1986 NSW Police Games Narrabeen Fitness Centre Redfern Police Women’s Touch Football. Back row: Sue Williamson (2 Division), Tony Gleeson (1 Division), Chris Sullivan (2 Division), Wayne Baxter (2 Division), Narelle Benson. Middle row: Cheryl Goddard (Regent St), Lyn Russo (A Distinct Beats), John McCusker (2 Division), Dick Yannakis (2 Division). Front row: Carolyn Stewart (Regent St), Joanne Andrews (2 Division), Jenny Muldoon (Punchbowl), Kelly O’Grady (2 Division).
* Story behind any Nickname:
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
The POS accused of fatally running over a young police officer has admitted stealing and driving the car but denies murdering the constable, a court has heard.
Reagan Ainslie Chown, 23, faced Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court in Perth on Wednesday ( 21 Feb. 2024 ) where he pleaded guilty to driving recklessly to escape police during a pursuit in a stolen Holden Cruze.
But he pleaded not guilty to murdering Constable Anthony Woods, 28, who was allegedly struck with the car in Ascot on June 8 last year.
The officer and his colleague had pulled over the vehicle and they were trying to detain three occupants when Constable Woods was allegedly dragged underneath as the car reversed.
Constable Woods was rushed to hospital in a critical condition and died on June 11.
He became the 88th WA Police officer to lose his life in the line of duty.
Constable Woods had only been on the force for about three years and had just passed his probation when he died.
He was farewelled at Optus Stadium on July 7.
In a statement after his death, Constable Woods’ family said they were shattered.
“He was a devoted husband and loving son, brother, and uncle who was taken from this earth far too soon,” they said.
“Anthony will be remembered as a funny, hard-working man who loved the West Coast Eagles and mucking around with his mates.
“He brought light and laughter to every situation, and his wicked sense of humour is irreplaceable.
“Our pain at this time is indescribable, and we take comfort in the outpouring of love from the community.
“We ask that you keep Anthony’s memory alive by telling stories of all of your good times with him.”
Police Commissioner Col Blanch said the young officer had been trying to keep the community safe.
“It was the sort of interaction that any of our officers may encounter any given day or night of the year, reminding us of the ever-present dangers facing police officers,” he said.
Constable Woods’ name has been added to memorial wall at the WA Police Academy in Joondalup, facing the flame of remembrance.
Chown will next face the WA Supreme Court on June 10.
Constable Anthony Woods succumbed to injuries suffered in the line of duty, while attending an incident in early June, in Ascot, Perth, Western Australia.
Three weeks previously, he had welcomed PolicingTV Founder, Bernard Rix, to Belmont Police Station in Perth, where they recorded this video intended to give PolicingTV viewers a detailed look behind the scenes.
Constable Woods’ family has asked that PolicingTV publish this video – today, the day of Anthony’s funeral – in his memory.
A personal statement by PolicingTV Founder, Bernard Rix:
It is with great sadness that I heard of the recent death, whilst on duty, of Western Australia Police Force’s Constable Anthony Woods.
Just last month, Anthony was chosen by the Force to provide me and PolicingTV with a guided tour of Belmont Police Station, in Perth. It was my great pleasure to film with him: he was a natural communicator, wonderfully friendly and engaging. I left Belmont that day having made a new friend, as well as with some wonderful film and memories.
My heart goes out to Anthony’s family, friends and policing colleagues. I may have met Anthony just the once, but his warmth that day made me feel I’d known him far longer. I hope this video helps bring back positive memories of a wonderful man: like so many others, I mourn his loss.
Thousands gather for funeral of police officer Anthony Woods in Perth
Thousands have gathered to honour Constable Anthony Woods after he was killed in the line of duty.
A West Australian police officer killed on duty is being laid to rest as his loved ones remember a larger-than-life character full of fun and joy.
A police funeral was held Thursday for Constable Anthony Woods, 28, who was allegedly run over by a man attempting to avoid arrest in June.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Loved ones mourn Perth officer Anthony Woods.
About 2000 officers and dignitaries stood in silence on Thursday as a bagpiper led the procession into a function room at Optus Stadium in Perth.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, WA Governor Chris Dawson, Police Commissioner Col Blanch and WA Premier Roger Cook were among the guests.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who paid tribute to Woods in a statement as a “young man cruelly robbed of his future”, was represented by local Labor MP Zaneta Mascarenhas.
Police chaplain Paul Trimble paid tribute to the “larger-than-life” character who was full of fun and joy, but always treated others with respect.
A firm but fair officer, he died doing what he loved best.
The service concluded with a police honour guard. Credit: 7NEWS
“Anthony was in his element and wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else in that moment,” Timble told the service.
The chaplain spoke of a man who Woods had previously arrested leaving a condolence card at the station when he attended to sign in for his bail conditions, describing the officer as “a gentleman”.
In a poignant tribute, Woods’ wife Emily said she was “proud” and “so grateful for you”.
“Your love made me really strong and I’ll carry that with me every minute of every day,” she said
Woods’ older brother Nathan paid an emotional tribute, promising to live life to the fullest in his sibling’s honour.
“I’ll do my best to pick up where you left off. You’ve left a legacy and a massive imprint on this world,” he said.
“I love you bro and always will … until next time, mate.”
Anthony Woods’ wife Emily said she was ‘proud’ and ‘so grateful’ to have known the fallen officer. Credit: 7NEWS
The service concluded with a police honour guard.
A few dozen members of the public gathered in gloomy weather to watch a livestream of proceedings outside the stadium.
Albanese said all Australians joined the officer’s family in mourning.
“He was a young man cruelly robbed of his future … an Australian who went to work and never came home,” he said.
“Like all police officers, Constable Woods knew the risks his job entailed, yet he bravely performed his duties, putting himself in harm’s way so others could be safe.”
Albanese said the hearts of all Australians went out to Woods’ wife, Emily, and his family.
“We grieve with his friends, his workmates and the broader police community, whose every member feels each loss so very deeply,” he said.
Earlier on Thursday, WA Police shared footage of Woods filmed just a month before his death.
The video was captured in May as part of a tour of Belmont Police Station as part of a series for PolicingTV.com.
“The selected footage demonstrates his professional, friendly and enthusiastic approach to the job he loved,” WA Police said.
Woods had just passed his probation with the force before he was killed, having volunteered at the PCYC before joining the police cadets in 2019 and moving into the recruit squad in 2021.
Emily has previously remembered him as a devoted husband and loving son, brother and uncle “who was taken from this Earth far too soon”.
“Anthony will be remembered as a funny, hard working man who loved the West Coast Eagles and mucking around with his mates,” she said in a statement.
“He brought light and laughter to every situation, and his wicked sense of humour is irreplaceable.”
Woods’ family was shattered by his death.
“Our pain at this time is indescribable, and we take comfort in the outpouring of love from the community,” the family said in a statement.
“We ask that you keep Anthony’s memory alive by telling stories of all of your good times with him.”
Blanch said Woods was a brave and dedicated police officer and it was a sad time for the “blue family”.
“You did your duty mate, we will remember,” he said at a press conference to announce the death.
WA Police headquarters was turned blue in honour of the officer, while flags were flown at half-mast in the wake of the officer’s death. Credit: 7NEWS
Flags flew at half-mast at police stations across the state soon after, and Const Woods was honoured in federal parliament as someone who exemplified the values of the force.
Reagan Ainsley Chown, 23, has been charged with Woods’ murder after a vehicle with stolen number plates that he was allegedly driving hit and dragged the young officer underneath.
Chown is scheduled to next appear in court on August 30.
‘Infectious smile’: Funeral held for fallen WA cop Anthony Woods
The wife of a police officer killed while on duty has recounted the day they cried “happy tears” when he was accepted as a police cadet.
Anthony Anderson
4 min read
July 6, 2023 – 4:26PM
Hundreds of police officers and dignitaries from all branches of emergency services have filed into Perth’s Optus Stadium for the funeral of Constable Anthony Woods.
The 28-year-old died in hospital on June 11, four days after he was allegedly run down and dragged by a car during an early morning vehicle stop in the inner-east Perth suburb of Ascot.
Mourners braved a chilly, overcast Perth morning as they waited to be let into the private service on Thursday, the facade of Optus Stadium illuminated in blue lights.
The coffin of Constable Woods leaving the service in an honour guard. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sharon Smith
Although the forecast called for a high chance of rain, it graciously held off as uniformed officers, some donning their full dress uniform, entered the stadium.
Police commissioners from across the nation were in attendance.
Queensland Police Service also paid tribute to the fallen constable on social media.
“Today, we are thinking of our (WA Police) colleagues as they farewell Constable Woods. With Honour He Served,” it posted on Twitter on Thursday morning.
Members of the public gathered outside the stadium to watch the service on a big screen. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sharon Smith
Even Anthony Albanese posted a tribute to Constable Woods ahead of the service.
“Like all police officers, Constable Woods knew the risks the job entailed, yet he bravely performed his duties, putting himself in harm’s way so others could be safe,” the Prime Minister said in a statement.
Representatives from the Australian Defence Force and St John Ambulance also headed inside as invited guests, joined by family and friends of the late Constable Woods.
Outside, members of the public gathered to watch the service in the BHP Amphitheatre, which features a large screen normally used for broadcasting whatever sporting event is taking place inside the venue at the time.
Those in attendance included WA Governor, former police commissioner, Chris Dawson, Police Commissioner Col Blanch, Premier Roger Cook and his Police Minister Paul Papalia, and Federal Opposition Leader and former Queensland police officer Peter Dutton.
Mr Albanese was represented by member for Swan Zaneta Mascarenhas, while WA’s National and Liberal parties were represented by Shane Love and Peter Collier respectively.
Eulogies during the service were delivered by Constable Woods’ brother Nathan, his mother Natalie, wife Emily, childhood mates, and colleagues from the Belmont Police Station, where the constable had been posted since December.
Nathan said his brother should have been the one speaking “in the limelight, in his element, making you smile”.
Constable Woods’ “infectious smile,” as his mother described it, continued to pop up in the eulogies.
“You may now have been able to live the longest life, but you lived a full one,” Nathan said.
Adolescent friends Max and Jacob fondly remembered their mate, known to them by his nickname “Fumbles”.
“He is someone who deserve better, and I’ll miss him every day,” Max said.
Constable Woods’ coffin being taken from the room ahead of his final trip to Karrakatta Cemetery. Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian/ Pool image
Belmont Police Station colleagues Shaun and James touched on “Woodsy’s” less-than-perfect driving ability and elicited laughs from the audience when they told of the time he accidentally “tasered the floor”.
But they also praised the quality of his police work.
Mum Natalie said in death her son “has been given angel wings and a golden heart”.
But perhaps most touching was the eulogy given by Constable Woods’ wife Emily.
“You cried all through our wedding vows while I was dry-eyed and professional, so I think it’s only fair that it’s my turn to cry in public,” she said.
She told the story of how they received the news Constable Woods had been accepted in the police cadet program while out grocery shopping and had held each other and cried happy tears in the middle of the store.
“We spent 95 per cent of the day doubled over in laughter, loving each other and planning our future,” Ms Woods said.
“Nothing in the world will replace the comfort and love you gave me.”
Emily Woods embraces WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch, alongside WA Governor and Mr Blanch’s predecessor, Chris Dawson. Picture: Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian/ Pool image
The service ended with the hundreds of police officers gathered forming an honour guard outside the stadium, where Mr Blanch radioed every officer statewide, calling on them to stand if they were able to have a minute’s silence for their fallen colleague.
Those driving were ordered to pull over, activate their emergency lights, and leave their vehicles for the minute.
Constable Woods’ body was taken to Karrakatta Cemetery, where he will be cremated.
The hearse was followed by mounted police units and bagpipe players as it made its way around the stadium. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sharon Smith
The funeral comes just a day after the man allegedly responsible for running down Constable Woods, Reagan Chown, fronted Perth’s Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court.
The 23-year-old appeared on a charge of murder, upgraded in the wake of Constable Woods’ death.
Mr Chown’s was adjourned until August 30 when he’ll appear on all charges relating to the alleged incident.
Police say Mr Chown was behind the wheel of a car that bore stolen number plates when it was pulled over by Constable Woods and his partner about 1am on June 8.
As the officers tried to apprehend three people in the vehicle, Mr Chown allegedly reversed over Constable Woods and dragged him some distance, causing him catastrophic injuries.
Other officers arrived and they had to lift the vehicle off Constable Woods and perform CPR until paramedics arrived.
Nathan Woods said his brother lived a full life. Picture: Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian
Mr Chown is the first person to be charged over the alleged killing of a WA police officer in the line of duty in 16 years since Constable Damien Murphy was run down by an unlicensed driver in 2007.
His killer was later jailed on a charge of manslaughter.
Constable Woods is the 88th WA Police officer to die in the line of duty.
A man who allegedly ran over and killed a West Australian police officer is now facing a murder charge.
Constable Anthony Woods, 28, died in hospital on Sunday night, four days after he was allegedly dragged under a car in Ascot in east Perth during an arrest.
WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch said the man in custody over the incident, Reagan Ainsley Chown, would have his charges upgraded.
On Tuesday, police revealed the 23-year-old had officially been charged with murder.
Mr Chown initially appeared in court on Friday and made no application for bail on a number of charges, including causing grievous bodily harm while trying to avoid arrest.
He appeared in court again on Tuesday via videolink from Hakea Prison on the murder charge. He did not apply for bail and will appear in Stirling Gardens Magistrate in July.
Flags were flown at half mast outside the WA Police headquarters and at police stations across WA on Monday.
WA Police officer Anthony Woods (left) with wife Emily
WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch revealed on Monday that Constable Woods had just finished his probation prior to the tragic incident.
He described the young officer as someone who liked to joke with friends and colleagues at Belmont police station.
“We spoke about his cheeky grin and the pranks that he pulled,” Mr Blanch said.
“He had a bubbly personality, he was very personable, he was well loved by all.
“Anthony was a brave and dedicated police officer. You did your duty mate. We will remember.”
Mr Blanch said a full police funeral would be offered to Constable Woods’ family, who shared a tribute to the late officer on Monday.
In a statement, Constable Woods’ family said they were shattered by the loss of their “dear Anthony”.
“He (Mr Woods) was a devoted husband and loving son, brother, and uncle who was taken from this earth far too soon,” they said.
“Anthony will be remembered as a funny, hard working man who loved the West Coast Eagles and mucking around with his mates.
“He brought light and laughter to every situation, and his wicked sense of humour is irreplaceable.
“Our pain at this time is indescribable, and we take comfort in the outpouring of love from the community.
“We ask that you keep Anthony‘s memory alive by telling stories of all of your good times with him.”
On Sunday, WA Police said in a statement: “Constable Anthony Woods exemplified the values of the WA Police Force.
“His is memory will be forever etched in our hearts.
“We extend heartfelt condolences to Anthony’s family, colleagues and all those who knew and loved him.”
Constable Woods and his partners were following a vehicle with allegedly stolen plates about 1am on Thursday.
The vehicle came to a stop on Ascot Place before police approached the vehicle and the three people inside.
It is alleged the car suddenly reversed while police were dealing with the driver.
“He (Constable Woods) has subsequently been pinned by that vehicle,” Mr Blanch said.
“His partner then had a desperate few minutes to not only put three suspects into custody inside that vehicle but also try to save the life of his partner.”
Other officers arrived soon after and rushed to assist.
Police used a nearby resident’s car-jack to lift the car off Constable Woods before performing CPR.
Constable Woods was resuscitated before being rushed to hospital soon after in a critical condition.
Constable Woods’ death marks the 88th police officer in the state to die in the line of duty.
WA Premier Roger Cook took to social media to share his condolences to the force.
Deputy Commissioner Col Blanch said the car suddenly reversed while police were dealing with the driver.
“I am devastated by the horrific events that occurred last week resulting in the death of one of our police officers,” Mr Cook said.
“Actions like these are senseless – and going to work should be safe.
“I know I speak on behalf of everyone in WA, in sending our love and thoughts to Anthony’s family, friends and colleagues. His life was dedicated to making our state a safer place for West Australians.
“He is to be commended on his dedication and bravery.”
Perth Mayor Basil Zempilas said on Sunday the Council House would be lit blue to honour Constable Woods.
“We remember his bravery and mourn his loss,” Mr Zempilas said.
“Our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
“Our city has lost a hero.”
City of Gosnells councillor and former police officer Glenn Dewhurst also paid his respects.
“Even though I have been out of the force for some time, it still hits home when one of your own loses their life,” he said.
“God bless you – your family and friends and your colleagues past and present.”
Police said the vehicle’s other two occupants, a 20-year-old woman and 25-year-old man, had been released pending further investigation.
Accused cop killer in court one day before Constable Anthony Woods’ funeral
The man accused of fatally running down a police officer made a brief appearance in court just a day before his alleged victim is farewelled.
Anthony Anderson
2 min read
July 5, 2023 – 1:14PM
The man accused of fatally running down a West Australian police officer has briefly appeared in court the day before his alleged victim is farewelled in a massive service.
Constable Anthony Woods will be honoured in a private funeral service at Optus Stadium on Thursday, expected to be attended by thousands of his fellow officers.
The 28-year-old’s life support was switched offfour days after suffering catastrophic injuries after allegedly being backed over and dragged by a car he and his partner had stopped in the inner-eastern Perth suburb of Ascot in the early hours of June 8.
The man allegedly behind the wheel of the vehicle, Reagan Ainsley Chown, had his case briefly heard in Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
The 23-year-old appeared via video link from Hakea Prison in his first appearance in Stirling Gardens following appearances in Perth Magistrates Court, where he had his charges upgraded to murder.
He’s also facing a number of drugs charges as well as reckless driving to escape pursuit by police and driver of a vehicle failed to comply with a direction to stop (circumstance of aggravation), which also relate to the June 8 incident.
His matter was adjourned to August 30 when all of his charges, including the count of murder, will be heard together.
During the fatal incident, Constable Woods and his partner had been trying to detain three people in the stopped vehicle, which allegedly bore stolen number plates, when it allegedly reversed and struck Constable Woods.
Other officers arrived and had to lift the car off the critically injured constable, performing CPR until paramedics arrived.
WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch previously spoke about visiting Constable Woods’ colleagues at Belmont Police Station in the days following his death.
“We spoke about his cheeky grin and the pranks that he pulled,” Mr Blanch said.
“He had a bubbly personality, he was very personable, he was well loved by all.
“Anthony was a brave and dedicated police officer. You did your duty mate. We will remember.”
In a statement following his death, Constable Woods’ family said they were shattered by the loss of their “dear Anthony”.
“He (Mr Woods) was a devoted husband and loving son, brother, and uncle who was taken from this earth far too soon,” they said.
“Anthony will be remembered as a funny, hard working man who loved the West Coast Eagles and mucking around with his mates.
“He brought light and laughter to every situation, and his wicked sense of humour is irreplaceable.
“Our pain at this time is indescribable, and we take comfort in the outpouring of love from the community.”
Mr Chown is the first person to be charged over the alleged killing of a WA police officer in the line of duty in 16 years since Constable Damien Murphy was run down by an unlicensed driver in 2007.
His killer was later jailed on a charge of manslaughter.
* Story behind any Nickname: Woodsy – stemming from the surname Woods. Fumbles: ?
As of 16 February 2024, the offenders Court matter, involved in our Blue Brothers Murder, has still not been finalised.
Tony WOODS & ?
Siblings: Anthony, Brooke & Nathan WOODS
?, Nathan WOODS, Tony WOODS & ?
Nathan WOODS, ?, Tony WOODS
? & Tony WOODS
Tony WOODS & ?
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Class 122 – Redfern Police Academy – Walked in on Monday 16 February 1970 – Sworn In on Thursday 26 March 1970
Campsie Detective: Back row, left to right: P.C. Const. 1/c R.E. McBride, Det. Sen. Const. M. Scullion, Det. Sen. Const. P.H. Lander, P.C. Const. 1/c M.K. Lang, P.C. Sen. Const. N.K. Colefax, Det. Sen. Const. D.J. Williams. Front row, left to right: Const. 1/c R. Baltoski, Det. Sgt. 3/c A.D. Edwards, Det. Sgt. 2/c J.C. Gandy (O.I.C. Detectives), Det. Sgt. 2/c I.D. Shore, Det. Sen. Const. A.J. Collings, P.C. Sen. Const. G.M. Long.
Source: CIB Centenary 1879 – 1979 P51
* Story behind any Nickname: Collings – Collie – Collie Dog
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
‘Is this a joke by my mates?’: The retired detective wrongly accused by NSW police
By Malcolm Brown
HARRY BLACKBURN: 1930–2023
“What is this that is happening?” Harry Blackburn remembers thinking on the day a team of police came to arrest him at his workplace. “Is this a joke by my mates? It’s not my birthday!”
Indeed, it was not his birthday, and it was not a joke. The NSW police were there to arrest the 59-year-old retired detective superintendent and charge him with 25 serious offences, including rape, robbery and kidnapping over a period from 1969 to 1985.
Without the slightest idea of what they were on about, Blackburn found himself paraded in front of the media – the reports with his picture going nationally and even overseas. Without so much as a court appearance, he was branded a serial offender who had hidden for years behind his police badge. Now he was being undone by fearless police, unafraid to deal with their own.
On the day of the arrest – July 24, 1989 – the then Assistant Police Commissioner, Tony Lauer, said: “This operation has demonstrated that the NSW Police Service is more than capable of handling an extensive and highly sensitive inquiry.”
Blackburn found himself in a cell at the NSW Police Centre. Elsewhere, a police officer reportedly said: “We should slip a gun into his cell and let him blow his brains out and save the government a great deal of time and money.”
The prospective prosecution of Harry (“Harry the Hat”) Blackburn did not in fact last long. Following a change in personnel in charge of the case, diligent police officers Detective Inspector Clive Small and Detective Sergeant Ron Shaw reviewed the evidence and realised it was full of holes.
Small, against trenchant opposition from the police hierarchy, recommended the charges be dropped. They were abandoned on October 6 that year, but not before Blackburn’s wife, Lyn, devastated by the turn of events, had suffered a miscarriage.
The resulting royal commission, conducted by Justice Jack Lee, found the investigation and gathering of evidence was so clumsy and slipshod that Harry Blackburn should never have been considered a suspect. “It destroyed his life at the time,” said Clive Steirn SC, who was to represent Blackburn.
Harry James Blackburn was born in Lithgow on April 21, 1930, one of three children of a coal miner, James Blackburn, and Eileen (nee Hovey). He went to school in Lithgow and in 1947, as soon as he had turned 17, he joined the NSW Police Force, taking advantage of the fact the police commissioner was a Catholic, this being a time of reported conflict in the force between Catholics and Masons.
Blackburn began duties as a superintendent’s clerk in Goulburn, then joined the Scientific Investigation Service, where he worked for 19 years, playing rugby union for the Goulburn Waratahs. He married Norma, with whom he had children, Tracy and John. In 1970, he moved to Rockdale as a detective sergeant, followed by postings to Parramatta and Katoomba.
His marriage ended in divorce, and he married Ada. This marriage also ended in divorce. He moved on professionally and went back to police scientific work as an inspector. In 1982 he met Lyn Foster, 22 years his junior, who was a civilian employee in the NSW Police Department.
In 1985, he was promoted to superintendent and put in charge of the Physical Evidence Section, requiring him among other things to handle gun amnesties announced by the government. He was also awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. In 1987 he married Lyn.
But unknown to Blackburn, there were storm clouds gathering. There had been some savage rapes and robberies over the years, the offender usually wearing a mask and sneaking up to couples cuddling up in cars at night in lover’s lane trysts.
The first series had started in October 1969 and continued until August 1970. The second, known as the “Sutherland” series, lasted from August to December 1985. Police had obtained descriptions of one of the assailants. One happened to vaguely represent Blackburn, who then became the subject of covert police attention.
On July 14, 1988, the couple were blessed by a daughter, Holly. Blackburn retired in November that year and went to work with the War Crimes Commission. On July 24, 1989, when Lyn was three months pregnant with their second child, police swooped, and the family’s whole world was turned upside down.
The charges were laid, and Blackburn was granted bail. On August 6, Lyn had her miscarriage. On October 6, he and his wife were informed that all charges had been withdrawn. Blackburn decided not to resume with the War Crimes Commission. “The wind had been knocked out of his sails,” Lyn said.
The royal commission was held under Justice Lee, Chester Porter QC as counsel assisting, and Blackburn being ably represented by Kevin Murray QC, with Steirn as his junior. The deficiencies in the investigation soon came to light.
In December that year, Maureen, wife of Blackburn’s son, John, suffered a miscarriage. The family decided not to tell Harry just then. In April 1990, Blackburn complained that four departmental charges had been laid against him, including such things as misuse of petrol and an incident where he had thrown a jug of water over somebody, Blackburn being known to be occasionally temperamental.
He said the charges were just an attempt to discredit him, and they went nowhere. On June 29, 1990, Justice Lee handed down his report. In July, Blackburn launched proceedings against the NSW government for wrongful arrest, malicious prosecution and defamation, seeking unspecified damages.
His experience had given him a new perspective on justice, how prone the system was to misbehaviour. He was to give evidence that while sitting in his cell at the police centre on July 25, 1989, he had overheard a detective telling a prisoner that if he did not plead guilty to nine charges, he would charge him with another four.
Blackburn with his wife and child retired to Robina on the Gold Coast, and in November 1990 Blackburn got his licence as a private inquiry agent, putting a picture of a hat as his motif on his business card.
His litigation continued, a psychiatrist diagnosing him with “reactive depression”. The position of Inspector-General of the NSW Police Force was created and filled by a Canadian, Don Wilson, whose task was to “clean-up” management of the NSW Police Force, which Justice Lee had described as “lamentable”.
There would never be another bungle like Blackburn, Wilson said. The NSW government settled with Blackburn in November 1991; the agreement ratified in the Supreme Court. Blackburn, with substantial damages in his favour, did do some minor investigate work. Otherwise, he contented himself with golf, normally six days a week, looked after his wife and daughter Holly, and jogged along the beach.
Lyn went back to study and became a child psychologist. Holly did a Bachelor of International Business degree and went to work in the tertiary sector. Harry Blackburn celebrated his 93rd birthday in April, and was in good spirits’, his wife said, but then there was a sudden downturn over the following two weeks.
He died on May 9. He is survived by his widow; his three children, 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A memorial service is to be held on the Gold Coast at a time to be fixed.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
There was a Constable P. Miller, attached to Regent St Detectives but I am unsure if this is one in the same person.
Mascot Detectives – 1995 Back L to R: Murray Wilson # 25674[RIP], Terry O’Neill, Ken Yardy, Graham Maranda & Dave Laidlaw # 17809. Front L to R: Mark Braybrook, Peter Miller # 17160 – Chief Of Dets [RIP], Deb O’Reilly, Scott Bingham, Natalie Salter & Peter Whalan.
1996 – Waverley Detectives Office staff. Front Row ( L – R ) ?, Peter MILLER # 17160, ?, ?, ? Rear Row: ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
TUBIE Peter William
20.04.1947 – 08.04.2023
Dearly loved and loving husband of Lyndelle.
Peacefully slipped away in her arms at home.
Loved father of Rebecca and John.
Brother of Janet, Margaret, and Daryl.
Revered stepfather of Ben, Tim, Angela, and Mark.
Doting pop to 11 grandchildren.
To know him was to love him,
Sweet is the peace that ends all pain.
Family and friends of Peter are warmly invited to attend the celebration of his life which will take place at the Lester & Son Chapel, 49 Thomas Mitchell Dr, Wodonga on Monday 24th of April 2023 commencing at 11am. Following the service, the cortege will leave for the Howlong Cemetery, Ashford Rd, Howlong for burial.
No flowers by request, donations can be made to the Border Cancer Centre Trust at awcancertrust.org.au/donate-online
If you wish to view the service live, please visit lesterandson.com.au/funeral-notices
Peter TUBIE with Lyndelle TUBIE
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Class 146 – Redfern Police Academy. Sworn In on Monday 10 March 1975. They didn’t have a March Out because the Parade ground was flooded. They were Sworn In in one of the Class rooms. Martin BETCHER ( Back Row, 2nd from left )
There is some confusion about the middle name of Morris WEST which is exaggerated by the misspelling within the Australian Honours system. As mentioned in the screen shot from Australian Honours system, Morris Langle WEST was an Uncle to Morris Langlo WEST. Morris Langle WEST was an Author whereas Morris Langlo WEST was, in fact, a Member of the NSWPF. Therefore, the screen capture above, from the Australian Honours system, clearly shows that Langlo is credited with Honours that he didn’t actually receive and Langle is also credited with Honours that he didn’t actually received. Both of these persons were actually named Morris LANGLO West. Our Policeman was named after his fathers brother – the Author which means the spelling upon the Australian Honours system is incorrect in relation to the middle name LANGLE.
Morris Langlo WEST was named after his Uncle, who was an Author – Morris Langlo WEST.
1987
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
