Candlelight Remembrance Service for Detective Inspector Shane Dall’Osto will be held in the Amphitheatre, Roma Street Parklands, Brisbane, commencing 5.30 p. m. , Wednesday, 16 April, 2014.
All QPS members past and present, their Families and Friends and those who may have known Shane are welcome to attend.
Those attending are asked to gather in the Amphitheatre prior to 5.15 p. m. Access to Roma Street Parklands can be made via the entry gate on Wickham Terrace or through Roma Street train station.
To honour Shane’s lengthy career as a Detective, those attending are invited to wear plain clothes. Medals are not required.
An informal gathering to Celebrate Shane’s Life and his career will also be held in the Tara Room, Queensland Irish Club, Elizabeth Street, Brisbane, commencing 6.30 p. m. , the same evening. All are welcome to attend.
In the event of inclement weather, the Service will be conducted in the Ground Floor Conference Room, Police Headquarters.
DALL'OSTO, Shane Douglas
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.
Shane Douglas Dall'Osto of Brisbane was tragically taken from us on Monday, 7th April 2014
Aged 54 years
Beloved and adored Husband of Lexley and Father of Aden. Much loved Son and Brother of his Family.
A private Family Service will be held for Shane today.
Please say a Prayer for his beautiful Soul.
Obituaries
Published in The Courier-Mail on 14/04/2014
Today Blue HOPE remembers the passing of Detective Inspector Shane Dall’Osto (QPS) who died by suicide on this day 2 years ago. Shane was one of those unique individuals who was loved by all, and he was an exceptional police officer. More than that, he was an exceptional human being.
Shane’s death is why Blue HOPE exists today. It rocked the policing world, especially in Queensland, and the co-founders started asking the difficult questions about why police officers sometimes refuse to reach out to internal supports and at times struggle to access life saving support.
Let us be clear. We support everything that police services throughout Australia do in support of their staff. Blue HOPE feels strongly that the more options that are available for police officers the better, because after all, we are all wired a little differently. What is good for some, is out of the question for others.
Blue HOPE was created to cater for that percentage of police officers who would prefer an anonymous, independent support service staffed by people with extensive policing experience. For those who simply won’t turn to internal supports.
If that sounds like you, Blue HOPE stand ready.
Shane, you will forever be missed but we hope that the people who loved you find some comfort in the fact that over 130 police officers have found the support they need because Blue HOPE was forged in the wake of your passing.
Neil wrote this song in the days following the death of colleague Olly Isaac. He hopes that this message will encourage anyone who might be struggling to reach out for help.
Written & performed by Neil Pynenburg
ISAAC, Olly
ISAAC, Olly
He wasn’t a good man He was a great man
Passed away on 16th March.
All who loved him are welcome to join his Family on Wednesday, 23rd March, at 10 a. m. , at the Broadwater Road Uniting Church, 481 Broadwater Road, Mansfield.
It is with heavy hearts that we report the death of a serving QPS member today. Our deepest condolences to family, friends and the entire Centenary Patrol Group in Brisbane. We understand that your friend and colleague was a highly valued and extremely well thought of member of your team.
To all directly involved, we cannot ease your pain but rest assured that our thoughts, and those of all your blue brothers and sisters nation wide are with you now…
Out of respect for friends and family, details at this point have been withheld. Should anyone need a little extra help right now, Blue HOPE stands ready…
Gilbert Joseph ROUSSEL
| 07/04/2016
Gilbert Joseph ROUSSEL
New South Wales Police Force
[alert_yellow]Regd. # 43110[/alert_yellow]
Rank: Constable
Goulburn Academy class: ADPP 28
Stations: Hurstville LAC – death
Service: From? pre 28 August 2007 ( Attestation date )to 6 August 2009 = 2 years Service
Awards: ?
Born: 28 February 1973
Died on: 6 August 2009
Cause: Suicide – Service firearm
Event location: Kangaroo Valley
Age: 36
Funeral date: Monday 17 August 2009
Funeral location: St Luke’s Church, Revesby
Buried at: Woronora Cemetery
Portion DD Plq, Row Rem Plq, Plot 0006
Memorial: NSW Police force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, F5 ( right wall )
[alert_red]GILBERT 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.
Constable Joseph Nash, who was in charge of the local police station, was found dead in the barrack-room at noon today.
The police authorities in Sydney have received a telegram stating that Constable Nash had been found dead with a bullet wound in the head, the circumstances of the case pointing to suicide.
An officer at Armidale has been sent to North Guyra to make full inquiries.
The Perth Coroner’s Court has heard that exposure to a number of critical incidents, including fatalities, could have contributed to a police officer’s suicide.
The Coroner has begun an inquiry into the death of Elliot Peter Watt, 36, at the Collie police station in 2008.
Sergeant Watt, who was the acting officer-in-charge of the station, had four sons.
His body was discovered in the station’s armoury alongside his police-issue firearm.
The Coroner is investigating what impact the daily access to firearms had on the sergeant and whether WA police had adequate mental health safety checks in place.
His wife, Emma Watt, told the court her husband was deeply affected by his work.
Mrs Watt told the inquiry her husband’s mental health started to deteriorate when he was stationed in Kondinin and he had to attend a number of critical incidents with limited or no back up.
She said these included a serious car accident involving children, a farmer’s suicide and an unsuccessful attempt to resuscitate a footballer.
Mrs Watt said he was never offered counselling by WA Police and bottled up his emotions.
Earlier today, the court was told Internal Affairs investigated Sergeant Watt’s death and found there was no single work related incident that triggered his death.
The family’s lawyer said the critical incidents were just as likely to contribute to the suicide as any family problems.
The inquiry also heard Sergeant Watt was depressed in the the years leading up to his death and was looking for another job.
The wife of a policeman who shot himself while on duty at a WA country police station has described how he broke down the night before crying and said he had enough of work but didn’t know what was wrong.
Elliott Peter Watt, 36, took his own life with a police pistol in the armoury of Collie police station on December 22, 2008 – his first day back after a three week break.
An inquest is now examining the tragedy and whether strategies can be used to avoid a repeat of the police suicide.
Today, Emma Watt described how her husband, a father of four, had displayed a dramatic change in his behaviour in the days leading up to his return to work, showing feelings of agitation, withdrawal, and finding a lack of pleasure in the things he used to enjoy.
She said his dislike of going to work had reached the point where she had to wake him up for work, prompt him to shower and lay out his uniform with the belt through the loops and items in his pockets so that he would attend.
The night before he killed himself, she had asked him what was wrong, she told the inquest today.
“He just looked at me and said ‘I just don’t know’,” she said.
“He said that just everything was getting to him… he said he had enough as far as work went…. (but) he didn’t want to leave us financially with no income.”
Mrs Watt said he had eventually withdrawn from her again, prompting her to call Lifeline in hysterics.
The inquest has heard earlier evidence that Acting Sen. Sgt Watt had dealt with “critical incidents” during one stint at a country police station including the failed resuscitation of a young man.
He had also attended a serious car crash in which a child was badly injured and the suicide of a farmer in his car after which he had to clean the blood-stained ute and return it to the farmer’s wife.
The inquest heard Acting Sen. Sgt Watt, who had 15 years experience in the police force, worked by himself for extended periods while stationed at country towns and had $35,000 worth of annual leave owing when he died – the equivalent of about five months’ leave.
Mrs Watt today said she had believed her husband was depressed. But she rejected suggestions his state could have been solely due to the domestic pressures of having young children and a relatively new and senior job.
She said she had not called a doctor because her husband, who she described as quiet and private, had been angry when she once suggested he could be depressed.
However, after her call to Lifeline on December 21, 2008 she had made plans to visit a GP with her concerns – a visit she had unfortunately scheduled for two days after her husband shot himself.
Mrs Watt said she had assumed the police force looked after its officers and that annual checks would be conducted on their mental health.
She told the inquest she would have contacted the police force’s health and welfare division earlier in the year with her concerns about his increasing mood swings but that she had been unaware of the division.
Mrs Watt said her husband was unlikely to ask for assistance from within the police force, but she believed information about the health and welfare division should also be provided to partners of police officers.
The inquest has heard an internal police investigation found there was “no one specific incident” that seemed to prompt Acting Sen. Sgt Watt’s suicide, though the investigator agreed his involvement in critical incidents could have affected him.
The report instead suggested non-work issues could be to blame.
The inquest heard training and education about stress management was required for police but they were also expected to ask for assistance.
Det-Sgt Judith Seivwright, who conducted the internal police report on the suicide, denied suggestions that officers feared asking for counselling or assistance would be viewed negatively by senior officers.
The inquest continues.
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14
COUNTRY policeman Elliott Watt cleaned up after a farmer’s suicide, tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate a young footballer and was brought to tears by a child’s injuries from a car crash in the months before he told his wife he did not want to go to work anymore.
The senior sergeant shot himself at the Collie police station in Western Australia’s southwest after telling his wife everything was getting to him.
In an inquest that is throwing a spotlight on the difficult work of police in isolated rural stations, Watt’s widow, Emma, said her husband killed himself because he did not want his moods affecting their three children. He took his life three days before Christmas 2008.
The night before, Watt broke down and told his wife everything was getting to him and he had had enough of work.
Giving evidence yesterday, Mrs Watt said she had to get her husband out of bed each morning, make sure he had a shower and make him get dressed and go to the station.
She had earlier told the court about three critical incidents her husband had been involved in while he was the officer in charge at Kondinin, a town of 300 people 275km southeast of Perth.
She said she had found her husband crying after attending a car accident in which a child was injured. He had tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate a young football player, and he had to clean the ute of a farmer who had killed himself in it with a shotgun.
She said her husband had become withdrawn after the transfer to Collie.
She said he had expressed feelings of “nothingness”, played less with the children and could not sleep or concentrate.
The next morning, Watt showered and dressed himself. “That’s why the day he died was so unusual,” she said.
Later that day, he took a gun from the station’s armoury and shot himself.
If you are depressed or contemplating suicide, help is available at Lifeline on 131 114.
The Police Union says it is unfortunate the suicide of a police officer had to be the catalyst for reform in WA’s police service.
The coronial inquest into the death of Acting Senior Sergeant Elliott Watt concluded yesterday.
Sergeant Watt shot himself at the Collie Police Station in 2008.
Coroner Alistair Hope has recommended WA police conduct annual health and wellness reviews on every police officer in the State.
The President of the Police Union Russell Armstrong says more resources are needed.
“Not enough staff within health and welfare, four clinical psychologists for nearly 6000 people and we’re dealing with 24/7 critical incidents,” he said.
“And that is not enough staff, so it’ll have to be resourced and resourced very quickly.
“It’s long overdue and should have been put in place a long time ago,” he said.
Office of the State Coroner, Western Australia – Annual report – 2011 – 2012
Elliott Peter WATT
The State Coroner conducted an inquest into the death of Elliott Peter Watt (the deceased) with an Inquest held at Perth Coroner’s Court on 13‐16 February 2012. The State Coroner found that death occurred on 22 December 2008 at Collie Police Station, Collie, as a result of gunshot wound to the head in the following circumstances ‐
The deceased was an acting Senior Sergeant of police with Western Australian Police (WA Police) at the time of his death on 22 December 2008. The deceased was born on 31 July 1972 and so was 36 years of age at the time of his death.
The deceased died at the Collie Police Station as a result of a self inflicted gunshot wound. At the time he was the relieving Officer in Charge of the Collie Police Station, the day of his death
was his first day back at work after a period of three weeks long service leave.
On the day of his death the deceased worked from 8am and had been conducting his normal duties as the Officer in Charge of the Police Station throughout the day. It appears that he was last seen at about 3:45pm.
The deceased was discovered in the armoury at 4:25pm having died of a gunshot wound to the head.
The deceased used the Glock pistol which had been allocated for his own use to shoot himself while alone in the armoury of the Collie Police Station.
None of the police officers on duty at the Collie Police Station heard the shot being fired and none were alert to the possibility that the deceased might be about to take his own life prior to his doing so.
The State Coroner found that the death arose by way of Suicide.
The State Coroner observed that it was important that families of serving members are alert to the available services as it is often family members who are most aware of changes in a person suffering from mental health problems.
In that context the State Coroner made the following recommendation –
I recommend that WA Police take action to better promote information in relation to available services to families of serving members.
The State Coroner observed that the deceased’s colleagues were not alert to his deteriorating mental condition. This was in large part because the deceased concealed his condition from them, but it is also clear that they had received little training in the management or identification of persons suffering from depression.
Evidence at the inquest revealed that for officers taking on senior management roles, while training in respect of these issues is available, it is at present not a mandatory requirement.
The State Coroner made the following recommendation –
I recommend that training in respect of the identification and management of officers suffering from stress or depression should form part of the training for police officers entering management roles.
The State Coroner made the following recommendation in respect to improving the recording of conversation with the Health and Welfare Branch of WA Police in the context of evidence relating to contacts which had not been recorded or filed –
I recommend that WA Police ensure that there is in place appropriate computer software which will enable the recording of all contacts to the Health and Welfare Branch relating to individual officers where concerns have been expressed as to the welfare of those officers.
The State Coroner observed that the evidence in this case has highlighted the fact that policing can be a demanding and stressful occupation.
The deceased was described as a very good officer who was generally highly regarded and yet none of his work colleagues had any real appreciation of his deteriorating mental health.
In the State Coroner’s view there needs to be some form of regular health review or wellness review of every police officer in WA Police.
In this context the State Coroner made the following recommendation –
I recommend that WA Police put in place a system which would ensure that in respect of every member there is some form of wellness review conducted or at least offered each year which will identify significant changes in physical and mental health.
A letter dated 20 March 2012 addressed to the Minister for Police invited the Minister to respond to the State Coroner’s recommendations. At the time of publishing the annual report a response had not been received from the Minister’s office. http://www.coronerscourt.wa.gov.au/_files/Coroners_Court_Annual_report_12.pdf
I remember my husband spending 3 nearly whole days in 45*C + heat scrubbing a farmers ute to give back to his widow. It had sat in full sun for nearly a week and as the OIC in a country town you do it yourself – and he wouldn’t let me help, he always wanted to protect me from the nasty side of the job. 3 days stressing it was pristine, immaculate; nothing left to distress the farmers family further. He didn’t realise the toll it took on himself. He was Beginning to realise he was battling inside his own mind with these thoughts….I still remember him saying to me ” Everyday. Everyday I get kitted up and think how easy it would be. ”
It will be 8 years this year. And still no closer to acknowledging those already lost, and helping, saving, those suffering.
So sad….Everyday I think, how easy it would be. Easy it would be to stop talking and start doing. Helping. Acknowledging. Remembering. Sharing. Supporting. And stop this waste!
Retired WA policewoman seeks compensation
AAP
A POLICEWOMAN and mother-of-four who fell into financial ruin after the accumulated psychological trauma of her work forced her to medically retire has appealed to Queen Elizabeth II in her bid to seek redress.
Wendy Kennedy, 49, served in the West Australian force for 15 years, seeing horrendous crimes such as a woman who had been stabbed and thrown through a window by her partner.
She saved people from ending their own lives, but other times, nothing could be done.
The images are burnt into her mind and still haunt her.
She lists off the many times she was in mortal danger – a broken bottle attack while working pregnant as Katanning’s first female police officer, running from a man who came at her with a machete, seeing an axe about to fall on her before her partner jumped on the assailant.
It still rattles her to recount the time a car ploughed into her mounted police colleague as they patrolled a dark Perth highway at 2am.
“I watched him go over the car,” Ms Kennedy told AAP.
“We didn’t wear hard hats. There was no requirement – our uniform was an Akubra hat.”
His head hit the cement. He was convulsing, his head in blood, his horse was hurt.
“I thought ‘my partner’s dying’.”
She rushed to his aid and he thankfully pulled through, but no-one asked her if she was okay and she was sent straight back to work.
Ms Kennedy, who suffers post-traumatic stress disorder, says the mental health of officers is not properly monitored, and she’s backing the Medically Retired WA Police Officers Association in calling for regular wellness checks, particularly after traumatic jobs.
Such checks were a key finding from an inquest into the death of Collie policeman Elliott Watt, 36, who fatally shot himself in the station’s armoury in December 2008 on his first day back from long service leave.
For Ms Kennedy, her psychological health is turning a corner thanks to the support of the association and her psychologist Joseph Presti.
And after not being well enough to work for the past 12 years, she’s now managing four hours a week as a personal trainer.
Her clients, who have become friends, understand if she has to reschedule because some days are better than others when you suffer from PTSD.
But she’s so broke, she’s on the brink of being evicted.
Even her superannuation fund was closed after fees ate up all that was in there.Sick of asking for help from Centrelink, Ms Kennedy has gathered strength to fight for the recognition and financial redress she feels she deserves after all of her public service.
“I put on my life on the line and I’ve seen the most gruesome stuff,” she said.
“I shouldn’t have to live like this.”
She’s preparing her first application for an ex-gratia payment from the state government, with the WA Police Union officially declaring her case has merit.
The rare act-of-grace payments are currently the only way medically retired officers are financially acknowledged, although they are usually for physical injury, and while a worker’s compensation scheme is now finally on the cards for police, it won’t be retrospective.
Like all WA police, she’s not considered an employee of the state, so Ms Kennedy has written to the woman she promised to serve – the Queen.
Australian readers seeking support and information about depression can contact the Depression Helpline (from 8am to midnight) on 0800 111 757.
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
An inquest into the death of Sergeant Elliott Peter Watt (who, at the time of his death in December 2008, was a serving WA police officer) was undertaken in February 2012. The Watt Inquest outlined that Sergeant Watt had deteriorating mental health, characterised by:
Irritable moods, generally quite snappy and grumpy;
Pushing his wife away, threatening separation;
Expressing unhappiness in areas of his work and life;
Isolation;
No motivation;
Being short-tempered and moody; and
Becoming completely absorbed in computer games
109
.
It was noted that Sergeant Watt had experienced three specific traumatic incidents in his career, being: the attendance at a car accident that had involved young children; the attendance at a suicide by a farmer in which Sergeant Watt had to clean the utility involved before returning it to the family; and the prolonged, attempted resuscitation of a young footballer, who later died
110
.
It appeared that as Sergeant Watt’s job responsibilities increased, his stress levels increased and his mental health declined. Despite an informal mental health assessment by his senior management
111
,
none of Sergeant Watt’s colleagues “had any real appreciation of his deteriorating mental health”
112
.
The coroner made several very important comments regarding police officer health and safety as it was noted that “serving police officers can be
vulnerable to serious mental health problems as a result of their work”
113
. The coroner noted that:
Being transferred to certain locations can place pressures on police officers;
Police officers “face regular exposure to stressful situations including violence inflicted on them and others, trauma and death scenes”
114
;
109
Coroner’s Court of Western Australia,
Inquest into the death of Elliott Peter Watt
, Government of Western
Australia, Perth, 2012.
110
Ibid, p. 10.
111
Ibid, p. 17.
112
Ibid, p. 36.
113
Ibid, p. 29.
114
Ibid.
33
“The health and welfare of serving police officers requires ongoing monitoring and support”
115
;
“It is the responsibility of the Health and Welfare Services of WA Police to educate and train personnel in the management of stress, and in particular, post-trauma stress”
116
;
“Officers involved in critical incidents may suffer problems months or even years after those incidents and so there is an ongoing need to monitor [police officer] health and wellbeing”
117
; and
It is vital that “families of serving members are alert to the available services as it is often family members who are most aware of changes in a person suffering from mental health problems”
118
.
The inquest outlined four recommendations:
1.
WA Police must take action to better promote information in relation to available [mental health] services to families of serving Members
119
;
2.
Training for police officers entering management roles should include identification and management of officers suffering from stress or depression
120
;
3.
WA Police is to ensure that appropriate computer software is in place to enable the recording of all contacts to the Health and Welfare Services relating to individual officers where concerns have been expressed about the welfare of those officers
121
; and
4.
WA Police must put in place a system which would ensure a wellness review be conducted (or at least offered) to every member, in order to identify significant changes in physical and mental health
122
.
The coroner was adamant that there needed to be some mechanism within WA Police to regularly review the mental and physical health and wellbeing of every WA Police officer
123
. Significant changes such as “an increase or decrease of over 10kg in weight over a 12 month period, significant deterioration in fitness, unexplained mood changes or an officer becoming more isolated from his or her colleagues” were flagged as being important to note within these welfare checks
124
. The coroner also acknowledged, to some extent, the stigma associated with admitting to suffering from stress or from mental health problems and the likelihood this declaration has on promotional opportunities.
The recommendations outlined in the Watt Inquest were also referred to within the Toll of Trauma Inquiry
In memory of Russell Sheehan – a truly amazing man.
To honour and celebrate the gift of friendship, family and community.
Kathy Poole 2016
Daughter speaks out to honour suicide police officers
LATE Coast detective Russell Sheehan had a deep respect for the officers whose names adorned the National Police Memorial.
By Stuart Cumming
less than 2 min read
September 16, 2017 – 5:00AM
LATE Coast detective Russell Sheehan had a deep respect for the officers whose names adorned the National Police Memorial.
He visited the Canberra monument while on a family trip away in 2014, a year before he tragically took his own life.
His daughter Kaitlyn Pobar believes her dad and all other officers who died like him deserve to be up there.
Late Sunshine Coast police officer Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan visits the National Police Memorial in Canberra in 2014. Picture: Contributed
Mrs Pobar has added her voice to those Coast residents who have spoken out for the names of officers lost to suicide to be added to state and national memorials.
“It is important to recognise mental illness is an injury,” Mrs Pobar said.
“I think it needs to be recognised just like any other physical injury.”
She said she supported a national campaign driven by North Queensland man Steven Isles for the names of suicide officers to be added to memorials.
A coroners inquest into the 2009 disappearance of Mr Isles’ police officer father, Senior Sergeant Mick Isles, found he had likely committed suicide.
“I know how much dad honoured the people on the wall,” Mrs Pobar said.”I just know his general view was it meant a lot for him to go and be there (national memorial).”
Mrs Pobar said she recognised her father’s dedication to his career whether or not his name was added to the memorial.
She said the value of it would come in breaking down stigmas around mental illness as well as being a huge honour for his family.
“I think anyone who puts the (police) uniform on deserves that honour.”
Mr Isles has been busy since October last year advocating for the cause.
“We are here to achieve change,” Mr Isles said.
Sunshine Coast police district officer Superintendent Darryl Johnson said Commissioner Ian Stewart was considering a number of options in regards to the addition of those officers’ names to the state memorial.
“It is important that we as an organisation remember our colleagues who pass away while serving members,” Supt Johnson said.
He said a decision on the issue would be made “in due course”.
AMY Williams will gather with her sisters at their mum’s Sunshine Coast home today to celebrate what would have been her dad’s 54th birthday.
Russell and Kathy celebrate a friend’s wedding in Theodore last year.
They will share a beach-themed cake she is sure her police officer father, Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan, would have loved.
She hopes they will be able to joke about the countless good times they had with their dad but knows the treasured sound of his raucous laugh will be sadly missing.
Det Snr Const Sheehan’s suicide on December 23 last year shocked his family, colleagues and the wider community.
He had been based on the Coast for the past 12 years of his 33-year police career, predominantly with the Maroochydore Child Protection Investigation Unit and the Criminal Investigation Branch.
Mrs Williams, the eldest of Det Snr Const Sheehan and his wife Kathy’s four daughters, said her family was still trying to adjust without their “rock”.
“We never thought he would see that as his only option,” Mrs Williams said.
“I THINK he got very good at the end at hiding exactly how he felt.”
They knew he had been struggling in the past year and that he had sought help for depression through the Queensland Police Service and a psychologist.
Mrs Williams said she had frequently been asked whether her dad’s experiences, such as being a first responder to the tragic Childers backpacker fire in 2000, had contributed to his mental health difficulties.
But she did not know.
“I know that Dad could not pinpoint one particular incident,” she said.
“There were a lot of things that were distressing about the work and cases he did.”
She described her dad as a very proud person.
SEVERAL POSTINGS: Det Snr Const Russell Sheehan during his time at Childers between 1998 and 2000. Contributed
“To admit he was struggling and not performing how he would like to be was hard for him,” she said.
“He was trying so hard to be his old self but it wasn’t happening as quickly as he wanted.”
Mrs Williams said her father had always been happy at home during her childhood.
“His job was a stressful job, but he never brought it home,” she said.
“But last year it became evident that was getting harder for him to do.”
His career took his family to postings in Theodore, Childers and the Coast.
Mrs Williams said her dad was known for having a raucous laugh that would instantly make other people laugh.
She said some people would go to the old cinema in Theodore just to hear his laugh when he was there watching a movie.
“We really miss that.”
She recalled how her dad had been able to find the humour in being bitten on the backside by an over-excited police dog during an arrest.
“Dad would always find the funny side of anything,” she said.
“He had a very good wit and a very quick wit.”
Police support since Det Snr Const Sheehan’s death
has been “tremendous”.
Mrs Williams said an assistant commissioner flew from Rockhampton on Christmas Eve to be with her family.
There has been a steady flow of support since then.
She has welcomed a charity bike ride being organised by her dad’s former colleagues to raise money for Blue Hope, a police-run organisation dedicated to helping other police.
Ride for Russ, a 300km journey from Woodgate to Maroochydore, will be held on May 21.
“It’s a wonderful way to honour Dad while raising awareness of suicide and depression in police officers,” Mrs Williams said.
“I think it shows how much Dad’s work colleagues loved and respected him, to go to those lengths.”
More immediately, Mrs Williams said today’s birthday celebrations were important to her family.
“We just don’t ever want to stop remembering him. He is in our thoughts every day.
“As sad as these milestones are, they are bringing us together as a family.”
Anyone with issues arising from this story can phone Lifeline on 131 114 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
The grieving family of a Queensland policeman who took his life say the police psychologist did not have time to treat him.
Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan ended his life two months ago after 33 years as a policeman.
His daughter Amy Williams said he was widely seen as a happy, optimistic person.
“He was such a genuinely wonderful person, a gentle soul, a caring soul.
“I used to tell people I don’t know how he was a police officer because he just wasn’t this tough, rough person, he was so gentle and caring but I think that is what people admired about him in his line of work.”
But Ms Williams, the eldest of Constable Sheehan’s four daughters, said that was not the only trauma he experienced.
“As tragic as that was, there were other things that Dad saw in his line of work that I know stuck with him perhaps more so than that one particular event.”
Constable Sheehan had suffered anxiety over a long period.
[blockquote]
Suicides within the general population are about 12 per 100,000. In the police, it’s north of 18 per 100,000.
Bruce Graydon, Blue Hope.
[/blockquote]
“Some days it would be difficult for him to even leave the house, but he did,” Ms Williams said.
“He was battling it very privately, he didn’t want people to know that he was suffering.
“He felt I guess like he was a bit of a failure, that he couldn’t cope with it, so he just wanted to try to maintain a normal life.”
Last May the anxiety became so bad that the 53-year-old found himself unable to get out of his car to go to work at Maroochydore.
He went on stress leave and contacted the police psychologist for the Sunshine Coast.
“She was wonderful, Dad felt an instant connection with her,” Ms Williams said.
“However she sort of made it clear early on that she was very very busy, her books were quite full, she wasn’t going to be able to take Dad on as another client.”
So Constable Sheehan was referred to a private psychologist.
Russell Sheehan and family
“But he always felt that the QPS psychologist really understood what he was going through a bit more so than the private psychologist he was seeing.
“I’m not laying any blame on the QPS for what happened to Dad, because in the end we don’t know whether having that consultation with the Queensland Police psychologist would have changed the outcome for him.
“He may still have gone down this path.
“However, we want to make sure that for future and current serving police that there are adequate resources in place to help them when they need help.”
Ms Williams has written to the Queensland Police Commissioner, Police Minister and Opposition Police spokesman expressing concern about the lack of resources.
The Commissioner Ian Stewart is yet to respond to the ABC’s interview request.
Police suicide rate higher than general population
Former Queensland Police Detective Inspector Bruce Graydon said at least a dozen of his close colleagues had taken their lives over his 30-year career.
Inspector Graydon co-founded a support service called Blue Hope.
“Suicides within the general population are about 12 per 100,000,” he said.
“In the police, it’s north of 18 per 100,000.”
The real number is expected to be far worse.
“The moment that they leave the police or they’re retired medically unfit, their death isn’t recorded by the Coroner as a police-related suicide.”
Inspector Graydon said police need help to retrain and find new jobs, rather than feel cast aside.
The not-for-profit group Blue Hope has made links with education and recruitment organisations to assist officers that seek its help.
And he agrees with Ms Williams more support is needed earlier.
“We’re all for internal supports, we’re for any support, but some police officers just will not turn to internal supports so there needs to be additional options.
“There is a perception, be it true or untrue, that there’s no confidentiality.”
Blue Hope has case managed more than 130 people since it formed two years ago, and assisted hundreds of others around the country.
Meanwhile, in Victoria, police suicides have prompted the Commissioner Graham Ashton to order a mental health review which he hopes will lead to greater support for officers.
Detective Sergeant Andrew Ayers, the co-founder of Blue Hope, said the organisation had just helped its 177th client.
“[Suicide] is a massive problem. It’s endemic to police everywhere,” Mr Ayers said.
“We identified a shortfall in support services available, and that is that each law enforcement agency around the country has their own internal strategy in terms of dealing with mental health and stress in general amongst police officers.
“[But] there is a bit of a reluctance for members to use those services.”
The organisation is a relatively new service that was formed in 2014 to support police officers and their families to cope with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicide and other mental health issues.
“Blue Hope basically caters for those people who aren’t for any reason, or don’t for any reason, utilise internal support strategies. We provide mental health first aid for them on a national basis,” Detective Sergeant Ayers said.
The organisation’s aim is to raise awareness of police suicide and to provide a 24 hour hotline service for officers, both current and former.
Raising awareness of police suicide in the Wide Bay ( Qld )
Detective Sergeant Ayers recently visited Bundaberg to attend and support a fundraiser organised to celebrate the life of Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan, who took his life in December.
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The more people we can get talking about suicide the more likely it is that we can prevent it
Detective Sergeant Andrew Ayers
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In 2000 the senior constable was the first on the scene of the Palace Backpackers Hostel fire in Childers where 15 people lost their lives.
Detective Sergeant Ayers said it was clear Detective Senior Constable Sheehan had had a positive influence on the Bundaberg, Childers and Woodgate areas.
“We’ve had some extensive dealings with his family in the wake of his tragic death,” he said.
“The focus really was to have people talking about the fact that such a highly regarded police officer felt that his only option was to take his own life, and that’s the real sad aspect of it.
“The more people we can get talking about [suicide], the more likely it is that we can prevent it.”
He said the tragedy of Detective Senior Constable Sheehan’s death highlighted the need to support all emergency service workers, who were usually the first on the scene of traumatic incidents.
Big toll on first responders
Figures released last year revealed it was estimated one emergency service worker took their own life every six weeks.
The figure, based on coronial cases, has support organisations concerned that the figure could actually be higher.
In response, Beyond Blue is preparing to undertake a national mental health study on first responders to investigate the prevalence of mental health conditions, suicide and stigma in Australia.
The findings of the study will be released at the end of 2017.
Beyond Blue’s spotlight on mental health issues facing emergency service workers is also set to intensify next month, as the first national conference on the mental health of Australian first responders is held in Sydney.
A personal response
While organisations such as Blue Hope and Beyond Blue are raising awareness, so too are individuals.
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If I can stress anything out there to the people, to anyone with post-traumatic stress, or even if they are feeling a little bit off — talk to people, communicate.
Graham Forlonge
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Singer songwriter Brendan Smoother, from Lismore in NSW, was horrified by the number of paramedics taking their own lives.
This prompted him to write and release an EP entitled Paramedic Suicide.
Mr Smoother, a paramedic himself for 21 years, won an award at this year’s Tamworth Country Music Festival for the EP.
Mr Smoother said he had been inspired to write the songs when he read about the alarming statistics of paramedics committing suicide, and realised he himself had known a number of paramedics who had taken their own lives.
“Personally I’ve never really had an issue with post-traumatic stress disorder, but I have certainly seen it in other people, ” he said.
The importance of seeking help
Former police officer, surf lifesaver and search and rescue diver Graham Forlonge, from Baffle Creek in Queensland, is one of many emergency services personnel whose life has been negatively impacted by PTSD.
Mr Forlonge said he struggled to get the right help for years, due to the number and type of traumatic incidents he had experienced.
“The best thing I could say to the people out there suffering from post-traumatic stress, and there are thousands of them — police, ambulance, fire brigade, rescue squad, military — is if you’re having issues, keep looking. There are people out there who do understand PTSD,” Mr Forlonge said.
He said talking to people and telling his stories had helped him, and he urged others to do the same.
“You’ve got to find someone to talk to,” he said.
“If I can stress anything out there to the people, to anyone with post-traumatic stress, or even if they are feeling a little bit off — talk to people, communicate,” he said.
SHEEHAN, Russell David
28.02.1962 – 23.12.2015
Beloved husband of Katharyn. The protector, mentor and adored father to Amy, Kaitlyn, Lara and Eden. Cherished eldest Son of Brian and Pamela Sheehan. Admired and selfless brother to Anthony, Angela, Gabrielle and Chris. Adored grandfather and uncle.
Never forgotten as he is forever in the hearts of those who loved him and met him.
Of the Sunshine Coast Criminal Investigation Branch and formerly stationed at Bundaberg, Maroochydore, Theodore and Childers.
A well respected Police Officer and Friend to many.
Dearly loved Husband of Katharyn.
Much loved Father of Amy, Kaitlyn, Lara, Eden and their Families.
Family, Friends and Colleagues are invited to attend a Funeral Service for Russell, which will commence at 1.00 p. m. , Thursday, 31st December, 2015, at Gregson and Weight Chapel, 5 Gregson Place, Caloundra.
Private Cortege.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Queensland Police Legacy and/or Blue Hope Services Ltd would be appreciated.
Russell was the much loved soul mate and husband to his wife Katharyn. The protector, mentor and adored father to Amy, Kaitlyn, Lara and Eden. Cherished eldest son of Brian and Pamela Sheehan. Admired and selfless brother to Anthony, Angela, Gabrielle and Chris.
He was also a much loved son in law to Kevin & Doreen Brewer and brother in law to Pete, Sue and Amanda and uncle to their children. So devastated and heartbroken
Russell was also an exceptional detective with three decades of service. Our thoughts are with the Sunshine Coast police community, especially his colleagues at the Criminal Investigation Branch.
The broader policing community also mourn the death of an exceptional man who will be missed by all who knew him.
Rest easy Detective, your work here is done.
Please Note: You can help Russell’s family celebrate his life.
The Sheehan family would love to hear any stories QPS members might have of Russell. You can share your memories or messages by emailing the family at: sheehan_memorybox@outlook.com
Deb BryantI’m so very saddened to hear of the tragic death of your precious husband, father, son, brother, friend, colleague. I hope in the days & months ahead that you gain comfort from the loving words and precious stories that you will receive about him & how his life & work touched so many. May these new memories sustain you as you learn to live with his loss.
Craig BellchambersAgreed, and hope your doing ok One step at a time Deb.
Kimberley GalvinHeartbreaking.We send our love from one lost family to another.xx
Troy CavellOne of the nicest sincere people, police or civilian, that you would meet. There are very few of Russ’s quality left in the QPS and he will be surely missed by many colleagues. Such a loss.
Kathy KucksI would second those comments. A shock to see this on FB this morning.
Michele PeverillIt is an awsome poem beautiful words thoughts with you all at this time
Leonie BrewerRuss was the epidemy of how a policeman conducts himself, he treated people with respect and in turn was respected, he was incredibly kind, selfless, and loved and adored his family.
He was also a much loved son in law to Kevin & Doreen Brewer and brother in law to Pete, Sue and Amanda and uncle to their children. So devastated and heartbroken
Darryl RuleMy sincere deepest condolences to the Sheehan family and friends for your loss of Russell and to all members of the thin blue line.
I lost my best friend 5 months ago to suicide who was a Detective Sergeant in the WA Police.
It is without a doubt the h…See More
Joey AngelDarryl i pray your best mate found peace ox im truly sorry for your loss . Here if you need a chat.
Christine TroyRIP Russ. You will be truely missed mate. Top bloke, a true gentleman, never too busy to stop and say hello. My heart breaks for your family. Deepest condolences to you all.
Julie BuckleyThoughts and prayers go out to the Sheehan family through this time. Russ touched so many people in so many ways in his role as a father and police officer. A true gentleman who will be sadly missed. RIP Russ
Kath FrahmSuch a loss. My love and condolences to Kath and the family. I knew both Russell and Kathy from school and they were both amazing people. Life on the force seems to take such a toll. Such a loss. RIP Russell. Thank you for your service. ?
Em JayWe’ve lost the most genuine, beautiful person. I still can’t believe you’re not here with us. Rest in peace Russ.
Pennie MartinStrength to you and your colleagues Em. Thinking of you xx
Carl ChristensenRIP brother, a beautiful man who now sits on the right hand of God watching over his family and friends.
Karina RichardsUncle Russ – what a legend! You always made me feel soo welcome & loved when I could make it up for a visit. Little words like Chum or kiddo I will always remember as words from you. I loved listening to that distinctive loud belly laugh too!! Soo many fond memories. Thoughts and prayers at this sad time. RIP Xx
Tammie WalterI am so sorry to see this tonight, my love, prayers and condolences to you Kath and to all the family. Yes Russell is a true gentleman, may the many memories and years you have shared together sustain you and give you strength as you journey through this sad time, RIP Russell. Tammy (McKenzie)
Neale StephensSquad 108 (Retreads) salute you mate. You were the Queenslander glue that held the rest of us together for those three months at Oxley. You’ll never be forgotten…
Krystal RalphOur deepest condolences to the beautiful Sheehan family. Have lots of fond memories from when they lived in Childers and our pony club days. Russell is a lovely man who will be missed by so many. Love and hugs to the family from Josh and Krystal Ralph xox
Amanda FinlayRIP Russell. Nearly 14 years ago I met you as a first year on rotation. The conversation centred mainly around the love you had of all your girls..wife and daughters. Such a sweet sincere knowledgable helpful gentleman in the coming years on every occa…See More
Melissa CraigOur sincere and deepest sympathy to Kathy, Amy, Kaitlin, Lara & Eden at this very difficult time. You are all in our thoughts. Russell was one of a kind, such a great bloke. Our thoughts are also with his other family, the Queensland Police Service. He will never be forgotten.
Kevin OngheenMy sincerest condolences to Kathy and kids; Russell was without doubt the most decent and sincere of police officers whom I’ve had the pleasure to work with. I will always remember him from Theodore as an absolute gentleman.
Daniel GaskinRIP Russ. You were a family friend, great loving dad to the 4 girls and a great genuine bloke people like you and the positive impacts you had on others lifes will never be forgotten.
Dan CollinsNo words can express the sadness and loss for a true gentleman. It was an honor to know you Russ. Rest in peace mate.
Megan ClarkRest easy Russ, not only my colleague but my family in blue. Words cannot express the loss we all feel. You were an amazing man, always smiling and willing to stop for a chat in the hallway. Sadly missed but never forgotten mate. RIP
Janelle AndersonRest easy mate. You may be gone from our site…but you will never be gone from our hearts. You have touched more lives than you will ever know I am sure and you will be missed by many. And to Kath and her lovely family our hearts and thoughts are with you all.
Tanya LuiseAbsolutely one of the nicest guys always had time for every member of the QPS…whether generals or plain clothes did not matter….and he always smiled will be sadly missed
Garrick StupplesReally hard to believe, What a good looking young fellow & an exceptional man in so many ways. Goodbye mate, Rest in peace
PM CarloWe love you Russ. Your kind heart, peaceful manner and ability to treat people with respect with a voice of ease and reason. A true gentleman from childhood and man who loved his family beyond this earth…..Rest easy xxx
Mel CampbellRest now Russell. My love to his family and friends from a sister in blue
Stephen PataDeepest sympathies to Russ’ family and Sunshine Coast CIB.
Siobhan MitchellVery shocked to hear this. RIP Russell. Deepest sympathy and all our prayers go out to the whole family.
Law ZeeRIP Russ…. A genuine gentleman and outstanding officer. Gone, but will never be forgotten!
Suzanne WarnerDeepest condolences to all who knew and loved Russell.
Milinda Marshall
RIP Detective Sheehan. Thank you for your service to our country. Thoughts go to your friends, family and colleagues. Thankyou
Kirrily HendersMy thoughts go to Kathy and her family, big hugs xxx
Ian HargraveThis is so sad. I knew Russell when he worked at Childers. Such a nice guy. My sympathy to his wife and family. RIP Russell.
Sue UebergangI knew Russell from school, one of the loveliest guys out there. So very sad xx
Janelle AndrewsRest in Peace – you served well and your shift is over. Thoughts to all Russell’s family, friends, colleagues, community…such a loss…
Evets KramStrength and compassion to both his family and workmates.
Sheree MitchellThe saddest news imaginable, I can’t believe it. Just the loveliest family man. My thoughts are with you Kath, Amy, Kaitlin, Lara & Eden. I cannot imagine the pain you are all in, words can’t express how sorry I am for your loss. Sending all my strength to you at this time. Russ, I pray you have found peace. Xx
Helen WelfareLove and Prayers to his family friends and colleagues ?
Martin LambertOur sincerest condolences and heartfelt thoughts to the Sheehan family, friends, and colleagues. RIP Russell
Jock GardnerMuch love to Russell Family we have fond memories from the Childers days .Stay strong we are all thinking of you xx
Craig BellchambersRIP brother in blue. You have done the hard yards and can now rest easy. Thoughts and condolences to family in this difficult time.
Rusty JHRest in peace brother. A true gentleman who will be sorely missed.
Mark Stephen PhtevenRIP… Words can not express the loss. Our Thoughts and condolences to ur wonderful family and ur
brothers and sisters in blue.
Jen LouiseRest in Peace Russell. You were one of the world’s true gentlemen. What a sad loss.
Beth JoyOur thoughts go out to Kath and the Sheehan family.
Shaz LGThoughts are with the family and also the QPS family.
Michelle FowlerOne of the kindest, respectful police officer I have had the pleasure of working with. RIP Rus. My love and condolences to your family and QPS family
Annie RoseVale Russell. So much love being sent to your family right now.
Ian WellsStill cant believe it Rusty. You were one of life’s true gentleman. At phase you always laughed at my jokes no matter how pathetic they were. Vale.
Elaine PatersonOur thoughts and prayers to Kath and the girls.
Micheal JeffsRIP Russell our deepest condolences to the Sheehan Families .
Dean AndersonOur sincere and heartfelt thoughts go out to the Sheehan families, and friends, and colleagues. Such devastating news. RIP Russell x
Glenda BrassingtonOur condolences to Kath & family. Our thoughts are with you. The Brassington from Childers
Iris May Vanden BergSo very sad.
Sincere condolences to all who knew and loved him. He will be sorely missed..RIP
Brooke StirtonRIP Russ; I will miss walking into the office, seeing your smile and hearing you say “hey kiddo”
Leonie BrewerRuss will always be remembered for calling people kiddo!!
Peter HillSo sorry to hear this sad news. Russell was a lovely man and freind
Brett CarterMy thoughts and prayers are with Russell’s family and friends.
Kris ZwartThinking of you Kath & family.
(Kristine Slatter)
Sue CannonDeepest sympathy for a wonderful family.
Danny HughesSo so sorry to see this, he was just a really nice bloke RIP
Eloise JaneA beautiful man. Kind to everyone regardless of age, gender, rank, uniform/plain clothes. If only we had realised the extent of his struggle.
Joey AngelI just pray he found peace & that his family find comfort in those cherished memories ox
William DrabditzDoesn’t matter where you are in this world,we are all blue,we grieve wherever you are
Bec BaileyThoughts and prayers to the Officers family, friends and work colleagues. May his spirit fly free and peace be with him ?
Yvonne HorneRIP Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan
Russell GarrardThe officers I wish they introduced me to while I was on the coast…
Elizabeth Jenarah Anne, words just don’t cut at times like this. Thank you fir your service to humanity and your love for your beautiful family .
Robert MurphyTotally agree with previous comments. Just a good guy who never had a bad word about any person. Russell you will be missed. RIP mate.
Krusty EvansMay you find comfort from friends and family surrounding you. I am terribly sorry for the loss of this man. We are working hard to recognize officers’ deaths and the circumstances they may find themselves in through www.Code9Project.org
In faith and service, your family is in our prayers from Canada.
Kirsti Haaka
A TWO-week police hunt for a 30-year-old man ended when he was found enjoying a beer in Maroochydore.
The Maroochydore man has been charged with 37 offences, including 10 counts of stealing, six counts of break and enter and three counts of resisting arrest.
Police found him drinking a beer at a hotel yesterday.
Police allege the man committed offences which date back to November.
The 30-year-old man has also been charged with fraud, evading police and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.
Police say the alleged offender stole a black Nissan utility and drove it around various locations on the Sunshine Coast where he committed offences.
Sunshine Coast property crime squad Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan said the arrest ended a two-week police hunt.
Snr Const Sheehan urged residents to contact police if they witness any suspicious activity.
The accused man was held in custody.
He will appear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court today.
About 11 a.m. Sunday 12 October 1902 Constable Johnston was off duty at his home at Elwood. He responded to a complaint that a man had tried to abduct a neighbour’s 8 year old daughter. Johnston immediately set off in pursuit and located the man in Milton Street Elwood. The suspect George Shaw had a lengthy criminal record. Unbeknown to Johnston Shaw was also the prime suspect for the murder of Constable Guilfoyle in Redfern New South Wales some months previously. When Johnston approached him Shaw produced a revolver and fired. Fatally wounded Johnston died within minutes. Shaw committed suicide at the intersection of Chapel Street and Rosamond Street a short time later.
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About 11am on 12 October, 1902 Constable Richard Johnston was off duty at his home at Elwood (Victoria) when a neighbour informed him that a man had attempted to abduct her eight year-old daughter. The constable quickly set off on his bicycle after the suspect and located him a short distance away. When the suspect saw the approaching policeman the offender drew a revolver and shot Constable Johnston, inflicting fatal wounds. The offender then left the scene, only to commit suicide a short time later when confronted by other police.
It was later found that the man who had murdered Constable Johnson was the same offender (Shaw) who had murdered Constable Guilfoyle at Redfern (NSW) three months earlier.
Constable Guilfoyle was shot by an offender named Shaw at Redfern whilst attempting to arrest him and another man for passing counterfeit coins. Following an incident involving a storekeeper, Constable Guilfoyle had sought the assistance of an off-duty member, Constable Michael Maher, and after checking several shops the offenders had been in they located them in Shepherd Street. As the two constables approached the offenders, one produced a revolver and shot Constable Maher three times. Shaw then also produced a pistol and shot Constable Guilfoyle twice. Constable Maher later recovered, however Constable Guilfoyle’s wounds proved to be fatal. Shaw then made good his escape, making his way to Victoria.
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A MURDERED CONSTABLE.
THE JOHNSTON MEMORIAL. “PAMPERED CRIMINALS” AND PENAL REFORM.
At the St. Kilda Cemetery on Sunday afternoon the Chief Commissioner of Police (Mr O’Callaghan) performed the ceremony of unveiling a marble monument erected by members of the police force over the grave of Constable Richard Johnston, who on 12th October last was shot dead by a notorious criminal named Shaw. The mayor of St. Kilda (Cr O’Donnell) presided, and amongst those present were Mr. McCutcheon, M.L.A. ; Inspector Hillard (officer in ohargd of the district), Inspector Crampton, Sergeant Davidson, the widow, with her children and her mother, many members of the force and a large gathering of the public.
Mr O’Callaghan retold the story of Constable Johnston’s death. On Sunday morning, when off duty, he was told that a ruffian had just been tampering with a child. He mounted his bicycle, and rode after the man who, when overtaken, turned and shot him through the heart. Remaining erect on his machine he rode nearly 100 yards, then his muscles relaxed, and he dropped dead. No more tragic occurrence saddened the records of the Victorian police force. Constable Johnston had upheld the best traditions of the force and taught a lesson that every member should lay to his heart. The event gave rise to the question why the State should go on feeding and pampering human tigers like the murderer of Constable Johnston, and letting them free again to prey upon the public. Why had a penal system been tolerated for so many years, under which such brutes, instead of being kept in confinement, were allowed to march at large to the detriment of all respectable people? In 1881 he had arrested the murderer of Constable Johnston. He was then known as a man who would “shoot at sight,” and though taken by surprise, had found time to grasp a pistol. A few years later he was set at large in the community. It was high time the public raised a protest against the liberation of such blood thirsty brutes. Drastic legislation should be introduced, and introduced quickly, to amend our penal system. Through the action of a generous public and a just Government the widow and children have had their material wants provided for.
Mr McCutcheon said he quite agreed with the remarks that had been made as to the manner in which criminals were pampered by the State. It was time some change was made in the law. The Government permitted criminals to multiply, and placed them in comfortable buildings, where they were well fed and well kept, and lacked only the company of their former friends to make them happy. He considered that every member of the force in both town and country should be armed with a revolver.
Inspector Hillard said that as far as he had been able to ascertain not a single instance could be recalled in which a member of the Victorian police force had played the part of a coward.
Several hymns, including one specially written for the occasion, were sung before and after the ceremony. – “Age”
Geelong Advertiser ( Vic. ) Tuesday 24 March 1903 page 4 of 4
Victoria Police is reeling after a police officer took her own life at a station in Melbourne’s south.
The leading senior constable died at the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre about 3pm on Monday.
Victoria Police spokesman Leading Senior Constable Adam West would not confirm a report that she shot herself with her service weapon. He said there were no suspicious circumstances regarding the incident.
“As this incident is before the coroner, it would be inappropriate for us to say any further,” he said.
The leading senior constable’s death is the latest in a series of police suicides, with the coroner already investigating four deaths in recent years. More than 40 Victoria Police officers have reportedly committed suicide since 1990.
The latest comes after Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton last month ordered a comprehensive investigation into how to improve the mental health of officers.
According to the Victorian Department of Human Services, Seaford is one of the four centres across the state which provides support and services for adults and children who have experienced sexual assault.
Police Association secretary Ron Iddles told radio station 3AW that, on top of everyday pressures, officers had to deal with confronting work issues.
“One in five of the general community will suffer depression, and if you overlay police work, which has got relatively harder and more stressing over the last couple of years . . . the statistics are in excess of 200 members in the last 12 months are going off sick with mental illness.”
For help or information on mental health issues call Lifeline 131 114
Force to review police suicides after death of Victorian officer
Victoria Police will review police suicides around Australia after an officer used her gun to take her own life at work.
The incident occurred at 3:00pm on Monday at the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre, a facility providing support for victims of sexual assault in Melbourne’s south-east.
Officers at the centre have been offered counselling, Police Association secretary Ron Iddles said.
“Any incident like this that takes place likes this amongst work colleagues is very traumatic for them,” he said.
“Those also who are suffering, might be depression or anxiety, need to reach out to your friends and get professional help.”
It is believed four officers took their lives last year.
Mr Iddles said the force was looking at ways to try to prevent any more deaths.
“I know it’s of concern to the current Chief Commissioner and he’s going to do a review of police suicides around Australia,” he said.
“Then [we’ll] see if we can do something to develop a strategy that will hopefully prevent it.”
An investigation will look at the circumstances surrounding the death of the leading senior constable.
Professor Sam Harvey from the Black Dog Institute said the death was a reminder of the mental health consequences of emergency service work.
“With the police I guess there’s a particular problem, while a lot of them are having mental health problems, they’re also carrying a weapon around,” he told 774 ABC Melbourne.
“This is thankfully still a relatively rare end point.”
About one in 10 emergency services workers show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Prof Harvey said.
He said that meant there were lessons to be learnt from the 90 per cent of workers in the field who are more resilient to mental health issues.
“So we’re trying to learn from that and trying to test whether we can train all new emergency workers to learn new resilience techniques,” Professor Harvey said.
A POLICE officer used her service-issue weapon to take her life yesterday, sparking Victoria Police to consider a review of suicide in the force.
Police confirmed the death of a female leading senior constable, believed to be a mother, at the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre. It is understood she died about 3pm.
“There are no suspicious circumstances,” a spokeswoman said last night.
Staff at the centre handle some of the state’s toughest crimes, including domestic violence, sex abuse and child abuse cases.
Police Association Secretary Ron Iddles told the Herald Sun he understood the woman used a firearm to end her life.
Sen-Sgt Iddles said police officers faced traumatic jobs.
“One in five of the general community will suffer depression, and if you overlay police work, which has got relatively harder and more stressing over the last couple of years, the statistics are in excess of 200 members in the last 12 months are going off sick with mental illness,” he told 3AW.
Mr Iddles said Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton was considering a review of police suicides in a bid to prevent the deaths.
“He will undertake a review of police suicides around Australia and come up with a strategy to deal with it,” Mr Iddles said.
“He will, as I understand, undertake a review of police suicides around Australia and come up with a strategy to deal with it.
“Policing is a very tough job. We have more police officers now than probably ever before suffering from depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress.
“Over the last two or three years, there is a whole range of factors — dealing with family violence every day, dealing with ice every day — that can create secondary trauma.
“It is about being aware — if you are struggling, accept that, put your hand up and say you need help.”
Last year the coroner investigated the death of four members who had taken their own lives.
Another officer died in June when he turned his gun on himself at a north eastern suburbs primary school.
Police Minister Wade Noonan last night said: “Our thoughts are with the officer’s family, friends and colleagues at this time.”
Shocked colleagues remembered the officer as a “beautiful lady, friend and devoted mother”.
“Rest in peace angel in blue,” one online tribute said.
It is understood the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre was partially closed last night while investigations began.
Beyondblue is completing a “major” review of how Australian emergency services, including Victoria Police, support their members with mental health issues.
Chairman Jeff Kennett said last night that police officers taking their own lives was “all too frequent”.
“Beyondblue has recognised for some time that we are having some severe challenges among our first responders — the police, SES, ambos, fireys and those coming back from overseas service,” he said.
“We want to develop a service for all first responders that will help to change the culture of those organisations to enable people suffering from depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress to seek help without fearing for their careers or that they have failed.”
Victoria Police said staff at Seaford would be supported while the incident was investigated by the homicide squad.
Mr Kennett said emergency service officers needed ongoing counselling and support “after every (traumatising) incident”.
The woman’s family has been notified.
IF YOU or someone you know may be at risk of suicide or self harm, contact Lifeline (13 11 14) or BeyondBlue (1300 22 46 36)
Victorian police officer’s suicide casts spotlight on mental health toll in force
The suicide of a Victorian policewoman has highlighted the heavy toll emergency services work takes on officers and prompted calls for better suicide prevention measures.
The senior constable took her own life while on duty at a centre which helps victims of sexual assault in Melbourne’s south-east, on Monday.
She was a mother in her mid-30s and had been a policewoman for more than 12 years.
Her colleagues have been offered counselling, Police Association secretary Ron Iddles said.
“I think it’s always sad when we actually lose a member, but when a member takes their own life I think it’s far, far more tragic,” he said.
Mr Iddles said 220 police officers had taken sick leave for psychological problems like depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress in the last year.
A Police Association survey of 3,500 members found 77 per cent had trouble sleeping because of their work, and 8 per cent had been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder over the past three years.
Mr Iddles said the policewoman’s death demonstrated the importance of cultural change, so people could seek help without fearing the consequences.
“I think in the past there has been a stigma in relation to putting your hand up and saying, ‘I’m not coping’, for fear that you might lose your job,” he said.
Four police suicides in recent years prompted Victoria Police to launched a nationwide review.
It is also working on a smartphone app to help officers suffering from mental illness.
Police suicide ‘relatively rare end point’
An investigation will look at the circumstances surrounding the death of the leading senior constable.
Professor Sam Harvey from the Black Dog Institute said the death was a reminder of the mental health consequences of emergency service work.
“With the police I guess there’s a particular problem, while a lot of them are having mental health problems, they’re also carrying a weapon around,” he told 774 ABC Melbourne.
“This is thankfully still a relatively rare end point.”
About one in 10 emergency services workers show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Professor Harvey said.
He said that meant there were lessons to be learnt from the 90 per cent of workers in the field who are more resilient to mental health issues.
“So we’re trying to learn from that and trying to test whether we can train all new emergency workers to learn new resilience techniques,” Professor Harvey said.
Victoria’s Mental Health Minister Martin Foley said the State Government would work closely with police to examine how the mental health of officers could be improved.
“We look forward to working with police command about understanding what it is that drives our frontline emergency services workers to take such a sad step,” he said.
CARROLL. Simone Maree. Leading Senior Constable Victoria Police
25.4.1979 – 12.10.2015
Treasured and devoted mother of 3 wonderful boys; Luke, Max and Ned.
Adored daughter of Jan and the late Peter Twining.
Loving sister of Ingrid, Angela, Peter (dec. ), Rita and Will.
Loved stepdaughter of John.
Simone will always be Loved and Honoured May she enjoy Everlasting Peace
CARROLL. Simone.
Leading Senior Constable 33923
Acting Superintendent Drew Morgan, Officers and employees of the Southern Metro Region Division 4 sincerely regret the tragic passing of our friend and colleague; we stand together to offer our deepest sympathy to her family and friends.
Station Command, Sergeants and all Members at Frankston Police Station mourn the tragic loss of our workmate and friend. Our sincerest sympathy is extended to Simone’s family and friends.
The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Senior Constable Carroll and extend their deepest sympathy to her family. At Rest
Members of the Frankston SOCIT and Frankston SOR are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our friend and colleague. You will always be in our hearts and never forgotten
The Assistant Commissioner and Staff of Crime Command express their heartfelt condolences to Simone’s family, friends and colleagues on her tragic passing.
Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill, Commander Dean Stevenson, Officers and employees of the Southern Metro Region sincerely regret the untimely and tragic passing of our colleague and offer our deepest sympathy to her family and friends.
The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force regret the sudden passing of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to her family.
Fiancee of bullied police officer who took his own life sues the state
PETER MICKEL BUROUGH, Herald Sun
EXCLUSIVE: THE fiancée of a bullied police officer who shot himself with his service firearm is suing the state.
Sarah Fleming, 32, says that prior to his suicide, her fiance, Robert John Smith, was in “emotional turmoil” and had made a complaint of workplace bullying, harassment and other stressors.
Ms Fleming says Mr Smith’s decision to take his life was due to the negligence of the force, which was responsible for the training and action of its employees.
Mr Smith died of a gunshot wound to the head while on duty at the Boronia Police station on June 29, 2013.
In a writ filed in the County Court Ms Fleming claims unspecified damages for the injuries she suffered as a result of Mr Smith’s death.
Since 2000, five Victoria Police officers have died in the line of duty, but 16 more have died by their own hand.
Last October, a policewoman ( Simone CARROLL ) and mother of three, who had previously been on mental health leave and had reported her struggles to Victoria Police, turned her police-issued gun on herself while she was on duty at the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre.
That suicide prompted Police Association boss Ron Iddles — who had previously criticised the force’s efforts to tackle bullying — to call for more to be done to improve welfare of police.
Mr Iddles called for early identification programs in police training programs and at the workplace and for more police to talk about problems and show their colleagues help is available.
The association declined to comment yesterday on what progress was being made or whether there needed to be, or had been, a review of the provision of weapons to officers who have lodged mental health claims.
Ms Fleming’s legal action comes as police and ambulance unions campaign to change how mental health claims are treated, and in the case of post-traumatic stress disorder claims, reverse the onus on emergency workers to prove their condition was caused by work, which can sometimes delay much-needed treatment for years.
Between July 2010 and June last year, WorkCover accepted 482 mental injury claims from Victoria Police (and rejected 500), including 241 resulting from harassment and bullying, 252 for work pressure, 167 sparked by traumatic events and 54 due to occupational violence.
And police were hit harder by bullying than stress and trauma, according to members’ claims in 2014-15.
A National Coronial Information System report on Intentional self-harm among emergency service personnel last year revealed that of the 62 police suicides in Australia between July 1, 2000, and December 2012, 25 shot themselves — 23 with their service-issued firearm.
A Victorian Coroners Prevention Unit report into suicide rates among workers in key professions last year found the annual suicide rate among Victoria police was 10 per 100,000.
Police spokeswoman Sophie Jennings said in the past year the force had improved its complaints handling and completely reformed the way it responds to conflict, claims of bullying and harassment.
DO YOU NEED HELP? If this article causes you distress or if you require more information, police employees can call Welfare Services confidentially 24 hours 7 days a week on 9247 3344, and other members of the community can call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyondblue 1300 224 636
Weekly Times ( Melbourne, Vic. ) Saturday 27 June 1914 page 33 of 56
CLUE TO SUICIDE CONSTABLE’S WORRY
” All of a’work with the nerves, ” as a comrade phrased it, as the result of the escape of a prisoner under his charge, Constable J. Gillanders, St. Kilda watchhousekeeper, shot himself in the head at the inquest which was held on June 20 at the Alfred Hospital.
Mr T. Allen, J.P., returned a finding that Gillanders died from a gunshot wound in the head, self-inflicted.
“In my opinion,” he added, “it was caused through mental worry. There is no evidence to show the state of Gillanders’ mind at the time.”
Sergeant D. Kennedy stated that at 4 p.m. on June 18 Constable Gillanders reported to him that a prisoner named Arthur Waghorn had escaped from the lock-up. The prisoner was re-arrested shortly afterwards. On the same evening witness requested Constable Gillanders to furnish a report regarding the escape.
At 8.45a.m. next day Gillanders did not report for duty, and witness sent Senior-constable Hore to ascertain why he was absent. Hore subsequently informed him that Gillanders complained of nervous prostration, and that he would probably come on duty later in the day.
At about 2 p.m. that day witness requested Constable Matthews to inform Gillanders that he would have to go to the depot hospital, as he had not furnished a medical certificate. Matthews returned, and said Gillanders was not prepared to go to the hospital just then. Gillanders decided to go to the hospital at about 3.30 p.m.
Sergeant Kennedy, continuing, said that when he entered his office on June 19 he found the resignation of Gillanders on the table. He did not know who put it there.
It was also reported that his daughter saw him with the revolver but before she could run to him, he put the weapon to his temple and fired, dying tow hours later in Alfred Hospital.
‘ A Fuss about Russ ‘September 2018
