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.
May he forever R.I.P.
Sergeant Brian ‘Oggy’ OGDEN
| 26/07/2013
Sergeant Brian ‘Oggy’ Kenneth OGDEN
NSW Police Force
Retired
17 July 2013
Sgt Barry ‘Oggy’ Ogden around 1986
OGDEN, Brian Kenneth
of Russell Vale
Passed away peacefully on July 17, 2013. Much loved husband of Glennis. Loved father and father in law of Katrina and Matthew, Craig and Vanessa, Shaun and Ebba, Cameron and Jane. Beloved Poppy of Callum, Saskia, Zali, Mathilda, Madeleine, Melanie, Jaymi and Hayden.
Aged 73 years A wonderful gift to our family Forever treasured in our hearts and memories.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Brian’s funeral service to be held in the chapel, Parsons Funeral Home, 278 Princes Highway, Bulli on Friday at 10am.
I have just phoned the Funeral home and a Police Guard of Honour has been arranged.
‘Oggy’ was a Sergeant at Wollongong in the 1980’s on General Duties & Sutherland and also involved in the Police Football of that era.
Registered number 9264.
My Oggy forever R.I.P.
Gabrielle Patricia McDONALD
| 26/07/2013
Gabrielle Patricia McDONALD – nee Eggleston
aka Gabby
late of Maryland
Wife to Andrew McDonald # 22289
NSW Police Academy Class # 242C
“possibly” a Rejoinee
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 26685
Rank: Commenced training at Goulburn Police Station on Sunday 30 July 1989 ( aged 19 years, 5 months, 5 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 25 January 1990 ( aged 19 years, 11 months, 0 days )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( YES )
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Detective Sergeant
Stations: ?, Inner City ( Sydney ), Newtown Detectives, Balmain ( 8 Division ), Newcastle, Lake Macquarie L.A.C., Northern Region Professional Standards
Service: From 30 July 1989 to 3 July 2013 = 23 years, 11 months, 3 days Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours
Born: Wednesday 25 February 1970
Died on: Wednesday 3 July 2013
Cause: Depression – Suicide – hanging – ON DUTY
Previous attempt in 2012 inside Newcastle Police Stn
Age: 43 years, 4 months, 8 days
Funeral date: Thursday 11 July 2013 @ 11am
Funeral location: Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, Sandgate Rd, Shortland
GABBY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance – Canberra
* BUT SHOULD BE. Last checked 2 Aug 2019 24 Jan 2024
GABBY IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance – NSW Domain
Grave location:
Grave of Gabrielle Patricia McDONALD – nee Gabby Eggleston
Class 242C Goulburn – Attested 25 January 1990 Gabby EGGLESTON, Front row, 3rd from right
Late of Maryland
Gabrielle passed away on 03/07/2013.
Her funeral is proposed to be held at 11am on Thursday 11th Instant at Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, 262 Sandgate Road, SHORTLAND.
Dearly loved wife of ANDREW, loving mother of JESSICA and JOSH. Loved daughter and daughter-in-law of CARMEL and NORM (dec’d) EGGLESTON, FRAN and WARREN McDONALD.
Sister and sister-in-law of PETER and MAREE, MEL and JULIE, MARIA and MARK, ANDREW and AREEYA, ANGELA and MARK, SUE and STEVE, PATRICK and CAROLINE, NICOLE and NIGEL, GREG and loved aunty of their FAMILIES.
The Relatives and Friends of GABRIELLE are warmly invited to attend her Funeral to be held in Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, Sandgate Rd, Shortland on THURSDAY 11/7/13 Funeral Liturgy commencing at 11am. An interment will follow at Sandgate Lawn Cemetery.
Family of NSW policewoman who took her own life suing state for millions
Exclusive by the National Reporting Team’s Lorna Knowles
Updated
The family of a policewoman who took her own life is suing the state of New South Wales for millions of dollars, for allegedly failing to protect her from harm.
[blockquote]
Key points:
Andrew McDonald has filed three negligence claims against the state
The claim alleges his wife did not receive adequate care after attending several traumatic incidents
It also alleges police failed to investigate a previous suicide attempt
Newcastle mother-of-two Sergeant Gabrielle McDonald developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression after witnessing a string of horrific incidents on the job.
She took her own life on July 3, 2013, the day after a police medical officer had declared her as fit for duty.
Her husband Andrew McDonald has filed three negligence claims against the state of NSW on behalf of himself and his two children, Jessica and Joshua.
His statement of claim, filed to the NSW District Court, said over the course of her career, McDonald attended numerous traumatic incidents, including domestic disputes, assaults, car accidents, suicides and murders.
She was particularly distressed by the drowning of a 17-year-old boy in 2009 and a double road fatality in 2010, but did not receive any counselling, debriefing or monitoring after the incidents, the statement of claim alleges.
In late 2010, she was promoted to Detective Sergeant in the Professional Standards Unit, Northern Region. But she struggled with the heavy workload, which included two stints relieving for her supervisor.
In 2012, McDonald attempted suicide in an office at the Newcastle police station, but police never investigated the incident.
“It’s investigation 101,” Mr McDonald, who was also a police officer, told the ABC.
“That’s what police do and it’s appalling that it was never done.”
Police medical officer found suicide attempt ‘was not genuine’
The day before McDonald took her own life, she was sent to see a police medical officer, Dr Naresh Verma.
Mr McDonald told the ABC, Dr Verma determined her previous suicide attempt was not genuine and he did not believe she had PTSD.
“All the staff thought well, OK, things must be on the improve, maybe Gabrielle is not sick at all, maybe she’s pulling the wool over our eyes and that was clearly wrong,” Mr McDonald said.
Dr Verma did not respond to repeated requests for comment.
The police force determined that McDonald should be transferred to another police station the next day.
According to the statement of claim, she was summoned to a meeting without warning and without a support person to be told she was being moved.
McDonald left the meeting in a distressed state, drove to a state forest and took her life.
Mr McDonald said he had one last telephone conversation with his wife.
“She said I can’t go on any more. I’m not getting better. I’m such a burden. They keep kicking me down at work. All I’m trying to do is keep my hours up. You know, this is hopeless,” he said.
“And I said: ‘You can’t do this’. I pleaded with her and begged her not to.
“She said I love you and the kids. We talked about all the things we’d done together, but nothing I said would make sense to her, she was just that determined to do it”.
McDonald ‘did not receive proper monitoring’
Mr McDonald’s lawyers allege that the police service ought to have known the meeting would cause her distress and that she was at risk of self harm.
They allege the NSW police force was negligent because it failed to maintain a safe system of work to avoid injury to McDonald.
It had also allegedly failed to provide her with adequate training to perform her duties and to take precautions for her safety, “putting her in a position of peril”.
The service is also accused of failing to provide adequate training on how to recognise the symptoms of psychiatric injury.
“The deceased did not receive any or proper monitoring of her condition while she continued to work in a stressful environment,” the claim states.
The claim also alleges the police force had failed to devise a system for the flagging of police officers involved in numerous distressing or traumatic incidents.
As a result of its negligence, McDonald had suffered a major depressive disorder, chronic PTSD, alcohol abuse and death by suicide, it is alleged.
Mr McDonald said he now suffered from an adjustment disorder with depression and anxiety.
He was on track to become a superintendent, before he was medically retired.
He is claiming about $900,000 in future lost earnings, in addition to damages and interest. He is also seeking damages on behalf of his two children.
Damages are limited to $750,000 in the NSW District Court, but it does have the discretion to lift the cap.
In a statement to the ABC, the NSW police force said it could not comment specifically on the tragic circumstances which led to the death of a serving officer.
“NSW police continues to improve its practices and procedures, having made significant advances over many years to minimise the psychological impact of policing duties on our officers, who frequently undertake stressful and difficult work,” the statement said.
“As a major priority, NSW police encourages the reporting of these impacts and offers a range of services to support, guide and educate our staff.
“These support services are comprehensive and effective.
“It is well understood that every officer’s circumstances are unique and most often extremely complex with regard to the impacts of psychological injury.”
Gabby was my partner Newtown D’s. She was rock solid, loyal and supportive. She spoke her mind and was honest in opinion and views.
Gabby was from the Eggleston family of the Hunter & loved horses and racing. She taught riding to kids with patience & care. Gabby also helped place horses with the Mounted Section NSW Police.
Along with Gabby & Deb Hayton, we had a tough feminine perspective to our office in the 90’s.
Sad to know when she was in need, Gabby felt alone.
Gabby was loved by many and will be missed by all!
Tracy Ann GRAY
| 26/07/2013
Tracy Ann GRAY
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # ?
Rank: Leading Senior Constable
Stations: ?, Campbelltown L.A.C. ( 35 Division ) – death
Service: From? ? 2000to 2 June 2010 =10 years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? ?
Died on: 2 June 2010
Cause: Suicide
Age: ?
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial: NSW Police force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, B6 ( right wall )
Leading SenCon Tracy Ann GRAY – 2 June 2010
[alert_red]Tracy is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_red]
REST IN PEACE
LEADING SENIOR CONSTABLE Tracy Ann GRAY
2 June 2010
NSW Police Force
”She was a tremendous officer. Tracy was exceptionally professional and polite – she was popular with other police officers.”
“She was a well respected and an extremely good trainer for young police and she always had a special care for victims of crime.” ~ Chief Inspector Bryan Doyle
Tracey had apparently “won a job” as a Sergeant 3rd Class but had not taken up that position at the time of her death.
[divider_dotted]
Absolutely no other information can be found on this woman – even 6 years later. If someone see’s this memorial page and can offer further information – please contact Cal@AustralianPolice.com.au
Joseph James DOHERTY
| 26/07/2013
Joseph James DOHERTY
AKA Joe
Late of Helensburgh, formerly of Bankstown, Narromine, Tullamore and Evans Head
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class 111
New South Wales Police Force
[alert_yellow]Regd. # 12665[/alert_yellow]
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 26 June 1967
Constable – appointed 26 June 1968
Senior Constable – appointed 26 June 1976
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 25 January 1983
Stations: ?, ‘D’ District ( ProCst ), Evans Head, Rescue Squad, Helensburgh ( O.I.C. ), The Rocks – Death
Service: From? ? pre June 1967? to? ? ? = ? years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 9 August 1983
No find on It’s An Honour
Born: 8 April 1948
Died on: 5 July 2002
Age: 54
Cause: Cancer
Funeral date: ? July 2002
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: Helensburgh Cemetery, Cemetery Rd.
Memorial at: ?
[alert_red]JOE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_red] * BUT SHOULD BE
[divider_dotted]
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Joe Doherty who is no longer with us had this on his wall at home. I took the photo as it looks impressive & also has an area where his name was added. Gordon Kelly
Senior Sergeant Joe DOHERTY was stationed at Helensburgh Police Station, Illawarra Region, for many years, being the Officer in Charge, until his transfer to The Rocks Police Station, Sydney.
Joe died from cancer on the 5 July 2002 aged 54.
He was a proud supporter of not Canterbury but.. “The Berries”.
Joe knew he was not going to beat the cancer & organised the pall bearers for his funeral by asking them personally before he finished up at work. Gordon Kelly was one asked to do this & Gordon is still proud of that.
Joe was a great bloke & is missed by many in his blue family I am sure.
[divider_dotted]
Death notices appeared on the 6 July 2002 in the Sydney Morning Herald, Illawarra Mercury and Daily Telegraph ( Sydney )
Police ball raises funds for palliative care
By CYDONEE MARDON April 10, 2013, 4:02 a.m.
George Stewart was in a deep coma but that didn’t stop staff at Port Kembla’s palliative care centre talking to him all the time, comforting him in his darkest hours.
“My husband had a brain tumour, was operated on, and died 12 months later,” Lorraine Stewart said yesterday.
“When we brought him in they talked to him all the time, they explained things, whether he could hear or not we didn’t know, but that didn’t matter to them, they were absolutely marvellous.
“I slept there alongside him, they kept me comfortable too. They do seem to be short staffed – no-one said anything but they always seemed to be running, to make sure they do everything they can for everyone.”
Mrs Stewart, who lost her best friend six months ago, was thrilled to hear her husband’s former colleagues in the NSW Police Force were raising funds for the rehabilitation centre and palliative care unit at Port Kembla.
“They looked after my husband so well. He was several times in rehab, then for the last week or so in palliative care. And they could definitely do with more funding.”
Inspector Bryan Rugg, Commander of Radio Operations, said the organisers of this year’s Illawarra Police Charity Ball were happy to give something back to the facility that helped their colleague through his toughest year.
Senior Constable Stewart joined in 1971 and worked in Sydney before transferring to Warilla in 1986. He joined the communications section in 1997 and stayed until retiring in 2006.
He was an avid bowler and received The Australian Sports medal for Service to Bowls (Australian Honours System).
“Whilst the palliative care unit has some fantastic facilities, there is always room for improvement and upgrade of identified equipment utilised by the staff for the benefit of the patients,” Insp Rugg said.
“The rehabilitation section has a limited recuperation area for the patients waiting to undergo or after having received treatment.”
Some of the funds will go towards improving the outside sitting area and garden of the rehab centre.
Tickets for the July 26 ball have been snapped up, but auctions and raffle items are needed. Donations can be left at the NSW Southern Region Command, 84 Crown Street, Wollongong, or call Annemarie on 4226 7734.
Retired SenCon GeorgeStewart, VKG2, in W’G Hosp – brain op. Posted 10 Oct 2011.
For those of you who know GeorgeStewart, Retired member from VKG2 Warilla, George is currently in Wollongong Hospital. On 071011 – George was operated on for a brain tumour.It came very quick and the symptoms very sudden.He is currently in Wollongong Hospital, Ward C4, Bed 31 where he is recovering.
Recovery is pretty good but sight and speech affected at this stage but should improve (that message was on the 7 October)
Today, 10 October, I spoke with George via phone at the Hospital and he sounds to be in good spirits.
Although he has various things hanging out of him, the one thing that isn’t hanging out anymore is the old gaspa. He has given up the cigarettes. He said that the Doctor was fairly savage with what he took out ( in relation to the tumour ).
Lorraine and family are by George‘s side and he will have to undergo Radio / Chemotherapy in the coming weeks and will remain in Hospital for a short time before he gets back out onto the Bowling paddocks.
I am sure that George would appreciate some visits from his old mates.
Re: Retired SenCon George Stewart, VKG2, in W’G Hosp – brain Posted on 6 August 2012
For all of you who know retired SenCon George Stewart, I went and visited him at home for a short time on Saturday. He is still living in the Illawarra.He still looks like his old self but let me tell you now – he ISN’T.He has now lost his peripheral vision and needs to wear sun glasses when he is outside in the brighter light.George, who is suffering from a TERMINAL brain tumour, knows what he wants to say but sometimes forgets what it is that he wants to say if he doesn’t get the message out straight away. A symptom of the tumour.
I would STRONGLY suggest and ENCOURAGE any of his old friends to take the time and take a drive and visit George and Lorraine at their home and DON’T wait until the END of SEPTEMBER to do it either. Do it NOW !
He would dearly love to say g’day to his old mates BEFORE the tumour takes its final toll.
He isn’t looking for sympathy. He is simply looking to say g’day to his old mates before his life is cut prematurely short.
Cal
Retired SenCon George Stewart Posted 8 October 2012
Letting all those who know Retired SenCon George Stewart who was last stationed at VKG2 ( Warilla ) NSW. As of Saturday 6 October 2012, George was admitted to Port Kembla Hospital in a “very ill” condition as a result of a brain tumour he suffered earlier this year. If you wish to visit George – that you do it sooner rather than LATER.( copied off an email sent by Cal. )
Re: Retired SenCon George Stewart Posted on 8 October 2012
George has now slipped into a coma and has his family by his side at Pt Kembla Hospital.
Re: Retired SenCon George Stewart Dear AllPosted on 14 October 2012 I have been advised George Stewart passed away at 4pm on the 13th October 2012.
Re: Retired SenCon George Stewart, VKG2, in W’G Hosp – brain George Bruce Stewart
Born on 9 June 1948
Passed away on 13 October 2012
Aged 64 years
“will always be thinking of you your big sister Lilian” – Lilian Stewart
“To Lorraine and family, our condolences and best wishes to you. Your loss is our loss, George was a great workmate and a great bloke. He will be missed by everyone who knew him, but he will never be…” – Ron Padgett
Will be sadly missed by family and many friends. Aged 64 Years
The relatives and friends of GEORGE are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held at the Northcliffe Chapel of Hansen and Cole Funerals, 634 Northcliffe Drive, Kembla Grange on Wednesday 17th October, 2012 commencing at 1pm. The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be considered to Garvan Research Foundation. A bowl will be located at the chapel for this purpose.
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
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on ? ? ?
Probationary Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Constable 1st Class
Stations: Waverley
Awards: Commissioner’s Unit Citation for actions on Sunday 11 December 2005
Service: From 29 April 2005 to 27 March 2009 = 3+ years Service
Born: Tuesday 25 January 1983
Died: Friday 27 March 2009
Age: 26 years, 2 months, 2 days old
Cause: Severe PTSD – Suicide – self inflicted gunshot wound, with Service Glock, at Fishermans Rd, Malabar
Funeral date: Thursday 2 April 2009
Funeral location: Our Lady of Sacred Heart Church, 193 Avoca St, Randwick
Grave location: Ashes Interned at Botany Cemetery on 25 January 2010
RC6 – Roman Catholic FM 6 – 560
Morgan commenced his shift at Waverley Police Station at 8pm on the evening of 27 March 2009.
At 8.39pm, at Fisherman’s Road, Malabar, in his private vehicle, Morgan ended his life whilst suffering severe depression induced by the effects of anti-depressant medication he had been prescribed.
Morgan was born on 25 January 1983 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 29 April, 2005.
He was 26 years of age at the time of his death by suicide and stationed at Waverley, Eastern Suburbs Local Area Command.
Morgan is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of RemembranceBut Should be
MORGAN ( as of 2017 ) IS mentioned on the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance
* Stemming from the continued work of the wives of four Fallen NSW Police to Suicide – those four names will now be included in the newly refurbished NSW Police Wall of Remembrance, Sydney, as of 2017
Congratulations to those family members who fought the fight to right this wrong.
Commissioner Scipione has telephoned each of us today to advise that our loved ones names are being added to the replacement NSW Police Force Wall of Remembrance, to be unveiled in the next few weeks.
We would like to thank everyone who has offered support over a long and difficult journey and truly hope this sets a precedent for all police departments, not only in Australia but the global policing community.
It is so very important to remember that policing can and often does have a detrimental effect on those who serve.
We believe that the inclusion of suicide deaths, stemming from a work related psychological injury, is the most compassionate way of showing that the police hierarchy truly cares.
7 years ago this Easter Sunday, on 27 March, we lost our only brother and son, Morgan Hill. He took his life on duty that night. I would never wish this type of grief on another family. What has made it worse than losing Morgan though is being subjected to the stigma attached to suicide. With every year that goes by this is reinforced by NSW Police that Morgan’s death (and many before and since) are not worthy of the respect they deserve, because of HOW they died. But…we will continue to highlight this injustice and the shame is not on Morgan or our family…it is actually on YOU – the high ranking officials of the NSW Police Force – and leaders of any Force – that perpetuates this stigma by specifically excluding them from your Wall of Remembrance!
The response, from the Commissioner of Police, to the above Coroners report:
On 2 April 2012, Police Commissioner AP Scipione APM advised the Coroner as follows:
“The NSW Police Force established a Self Harm Prevention Advisory Panel (the Panel) in 2010, following a recommendation of the Deputy State Coroner Dillon in 2009 arising from the death of Sgt Ian Muir. The role of the Panel was recently reviewed and amendments are currently being made to its charter to oversight the NSW Police Force response to Recommendations in all coronial matters involving self-harm by police officers.”
I’d just like to say that it’s my hope sometime down the road after Code Nine has met with much success and people are being helped instead of silenced. I hope I never have to write another poem like this again. Because ending stories like this is what they’re all about. Please remember Mr Hills family and friends in prayer and ask that they be comforted by the memories they treasure. And not haunted by the way his life so suddenly ended. Thanks to all of you for praying. Sincerely Edwin C Hofert
This poem is one of a series of poems written by me for Code Nine Officer Needs Assistance And is intended to honor the fallen officers and their families that are to be featured in the finished documentary. As well as all others.
Morgan Hill – Commissioners Unit Citation re 2005 Cronulla Riots
NSW Police Force
Commissioner’s Unit Citation
Awarded to Constable Morgan Hill
Awarded for outstanding bravery and devotion to duty as a member of the New South Wales Police Force response to civil disorder within the Miranda, Eastern Beaches, St George, and Campsie Local Area Commands.
On Sunday, 11 December 2005, a protracted public order management policing operation commenced in response to a major civil disorder situation in the Cronulla area. The ensuing violent civil disorder continued in Cronulla and other areas, including Maroubra, Brighton, and Campsie, until Tuesday, 13 December 2005, when the situation was brought under control, with peace and good order restored by members of the Force.
The dedication and devotion to duty rendered by these police who were on the frontline throughout this protracted and dangerous policing response and operation exemplifies the courage, expertise, professionalism and commitment of the New South Wales Police Force.
While protecting members of the community and property from rioters, officers were subjected to various forms of assaults and missile attacks. These members of the Force, many of whom sustained injury, remained steadfast in the performance of their duty.
Constable Hill warrants due recognition for his courage and meritourious service during this period of civil unrest and thus is highly commended.
A P Scipione APM
Commissioner of Police
Dated 18 September 2008 but NOT signed.
‘Despite the above Commendation being dated 18 September 2008 ( 6 months before Morgan’s death ), the Certificate was handed to the family Posthumously on the very same day that they were also handed documentation stating that Morgan was NOT going to be mentioned on the Wall of Police Remembrance due to the fact he suicided.
These documents were not given to the family until late 2010.’
Today Tonight TV programme Channel 7, aired this show on Wednesday 23 July 2014.
The below comments were copied and pasted from the TodayTonightadelaide website on 23 March 2016
Jean Simpson says: The Government should be looking at a change in the whole health system , to ask the question why are so many young , old , just so many of the population coming down with Depression , (The Back Dog) . Definitely more counselling services. As well as the government ,we should all try to be more considerate , compassionate to all in society , there is so much suffering out there , and so many issues to deal with today than there was a few years ago. Teresa Cranes comments about the corruption , threats and underhanded dealings within the force has been talked about for as long as i can remember. It makes me really sad to see the young adults of today joining the force with all good intent , with a passion to help our society , only to find that they go to work each day fighting against an epidemic of corruption within there own work place. Like Teresa on this page i knew of an elderly Sergeant who has now retired , because he was told to take an early retirement . To find someone in the force that is not corrupt would be a hard task. How does the average person tell who is who anymore? So sorry for the ones that are trying to make this world a better place , for the opinion of a lot of people is that unfortunately they get tarred with the same brush , one can only imagine the affect on the innocent ones , Wow what a fight they have on there hands ! Love and light to all .
: 4 likes
Amanda Schultz says: Teresa Crane you got it spot on! My dad took hi s life in 1981, right in those good old corrupt years! Made a boss aged 32. Took his life aged 37. Left a wife and three daughters. What else do you do when your “boys” are on the take and the bosses buried their heads? I think there needs to be Royal Commissions to make the brass accountable and expose those we know were hypocrites and criminals. SA Police took a good man and destroyed him and his family….we live with it everyday.
: 0 likes
Peter Roberts says: Very interesting story and definitely needs looking into
: 1 likes
Heather Johns says: It’s unfortunate that they aren’t required to debrief or to talk about an issue without being labelled. It is not just police, fire, ambos, we see it a huge amount in defence too. Why can’t we remove the stigma of PTSD & depression & help those in need as they are helping us? Where is the government funding for more counselling services?
: 0 likes
Ross Beckley says: Great story and thanks for making this public. All emergency service personnel are suffering silently and their organisational management need to start addressing these concerns raised in this story.
: 1 likes
Trevor Hardy says: SAPOL officers need to find themselves a good private psychologist and see them regularly. You can work through problems and if SAPOL are going to continue to sweep the problems under the carpet, then members need to do it for themselves. Or quit. No job in this Universe is worth killing yourself over.
: 0 likes
Jessica Courtney Evans says: Yep…. Someone I’m my family was an officer in nz and took his own life. It’s tragic and awful. They need more support….
: 1 likes
Tanya Eldridge-Tregenza says: It’s no bloody secret it’s been happy for a long time.
: 1 likes
Lynette Millowick says: Missed out on story was working
: 1 likes
Clare Heiss says: Oh poo!! Was really looking forward to seeing it! Thanks for letting us know though!
: 3 likes
Today Tonight Adelaide says: Unfortunately we cannot load the video until it has aired in Perth – at the moment it looks like it may run tomorrow so the video won’t be online until Monday morning
: 2 likes
Berrick Boland says: Today Tonight, rocks.
: 4 likes
Lauren Busbridge says: Same with paramedics!!!!!
: 4 likes
Today Tonight Adelaide says: The video will be uploaded tomorrow
: 1 likes
Clare Heiss says: I can’t find the story in this link @TodayTonight
: 2 likes
Ann Krieg says: PTSD needs to be told and understood. We need to know what and how it happens and to whom. The service men, whether police, or army or navy or air, or whether it is from work and a bad boss or bad experience from an accident, we need to know. 🙂
: 3 likes
Berrick Boland says: The Forgotten 300 Facebook page come on and like us for the families of PTSD and Police suicide victims.
: 12 likes
Anne Heinrich says: Well I am only one of many people I know who admire the police for their kindness and care of those in need, their patience and persistence and tenacious spirit to keep people alive! Maybe if more people told them so (and I include the media) they might feel more appreciated and needed. Don’t give up guys- there are lots of us who think you’re great!
: 2 likes
Sandy McLellan says: I have known many Policeman, but one in particular tells me of the many who simply cannot cope with the ghastly things they have to deal with. We have NO idea how bad it is, very sad. They put their lives on the line for us all the time. Maybe they need much more support on the job and from us, the public.
: 3 likes
Tony Crowley says: They should cover SAPOL . We are not clean either
: 10 likes
John Hirst says: Be good to see it’s getting some publicity and not ‘swept under the carpet’. Lost a few good colleagues from this and there are so many more stepping close to the line with little or no support from the employer. Tony Crowley for your info.
Posted Monday 20 June 2016:
CORONERS COURT
Morgan James Hill:
Deputy State Coroner Mitchell On 9 September 2011 at Glebe and Parramatta
FINDINGS.
I find that Morgan Hill who was born on 25 January 1983 died at Fishermans Road Malabar NSW at about 8.39 pm on 27 March 2009 of a gunshot wound to the head, self inflicted while suffering severe depression.
RECOMMENDATIONS;
That a psychiatrist or psychiatrists be employed in the Health and Well being Unit of Welfare Safety Command or retained so as to ensure qualified psychiatric oversight of all police fitness assessments where mental health or emotional stability are an issue.
2. That appropriate criteria be developed and established to guide and inform police medical officers in assessing the fitness of police officers for various duties within the police force and the fitness of police officers to have possession of a firearm.
3. In particular, that the criteria so developed and established provide that fitness for duty and to carry a firearm is not merely a matter of the absence of a diagnosable psychiatric condition or mental illness.
4. That police medical officer be encouraged to explore with police officers referred by commanders for a fitness assessment the history of that officer and any current or recent medical diagnoses and treatment plan or plans and the identity of that officer’s medical practitioner and to seek the consent of the police officer to that medical practitioner providing appropriate medical information to the police medical officer and that unwillingness to provide that consent be among the matters to be reported to the referring commander.
5. That psychologists assisting in the preparation of fitness assessments be accorded independence from police medical officers.
6. That police medical officer be reminded of the provisions of the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002 and, so far as the provision of information to commanding officers is concerned, be encouraged to act in accordance with its terms.
7. That the practice of placing reliance on psychological tests in the preparation of fitness assessments be reviewed by an independent expert.
8. That the freedom of commanding officers to make their decisions as to the removal or restoration of firearms informed by considerations other than those dealt with by police medical officers be encouraged.
9. That commanding officers be reminded of their entitlement to the provision of information pursuant to the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002.
10. That consideration be given to the establishment of a mentoring system of young officers by more senior officers with a view to the guidance, support and oversight of the performance of those young officers.
RESPONSE
On 2 April 2012, Police Commissioner AP Scipione AMP advised the Coroner as follows:
“The NSW Police Force established a Self Harm Prevention Advisory Panel (the Panel) in 2010, following a recommendation of the Deputy State Coroner Dillon in 2009 arising from the death of Sgt Ian Muir.
The role of the Panel was recently reviewed and amendments are currently being made to its charter to oversight the NSW Police Force response to Recommendations in all coronial matters involving self-harm by police officers.
”Please click here to link to a table which sets out the full Police Force response to the recommendations made by Coroner Mitchell. (Unavailable)
Denise HodderThis is hideous that these precious lives are lost and no one in power seems to care ….?
Clare HeissI can tell you, as Morgan’s sister, whom attended this inquest for the two weeks duration it ran, that our family have not once heard about any follow up to these recommendations. Furthermore my parents were invited to be on the “self harm committee” when it began, BEFORE the inquest mind you, but attended maybe two meetings and as far as we know either does not exist anymore or is called something else, but either way we have not been asked to continue to be a part of the panel in terms of reviewing the recommendations made by then Coroner Scott Mitchell (now deceased) nor any ongoing consultation as a family who have lost a police officer to suicide.
John Roser, father of Steven Roser, 23, s policing student who collapsed and die September 29, 2006The Sydney Morning Herald John Roser, father of Steven Roser, 23, s policing student who collapsed and died on in June, reads his son’s name which is the last added to the Remembrance Wall during a service to commemorate National Police Remembrance Day in the Domain, 29 September 2006. SMH Picture by ROBERT PEARCE
[alert_yellow]STEVEN is NOT mentioned on the National Police Wall of Remembrance but IS mentioned on the NSW State Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow]
On the 14 June 2006 the student police officer was undergoing police recruit training at the New South Wales Police Academy. During a physical training run to a park in Goulburn the student collapsed and was unable to be revived.
The student police officer was born in 1982. At the time of his death he was undergoing initial police training at the New South Wales Police Academy, Goulburn.
Cause: lack of oxygen “due to displacement of oxygen supply” in Hospital. Pneumonia
Death location: Concord Hospital, Concord, NSW
Age: 45 years, 8 months, 13 days
Funeral date: ? ? ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial location: ?
Andy at Redfern Police Academy on the day of his Passing Out Parade – 26 June 1981
ANDY IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
BUT despite being mentioned, there are no details as to the cause of his death
From 15 October 2003 Detective Inspector Day and other members of the South East Asian Crime Squad were involved in archiving official documentation which was stored in a garage near their covert workplace. The inspector subsequently took ill and was admitted to Concord Hospital, where he unfortunately passed away on the 14th November 2003.
The detective inspector was born in 1958 and was sworn in as a probationary constable on the 26 June 1981. At the time of his death he was the coordinator of the South East Asian Crime Squad at the State Crime Command.
Not only Andy was affected by ‘flu like’ symptoms whilst working out of these premises. Several others took ill with severe flu like symptoms around the same time.
Detective Inspector Andy Day died on Concord Hospital floor
By Janet Fife-Yeomans
The Daily Telegraph
April 24, 200812:00AM
No comfort … widow Jacqui Day, with her son Ben, will return to Concord Hospital for the first time since her husband was found dead on the floor. Picture: Tracee Lea
CONCORD Hospital and a leading specialist have been secretly disciplined by the Health Care Complaints Commission after a patient was found dead on the floor in the middle of the night.
Widow Jacqui Day complained about the treatment of her husband Andy, a top undercover police officer, after an anonymous letter from nurses at the hospital said: “Mr Day should not have died.”
Detective Inspector Day, 45, was being treated for pneumonia and died when his oxygen tube fell out of its wall tap for the second time in six hours.
After an inquiry behind closed doors, the HCCC found that Concord, a major teaching hospital, had provided below standard care to Mr Day “in a number of respects”, The Daily Telegraph can reveal.
The commission also found that Professor Matthew Peters, the head of respiratory medicine at the hospital, had “departed from the acceptable standard of care” in two areas.
He was referred to the Medical Board’s conduct committee for “counselling” for not transferring Mr Day to the intensive care unit and for failing to appropriately monitor his oxygen needs.
Mrs Day will today appear before the Government’s special commission of inquiry into the state’s ailing health system, sitting at Concord, to demand answers and ask why the complaints procedure is shrouded in such secrecy.
There was evidence before the HCCC from four medical experts that Mr Day should have been moved to intensive care.
Professor Peters told the inquiry there were no intensive care beds available and Mr Day did not want to be moved.
The commission’s report, obtained by The Daily Telegraph, said there had been at least one bed available on five of the eight days Mr Day was in hospital and there was no record in the medical notes of Mr Day’s comments.
“In 2008, you can’t leave your loved one in a public hospital on their own,” Mrs Day said yesterday, adding that all adverse HCCC findings should be made public.
“I still do not know how a 45-year-old man can be admitted to hospital and die on the floor in the middle of the night.”
It will be Mrs Day’s first visit to the hospital since her husband died at 3.30am on November 14, 2003, after eight days treatment. The HCCC took 18 months on its inquiry.
The anonymous letter from nurses was sent to the coroner who conducted a 2006 inquest into Mr Day’s death.
The cause of death was recorded as a lack of oxygen “due to displacement of oxygen supply”, however coroner John Abernethy found Mr Day’s condition was so serious he would have died even with different care.
HCCC executive officer Kim Swan said legislation limited what the commission could release to the public.
The Medical Board did not return calls. Professor Peters is overseas.
