongong as officers paid their last respects to Chief Inspector Graeme Donnelly.
Insp Donnelly, 52, died on August 16 after having a heart attack while riding around Lake Illawarra with friends.
Yesterday his cycling companions joined police colleagues and formed a guard of honour stretching from the cathedral along Harbour St.
Insp Donnelly’s colleague Peter Lindwall and friend Neil Foster gave a joint eulogy.
They described the high-ranking officer’s passion for the police force and his love for his wife Kerri and sons Aaron and Brad.
Mr Lindwall said the sheer number of fellow officers in attendance, including NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione, was testament to how highly Insp Donnelly had been regarded in the community.
“He was a person no-one ever had a bad word to say about,” Mr Lindwall said.
He also made reference to Insp Donnelly’s previous career as a butcher and his skills behind a barbecue.
In a statement read at yesterday’s service, Aaron Donnelly said his father’s entire life had been dedicated to helping others.
“I don’t think there’s a person here who hasn’t been impacted by his kindness,” he said.
Mr Donnelly’s wife Kerri said her husband had been a “selfless” man who gave his time “to so many people”.
In a statement also read to the service, she recalled how proud he had been when his Brad announced he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a police officer.
Mr Scipione also spoke at the service and posthumously awarded Insp Donnelly the National Police Service Medal.
WEDNESDAY 6 APRIL 2016 GRAVE OF GRAEME FRANCIS DONNELLY GRAVE IS ON THE EAST SIDE OF ROAD, PAST THE NEW CRYPTS THAT ARE CURRENTLY BEING BUILT WHICH ARE ALSO ON THE EAST AND TO THE NORTH OF THE OFFICE. THE GRAVE IS ABOUT 3 – 4 ROWS BACK FROM THE ROADWAY AND FACES AWAY FROM THE ROADWAY.
Father of SenCon ( Retired ) Gary Ian THATCHER, Regd # 17604 ( R.I.P. )
SenSgt Laurie Thatcher – 1988
Laurie passed away at 4pm on Thursday 25th July 2013, at Wollongong Hospital, suffering a surpirize heart attack after a short stay in hospital. He had been doing well and was expected home today, the 26th but, unfortunately, this didn’t happen.
Laurie was a really nice bloke and was attached to Wollongong Police Station as a Licencing Sergeant before his retirement.
Buried at: Kanahooka Lawn Cemetery, Eastern side before office, several rows from roadway
Memorials: Bev Lawson Trailblazer’s Award – National Women in Policing
BEV is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
Bev Lawson suffered from a stroke in her Tarrawanna (Wollongong) home on 21 January 1998 as she prepared to attend the funeral of a retired Police woman, Ruth Styles, at a country centre.
Ruth Styles was an Inspector having previously been stationed at Warilla NSW.
Bev Lawson was transported to Wollongong Hospital and died at 10.20am on the 22 January, 1998 in Intensive Care.
Her funeral was held at Figtree on the 28 January, 1998.
Bev was aged 58 at the time of her death.
Because Bev, and other females of her time, were only ” Sworn In ” as ” Special Constable ” – I am not sure where Bev exactly sat in relation to ” Seniority ” within her Academy Class. Her other classmates ( Males ) who were ” Sworn In ” as Probationary Constables, had the Registered numbers 10985 to 11085 ( roughly ).
Under the current Registered number system, Bev would have slotted into a number somewhere within that range.
A look back at 33 years of the Illawarra Police Charity Ball – in photos
It all started when a cop stopped to ponder the difficulties facing cancer patients forced to travel to Sydney for treatment, writes Cydonee Mardon.
Wollongong was home to one of the most influential police women of our time.
Bob Burrage, Susie Elleman, Bev Lawson, Shelley Fort & Darren Kelly
Bev Lawson was the first female superintendent, the first female chief superintendent, first district commander and in 1996 she became the first female deputy commissioner of NSW.
Deputy Commissioner Bev Lawson in 1998.
Not only did she pave the way for women in policing, but she gave birth to a tradition that has raised thousands of dollars and helped thousands of people across the Illawarra.
In 1985, Sergeant Lawson, of the Wollongong patrol, wanted to find a way to bring police and the community together in a social setting.
But her main purpose was to help people in need.
Money raised from the 2011 police charity ball went to Motor Neurone Disease Services at Port Kembla Hospital. Motor Neurone sufferers Cathy Buzak, and Paul Nixon with Superintendent Wayne Starling got to experiment with iPads to communicate.
A survivor of breast cancer, then Sgt Lawson was all too familiar with the struggles that people in the region had accessing treatment in Sydney.
The emotional and physical burden of distance was something that concerned her.
So she set about organising a charity ball to raise funds that could help patients get to Sydney.
The first charity ball became a reality on Friday, August 1, 1986 at The Fraternity Club in Fairy Meadow.
There were 200 guests.
Raffle prizes included a $1000 travel voucher from Ansett, a microwave oven and $200 worth of house paint.
We are really proud of the amount of money we have raised as a community and the help we’ve been given to so many important services in the Illawarra.
Money raised was donated to Bulli Hospital’s palliative care ward and the Wollongong Cancer Awareness Support Group.
Both causes were close to Bev’s heart. She had been in remission for nearly five years.
In 2012, Assistant Commissioner Michael Fuller, Deputy Commissioner Catherine Burn, Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione and Superintendent Wayne Starling.
”When we were considering these options, I thought about people having to travel to Sydney daily for their treatment,” she said at the time.
“I really don’t know how some of them get up there, or more specifically how they cope.”
The ball then became a vehicle to reach out to the community – a way of encouraging charities to speak up and a way for the police to show they were about more than locking up crooks.
A partnership was born that has so far netted $320,000.
At the time of her death from a stroke in January 1998, Ms Lawson was Australia’s highest-ranking female police officer and even as she rose through the ranks, she and her family remained strong supporters of the ball.
“Her vision of a community working together to benefit those in need still remains strong and has been adopted by the current committee,” said Inspector John Klepczarek.
“It’s always been the criteria that the ball has to has to help the local community.
“We tend to shy away from the big charities that get lots of donations and we pick those that struggle or are less heard of,” he said.
“One year we raised money for an entire kitchen to feed the homeless … another time it was ipads for pallative care patients at Port Kembla hospital.”
Bruce Rowles from Aspect South Coast School in Corrimal with Inspector Bryan Rugg and little Arvon Allott. Picture: Adam McLean
“We had a year where a couple went through bad trots with young babies so we put money towards Wollongong Hospital’s children’s ward.”
One of the committee’s proudest associations is with the University of Wollongong’s graduate school of medicine and clinical skills. Each year the top-placed student who dedicates their services to regional nursing receives the Illawarra Police Charity Ball medal.
Inspector Klepczarek, who was committee president for 15 years and current vice-president, said the most well-attended ball to date was the year police officers farewelled then Assistant Commissioner Christine Nixon.
Some 450 people attended the ball to pay tribute to the Wollongong commander who went on to become Victoria’s police commissioner.
She’s one of many of the top brass who graced the dance floor over the years.
Commissioners Peter Ryan, Tony Lauer, Ken Moroney and Andrew Scipioni are just a few. Plain clothes notables who’ve made an appearance include Governor-General Peter Cosgrove, former NSW Governor Maria Bashir and even reality TV personality for a time, Big Brother winner Peter Corbett.
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller will attend this year’s ball on July 27 at the Wollongong University Hall. The venue is testimony to the growth and popularity of the event since those early days at the Frat.
Children with autism will benefit. Aspect South Coast School caters for more than 130 students across the Illawarra, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven local council areas.
The ball committee meets in January every year to decide which charity will next benefit.
“It’s not a police event, it’s a community event. We get more people attending who aren’t police officers. We are extremely proud we’ve been able to carry on the work of Bev Lawson and keep her vision alive.”
To have your charity considered, write to the Illawarra Police Charity Ball Committee, PO Box 430, Wollongong 2500. Visit www.policecharityball.com.au
