Paul was stationed at Central Police Station ( No. 1 Division ) where, on 24 December 1980 he was assisting to evacuate customers from the Woolworths Town Hall Store, when he walked back in for a final check and a bomb exploded behind a perfume counter adjacent to where he was standing.
He left the force not all that long afterwards.
A check of a Seniority list prior to this event will reveal his registered number. I am not 100%, but it could be in the vicinity of 17065.
A good friend and flat mate gone too soon. Any known relatives please Contact Via Email.
* NO mention, in the below articles, about any Police Injuries in the Woolworths Bombings of 1980.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Saturday 27 December 1980, page 1
WOOLWORTHS BOMBING
Extortion demand expected by police
SYDNEY: Detectives said yesterday they expected an extortion demand of about $1 million within the next week after the explosion which ripped through a Woolworths store in central Sydney on Christmas Eve.
Detective-Sergeant John Anderson, who takes over Monday as head of the task force investigating the bombing, told a news conference that police had substantial leads in the case but “next week will tell one way or the other”.
Detectives believed they had discovered the source of the gelignite used in the bomb, which went off about 10 minutes after the store received a warning telephone call.
Two sticks of gelignite were used. It was also thought that the bomber was not an explosives expert.
They were also convinced that the bomber was the man who rang a Woolworths’ store at Orange, and threatened that unless $1 million was paid, a store at either Orange or in the city would be blown up.
They were working on several leads from the phone call and the warning call to the Town Hall store.
Police visited the homes of the 80 staff who were working on the ground floor of the Town Hall store at about 3.30 on Wednesday before the bomb exploded.
The staff were shown Identikit pictures of two men – one of whom was seen loitering in the basement of the store for two hours on Christmas Eve.
The second man delivered a letter to Woolworths’ head office above the Town Hall store in late October which threatened that contaminated food would be placed on Woolworths’ shelves.
In another development yesterday, two young television cameramen said they were approached by a man nearly four hours before the Christmas Eve blast. The man had said there would be a bombing in a Woolworths store.
The ATN-7 crew, assistant cameraman Mr John Scott, 20, and his offsider, Mr Graham Storer, 16, were filming buskers outside the Hilton Hotel in George Street, a short distance from the Woolworths store, about 11am when the man spoke to them.
“He walked up and said, ‘ I don’t know what you are doing here, the news is going to be at Woolworths later ‘ “, Mr Storer said.
When they asked the man what he meant, he replied, “There will be a bomb go off and a threat made, The police will know about it”.
The man had matched the picture of a suspect issued by police [and which was published in The Canberra Times yesterday].
Sergeant Anderson said the police were “overwhelmed at the magnitude” of a $250,000 reward offered by Woolworths for information on the bombing.
The Town Hall store bombing followed explosions earlier in the month at Woolworths stores in Wollongong ( Warilla ) and Maitland which caused damage estimated at $320,000.
Sergeant Anderson said security had been stepped up at Woolworths outlets, most of which would be open for business today.
But the Town Hall store would not reopen until Monday in order for repairs and a clean-up to take place.
A special command post has been set up at the old CIB headquarters in Surry Hills to deal with the case.
The same room was used as an investigation headquarters during the Hilton Hotel bombing investigation in 1978 and the investigation into the “Mr Brown” extortion case against Qantas a few years earlier.
Woolworths management said yesterday they had employed outside security men to guard their 256 retail outlets around the State.
Woolworths management will meet union officials on Monday to discuss the safety of employees.
SYDNEY: Convicted Woolworths bomber, Mr Larry Burton Danielson, 50, entertainer, of Huskisson, was sentenced to a total of 20 years’ jail yesterday for his part in what the trial judge described as a “monstrous action.”
Among the four jail terms imposed on Mr Danielson was one of 10 years for his part in the bombing of the toy department of Woolworths Town Hall, Sydney, store on Christmas Eve, 1980.
Before passing sentence, Judge Muir told Mr Danielson: “To explode a bomb in a large retail store, in the toy department, during business hours on Christmas Eve with 10 minutes warning is just so unacceptable an act in this community that I believe that all thinking persons in society would regard this as a monstrous action.”
Judge Muir then sentenced Mr Danielson to 10 years’ imprisonment and to a further five years for each of the bombings at Maitland and at Warilla in December, 1980.
All of these jail terms were ordered to be cumulative, resulting in a sentence totalling 20 years, dating from January 29, last year, the date of Mr Danielson’s arrest.
Judge Muir also sentenced Mr Danielson to seven years’ imprisonment on the charge of having caused a letter to be received by Woolworths demanding money with men aces. This sentence is to be served concurrently with the other three.
Judge Muir set a nonparole period of nine years. Mr Danielson was found guilty on Tuesday, following a five-week trial at the District Criminal Court, Darlinghurst.
Mr Gregory Norman McHardie was also found guilty in his absence of the same charges.
SYDNEY: Convicted Woolworths bombers, Mr Gregory Norman McHardie, 30, and Mr Larry Burton Danielson, 50, lodged appeals yesterday on all grounds against their 20-year jail sentences.
Both were found guilty of demanding with menaces $1 million in gold, money and diamonds from Woolworths in December, 1980.
They also were found guilty of placing explosive devices in three Woolworths stores in December, 1980.
When their appeals were mentioned in the Court of Criminal Appeal yesterday they were stood over for further mention next Monday.
SINGAPORE, July 17.- In the first District Court today Detective Walter Cecil Byrne, of the Sydney C.I.B., applied for the extradition to N.S.W. of a man who he said was wanted for trial there on a conspiracy charge.
Byrne identified George Stamford as Stanley Hammond, who last month failed to appear in a Sydney court to answer a charge of conspiracy.
The judge remarking that the case had reached “a serious stage,” withdrew bail and remanded Stamford in custody until July 22.
The accused, who answered to the name Stamford, allegedly arrived in Singapore from Australia last month as a stowaway aboard an Avro Anson plane.
He was charged as alias Stanley Hammond, with having conspired with John Maxwell Gray and Gordon Leonard between January, 1944, and June, 1945, in New South Wales, to cheat certain persons of money and valuable securities by offering them shares in John Gray and Company.
Police said in Quarter Sessions yesterday that a man charged with the theft of £230 had stolen the money to try to save the life of his three-years-old son.
Doctors had said the boy, a cancer sufferer for 12 months, had only two more months to live.
The father, Leslie Galvin, 34, textile worker, of Salisbury Road, Camperdown, admitted having stolen the money from his employers, Bradford Cotton Mills, of Camperdown.
Detective – Sergeant Walter Byrne, CIB., said he believed Galvin had used all the stolen money to pay his son’s medical expenses. The child had developed cancer a year ago. Since then he had had a serious operation and needed regular deep-ray treatment.
Mr. Jack Thorn (for Galvin) said Galvin had now started a job that paid him between £9 and £11 a week. He wanted a chance to pay back the money he had stolen.
Judge Holden released Galvin on a £50 bond to be of good behavior for three years. He ordered Galvin to repay the money to the Bradford Cotton Mills at £8 a month.
In a bare 14 months, if the truth was told, balding, thick-set Victor Claude Jupp, aged 39, gambled £4000 on trotting and dog races. Jupp is a married man with two small sons.
He lives in Campbell Street, Abbotsford. Since 1939 he was employed by Mort’s Dock, and Engineering Company at a weekly wage of £10/3/ as a paymaster of casual labor.
At the Quarter Sessions this week he pleaded guilty to having stolen £4000 from the company between November, 1948, and last January.
Detective – Sergeant Walter Byrne said Jupp confessed that he had consistently drawn from the cashier more money than was required to pay the casual laborers, and that he had gambled all the money he stole on the trots and the dogs. Jupp was not addicted to drink and had no previous convictions, the detective-sergeant added.
Solicitor Martin James Alexander Easton, who appeared in court on behalf of the company, said Jupp had signed a confession, in which he said he could make restitution of £1000 immediately. . But, Mr. Easton added, Jupp had said that the offer of restitution was not his wish – it was the wish of his mother and his wife, who would have to sell all their property to realise £1000.
The company, Mr. Easton said, would accept that offer of restitution.
Barrister Reynolds; for Jupp, said the prisoner felt it was unfair for his mother and his wife to bear so heavy a burden on his behalf.
Judge Holt remanded Jupp until Tuesday for sentence.
Detective – Sergeant Walter Cecil Bertie Byrne, 51, chief of the C.I.B. Company Squad, who died yesterday, will be buried with full police ceremonial tomorrow.
Sergeant Byrne died in a police car while on his way to his home in York Road, Five Dock.
The Officer in Charge of the C.I.B. had ordered a car for him when he said he felt ill.
Sergeant Byrne gave evidence at Quarter Sessions ( Darlinghurst ) yesterday morning.
In a tribute at Quarter Sessions later Judge Holden said he had known Sergeant Byrne for many years as a fair, truthful, and honest officer.
Detective – Sergeant Walter Byrne, chief of the Company Squad at the Criminal Investigation Branch, Sydney, died suddenly yesterday soon after giving evidence at the ( Darlinghurst ) Quarter Sessions.
He was 51.
He became ill after arriving at the C.I.B. from court, and died while being driven to Western Suburbs Hospital.
Detective-Sergeant Byrne had served 28 years in the police force in Sydney, and was an expert investigator in cases involving company law.
In the Will of WALTER CECIL BERTIE BYRNE late of Fivedock in the State of New South Wales.
Detective Sergeant of Police, deceased Application will be made after 14 days from the date of publication hereof that Probate of the last Will and Testament dated the 11th March 1947, of the above named deceased may be granted to Marjorie Elizabeth Byrne the Executrix named in the said Will and all notices may be served at the undermentioned address.
All creditors in the Estate of the deceased are hereby required to send in particulars of their claims to the undersigned JOHN W. BINNEY. Proctor for the Executrix. 79 Elizabeth Street Sydney.
For the purposes of this website ‘Q‘ represents those Police joining between 1 March 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system )
Rank: Probationary Constable – 12 November 1900
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Sergeant – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Senior Sergeant
Stations: Burwood? ( 1902 ), Sydney Water Police ( 1903 ), Tamworth Foot Patrol ( ? – September 1913 ), Sydney Water Police ( Cst 1/c, September 1913 – 1928 – Death )
Service: From? pre 12 November 1900 ?to24 May 1928 = 27+ years Service
Awards: was awarded a Certificate of Merit for actions involving a suicide at Watsons Bay on the 31 August 1923, as was Constable George F. DAY & Constable George MILES, from the Royal Humane Society of NSW
Posthumously commended by the Royal Shipwreck Relief and Humane Society of N.S.W. in August 1928 for his rescue efforts
Born: ? ? 1875, Victoria, Au
Died on: Thursday 24 May 1928 at 4.40am
Age: 53
Cause: Pernicious Anemia ( lack of vitamin B12 needed to produce red blood cells )
Event location: Sydney Hospital
Event date: pre 12 December 1927 – 25 May 1928 ongoing illness
Funeral date: Friday 25 May 1928 @ 1pm
Funeral location: Wood, Coffill Funerals, George St, Sydney
Wake location: ?
Funeral Parlour: Wood, Coffill Funerals, George St, Sydney
Buried at: UNMARKED GRAVE: C of E, Rookwood Cemetery, Lidcombe, NSW
Grave location: Anglican Sect 3, grave 478
Karen OZDEN. William SHAKESPEARE Unmarked grave
Memorial located at: ?
WILLIAM is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Sydney Water Police after the 1927 Tahiti Disaster on Sydney Harbour. Waiting to be claimed. Some of the sad relics of the calamity – passengers belonging – salved by the Water Police and now waiting identification at the Water Police Court.
Sydney Water Police 1900
Sydney Water Police with the Cambria – 1930
William Shakespeare Water Police Constable Sydney May 1st, 1912 Dear Sir, We the undersigned non-coms, and comrades of the Sydney Water Police, take this opportunity of expressing their appreciation of the many excellent qualities as a man and a comrade which has characterised you during the Ten Years you have been among us as a Constable, and Skipper, of the Argus. We trust a bright and prosperous time will be yours in your new position and health and long life will crown a career of usefulness. Signed: by 29 people.
Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 – 1930),
Saturday 26 May 1928, page 4
LATE SGT. SHAKESPEARE
Representative Funeral
The funeral of the late Sergeant William Shakespeare was attended by 100 members of the Police Force, who walked behind the hearse to the Regent Street mortuary station.
The Police Band played the ” March Funebre, ” and the cortege passed through large crowds. The Commissioner of Police ( Mr. James Mitchell ) was represented by Inspector Irving.
Sydney’s worst maritime disaster occurred out of the blue on a sunny spring day in 1927. As well as the tragic loss of life, the accident is memorable for acts of heroism.
On the afternoon of Thursday 3 November 1927, commuters hurried to board the Greycliffe, a ferry operating between Circular Quay and Watsons Bay. It was known as the ‘school boat’, because so many children caught it home from schools in the city. It was a beautiful day to be on the harbour: the water was calm, the sun shone and visibility was good.
An inexplicable accident
Around 4.15pm the ferry left the quay on its usual route, stopping at Garden Island to pick up dockworkers. As it left Garden Island, the RMS Tahiti, a mail steamer carrying around 300 passengers bound for New Zealand, approached it from behind. The Tahiti with its steel bow was roughly three times the size of the wooden Greycliffe, and was moving very quickly: witnesses estimated that the ship was travelling at around 12 knots instead of the permitted 8. The smaller boat made an inexplicable turn into the Tahiti’s path. The Tahitisounded its horn and immediately cut its speed, but it was too late – the ship couldn’t stop. Passengers and crew had little time to react as the steamship hit the ferry, cleaving it in two.
Some passengers were thrown into the water by the impact, while others dived overboard. Some unlucky victims were trapped in the wreckage, including many who were sitting in the men’s and women’s saloons. The ferry’s hull sank rapidly, sucking nearby survivors underwater, with only the strongest swimmers able to reach the surface again. Other boats sped to the scene, their occupants pulling people from the water and launching lifeboats in a frantic search for survivors.
Tales of loss and survival
The NSW Water Police launch Cambriawas on a routine patrol near the accident and its officers sprang into action, speeding towards the stricken ferry. Its skipper was the notably named 53-year-old Sergeant William Shakespeare, who had joined the police in 1900 and had already performed many daring rescues. The officers tore off their boots and entered the water, assisting in the rescue of 11 people. The survivors were taken to Bennelong Point for medical assessment and to be reunited with their loved ones.
Forty people, ranging in age from toddlers to senior citizens, lost their lives in the worst maritime disaster Sydney Harbour has witnessed. Dramatic and terrifying stories emerged. Schoolgirl Gene Wise recalled opening her eyes underwater to see the Tahiti’s propeller heading straight for her, but she managed to swim out of its path. Rescuers witnessed terrible scenes, including the discovery of Mary Corby, who drowned along with her six-year-old daughter Noreen, found dead in her mother’s arms. The sad task of searching for the dead began the next day, with two divers sent down to the wreck of the ferry to collect the bodies of those trapped in the debris. The victims’ belongings were also collected and sent to the Phillip Street police station, now part of the Justice & Police Museum. Families and friends of the missing had the devastating task of identifying personal items retrieved from the harbour to assist the police in their investigations.
Sergeant Shakespeare
Three inquiries were held, including a coronial inquest held in part at the Water Police Court (now part of the Justice & Police Museum). The inquest identified a range of factors that had contributed to the accident, including the Tahiti’s speed and the peculiar design of the Greycliffe’s wheelhouse, which created a blind spot that may have obscured the captain’s view of the approaching Tahiti.
During the inquest, relatives of the dead expressed their gratitude towards Sergeant Shakespeare for his bravery and kindness. Six months after the Greycliffe tragedy, Shakespeare himself was gravely ill with pernicious anaemia. When it was announced that he needed blood transfusions, almost every man at the Water Police Station gave blood in an attempt to save his life. Sadly, Shakespeare died soon after, on 24 May 1928. He was posthumously commended for his bravery during the Greyclifferescue operation.
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 – 1954),
Friday 25 May 1928, page 17
SERGEANT SHAKESPEARE.
William Shakespeare, sergeant first-class of the Water Police, died in Sydney Hospital at 4.40 a.m. yesterday of pernicious anaemia; Four blood transfusions had been made in an unsuccessful effort to save his life. Two of his comrades in the force, Constables Milne and Bowers, and his son, William Shakespeare, Junior, gave their blood for this purpose.
Sergeant Shakespeare joined the police force in 1900.
SHAKESPEARE.- On May 24, 1928, at Sydney, Senior Sergeant William Shakespeare, of the Water Police, Sydney, and beloved only brother of Mrs. C. W. Williams, Hawthorn Avenue, New Town, In his 53rd year.
The estate of the late Water-Police Sergeant William Shakespeare has been valued for probate purposes at £1134. Letters of administration were granted to the Public Trustee.
On Escort Duty Sergeant William Shakespeare, of the New South Wales Police Department, arrived from Sydney on escort duty by the s.s. Westralia yesterday. A Hobart prisoner, now on remand, is to be taken to Sydney to answer a charge of fraud.
Constable Ross, of Burren Junction, takes the place of Constable Smith at Tamworth, the latter having recently been transferred.
Constable Tindall, who comes from Wollongong, has been definitely appointed to Tamworth to fill the vacancy of Constable Shakespeare, who some weeks ago left for Sydney to rejoin the water police force.
First class Constable Shakespear has received notice of his transfer from the Tamworth foot police to the position which he once occupied on the Water police. During Constable Shakespear’s sojourn in Tamworth he has proved an efficient and zealous officer.
Buried at: Cremated – Garden Chapel of Castlebrook Crematorium, Windsor Road, Rouse Hill
Memorial located at: ?
Eileen Patricia WILSON – Point Duty – Sydney CBD
Eileen Patricia WILSON – Point Duty – Sydney CBD
Back Row (L-R): Marsia POTTER P/W 0013 ( was a Sgt 2/C ), June STRATHMORE ( was a Sgt 2/c ) ( R.I.P. ), ?, ? Front Row: Eileen Patricia ‘Pat WILSON, Inness ? ( R.I.P. ), ?
EILEEN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
Funeral location: TBA
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
September 1955: Eileen Patrician WILSON, a Constable with the School Lecturing Section at Darlinghurst married Cecil Alfred Shaw, a Constable and member of 22 Division, Liverpool. They married at St. Patricks Catholic Church, Parramatta.
( Source: Liverpool Police History – 1788 – 2016 )
SHAW, Eileen Patricia ” Pat “
28/07/1930 – 19/07/2019
Aged 88 Years
Passed away peacefully in hospital surrounded by family.
Settled in Canley Vale home with beloved husband Cecil Ike (deceased).
Dearest sister to Josie (deceased).
Loving Mother of Wayne, Debbie, Lisa, Melinda, Nicole and Louise.
Mother-in-law to 3.
Proud Grandmother to 20 and
Great Grandmother to 7 with two little souls on the way.
In God s Loving Care
Relatives and friends of Pat are warmly invited to attend her funeral service that will be held at 1.30pm on Friday 26th July 2019, at St Matthew s Catholic Church, 12 Tebbutt Street Windsor.
Following the service, the cortege will proceed to the Garden Chapel of Castlebrook Crematorium, Windsor Road, Rouse Hill.
Hey Greg, just to let you know that mum passed away on Friday, at 22:10
Us 5 girls have been with her all day every day and all day with our children as well on Friday, as we knew time was growing shorter.
Mum was resting peacefully, probably hearing us all around her, chatter and recalling older days.
One grandson was reading out the crossword puzzle clues as we all tried to guess the answers.
It was, I suppose, an early birthday gathering for mum because she would have turned 89 next Sunday, July 28.
Debbie and Louise had planned to stay the night… we all wanted to but that was impossible.
We all slowly left through the night, one by one, with plans to return in the morning, as mum’s breathing was steady.
She was given morphine every four hours to help her rest and breathe easily, which she was.
There was no change until the last person left, leaving Debbie and Louise to settle in for the night.
3 minutes later mum’s breathing began to slow down. Minutes later she quietly slipped away,
Debbie and Louise were by her side, gently talking to her, telling her to go to Dad as they held her hands.
They said she was very, very peaceful,.
I really believe that she was waiting for us to go so she could go with dad.
On Thursday I sat by her bedside and held her hand for 9 hours. Whispering to her come by letting her know that I was not going anywhere. We were all taking it in shifts.
Every time I went to pull my hand away, just to change position, she would squeeze my hand. She knew I was there and I am just so glad I was there.Greg, all the laughs you had with mum and dad through the years and when you were patrolling with Wayne, the whole Shaw household loved your presence… except for my dog.
Thank you for your kind words too.
You are right.
Mum has been without dad for so long now.
25 years in fact!
I imagine she has gone rushing back to dad’s arms….. free from her poor old body.
NSW Police School Lecturing Unit – 11 July 1953 PIX MAGAZINE Volume 30, No. 5 ( 11 July 1953 ) Pages 21 – 23
Cumberland Argus (Parramatta, NSW : 1950 – 1962),
Wednesday 28 September 1955, page 9
WEDDING OF POLICEMAN, POLICEWOMAN
Seventy yards of billowing tulle and exquisite Chantilly lace, worn over slipper satin, went into the beautiful bridal gown, which Eileen Patricia Wilson wore at her marriage to Cecil Alfred Shaw, in St, Patrick’s Catholic Church, Parramatta.
Both bride and groom are members of the N.S.W. Police Force.
Eileen, who is the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. Wilson, of Blaxcell Street, Granville, was attached to the school lecturing division, Bourke Street, Darlinghurst.
Cecil, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. A. Shaw, is a member of No. 22 Division, Liverpool.
Eileen’s bridal gown, together with the maid’s frock, fashioned by her friend, Mrs. E. Hawke, of Granville, featured a lace-fitted bodice, long sleeves and a lace draped apron front, continued to the back and finishing with a bustle bow and two hemline tails. The tulle skirt was cut with an eight foot train. Her short, four-tiered veil was held by a crown of lily of-the-valley.
Large camellias, surrounded by white hyacinths, comprised the bridal bouquet.
Josephine Anne Wilson, her only attendant, wore a full-length frock of salmon flecked nylon, with a plain salmon nylon apron front and bustle bow. She wore a halo of tuber roses in her hair.
Best man was Bernard Russell Shaw, the groom’s brother.
One hundred guests were received at ” Westella, ” Auburn, Lilac Ballroom, by Mrs. Wilson, who chose a blue figured nylon frock, topped with a blue and white coat.
Mrs. Shaw chose a lemon romaine beaded frock and black accessories.
The bride changed for her Coolangatta honeymoon in to a champagne, sculptured nylon frock, over which she wore a powder-blue velvet coat and a small matching petal hat.
Coroner urges six-monthly welfare checks after inquest into four police suicide deaths
Posted
In short: A Hobart coroner who investigated the deaths of four police officers who took their own lives has recommended Tasmania Police conduct mandatory half-yearly well-being screenings for PTSD.
What’s next? The Police commissioner says work will continue with the police association to implement changes
The family of one of four Tasmanian police officers who died by suicide between 2016 and 2020 say they hope the findings of a coronial inquest may prevent a similar tragedy in the future.
Coroner Simon Cooper has handed down his findings into the deaths of Constable Paul Hunt, Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds, Constable Simon Darke and Sergeant Robert Cooke, recommending a swathe of welfare supports be implemented.
WARNING: This story touches on themes of depression and suicide.
During last year’s hearings, the court was told how overworked officers were self-medicating with alcohol and drugs, and of significant shortfalls in welfare support — particularly in areas such as fatigue management and protocols around interactions with the Professional Standards Command.
In his findings, Coroner Cooper, acknowledged the fact that these men were all serving police officers was “only part of the whole picture” of their lives, but he said he had “no doubt” that “Sergeant Cooke‘s police service was the direct cause of his death“.
But he said the provision of welfare support and whether it was adequate was a “central consideration at the inquest.”
He called for Tasmania Police to immediately develop and implement a fatigue management policy saying it was essential it was “addressed urgently”.
The inquest heard Robert Cooke had reportedly worked “16-hour continuous shifts for four weeks” during the Central Highlands bushfires in 2019.
This had left him “exhausted and barely functioning towards the end of the third week”.
“Tasmania Police had no fatigue management policy at any time, up to and including as recently as when the evidence at the inquest was publicly taken at the end of 2022,” he said.
“The absence of any fatigue management policy was, I consider, a direct factor in Sergeant Cooke’s death.”
Tasmania Police officers salute at Robert Cooke’s funeral in 2020 .(ABC News: Luke Bowden)
The coroner also recommended six-monthly screenings of all operation police officers for post-traumatic stress disorder.
“Sergeant Cooke obviously suffered from the effects of PTSD for a long time before it was diagnosed,” he said.
“Every health care professional who gave evidence … unanimously agreed that his PTSD was entirely attributable to his service as a police officer.
“Every health care professional also agreed that earlier detection of PTSD increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.”
Tasmania Police investigating the feasibility of “introducing a points system”, whereby an officer’s exposure to severe incidents would be tracked, was also recommended.
When a “critical points threshold” was reached, an automatic referral to a psychologist should be triggered, Coroner Cooper said.
The coroner also called for better support for officers under investigation for misconduct — including ensuring that those who had their phone seized by Professional Standards be given a replacement mobile pre-programmed with well-being support numbers.
“The death of any member of the community by suicide is a tragedy,” Coroner Cooper said.
“The suicide of serving police officers, whatever their individual circumstances, is particularly tragic for serving members of the police force and the community at large.
“My sincere hope is that some improvements and learnings can emerge from the deaths of Constable Hunt, Senior Sergeant Reynolds, Constable Darke and Sergeant Cooke.”
Sergeant Robert “Cookie” Cooke was well-regarded among his Tasmania Police colleagues.(ABC News: Luke Bowden)
Families welcome findings
In a statement, Robert Cooke‘s mother Lyn and sister Michelle said they were satisfied with the findings, particularly the recommendations for a fatigue management policy and screenings for PTSD stress disorder.
“The family miss Rob terribly and hope the findings and increased support for mental health may prevent similar events in the future,” they said.
“[Our] thoughts are with all the families involved in this inquest.”
Commissioner committed to ‘safe model of policing’
Police Commissioner Donna Adams acknowledged it was a difficult time for the families and colleagues impacted by the coronial report.
She said improvements had already been made within Tasmania Police.
Strategies included “a strong peer support group, and a critical stress program” to ensure officers could access the help they needed.
But she said changes wouldn’t end there — and that Tasmania Police would work with the Police Association to examine the coroner’s recommendations.
Police Minister Felix Ellis said the government had allocated funding to “Tasmania Police and the Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management’s nation-leading wellbeing program”.
“Police officers, by the nature of the job, are exposed to some pretty difficult and extraordinary circumstances, so providing that support is important,” he said.
“We want to work to make sure that policing continues to be a career or choice, and that we’re supporting our officers if they do find themselves facing challenging circumstances.”
The former partner of a Tasmanian police officer who died by suicide has told an inquest that he became fixated on jobs which involved suicide — but that he never sought help for his own mental health.
The coronial inquest is examining the death of Constable Simon Darke and the deaths of three other police officers between 2016 and 2020.
Kimberly Freeman told the court that while Constable Darke loved being a police officer, he started to become obsessed with the jobs he attended that involved death by suicide, and she had concerns about him being in possession of a weapon.
Ms Freeman said Constable Darke‘s mental status changed in the months leading up to his death in 2019.
The inquest also heard Constable Darke had worked 23 hours of overtime over three consecutive days whilst he was involved in the emergency response during the 2019 bushfires in the Huon Valley, south of Hobart.
“He told me he had been working long days so there is no doubt in my mind that he was extremely overtired,” Ms Freeman said.
“He picked up as much overtime and shifts as he could and mentioned several times that he didn’t have enough money.”
Darke ‘copped a lot of abuse’ during fire evacuations
Constable Darke‘s father Graham told the court that while he knew his son had problems with some relationships, the long hours during the 2019 bushfires and run of night shifts at a Hobart police station became too much for the 45-year-old.
“My son mentioned he had copped a lot of abuse when he asked people to leave their homes during the fires, he then went onto night shift by himself which in hindsight wasn’t appropriate,” Mr Darke said.
Another ex-partner, Shanna Sweeney, told the inquest she contacted police after Constable Darke threatened suicide in 2011 but did not believe her concerns were taken seriously.
Ms Sweeney told the court that it took a lot for her to speak up because she did not want Constable Darke to get into trouble at work, and was concerned he could be punished if he was seen as being vulnerable.
She said it was common knowledge among Tasmanian police officers that Constable Darke had threatened self-harm, even though he personally denied it.
“There was a perception he would be judged if he got help,” she said.
Ms Sweeney told the inquest Constable Darke did not really talk about his work unless it was “funny“, and never identified a particular event that would have caused him trauma.
The inquest continues.
Key points:
The inquest heard Constable Simon Darke had worked 23 hours of overtime over three consecutive days during the bushfire response in 2019
Ex-partner Shanna Sweeney said she contacted police after Constable Darke threatened suicide in 2011 but did not believe her concerns were taken seriously
She said it was common knowledge among Tasmanian police officers that Constable Darke had threatened self-harm, even though he personally denied it
In memoriam: Constable Simon Graham Darke, Tasmania Police, died suddenly on 6th February 2019. He was 45 years old.
Constable Simon Darke served as a valued member of Tasmania Police for ten years, most recently with Southern Road and Public Order Services.
He was a talented artist, bicycle racer, a caring and kind police officer, adored dad, loving son and brother. A great man who was snatched from us too soon.
He answered the call, never hesitated to help people, and he will forever live through all whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace and intercede on our behalf.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his young family and friends. May care and love of those around you provide comfort to get you through the days and years ahead.
Gone from our sight but not from our hearts.
Simon, a great artist, also owned ‘Spider Signs’ although that business was de-registered on 3 November 2008.
DARKE Family and friends are invited to attend a service to celebrate the life of Simon Graham Darke To be held at: Turnbull Funerals Chapel 71 Letitia Street, North Hobart Friday, February 15, 2019 3.00pm
Special and adored dad and daddy of Cleo, Archie (dec), Hallie and Lacey.
Loved and loving son of Jan and Graham.
Most dearly loved brother, brother-in-law and uncle of Shelley and Mark Spong, Nathan and Tegan, Mitchell, Sophie, Campbell, Abbey and Ainsley; Emerson and Ava.
Loved grandson of Patty and Fred Kean and Bill and Ailie Darke (all dec).
Talented artist, signwriter, devoted policeman.
Sorely missed, we will always love you.
February 14, 2019
Angela Gillam, Geelong, Victoria
February 14, 2019
Condolences to Darke family.
In our thoughts at this time and for whenever you may need us
Colin & Jackie McKenzie,
Howden, Tasmania
February 14, 2019
From all of us, at Salvation Army Street Teams Hobart, we would like to send our deepest sympathies and love to Family & friends of Constable Simon Darke. We are deeply saddened by his passing and we are all blessed to have known Simon.
We will surely miss his friendly chats, sense of humour and assistance at Street Teams.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Mel Street Teams,
Hobart, Tasmania
February 14, 2019
Rip Simon. You were a great friend to our family and we are shocked and saddened by your passing.
Hopefully at peace now xx
Ange & Pete Gillam
Angela Gillam, BC
February 14, 2019
Much respected and loved friend of Ken and Beryl (dec) Rayner. Simon’s friendship and care over the years has been so very appreciated and we are devastated to learn of his passing. So young and such a kind soul. We will miss you Simon.
Ken Rayner, Lauderdale, Tasmania
February 13, 2019
Condolences to all of Simons family and friends.
Forever a part of the Police family. He will be sadly missed.
Karen Westell, Hobart
February 13, 2019
Another Hero taken too soon, may you rest in peace. Condolences to your family at this time of great hurt.
Ian Hobbs, Huonville
February 13, 2019
So sorry to hear of Simons passing, our love and thoughts are with family and friends at this sad time x
Alison Hulm,
Launceston
February 13, 2019
RIP condolences to family, friends and colleagues.
Alex Robertson
February 13, 2019
Wendy Scholes,
GRANTVILLE
February 13, 2019
RIP Blue Brother.
Sincere condolences to Simons family.
Chris Richardson,
St Helens, MO
February 13, 2019
Condolences to family, friends and workmates Serving and police veterans Australia wide are hurting and our collective thoughts are with you at this time. Simon will forever be part of the Thin Blue Line
Mick Cummins,
Geelong, Victoria
February 11, 2019
We are saddened by the sudden loss of our cousin Simon. He will be sadly missed by us from far away. Our prayers, blessings, and love to my family in Tasmania.
Love Phillip, Kris, and Noah Webb, Ohio USA.
Phillip Webb,
Washington Court House, OH
February 9, 2019
Simon was a wonderful friend and neighbour and will be sadly missed. Our condolences to all the family.
Jean & Dave Wallace
February 9, 2019
DARKE Simon, Constable
Simon served as a valued member of the Tasmania Police Service for 10 years, most recently with Southern Road and Public Order Services, and his loss is felt deeply across the agency. The Commissioner, Members and Employees of Tasmania Police are saddened by his passing and offer their deepest sympathy to his family and friends.
We salute the service of Senior Constable Ricky John Hilton, Queensland Police Service, who died suddenly on 12th February 2019. He was 54 years old.
On Tuesday, 12th February 2019, Australia lost a kind police officer, a father, husband and brother, and his leaving has left our world a poorer place. He leaves behind his loving wife and two sons.
His friends describe him as a kind, humble, compassionate and considerate man.
Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow.
Gone from our sight, but not from our hearts.
Family and friends of Ricky are invited to attend a service at Centenary Memorial Gardens Chapel, 353 Wacol Station Road, Sumner, on Wednesday, 20th February, at 11 a.m. To respect his family’s wishes, please donate to Queensland Police Legacy.
Here is Ricky John Hilton’s obituary. Please accept Everhere’s sincere condolences.
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Ricky John Hilton (Ballarat, Victoria), who passed away on February 12, 2019, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends can light a candle as a loving gesture for their loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Ricky John Hilton to show support.
He was loved and cherished by many people including : his spouse Maree; his children, Pierce and Edward; his parents, Max and Marian; his siblings, Nicole, Yvette and Danielle; his siblings-in-law, Scott, Stephen and Mary Anne; his nieces and nephews, Thomas, Louisa, Jack, Patrick, Samuel, Isabella, Caelan, Bridie and Riagan.
