I ( Ron Alexander ) worked with Bruce at the North Sydney Highway Patrol (1984 – 1987). In 1985, Bruce and I were selected to participate in the development of a trial (4 day) Anti-Terrorist driving course at the Police Driving School, St. Ives, as the Highway Patrol was used for mobile security details. The powers to be wanted to provide a higher level of protection for visiting Heads of State and NSW Governor.
Bruce was diagnosed with cancer sometime after that and later transferred to Engadine HWP. I understand that Bruce continued to work through his treatment, until he could no longer perform his duties, due to the illness.
When Bruce was on Roster, everyone wanted to work with him.
Bruce had an infectious smile, causing all who saw it to smile back. He was a loyal colleague and his word was his bond.
It was a sad day when he passed. His wife Judith Louise SPADARO only recently passed away, July 2017.
Kind regards,
Ron Alexander
Retd Sgt NSW Police
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Ronald Wayne KING
| 06/08/2017
Ronald Wayne KING
Late of Boronia House, North St Marys, NSW
New South Wales Police Force
Redfern Police Academy Class 105
Regd. # 11712
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 1 November 1965
Constable – appointed 1 November 1966
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed 1 November 1974
Sergeant – appointed 30 June 1981
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 1 July 1987
Retirement
Final Rank: ?
Stations: ?, Redfern Police Academy – Drill, Weapons & Special Training Section ( 1960’s – 70’s ), Parramatta ( 18 Division ) – Retirement
Service: From? ? pre November 1965? to 4 April 1991= 25+years Service
Age at Retirement: 54 years, 11 months, 30 days
Time in Retirement: 26 years, 3 months, 26 days
Awards: There are two Ronald Wayne KING’s on It’s An Honour website; One being a Warrant Officer Class 2, the other being a Policeman. I don’t know if Ron was still a Serving Member of the Army during his Policing career.
General Service Medal – 1962 – Clasp – South Vietnam
General Service Medal – Year ? – Borneo Bar ( Served as a Commando )
Born: Sunday 5 April 1936
Died on: Sunday 30 July 2017 during the evening
Age: 81 years, 3 months, 25 days
Cause: Natural causes
Event location: Boronia House, St Marys, NSW
Event date: Sunday 30 July 2017
Funeral date: Monday 7 August 2017 @ 1pm
Funeral location: Pinegrove Memorial Park Northern Chapel, Kington Street Minchinbury, NSW
Buried at: Memories Garden, Pinegrove Memorial Park, Minchinbury, NSW
Memorial located at: ?
Ron KING wearing the Infantry Combat Badge ( ICB ) under which is the General Service Ribbon (Cyprus 1963 – 1964 ), then General Service Ribbon 1962 ( Clasp – Vietnam ), Reserve Force Ribbon, National Ribbon with Clasp, UN-UNFICYP ( Police Overseas Service Ribbon – Cyprus )
RON is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
Funeral location:
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
In memoriam: Sergeant Owen Timothy HARMS APM, Queensland Police Service, died on 1st August 2017
In addition to Australia Police Medal and National Medal, Sergeant Owen Harms received a Certificate of Merit from The Royal Humane Society of Australasia. He was later also presented with an award and recognition for his diligence, ethical conduct and commitment to his community.
His passing is a devastating loss to his family, friends, the community and country he proudly served. We are all intensely desolated by the sting of this bitter grief.
“Step forward now, policeman,
You’ve borne your burdens well.
Come walk a beat on Heaven’s streets,
You’ve done your time in hell.”
Fallen in the line of duty. Gone, but never forgotten and forever in our hearts.
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SHOCK: Top cop blows four times the legal limit
Sarah Barnham | 26th Jun 2017 7:20 PM Updated: 27th Jun 2017 7:43 AM
DEVASTATED: Officer in charge Miriam Vale, Owen Harms was distraught in court today as he faced up drink driving charges. Mike Richards GLA040715VALE
AFTER being on the other end of a breathalyser for 34 years, a Gladstone police officer never expected to be looking down the barrel himself.
Sergeant Owen Harms, 50, who has been stationed in Miriam Vale for the past 20 years, faced Gladstone Magistrates Court today on one charge of operating a vehicle under the influence of liquor.
Harms’ emotional plea of guilt came after returning a blood alcohol reading of .224%, more than four times the legal limit during a breath test.
Harms broke down in the courtroom upon having the charge read out to him for the offence on May 25 at Miriam Vale.
Police prosecutor Sergeant Barry Stevens said at about 3.50pm police found Harms along the Bruce Highway, a short distance from the Meadow Hotel.
The court heard Harms had come from the funeral of a close friend and decided to stop in at the pub to have a few drinks.
He left the hotel and got into his car, but upon realising he was not fit to drive, he pulled over and called his wife to come and get him.
However, Sgt Stevens said someone at the hotel alerted police to Harms’ behaviour and intention to get behind the wheel.
The police arrived before Harms’ wife.
Sgt Stevens said it was evident to the attending officers that Harms was intoxicated.
Sgt Stevens said upon the sobering fact that he had blown more than four times the legal limit, Harms became very remorseful and emotional at the scene.
He told officers he knew he was in the wrong to try to drive, but once he realised, he stopped and was waiting for his wife to come and pick him up.
SO SORRY: Owen Harms, pictured in 2015, in his role as the chairman of the Gary Larson Oval Enhancement Group. Jake Jones
However, the reason for stopping at the hotel was for something else entirely; just hours earlier Harms had been told by his doctor that he was now free of bowel cancer.
The same cancer that for the past three years had forced the officer to give up his duties on the streets, take a significant pay cut and work behind a desk.
That, paired with a heart condition, a crippling case of PTSD and severe depression and anxiety, had caused a huge burden for the sergeant and his family.
The court heard the mental conditions were a direct result of some of the scenes the officer had had to face during his confronting career.
Representing Harms in the courtroom, the Queensland Police Union’s Troy Schmidt said his client was committed to the Gladstone community and throughout his career had done and achieved extraordinary things, both as an officer and a volunteer.
“During his career this man has attended many fatals and suicides, deaths and horrific scenes,” Mr Schmidt said.
Harms again broke down in court when Mr Schmidt recounted a time where the officer was called to a job where a baby needed emergency CPR.
The CPR was unsuccessful and the baby died.
It was a memory that would always haunt the officer, Mr Schmidt said.
Mr Schmidt presented 21 good character references to the courtroom including that of deputy mayor Chris Trevor, the Miriam Vale Lions Club and Gladstone Police Inspector Darren Somerville.
The references described him to be a loving, unquestionably trustworthy and a highly commendable man.
Mr Schmidt said his client was now faced with the likely prospect of demotion and, given his requirement as a police officer to retire at the age of 60, would lose hundreds of thousands in finances.
He said his client’s family was suffering greatly.
The court heard Harms had been stood down from duties at Miriam Vale and had been working in Rockhampton.
Gladstone Magistrate Melanie Ho commended the sergeant on the work he had done for the community, and said it was quite clear the offending was out of character.
Ms Ho also noted that Harms had made the right choice in pulling over on the highway rather than continuing to drive.
He was fined $1500 and disqualified from driving for 12 months, with a conviction recorded.
Harms told The Observer he was deeply regretful for his actions.
THE first rugby league game of the season at Miriam Vale’s Gary Larson Oval will be under new lights.
Gladstone Regional Council has agreed to give last year’s residual sport and recreation funding of $21,000 to caretaker group, Gary Larson Oval Enhancement Group, which was on its knees and threatening to shut the gates.
Oval leaseholder, Owen Harms, is ecstatic about the decision, handed down in council chambers yesterday.
It means Gary Larson Oval will have $44,000 worth of new lights installed by March, allowing the small town to safely host community organisations and sporting groups at the ground.
“This will be a huge boost for our senior rugby league team, the Magpies, who rely on playing at night,” Mr Harms said.
“Now we will have fantastic new lights to play under safely.
“We were on the verge of closing the gates and if this hadn’t come through that’s what we would have been looking to do.”
In November the group, which raised $23,000 towards new lights, made a desperate plea to the council after being rejected twice for funding.
This application also fell on deaf ears, the council having said it would be unfair to other groups.
In the last round of council sport and recreational funding there were five unsuccessful applications and all were invited to vie for the $20,900.
But only the application from the Gary Larson Oval group met the criteria.
Central Queensland Motor sports Complex, Benaraby put in an application but asked for $44,000 – more than double what was on offer.
Lowmead Social Cricket and Sporting Club also made a bid for $4500 of the left over funding, but their application didn’t meet the criteria either.
Sergeant Owen Harms OIC Miriam Vale receives his award from the Assistant Commissioner Michael Dondon
Last Thursday a total of 30 Officers were recognised for their diligence, ethical conduct and commitment to their community. This represented a total of 330 years served by police in the Gladstone Patrol Group. The ceremony was attended by Assistant Commissioner Michael Condon and the District Officer Superintendent Ron Van Saane. Distinguished guests included Councillor Gail Sellers, Mayor of Gladstone, Captain Dale heimer from the 42nd Battalion of the Australian Army, Members of the Gladstone Branch of the Retired Police Association, family and friends. Assistant Commissioner Condon stated of the officers who received a medal or award were, ‘an asset to the Service and Queensland, and more than deserving.” Congratulations to all recipients your skill and dedication are inspiring.
Deserving recipients of bravery awards at Wednesday’s ceremony are (from left) Sergeant Owen Harms, Sergeant Jonathon Edwards and Sergeant Michael Phillips. Photo supplied
POLICE Sergeant Michael Phillips will forever remember the day he tried to save two boys from suffocation in a collapsed sand cave at Anges Water.
Although tragically one of the boys died at the scene, the Central Queensland officer was hailed a hero for his valiant attempt to save them three years ago.
And last week he was honoured with a bravery award.
He and fellow police officer Sergeant Jonathon Edwards were awarded Bronze Medals and Sergeant Owen Harms received a Certificate of Merit from The Royal Humane Society of Australasia at a ceremony at Government House in Brisbane last Wednesday.
Sergeant Phillips said he was very proud to have received the medal, but added that it was a “bittersweet moment”.
“It would have been nice if we were able to save both boys, but things don’t work out the way you want them to unfortunately,” he said. “It is something that I will remember for the rest of my life.”
Sergeant Phillips said when the three officers were called to the beach on August 15, 2006, they did not know what to expect.
“We were just told three boys were buried; we didn’t anticipate it being the way it was,” he said.
The three men used shovels to dig for the boys who had been trying to connect two deep tunnels when the sand collapsed on them.
The men were unable to save one of the boys trapped under almost two metres of sand.
“It took us about two hours to get him out. “We performed CPR on the boy for about 20 minutes but he died. There was nothing else we could do,” he said.
Sergeant Edwards commandeered an excavator to free the other boy, who was still trapped under the sand.
Sergeant Phillips said the boy was buried up to his neck so he did every thing he could to keep him alive.
“I got into the hole with him and held an oxygen mask over his mouth to keep his airway clear,” he said.
“Once the digger could only get so close we had to dig by hand to get him out and managed to free him.”
The youngest of three boys, all brothers holidaying from the Netherlands, managed to free himself earlier and alert two French tourists of his trapped brothers.
Those tourists were also presented with awards in Paris for their rescue efforts.
Sergeant Phillips said the little boy had been very brave and stayed very calm.
“He was excellent; I was speaking to him the whole time and we talked about sports and where he was from; he wasn’t panicking at all,” he said.
Daryl Gough from Woodbury was also presented with an award for going to the rescue of a mother and three children who were saved from drowning at Nine Mile Beach, Yeppoon, on March 23 last year.
AWARDS CQ award recipients:
Bronze Medal:
Sergeant Michael Phillips
Sergeant Jonathon Edwards
Daryl Gough
Certificate of Merit:
• Sergeant Owen Harms
• 22 residents of Qld were presented with bravery awards.
One Silver Medal, 17 Bronze Medals and 4 Certificates of Merit were presented by Governor of Queensland Penelope Wensley, AO.
Community pays tribute to police officer Owen Harms after his shock death
Chris Lees, Gladstone Observer
THE community has paid tribute to Miriam Vale police officer Owen Harms, who died yesterday.
Sergeant Harms had been stationed in Miriam Vale for the past 20 years.
True Blue Line – an organisation that posts news stories and information about emergency services, with a focus on Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States, posted a tribute on Facebook today.
“Sergeant Owen Harms, with a big heart and full of compassion for everyone, was everyone’s friend and the Officer in Charge at Miriam Vale Police in Gladstone Police District, Queensland. Highly respected and much loved by many, he dedicated over 30 years of his life to protect, serve and improve the community he cherished so much,” the post reads.
There were no suspicious circumstances around his death, and it came 36 days after he had admitted drink-driving in the Gladstone Magistrates Court.
He was a decorated officer.
“In addition to Australia Police Medal and National Medal, Sergeant Owen Harms received a Certificate of Merit from The Royal Humane Society of Australasia. Described as a true blue Aussie with a heart of gold, ‘Owey’ was also presented with an award and recognition for his diligence, ethical conduct and commitment to his community,’’ the True Blue post said.
“His passing is a devastating loss to his family, friends, the community and country he proudly served. We all feel intensely desolated by the sting of this bitter grief.’’
Others joined the tributes.
“You were there for every one of us… your door was always open for us to pop in and have a cuppa and chat… you never said a bad word about anyone! You knew how to make us laugh… you always gave a hug just when it was needed… you were so dearly loved by your beautiful family and the community in which you so proudly served!” – C.S.
“Your community is broken and lost tonight, this just doesn’t seem real. You were one of the best Owey. The support you’ve shown not only our family but your community over the years will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family tonight RIP Harmsey” – A.H.
“Step forward now, policeman,
“You’ve borne your burdens well.
“Come walk a beat on Heaven’s streets,
“You’ve done your time in hell.
“Fallen in the line of duty. Gone, but never forgotten and forever in our hearts.”
The Miriam Vale Rodeo Association said he was a true hero to all that knew him.
“MV Rodeo Association wishes to extend our heartfelt condolences to Owen’s beloved family and friends during this devastating time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all,” they posted.
“Owey, you will be sorely missed mate!”
Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett took to Facebook to post his own tribute.
“Terrible sad day for the Gladstone Region as we mourn the loss of Sergeant Owen Timothy Harms,” he wrote.
“No words can describe how great a man he was and how devastating this news is. Rest in peace my friend.”
The Miriam Vale Magpies Rugby League Club remembered Sgt Harms on Facebook.
“Owen, our community pillar, our hero, our mate!,” the post reads.
“Forever etched in our hearts and minds are the memories of this tremendous man! May you rest in eternal peace Owey. We love you and will miss you terribly.
“On behalf of the Maggies family we are all holding Lyn, Brendon and Bree very close in our hearts and thoughts at this devastating time. May you draw strength and courage from the outpouring of love and support.”
GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL – GENERAL MEETING MINUTES 15 AUGUST 2017
6 of 132
MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE
Owen Timothy Harms
Cr Trevor paid tribute to Owen Harms as follows:-
Owen Timothy Harms‘s funeral took place on 8 August 2017. It was a beautiful service for a beautiful man loved by all, now resting in peace. A community champion who selflessly put others before himself. A wonderful family man with an enormous generosity of spirit, he will be sadly missed and he was enormously proud of his family, his friends, his community and his Police Service.
As an active Police Officer he was proud of his nearly 34 years of service on the front line and all at 1, 2, 3 and 4 officer stations except 4 years at Mt Isa. Very long periods when Miriam Vale was a two officer station he spent alone without relief, on call 24/7, 80 kms of Bruce Highway in division often months at a time.
Executive Committee member for many and varied local committees including local ambulance committee, Police and Citizens Association, Lions Club, driving force behind the Gary Larsen Oval enhancement committee, responsible for building an entire Sports Complex from bare grass to a magnificent venue for use by Miriam Vale residents and support for youth, under privileged and the
elderly. Coach and manager of many junior sporting teams, foundation member of Miriam Vale Social Touch Football Association (which has lasted for 19 years and still going strong), providing a vital outlet for the town’s youth.
Recipient of the following:-
Australian Police Medal (APM)
All Police Medals
Two by Commissioner Certificates
Multiple Citizen of the Year Awards for various local government areas
Owen mentored many Senior Constables (nearly all who have been promoted) and also mentored budding Sergeants in Charge. He served long stints in the Northern Territory border at Bulleya, Burketown, Bungee, Birdsville and Mt Isa, many times alone.
Unfortunately he had a lengthy battle with various and serious health problems. His support of his community did not stop although he had these problems. He was a strong advocate for helping people with difficulties, raising funds to install a Chair Lift for disabled residents. Owen was a participant in a long running video campaign for assisting police officers with depression and anxiety issues and when successfully reliving in Senior Sergeant roles received glowing reports.
His high level of duty to the Police Service found him never receiving an Adverse Station Inspection Report and he never failed to help colleagues in difficulty at any time of the night. Owen never once refused a request for a call for service at any time of the day or night.
PHOTO: TOM HUNTLEYTRUE HERO: Family, friends and fellow officers are in shock after the death of Owen Harms.
THE community has paid tribute to Miriam Vale police officer Owen Harms, who died on Monday.
Sergeant Harms was stationed in Miriam Vale for the past 20 years.
True Blue Line, an organisation that posts news and information about emergency services, posted a tribute on Facebook.
“Sergeant Owen Harms, with a big heart and full of compassion for everyone, was everyone’s friend and the Officer in Charge at Miriam Vale Police in Gladstone Police District, Queensland. Highly respected and much loved by many, he dedicated over 30 years of his life to protect, serve and improve the community he cherished so much,” the post read.
There were no suspicious circumstances around his death.
It came 36 days after he admitted in the Gladstone Magistrates Court drink-driving.
He was a decorated officer. Sgt Harms was also beloved in the sporting community, and played an instrumental role in combining the Agnes Water and Miriam Vale teams to form the Northern Force Rugby League Club.
This Sunday a minute of silence will be held when the Northern Force play Avondale before the team run out to Eye of the Tiger – “Owie’s favourite song”, president Kym McIntosh told the NewsMail.
“It’s rocked two clubs, rocked two communities. “It’s just so sad.”
“In addition to Australia Police Medal and National Medal, Sergeant Owen Harms received a Certificate of Merit from The Royal Humane Society of Australasia. Described as a true blue Aussie with a heart of gold, ‘Owey’ was also presented with an award and recognition for his diligence, ethical conduct and commitment to his community,” the True Blue post said.
“His passing is a devastating loss to his family, friends, the community and country he proudly served. We all feel intensely desolated by the sting of this bitter grief.:” Others joined the tributes. “You were there for every one of us … your door was always open for us to pop in and have a cuppa and chat … you never said a bad word about anyone! You knew how to make us laugh… you always gave a hug just when it was needed … you were so dearly loved by your beautiful family and the community in which you so proudly served!” one wrote.
The Miriam Vale Rodeo Association and the Magpies Rugby League Club paid tribute to “a true hero”, while Gladstone Mayor Matt Burnett took to Facebook to post his own tribute.
“Terrible sad day for the Gladstone region as we mourn the loss of Sergeant Owen Timothy Harms.
“No words can describe how great a man he was and how devastating this news is. Rest in peace my friend.” ■ If you or someone you know needs help, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.
I sit here writing this still reeling from the tragic loss of Owen Harms. Any death in the police family is a death too many. Harmsy was a true CQ legend beloved by all who knew him. To Lynette and the rest of the Harms family, you have my deepest condolences We all have demons inside us and the black dog is ever creeping. We need to remain vigilant and look after one another. To all my family, friends, and colleagues, I am always here if you need someone to talk to, a shoulder to cry on, or someone to vent frustration on. No matter the circumstances or the situation, my door is always open. I am only a phone call away.
Never think that you are alone! Life and work can become overwhelming at times and the dreaded black dog creeps up on us all. We need to stand together and help each other through these tough times and look forward to a brighter tomorrow.
I ask you all to check on a mate and make time to talk to each other. It may be difficult, but that difficult conversation may save a life.
Remember, it’s not weak to speak.
DO OUR PEOPLE MATTER?
Recent events have made many question this. It’s time to take stock and for the Service to take a long hard look at how it treats its employees. There are many areas within the organisation that need fixing, starting with the disciplinary system.
We all know it is broken beyond repair and has been for some time. It needs an urgent overhaul to stop the rot that has been going on for far too long.
Members are being stood down and suspended and left hanging while investigations take far too long: some over three years.
Members are guilt until proven innocent! How is this natural justice?
There needs to be firm time limits put on internal investigations. Perhaps more staff can be allocated to the District PPMs to expedite these investigations.
The Service has an obligation to investigate these matters, resolve them in a timely manner, and not let them drag on … and on. These delays cause angst and anxiety to not only the member but also to their families. It also places unnecessary financial hardship on members and their families.
He shared the news that it was terminal just last month, a discovery that hit his young family hard.
“I feel so sad for my boys and Tanya [Broughton], my family and friends,” he shared on June 26.
“Not sure how long I’ve got peeps.
“Grab someone and give them a hug, doesn’t matter who it is. Cherish your time and everybody, love everybody.”
He was described as a big man with a big heart who had been in the army and served his country.
Bundaberg police officer Warren Broughton (right) with friend Heath Clayton.
Friend Heath Clayton mourned the mate he knew as “Yoda”.
“It is with a very heavy heart this morning that I learned of the passing of an old friend, Warren Broughton (Yoda),” Mr Clayton shared on social media.
“Yoda passed yesterday and will be well remembered and sorely missed.
“You were always a great friend, a guarantee you would put a smile on everyone’s face and a good man too all who had the pleasure of knowing you. Time for the long sleep my old friend.
“I will be thinking of you this day, with a heavy heart but of all the good times. Goodbye mate.”
Warren was a captain, Sunbowl champion and Queensland rep for the Logan City Bengals gridiron team in the early 90s, described by Harry Alderton as “one of the best teammates to have”.
“A leader in every sense,” Mr Alderton wrote.
“Tough as nails, attacking and aggressive and always having fun. He picked you up and made the game better.”
A funeral service will be held for Warren at 10am on Wednesday, July 26 at Des Allen Funeral Home, Phoebe Cres, Bundaberg.
A memorial service will be held for Warren at 2.30pm on Thursday, July 27 at Bundaberg PCYC.
The original Logan city Bengals will be having a reunion on July 30 “to celebrate Warren and continue to raise money for his kids’ future”.
NOTHING can replace a husband, father, brother and son but the family who is about to lose this said they were grateful.
Bundaberg police officer Warren Broughton has been fighting a long hard battle with skin cancer for three years.
After taking part in a drug trial and changing his lifestyle, the melanoma on his brain started to shrink.
Family and friends were filled with hope but after his last MRI scan he was given a terminal diagnosis.
On Monday the father-of-two shared the news with his fellow police officers.
“This morning I was told I have leptomeningeal disease from melanoma,” he said.
“Unfortunately this is a terminal diagnosis for me.”
He said he was in shock and he didn’t believe it.
“(I am) completely scared s**tless,” he said.
“I feel so sad for my boys and Tanya [Broughton], my family and friends.
“I’m angry and sad.”
He went on to say he wouldn’t give up fighting and would try anything to stop the cancer.
“They want to try a combination of some immuno therapies. Massive long shot but stupid not to try,” he said.
“Not sure how long I’ve got peeps.
TERMINAL DIAGNOSIS: Warren Broughton was given a terminal diagnosis and now wants to plan ahead for his sons.
“Grab someone and give them a hug, doesn’t matter who it is. Cherish your time and everybody, love everybody.”
His brother Ben Broughton has set up a donation page to help sons Damon, 6, and Luke, 3.
He said travelling to Brisbane every three months for specialist appointments, constant worry and the nightmare of waiting for endless test results, knowing any day could be the worst day of their lives, had taken its toll on the family, emotionally and financially.
The latest news was horrific and had hit the family hard.
“Warren is an active father who takes a keen interest in bringing up his two beautiful, energetic sons,” Mr Broughton said.
“He had hoped to see his boys grow up, play sports, graduate from school and create their own lives, but now Warren and Tanya have to face facts that this is unlikely.”
Mr Broughton is described as a big man with a big heart who had been in the army and served his country.
“He is a police officer contributing to the safety of his local community,” his brother said.
He said it was difficult to ask for assistance and Warren was normally the one wearing fancy dress, such as a Star Wars costume, to raise money for charities.
“Now it’s our turn to support Warren in his time of greatest need so that he, Tanya, Damon and Luke can spend their precious remaining time together without having to worry about the small stuff,” he said.
“Warren’s key concern is for the welfare and quality of life for his sons and wife.
“While illness makes our hearts stand still, the rest of life keeps rolling and making its demands on their time and resources.”
Another ‘mentioned’ Brother is Roger. It is not known if Roger was in the Police.
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # Q 7644
For the purposes of this website, ‘Q‘ represents those Police joining between 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system )
Great regret was felt over the death of Sergeant Patrick S. Leonard, Chief Police Prosecutor of the metropolitan district, which occurred at his late residence, Milford Street, Randwick, on Friday morning last.
Poignancy is added to the death of this fine police officer by the fact that he was on the eve of his promotion to an inspectorship — in fact, he was about to be presented with the whip that accompanies elevation to that rank.
The late Sergeant joined the service in 1900, and was stationed at Darlinghurst.
A hard-working and efficient policeman, he soon attracted the attention of his superiors, and he won quick promotion, attaining the rank of first-class sergeant in 1923. He was police prosecuting officer in the suburbs for 10 years until his transfer to the Central Police Court over a year ago.
Of a courteous and genial nature, he enjoyed the friendship of all sections of the community, and the esteem of all his fellow officers and subordinates.
Genuine expressions of regret at his passing were made at the Central Police Court on Friday. Mr. Jennings, S.M., said that those who represented defendants had been well satisfied with his fairness in all proceedings. It was a sad end to a distinguished career.
On behalf of the legal profession, Mr. Parker and Mr. Lionel Dare paid tributes to his conscientiousness. He was a hard man to fight, said Mr. Parker, but he fought fairly. He was big in stature and mind, and it would be hard to replace him.
For the police, Sergeant Cummings, prosecutor, extended sympathy to the relatives. He understood that Sergeant Leonard was on the eve of promotion.
The Commissioner of Police ( Mr. J. Mitchell ) said that it was with extreme regret that he had heard of Sergeant Leonard‘s death. ” He was one of the ablest officers in the service, and had he lived he would have reached high police rank. He also rendered excellent service as a member of the committee of the police carnival for hospitals. ”
Sergeant Leonard, who succumbed to pneumonia, was 50 years of age, and a devout Catholic.
Requiem Mass was celebrated by the Rev. Father T. O’Loughlin, M.S.C, at the Church of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Avoca-street, Randwick, after which the funeral cortege left the church for the Randwick cemetery.
The procession, which was officially a police funeral, attracted a very representative gathering.
Squads of police, preceded by the Police Band, marched under Inspector Maze, and members of the Metropolitan Fire Brigades, under District-Inspector Grimmond.
The pall-bearers were Inspector Maze, Sergeants Roser, Dean, MacDougall, Twist, Jones and Maher. Many and beautiful were the wreaths conveyed.
The principal mourners were: Messrs. Charles, Thomas, and Roger Leonard ( brothers ), Misses Annie and Cissie. Leonard, and Mrs. Delahunty ( sisters ), and Miss Mary Roche, to whom Sergeant Leonard was to have been married.
Amongst those present were: The Chief Secretary ( Hon. C. C. Lazzarini, M.L.A.), Inspector Spyer ( representing the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mitchell ), Mr. Cruise ( representing the Minister for Justice ), Mr. A. Bishop ( representing the Crown Law Department ), the Speaker ( Hon. J Dooley, M.L.A.), Supt. G. Mitchell, Supt. Mankey, Chief of C.I.B., Inspectors Lynch, Delaney, Lindfield, and Kersley; Det.-Sgt. Lynch, Det.-Sgt. Coombes, Det.-Sgt. Jones ( South Africa ), Det. Sgt. Kennedy, Det.-Sgt. Smith, Det.-Sgt. Miller, Sergeant Nicholls and Constable Carroll Ashfield, Detective Gallagher, Sergeant T. O’Brien, ex-Sergeants Duncan, Hay and Toohey, ex-Inspector Fullarton, C. Thackeray ( ” Police News ” ), Mr. B. Fortescue ( general secretary, Police Association ), Detective Comans, ex-Sergeant Hayes, Sergeant Lane, and Sergeants Philpott and Maples ( Redfern ), Station-officer Beare ( representing Fire Brigades’ Hospital Carnival and Art Union ), Messrs. R. D. Meagher, W. Niland, and T. Arkins ( solicitors ), R. O’Halloran, B. Greig, S. R. Alldis, Ms.L.A., Hon. J. Tyrrell, M.L.C., P. Conroy ( vice-president ), and W. Carey ( secretary, A.L.P.), Aldermen M. L’Estrange ( Mayor of Mascot ), R. H. McDonald ( Redfern ), and D. Mulcahy ( Waterloo ), Messrs. Rafferty ( assistant secretary, R.A.S.), T. Windrum ( Rockhampton), E. Ward, P. Fennessy, D. Capice, W. O’Connor, R. Allen, A. Agnew, L. R. Mordant, and A. R. Pope ( Catholic Club ), J. McCann, W. Campbell, Hartnett, H. Kirkland, W. McNamara ( secretary, Friendly Society Dispensary ), P. Rynn, and F. Haron. — R.I.P.
The funeral on Saturday afternoon of First-class Sergeant Patrick Stephen Leonard, senior public prosecutor at the Central Police Court, was one of the largest ever seen at Randwick. The funeral took place from the Church of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, after Requiem Mass, which was celebrated by the Rev. Father O’Loughlin, M.S.C. The cortege, which was about a mile long, was headed by squads of police and firemen.
The chief mourners were Messrs. Charles, Thomas, and Roger Leonard (brothers), Misses Annie and Cissie Leonard and Mrs. Delahunty (sisters), and Miss Mary Agnes Roche. The pall-bearers were Inspector Maze, Sergeants Roser, Dean, Jones, McDougall, Twiss, and Maher. Others present included Messrs. J. Dooley ( Speaker of the Legislative Assembly ), C. C. Lazzarini ( Chief Secretary ), S. G. Cruise ( representing Mr. W. J. McKell ( Minister for Justice ), A. Bishop ( representing the Crown Law Department ), J. Tyrrill, M.L.C., R. Greig, M.L.A. ( Chairman of Committees ), R. O’Halloran, and S. R. Alldis, Ms L.A., Inspector Spyer ( representing Mr. J. Mitchell, Commissioner of Police ), Superintendent T. Mankey ( Chief of C.I.D.), Inspectors . Lynch, Devlin, Lindfield, Delaney, Mackay and Kersley, Detective Sergeants Lynch, Coombes, Jones ( of South Africa ), Kennedy, Smith, Miller and Sergeant Nicholls ; Station Officer Beare ( Fire Brigades Hospital Carnival and Art Union Committee ) Mr. W. J. Camphin, S.M., Alderman L’Estrange ( Mayor of Mascot ), Mulcahy .( Mayor of Waterloo ), and R. H. McDonald ( Redfern ), Messrs. R. D. Meagher, W. M. Niland, J. C. J. Ryan, and T. Arkins; Constables Carroll, Ashfield, Detective Gallagher, Sergeants T. O’Brien, Law, and Philpott, ex Sergeants Duncan, Hay, Toohey and Hayes; ex-Inspector Fullarton, Messrs. B. Fortescue ( secretary, Police Association of which deceased was a foundation member ), C. Thackeray ( editor, ‘Police News’ ), R. Moyes, J. J. Hartnett, G. H. Brown, P. Ryan J. Morrissey, T. Windrum, W. Carey ( secretary A.L.P. ), E. Ward, E. Roche, F. Conroy ( vice-president A.L.P. ), H. Kirkland, C. J. Rafferty ( assistant secretary, Royal Agricultural Society ), G. Butler Gye ( representing “Evening News” ), R. Higgins, Captain Hansen, T. Birrell, A. Westphal, C. Tate, W. Adlum, P. O’Loughlin ( president of the Catholic Club ), S. A. Williams ( treasurer of the club ), P. Burns ( vice-president ), C. G. Griffiths ( hon. secretary ), H. Washington ( manager ), A. H. Pope, J. Fraser, A. Agnew ( Gehring and Co.); W. Campbell, J. McCann, W. J. McEncroe, W. Weekes, W. Paterson, W. McCarthy, A. Sharp P. Sharp, R. Campbell, J. McGrath, J. Ryan J. S. Ogan, W. McNamara ( secretary, Friendly Society Dispensary ),. J. Voney, B. Acton, G. Workman, H. Moroney, M. Swiney, J. Sheehan, E. McDonald B. Mahoney, F. Farrell ( hon. . secretary, Catholic Returned Soldiers’ Association ), J. Killeen, F. Conroy, J. Williams ( Dewar and Co.), A. McNiven, F. Haron, L. R. Mordant, P. Fennessy, and R. Allen.
LEONARD.- A Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of the late SENIOR SERGEANT PATRICK STEPHEN LEONARD will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church, Randwick, THIS ( Saturday ) MORNING, at 9 o’clock.
LEONARD. – The Friends of Miss MARY AGNES ROCHE, of Rose-street, Darlington, are kindly invited to attend the Funeral of Patrick Leonard; to leave Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church, Randwick. THIS ( Saturday ) AFTERNOON, at 2.30, for Randwick Cemetery.
The death of Sergeant Patrick Leonard, chief police prosecutor at the Central Police Court, occurred suddenly yesterday morning, from pneumonia, at his residence in Milford street, Randwick. Sergeant Leonard was 50 years of age.
Mr. Jennings, C.S.M., and Messrs. W. Parker and Lionel Dare, on behalf of the legal profession, paid sincere tributes to the late police officer.
Sergt. PATRICK Stephen Leonard, Senior Police Prosecutor, died from pneumonia at Randwick to-day, after six week’s illness. ” He was one of the ablest men who have ever held the position of police prosecutor. ” said the Commissioner of Police to-day. ” I heard of his death with extreme regret. He was one of my best, most conscientious, and most promising officers. In my opinion, he would have attained to high police rank had he lived “.
The late sergeant was highly esteemed by all who know him. He was a most courteous, unassuming, and obliging officer, and was exceedingly popular with Pressmen, with whom he came into close contact at the various police courts. His word was his bond, and he was always scrupulously fair to defendants.
Sergeant Leonard joined the police force in 1900 and was made a first class sergeant in 1923. He served in the Darlinghurst division for 13 years and at Redfern, and was police prosecutor for seven years, first on the suburban circuit and latterly at the Central Police Court.
He was born in 1876, and was a native of N.S.W.
He was unmarried, and lived with his sister at Melford-street. Randwick.
WORKER FOR CHARITY
He was a prominent worker for various charities, and took an active part in the organisation of the annual police carnival.
The late officer’s first promotion to the rank of first-class constable was a reward for a particularly daring arrest of a burglar in William-street. City, at 4 a.m.. on December 13, 1904.
Two of his brothers also joined the police force — Charles, ( Q7396 ) now a sergeant at Marrickville, and Michael, (Q7115 ) who died from pneumonia some years ago.
The funeral will leave the Church of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Avoca street, Randwick, at 2.30pm tomorrow.
TRIBUTES IN COURT
‘ It is a sad end to a distinguished career.’ remarked Mr. Jennings. C.S.M., at the Central Court to-day. In referring to the death of Sergeant Leonard. ” He had been a long time with us, and his services were much appreciated by all those who worked with him. ”
Mr. Parker, on behalf of the legal profession. said he had known Sergeant Leonard for 23 or 24 years. ” I always admired him as an officer, ” went on Mr. Parker. ” He was absolutely conscientious. As a prosecutor he was one of the hardest men we had to fight, but he always fought fairly. He was a big man not only In stature, but In mind.”
Mr. Lionel Dare, barrister, remarked that, In his public capacity, Sergeant Leonard was courageous, unflinching, honorable, and firm.
Sergeant Cummings, police prosecutor, said the police felt Sergeant Leonard‘s death as a deep personal loss. He understood the late sergeant was on the eve of promotion to the rank of inspector. He was a highly capable officer.
TO HAVE BEEN MARRIED
A pathetic feature is that Sergeant Leonard was to have been married last Saturday to Miss Mary Agnes Roche, of Rose-street, Darlington, but his illness intervened.
( a photo of Sgt Leonard and Mary Roche appear in this news article but the ‘scan’ is far too dark from the Trove article to be useful for his Memorial page )
For the purposes of this website ‘Q‘ represents those Police joining between 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system )
Rank: Is mentioned as a Senior Constable on 16 Jan 1907 being transferred from Enngonia
Is mentioned as a First Class Sergeant at Taree on 28 January 1918
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 – 1954), Monday 16 April 1928, page 10
DEATHS
LEONARD. – April 15, 1928, at his residence, Hill-street, Queenscliffe, Manly, Lawrence Blake Leonard ( late of Taree Police ), dearly beloved husband of Catherine Leonard, and loved father of Mollie, Valerie, and Vincent, aged 55 years.
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 – 1954), Monday 16 April 1928, page 9
FUNERALS.
LEONARD. – The Relatives and Friends of Mrs. CATHERINE LEONARD, MOLLIE, VALERIE, and VINCENT LEONARD, of Hill-street, Queenscliffe, Manly, are kindly invited to attend the Funeral of her late beloved HUSBAND and their FATHER, Lawrence Blake Leonard ; to leave our Private Mortuary, 92 Corso, Manly, TO-MORROW MORNING (Tuesday), at 11o’clock, for the Catholic Cemetery, Manly.
T. WAUGH and CO.,
Funeral Directors.
Tele., Manly 42.
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Catherine LEONARD – wife of Lawrence ( Laurence in the Grave Register of Roman Catholic Section of Cemetery ) appears to be buried in the same Plot. Catherine was buried on 8 December 1950, aged 77.
The death is announced of Mr Larry Leonard, 54, of a paralytic stroke.
Mr. Leonard was a native of Bungonia, and some years ago joined the police force, being later elevated to the rank of sergeant.
Failing health necessitated his retirement from the force. A widow and three children, the eldest of whom is 18 years and the youngest 11 years, survive him.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Friday 26 October 1923 (No.129), page 4830
SHIRE OF MANNING.
NOTICE is hereby given that Sergeant Walter John Moroney, of Taree, has been appointed an inspector under the Cattle Slaughtering and Diseased Animals and Meat Act, 1902, within the Manning Shire, vice Sergeant Lawrence Blake Leonard, transferred,— such appointment to take effect from 10th July, 1923.
Goulburn Evening Penny Post (NSW : 1881 – 1940), Thursday 9 August 1923, page 4
DISTRICT NEWS Bungonia (From Our Correspondent.)
Sergeant Larry Leonard, brother of Mr. Jim Leonard, Jerrara, and Mrs. G. Broadhead, Inverary, is dangerously ill in a Sydney hospital, and no hope of his recovery is entertained.
His complaint is hemorrhage.
Mr. Leonard has been ailing for some considerable time.
Lately he was in charge of the police station at Taree.
From there he was transferred to Walgett, and it was expected that a change would do him good. Instead he gradually became worse.
His last hope was to proceed to Sydney to undergo an operation.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Friday 29 June 1923 (No.73), page 2871
[ 7866 ] Office of the Director-General of Public Health, Sydney, 29th June, 1923.
IT is hereby notified, for public information, that the undermentioned persons have been duly authorised by the Board of Health as Inspectors under section 50 of the Cattle Slaughtering and Diseased Animals and Meat Act, 1902: — As from 19th June, 1923 —
Sergeant Lawrence Blake Leonard, Walgett.
Sergeant Claude Montague Kemp, Armidale.
Sergeant James Thomas Manns, Bogan Gate.
Sergeant William Loftus, Campbelltown.
Sergeant William John Poidevin, Casino.
Dr. Eric William Beresford Woods, Government Medical Officer, Hay.
Dr. Arthur John Mollison, Government Medical Officer, Molong.
IT is hereby notified, for public information, that the undermentioned person has been duly appointed by the Board of Health as Local Authority under section 17 (1) (b) of the Public Health Act, 1902: — As from 19th June, 1923—
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Wednesday 16 July 1913 (No.112), page 4377
[181] Department of Labour and Industry, 48 Young-street, Sydney, 9th July, 1913.
SHEARERS’ ACCOMMODATION ACT.
HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, has been pleased to appoint the undermentioned Police Officers to be Inspectors to carry out the provisions of the Shearers’ Accommodation Act in the districts specified in connection with their respective names.
W. A. HOLMAN.
Acting Sub-Inspector Peter Joseph Nies; Station—Walgett
Police District — Walgett.
Sergeant Lawrence Blake Leonard ; Station — Nyngan ; Police
Goulburn Evening Penny Post (NSW : 1881 – 1940), Thursday 24 May 1894, page 4
NOTES FROM BUNGONIA.
Cricket
…………
In the second innings of Bungonia, Larry Leonard played a stylish game for his quota of 18 (not out); also the veteran, C. R. Styles, made some nice strokes.
Manning River Times and Advocate for the Northern Coast Districts of New South Wales (Taree, NSW : 1898 – 1954), Wednesday 19 January 1921, page 5
Inquest
On Thursday morning Mr. G. B. Morris (coroner) held an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of the late Frank Leonard, son of Sergeant L. B. and Mrs. Leonard, of Taree police station, which occurred while bathing at Shallow Island baths on the afternoon of Thursday, December 30 last.
Lawrence Blake Leonard ( Sergeant of Police at Taree, and father of the deceased ) said deceased was 13 years of age. Deceased and his younger brother had been In the habit of going swimming for some little time prior to his death. They always left about 3 p.m. and returned about 5 p.m. They were very punctual in this.
They informed him that Frank could ‘paddle.’ Witness last saw him alive at 2 p.m. on the 30th ultimo.
The same afternoon, at about .3.30. Mr. A. T. Saxby came and informed him that one of the boys had been drowned at Shallow Island baths.
Witness immediately went to the baths and there saw deceased. He was lying in the dressing shed and efforts were being made to resuscitate him.
Dr. Muscio arrived a few minutes after and pronounced life extinct.
Cecil Manning Shoesmith, fisherman, said that between 3.30 and 4.30 on the afternoon of the 30th ultimo some boys informed him that Frank Leonard had been drowned at Shallow Island. They said he had been under water about ten minutes. He searched for the body and felt it with a pole. He held the pole against the body and a boy about 16 years of age climbed down the pole and brought the body to the surface. Witness thought the body had been in the water for about 15 minutes.
Where the body was found was some 30ft. from the steps of the baths and at a depth of about 7ft. At the steps the depth was about 4ft., and gradually deepened as it went out.
Witness and his father immediately took steps to resuscitate the deceased, and continued to do so until Dr. Muscio arrived, about 20 minutes later, when he pronounced life extinct.
Constable Alford then took the body to deceased’s home.
Dr. Muscio said be was called to Shallow Island about 4 p.m.
Witness attempted artificial respiration, but on closer examination he found that life was extinct. The cause of death was drowning.
Deceased appeared to have been in normal health.
Gordon Vincent Clune, schoolboy, eight years of age, said he remembered the 30th ultimo. He was at the Shallow Island baths and saw Frank Leonard there, in the water, near the steps of the baths. He kept climbing up the steps and diving into the water a lot of times. The last time he dived in he put his hands together and speared a long way into the water, and he went under again. Witness saw him go under three times, and then he did not come up again. Witness thought he was trying to swim under water; but when he did not come up again, witness called out to the other boys, who were swimming there. They dived down but could not find him.
Mr. Shoesmith then dived in, but as he could not find the body he got a pole with which he found deceased, and he was brought to the surface. Frank was under water ten minutes or more. Witness could only swim a little ; he did not think Frank could swim.
The coroner found that the cause of death was asphyxia, from accidental drowning.
Thank you for the page on Lawrence Blake Leonard. I thought you might be interested to know he had a brother in the NSW Police & another in the Queensland Police. I understand William was posted to Moulamein, Broken Hill and then Albury. The following is copied from Trove : Western Herald 1 July 1903
Constable William Leonard, brother of Constable J. B. Leonard, of Enngonia, died on Friday last at the Hospital, Albury, from pneumonia. Deceased was a married man and about 37 years of age. Very general sympathy is extended to both Mr and Mrs Leonard, who have each lost a brother within a few days, and also to the young widow and remainder of the family.
William had married Emily Theresa Stevens in Moulamein.
A third brother, Joseph Blake Leonard, joined the Queensland Police. This is from the Daily Mercury, Mackay (Trove) 1939
Many friends will regret the passing of Mr. Joseph Blake Leonard, who was a retired Sergeant of Police, death taking place in Brisbane on Monday last. The late Mr. Leonard spent many years in Mackay, and after serving a short period in the North, went to Gayndah. After his retirement Mr. and Mrs. Leonard built a home at Ashgrove, where Mrs. Leonard died in 1938. Their son, Blake, survives them.
The three were the children of James Leonard, (an assisted emigrant from Woodford Galway in 1850) and his wife Catherine Blake. All three were born at Jerrara, Goulburn, New South Wales. James was a farmer.
Memorial located at: A Memorial plaque is located at the Bowral Police Station. This plaque was unveiled and dedicated by John Faye – Premier of NSW on 14 July 1992
Richard directing traffic in Bowral in the 1980’s
[alert_yellow]RICHARD is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Richard was diagnosed with multiple Myeloma on the 27/11/91 and worked up until close to his death.
He was married to Sandra and had four daughters…Karen, Susan, Kerrie-Lyn ( who is currently a serving Sgt at Bowral Police Station with 27 years service ) and Gina .
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Sergeant Richard Reko
27.6.92
Loved & missed every day
Sandra and your loving family
Published in Southern Highland News on June 28, 2017
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Sandra REKO, widow of Richard, passed away – surrounded by their daughters, on Sunday 22 October 2017, aged 73.
May they both Rest in Eternal Peace.
REKO, Sandra Ann
Passed away surrounded by her family 22nd October, 2017.
Loving wife of Richard (Dec).
Dearly loved mother of Karen & Ian, Susan & David, Kerrie-Lyn and Gina.
A much loved grandmother, great grandmother, sister, sister in law, aunty, great aunty and friend.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service for Sandra to be held at St Stephens Anglican Church, Main Street Mittagong on Friday 27th October, 2017 Commencing at 2.00pm.
Interment will follow at Welby Cemetery.
02 4861 7351
Published in Southern Highland News on Oct. 25, 2017
PHOTO: TOM HUNTLEY
