About 8am on 2 July, 1881 the constable was on foot patrol in Clarence Street, Sydney when he endeavoured to stop a runaway horse and cart near Broughton-lane. As he did so he slipped and fell under the cart and its wheel passed over his head. He died on the way to the Sydney Infirmary a short time later. The runaway horse proceeded into Druitt-street, where he was stopped.
Hawkins joined the police force about two months since. He was the son of Mr. Hawkins, postmaster at Dural.
The Manaro Mercury and Cooma and Bombala Advertiser of 9 July, 1881 reported on the death of the constable.
“A POLICEMAN KILLED.
An inquest was held on Saturday, at the Coroner’s Court, with respect to the death of a policeman named James Hawkins, who was killed in endeavouring to stop a runaway horse in Clarence-street, Sydney.
Rebecca Cross deposed that deceased was her nephew and a native of Pennant Hills. He lodged with her at 401, Pitt-street. He was 21 years of age and a single man, and had entered the force on the 5th May last, and was sent on day duty that morning for the first time, having previously been employed on night duty.
John Downer deposed that he resided at 128, Harris-street, and he was a carter. He was in charge of a horse and cart on Saturday morning about 8 o’clock, and was going along Kent-street, when his horse shied and commenced kicking, and he fell off the cart, and was dragged a short distance by the reins. He got clear of them and the horse then bolted and ran down Clarence-street, and Hawkins, who was on duty there, ran up and endeavoured to stop it, but in doing so he fell and the wheel of the cart passed over his head. The accident was witnessed by Wm. Salway, of Market-street and Wm. Henry Thompson, of Goulburn-street, who gave evidence.
Hawkins was placed in a cart, and conveyed to the infirmary, but died before he arrived there.
Dr. Williamson deposed that the bones of the right side of the head and face of deceased were broken, and there was compound depressed fracture of the skull.
The constable was born in 1860 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 9 May, 1881. He was stationed at Central Police Station, Sydney. He is not listed in the official New South Wales Police Honour Roll.
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The Sydney Morning Herald Monday 4 July 1881 p 7
An inquest was held on Saturday morning by the City Coroner, at his chambers, with reference to the death of constable James Hawkins, who died that morning from injuries which he had received whilst in the discharge of his duty. Deceased was 21 years of age, and a native of Pennant Hills, New South Wales, and was unmarried.
He joined the police force on May 5th last, since when he had always been employed on night duty. On Saturday he was employed on day duty.
He resided at a boarding-house, No. 401, Pitt-street, kept by his aunt, Mrs. Rebecca Cross.
John Downer, a young man, residing at No. 128, Harris-street. deposed that he was a carter, in the employment of Mr. Read, of Crown Road, Ultimo.
Shortly after 8 o’clock on Saturday morning, witness was in charge of a horse and tip-cart, and proceeding along Kent-street in a southerly direction. A waggon, drawn by two horses, passed witness, when his horse shied, and carried the cart on to the footpath. Witness managed to get his horse and vehicle off the footpath, and as the wheels passed over the curb, he fell on to one of the shafts. As witness endeavoured to recover his seat, one of his legs touched the horse which commenced kicking, and threw him off the cart. He was dragged a short distance by the reins, but then got free.
The horse with the dray went on.
William Salway deposed to seeing the horse gallop along Kent-street, then into Market-street, and afterwards into Clarence-street. When it arrived near Broughton-lane, constable Hawkins rushed out towards the animal, and after running alongside of it for about ten yards, he endeavoured to seize the reins, but fell, and one of the wheels immediately afterwards passed over his head. The cart was then tipped up.
Hawkins died at once. His body was conveyed to the Infirmary. Dr. Williamson deposed that death arose from a compound depressed fracture of the skull.
Kiama Independent & Shoalhaven Advertiser ( NSW ) Friday 8 July 1881 P 2
FATAL ACCIDENT,
A shocking accident happened early on Saturday morning in Clarence-street, which caused the death of a police constable named James Hawkins.
At about eight o’clock that morning a man named Downer was driving an empty tip-dray along Kent-street.
He was going along at a walk, when he was overtaken by a waggon and two horses, the noise of which startled his mare, and caused her to bolt.
Downer was thrown out, and getting entangled with the reins was dragged a few yards.
The frightened animal then galloped off with the dray into Clarence street.
Constable Hawkins, who happened to be there on duty, ran after and attempted to stop the runaway horse, and succeeded in clutching the reins, when his foot slipped. He fell forward on his face in the road, and in a moment afterwards, the wheel of the vehicle passed over his head, killing him on the spot. The accident was witnessed by several persons, who ran to help the poor fellow, but it was seen that he was past all aid, his skull being crushed in on one side.
The deceased was conveyed to the Infirmary, and two hours later an inquest was held on the remains by the City Coroner and a jury, who found a verdict of accidental death.
Hawkins was a promising young man, who had only very recently joined the police force, and it so happened that the day he thus met his death was the first time he had been sent out on day duty.
On 24th May, 1880 Constable Thomson was on duty at the Binnaway Racecourse when his horse ran him into a tree, causing severe head injuries. He passed away about four weeks after the accident.
The Australian Town and Country Journal of 10 July, 1880 reported that “David Peter Thomson, who was first class constable in the mounted police, breathed his last at Coonabarabran last week, after a month of severe and trying illness, says the Mudgee INDEPENDENT, June 30. Constable Thompson met with a terrible accident on the Binnaway racecourse on Queen’s Birthday, his horse dashing him against a tree, and partially fracturing his skull. Deceased’s brother, Mr. John Thompson, railway stationmaster at Parramatta, was in constant attendance upon the sufferer during the last fortnight of his illness. The funeral was very largely attended, the Grand United Order of Oddfellows walking in procession.”
The constable was born in 1846 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 10 January, 1873. At the time of his death he was stationed at Coonabarabran. He is not listed in the official New South Wales Police Honour Roll.
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NSW State Records:
Service No.: 2237 David THOMSON DOB: 1846, Native of NSW. Reel 3043, Item [ 8/ 3251 ]
The Sydney Mail & NSW Advertiser Saturday 10 July 1880 p 53
DEATHS
THOMSON. — June 20, at Courthouse, Coonabarabran, mounted constable David Peter Thomson, from fractured skull, received by being run against the limb of a tree whilst on duty at Binnaway 24th May last, aged 32 rears.
NSW Government Gazette ( Sydney ) Tuesday 20 July 1880 P3790
In the Supreme Court of New South Wales.
ECCLESIASTICAL JURISDICTION.
In the goods of David Peter Thomson, late of Coonabarabran, in the Colony of New South Wales, mounted constable, deceased.
NOTICE is hereby given, that at the expiration of fourteen days from the publication of this notice, application will be made to the Supreme Court of New South Wales, for letters of administration of the goods, chattels, credits, estate, and effects of the abovenamed deceased to be granted to John Robertson Thomson, of Parramatta, in the said Colony, railway station master, a brother and next of kin of the said deceased. — Dated this 19th day of July, a.d. 1880.
Front Inscription In memory of Constable Angela Rose Taylor 24274, aged 21 years, City Watch-house, who died on 20th April 1986, as a result of injuries received when a car bomb exploded outside the Russell Street Police Complex on the 27th March, 1986.
The 1986 Russell Street bombing which tragically killed Constable Angela Rose Taylor and seriously injured 21 others.
The explosion was caused by a car bomb hidden in a stolen 1979 Holden Commodore, parked deliberately on the busy city street.
Twenty-one-year-old Const Taylor was crossing the road on a staff lunch run and only a metre away from the car bomb when it exploded. She died in hospital a month later. Const Taylor was the first policewoman to die in the line of duty.
This was Victoria’s first encounter with terrorism. Three men were convicted and two sentenced to life imprisonment.
May you forever Rest In Peace.
On March 27 1986, shortly before midday, Constable Taylor left the Russell Street Police Complex to collect lunches for her colleagues. As she stepped on to Russell Street, she passed within 1 metre of a car packed with gelignite. At this time, the gelignite was detonated and the car exploded, showering the area with shrapnel. Angela suffered severe burns to 70% of her body and was hospitalised as a result. However, she died on 20 April 1986.
Stanley Taylor and Craig Minogue were convicted and imprisoned over the bombing which was motivated by an intense hatred of police.
Victoria Police Association Journal March 2006 p 10 & 11
It is 20 years since a car bomb exploded outside the Russell Street Police Complex – two decades since Constable Angela Taylor was mortally wounded as she crossed over Russell Street from the City Watchhouse. The Police Association Journal editor Shirley Hardy-Rix spoke to Angela’s parents, Marilyn and Arthur Taylor to mark the anniversary of Angela’s death.
Arthur & Marilyn Taylor
“It can seem like yesterday or it can seem like 20 years. But missing Angie is still as strong today as it was then; it’s just not accompanied with the pain.”
These are the words of a mother talking about a loved daughter 20 years after the criminal act that shocked the country and changed the Taylor family forever. Marilyn and Arthur Taylor admit that not a day goes by when they don’t think of their only daughter “not in a morbid way but in a joyful way”.
“We’ve made it a pleasant experience. Ange was always so full of joy and life it would be wrong of us to have a negative attitude. She has left us with so many lovely, lovely memories. It was so lovely to have had her for those 21 years – I’ve got to be glad about that,” says Marilyn.
“Something will trigger a memory and you think of some of the things that Angela did,” adds Arthur. “She fitted so much into those 21 years. She didn’t leave any gaping holes, she filled them all in.”
Sitting in their comfortable suburban home , Marilyn and Arthur remember their Ange, the protector of her brothers Michael and Byron. Arthur is usually a man of few words but when it comes to talking about his daughter the stories flow.
“From an early age she had a sense of what was right and what was wrong,” recalls Arthur. “When Mike was young he was knock-kneed and wore leg callipers. One day some of the boys pushed him over and started to laugh because he couldn’t get up. Angela was about four. She went inside and got the broom and chased them up the street, laying into them. When I asked her why she did that, Angie said what they did wasn’t right. It wasn’t fair. From an early age she had a sense of fair play and right and wrong.”
Marilyn remembers the good student who was a keen participant in school plays, was on the school debating team and the school council. But Angela left school at the end of Year 10 which was a disappointment to her parents. Then when the family moved to Melbourne from Canberra in 1982 Angela decided she wanted to join the police force. She didn’t want to join in Canberra because she didn’t want to spend her life guarding parliament house.
Angela wanted to do police work. Her determination saw her finish years 11 and 12 in one year. Angela Taylor went on to be the dux of her squad at the Police Academy in November 1984.
“That made me very proud. Her graduation day was the part in my life when I was at the pinnacle, the top of the mountain. I’ve never been right up there since. I was so proud that she had helped others in her squad get through. She didn’t just do it for herself,” says Marilyn. She and Arthur were the proud parents on graduation day and happy participants in the celebrations that marked the beginning of what should have been a long and successful career.
In March 1986, Angela Taylor had just finished her probation and was working at the City Watchhouse. On March 27 – Easter Thursday – just on one o’clock, an explosion rocked Russell Street. A car bomb was detonated by a team of criminals. Angela was walking across Russell Street at that instant. Her injuries were horrendous and she would never recover. On April 20, after a long and courageous battle, Angela Taylor died.
“It is almost like we lost Angie twice. From the time of the bombing she never spoke to us again. Each of those dates is intermixed,” says Marilyn.
That day Marilyn Taylor was working at a small shop in South Melbourne. She heard on the radio that a bomb had exploded and a woman had been injured.
“I thought, ‘thank God it’s not my Ange’. I didn’t think of her as a woman, just as my Ange, my girl.”
When Marilyn Taylor walked down to the bank she saw a police car and just knew. It might have been a mother’s intuition. Marilyn wasn’t surprised to see the two police who came to tell her the news.
Arthur was also working that day and was later than usual getting home because he’d stopped to get some hot cross buns on the way. He was listening to the radio and heard the news that a policewoman was injured. He thought his daughter was safe because she was in the watchhouse.
“There was a car in the driveway and a couple of senior police. The penny dropped. I’m not a talkative person but I couldn’t shut up. I didn’t want to hear what they had to say so I just kept on talking. My worst fear was that she was dead – that’s what I didn’t want to hear.”
What followed was a rollercoaster. Marilyn and Arthur say they were carried on by events. They had no control. Their whole motivation was to be at the hospital. Each day they would get up and drive to the hospital. At the end of the day they would drive home and collapse into bed.
In 1986 Marilyn and Arthur weren’t offered any counselling to help cope with their grief. “I thought if I saw a counsellor they would make it better – make me better but that is not what it does.”
Since Angela’s death many of those who knew their daughter have drifted out of their lives. “It is such a painful thing for so many people. Even the ones who loved Angie sometimes find it difficult to talk to Arthur and me. And it is not that they don’t care about us, it is just too painful.”
The Police family haven’t forgotten Angela Taylor and this is a great comfort to her family. The Angela Taylor Memorial Foundation was established and the dux of every graduating squad receives the Angela Taylor Award.
These initiatives have all been part of the healing process.
Every year there is the Angela Taylor Fun Run. Marilyn and Arthur are always there to welcome the winners over the finish line and present trophies. It is an important day for them. Marilyn admits in the early years she only went along because she had to but now she wouldn’t miss it.
“At first I did it because I had to – now I do it because I want to and I don’t know when that page turned. Everyone who comes along – they are all special. It gives us a lot of pleasure.”
Marilyn and Arthur receive great comfort out of the services held on National Police Remembrance Day. It is a special day in their calendar. In recent years they have become close to the Senior Police Chaplain, Jim Pilmer.
“We love Jim. He’s a special man. He is one of God’s chosen. He is a genuine man who gives great comfort to those people in the greatest pain. I love his services and we love going along to the Remembrance Day evening service. I like to hear the list of names read out and pray with the families and then go to the little chapel for private prayer. It is a closure for the day.”
Today Marilyn and Arthur are doting grandparents and spend time with their five grand-daughters. Four of these girls bear Angela’s name – Brooke Angela, Laura Angela, Alyssa Rose and Alex Jasmine Rose.
“They give another dimension, but nothing fills the hole of Angie,” says Marilyn.
In their garden are three Angela Taylor roses. They would love to see the rose named in honour of their daughter at the Police Academy and in each police station garden across the state.
Marilyn & Arthur Taylor with the Angela Taylor Rose
The men responsible for the Russell Street Bombing were brought to justice. Marilyn and Arthur did attend the final day of the committal hearing at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court across the road from the scene of the bombing.
Marilyn refused to look at the faces of the men who killed her daughter. Arthur attended the sentencing at the conclusion of the Supreme Court trial. Marilyn couldn’t face it.
“That’s how we keep a positive attitude. We don’t want these people to have any other part of my life. They’ve taken away more than is almost possible to cope with. They are not going to get in because I am not going to hate them because that would be soul destroying for me and those I love,” says Marilyn.
“We’ve avoided getting angry. Sometimes it is very hard to avoid getting angry and hating. It is such a negative emotion it would take over our lives and that wasn’t going to happen,” adds Arthur.
Marilyn and Arthur Taylor are wonderful people. They are filled with love when they could be torn apart by hate. They look at all that has been done in their daughter’s memory and are filled with pride.
“We are very proud and very humbled by the legacy of having the unit at the Royal Melbourne Hospital dedicated to Angie and all the other memorials they have put up in her name. I know there are a lot of people who do a lot of work and put in a lot of time and effort into not letting Victorians forget these wonderful people who get up in the morning and put on the blue uniform because they love to do it.”
Just like its namesake, the Angela Taylor Rose is vibrant, feminine and distinctive.
Clusters of deep cream and pink buds unfurl slowly to reveal sweetly scented, creamy-white flowers with a distinctive pink edging and prominent golden-yellow stamens.
Named in honour of Constable Angela Rose Taylor, who died as a result of the 1986 Russell Street police complex bombing, this rose is available by special arrangement with rose breeder John Nieuwesteeg.
The distributor, Garden Express, donates $2 from each rose sold to the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation. The foundation perpetuates the memory of police killed in the line of duty through the support of community projects across the state.
Shortly after 1.00 pm Thursday, 27 March 1986, a massive explosion occurred near the southern entrance to the Russell Street Police Complex when a car bomb was detonated. As a result of this act three people were injured, damage was caused to the façade of the police building and the central business district was thrown into confusion for hours as emergency workers struggled to cope with the disaster. Later Forensic tests showed the bomb had consisted of 50 sticks of gelignite packed into a motor car and surrounded by small pieces of metal which were meant to act as “shrapnel”. The investigation into the setting of the bomb began at once and continued for months. During that time two of the injured – Magistrate Ian West and Constable Carl Donadio recovered from their wounds. However Constable Angela Taylor who had suffered extensive burns to her body died at the Royal Melbourne Hospital 20 April 1986.
The Russell Street Bombing refers to the 27 March 1986 bombing of the Russell Street Police Headquarters complex in Russell Street, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The explosion was caused by a car bomb hidden in a stolen 1979 Holden Commodore.
The blast seriously injured 21-year-old Constable Angela Taylor, who died on 20 April, becoming the first Australian policewoman to be killed in the line of duty. A further 22 people were injured. The explosion caused massive amounts of damage to the police HQ and surrounding buildings, estimated at more than A$1 million.
The Age newspaper reported that the blast had such an impact because of the open-floor design of the offices acted like a claymore mine, sending more shrapnel as the blast ripped through the floors, seemingly adding more pressure to the blast as it followed its path. The station has closed down and been converted into apartments.
In the course of the investigation, a group of people including Stan Taylor, Peter Reed, Craig Minogue and Rodney Minogue were apprehended. The motive for the bombing seems to have been revenge against the police, as the bombers had previously been arrested and still resented their jail terms. In court, Taylor, Reed and Craig Minogue were convicted; Rodney Minogue was eventually acquitted on appeal.
On 7 October 1985, gelignite and detonators were stolen from the Tryconnel Mine at Blackwood. On 25 March 1986, a Holden Commodore was stolen. Both crimes were later found to provide equipment needed for the construction of the bomb.
On 25 April 1986, ten Victoria Police officers raided the Kallista home of Peter Michael Reed at 5.45 am. It was alleged that upon attempting to enforce the arrest by forcing entry to the premises, Reed produced a .455 Smith and Wesson revolver and fired at police, seriously injuring Det Sgt Wylie. Reed was then fired upon by Det Sgt Quinsee and arrested. Reed was charged with attempted murder, recklessly causing serious injury, using a firearm to prevent apprehension and possessing explosives in suspicious circumstances in addition to charges related to the Russell Street bombing. Reed later stated at his trial in unsworn evidence that:
“the police started the shooting and I only used his firearm in self defence.”
On 30 May 1986, police arrested Stanley Brian Taylor during a 2 am raid on his Birchip home. Brothers Craig and Rodney Minogue were arrested in a Swan Hill motel at 5.15 am later that day.
The crown did not allege that any person played any particular role in the bombing, but that each of them were members of a team which planned the bombing and caused the bomb to explode. Evidence against the accused was as follows:
Gelignite and detonators used in the construction of the bomb were of the same type as those stolen from Tryconnel Mine.
Gelignite was found at Reed’s house wrapped in newspaper containing fingerprints belonging to Rodney Minogue.
Craig Minogue owned a pair of side cutters which produced cuts similar to those found on detonator wires.
A file with traces of brass deposits matched with brass deposits found at the bomb site.
a block of wood from which a wooden part of the bomb had been sawn was found at Craig Minogue’s premises.
tinned copper wire, similar to that used with detonators found at the bomb site, was found at Craig Minogue’s premises.
residue of gelignite matched residue found at a previous address of Craig Minogue in Lower Templestowe.
evidence from a witness that Craig Minogue called around Easter 1986, to ask about the use of detonators.
a witness testified that Craig Minogue was seen driving a 1979 Holden Commodore around the CBD prior to the explosion.
Published: 18:10 EST, 24 March 2016 | Updated: 19:26 EST, 24 March 2016
The young policewoman killed after a car bomb exploded in front of the force headquarters in Melbourne has been remembered 30 years after the tragedy – and awarded a service medal.
Constable Angela Rose Taylor, 21, died from her injuries 24 days after the bombing of Russell Street police headquarters on Easter Thursday, 27 March 1986.
She was the first policewoman to be murdered in the line of duty in Australia.
Her brother Michael Taylor paid tribute to the young officer at a memorial service on Thursday opposite the old Russell Street station, saying that she always had ‘a disdain for injustice’.
He recalled how as a three-year-old she fended off bullies by swinging a broom because they were teasing him over his leg calipers.
‘She had a strong belief we should all be treated equally,’ Mr Taylor said.
Constable Taylor was posthumously awarded the National Police Service Medal at the memorial which was attended by officers, family and friends wearing pink roses in her memory.
It was given to her parents Marilyn and Arthur by Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton on behalf of Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove.
Two men were convicted of the horrific crime which left Constable Taylor dead and 22 others injured.
One of the bombers, Craig Minogue, could soon apply for bail as his 28-year non-parole period comes to an end this year.
His co-accused, Stanley Brian Taylor, 59, was jailed for life with no minimum set.
An arrangement of pink roses was seen at the memorial service to honour the young policewoman
Constable Taylor was was posthumously awarded the National Police Service Medal and it was given to her parents Marilyn and Arthur by Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton
Former police member Carl Donadio ( centre )who was injured in the blast looks on during a memorial service to honour Constable Taylor
Mr Ashton said while any parole decision is up to the parole board, he hoped Minogue ‘stays behind bars’.
Minogue, who was almost illiterate at the time of his arrest has gone on to complete a bachelor of arts degree, and has also obtained his Masters and PHD behind bars.
He also runs a website, on which he apologises for his behaviour in 1986.
‘I understand the pain and suffering that I have caused. I am very sorry for the crimes of my past, and I regret those actions very much and wish that I had not done them,’ he wrote on the site.
‘Thirty years is a very long time in prison, I was 23 when I came in and I will be 53 when I am eligible for release.
‘I hope to be able to somehow pass on to others the value that I have found in education and learning during that time.
‘That contribution I can make depends to a large extent upon others, and whether or not I am going to be given a chance to make a positive contribution,’ he said.
Lawyer tearfully recalls Russell street bombing 30 years ago
Constable Taylor’s parents unveil a plaque in her honour in the RMIT Alumni Courtyard in Russell Street in Melbourne
A rose could be seen on a poster at the memorial service to honour Constable Angela Taylor
But Detective Inspector Bernie Rankin does not believe Minogue is reformed.
‘I am not convinced that he is the reformed Craig Minogue he is making himself out to be,’ he told 60 Minutes recently.
He went on to explain how Minogue murdered a man not long after being sent to prison for his part in the Russell Street bomb case.
‘Now if Craig Minogue is released tomorrow who’s to say it is not the old Craig Minogue who gets released.
‘What if you take his parking spot, you know, what if you bump into him in a bar?
‘He is trying to get parole and he is trying to demonstrate to a parole board he is no longer a risk,’ he said.
Mr Rankin held back tears when remembering the death of Ms Taylor three weeks after she was injured in the bomb blast.
He helped put out some of the fire on the 21-year-old officer’s clothes and hair.
‘She was thrown across street dreadfully burnt,’ he said.
‘She was a fine young woman that lost her life,’ he said choking back tears after remembering the day, April 20, he found out she had passed away in hospital.
The police officer remembers the bombers had ‘a strong desire to kill as many people and injure as many people as possible’ with their contraption.
In fact the blast could have been a lot worse, a police investigation at the time found not all of the explosives found set into the car went off as was planned because the detonator was used wrong.
At 15 seconds past one on Easter Thursday afternoon in 1986 Russell Street, Melbourne best resembled a warzone
One of the bombers, Craig Minogue (pictured both), could soon apply for bail as his 28-year non-parole period comes to an end this year
One of the bombers, Craig Minogue (pictured both), could soon apply for bail as his 28-year non-parole period comes to an end this year
‘He is trying to get parole and he is trying to demonstrate to a parole board he is no longer a risk,’ he said.
Mr Rankin held back tears when remembering the death of Ms Taylor three weeks after she was injured in the bomb blast.
He helped put out some of the fire on the 21-year-old officer’s clothes and hair.
‘She was thrown across street dreadfully burnt,’ he said.
‘She was a fine young woman that lost her life,’ he said choking back tears after remembering the day, April 20, he found out she had passed away in hospital.
The police officer remembers the bombers had ‘a strong desire to kill as many people and injure as many people as possible’ with their contraption.
In fact the blast could have been a lot worse, a police investigation at the time found not all of the explosives found set into the car went off as was planned because the detonator was used wrong.
Constable Taylor’s parents pose with an Infinity Rose which was presented to them by former police member Carl Donadio who was injured in the blast.
Man jailed thirty years ago for a Melbourne car bomb which killed a young policewoman is up for parole – but one officer who was there doesn’t think he’s reformed
Convicted killer Craig Minogue may be eligible for parole this year
Minogue was jailed for his part in the Russell Street bombing in 1986
A car bomb exploded near a police station killing a female officer
He also killed a fellow inmate once he was put behind bars
Published: 02:09 +11:00, 21 March 2016 | Updated: 07:43 +11:00, 21 March 2016
A killer who has served thirty years behind bars for his part in the detonation of a bomb outside a metro police station may soon be eligible for parole.
Two men were convicted of the crime, Stan Taylor was sentenced to life without parole, and Craig Minogue was given 28 years without parole, which has now been served.
At 15 seconds past one on Easter Thursday afternoon in 1986 Russell Street, Melbourne best resembled a warzone.
Convicted killer, Craig Minogue, pictured, may be eligible for parole this year after serving 30 years behind bars
Minogue was sentenced to 28 years without parole for his part in the notorious Russell Street car bombing on Easter Thursday in 1986 (wreckage from the explosion)
A car bomb parked strategically outside the police complex exploded killing 21-year-old police woman Angela Taylor and 22 officers and civilians.
Minogue, who was almost illiterate at the time of his arrest has gone on to complete a bachelor of arts degree, and has also obtained his Masters and PHD behind bars.
He also runs a website, on which he apologises for his behaviour in 1986.
‘I understand the pain and suffering that I have caused. I am very sorry for the crimes of my past, and I regret those actions very much and wish that I had not done them,’ he wrote on the site.
‘Thirty years is a very long time in prison, I was 23 when I came in and I will be 53 when I am eligible for release.
‘I hope to be able to somehow pass on to others the value that I have found in education and learning during that time.
‘That contribution I can make depends to a large extent upon others, and whether or not I am going to be given a chance to make a positive contribution,’ he said.
Detective Inspector Bernie Raking, pictured, was at the police station when the bomb went off. He does not believe Minogue is reformed
But Detective Inspector Bernie Rankin does not believe Minogue is reformed.
‘I am not convinced that he is the reformed Craig Minogue he is making himself out to be,’ he told 60 Minutes recently.
He went on to explain how Minogue murdered a man not long after being sent to prison for his part in the Russell Street bomb case.
‘Now if Craig Minogue is released tomorrow who’s to say it is not the old Craig Minogue who gets released.
‘What if you take his parking spot, you know, what if you bump into him in a bar?
‘He is trying to get parole and he is trying to demonstrate to a parole board he is no longer a risk,’ he said.
Minogue – pictured- only admitted to his part in the Russell Street bombing for the first time in 2012, Rankin believes that was a move to prove he had reformed
The car bomb did not explode as planned, and could have been a lot more devastating, police say
Mr Rankin held back tears when remembering the death of Ms Taylor three weeks after she was injured in the bomb blast.
He helped put out some of the fire on the 21-year-old officer’s clothes and hair.
‘She was thrown across street dreadfully burnt,’ he said.
‘She was a fine young woman that lost her life,’ he said choking back tears after remembering the day, April 20, he found out she had passed away in hospital.
The police officer remembers the bombers had ‘a strong desire to kill as many people and injure as many people as possible’ with their contraption.
In fact the blast could have been a lot worse, a police investigation at the time found not all of the explosives found set into the car went off as was planned because the detonator was used wrong.
Minogue killed fellow inmate and convicted killer Alex Tsakmakis shortly after going to prison but was not given any additional sentencing
In 1992 Prue Bird (pictured), the grandaughter of Paul and Julie (pictured) Hetzel known accomplices of Minogue went missing, child killer Leslie Camilleri came forward 17 years later
Paul Hetzel was a member of Taylor and Minogue’s gang, he helped police gain convictions, but in 1992 his partner’s granddaughter vanished.
Seventeen years later convicted child killer Leslie Camilleri came forward claiming to have killed Prue Bird of his own accord. Mr Hetzel believes she was taken from them in revenge.
‘I thought this is pay back just felt sick in the guts.’
Mr Hetzel said Minogue had threatened shortly after the explosion.
‘He was saying about that any bastard ever spoke about it and that, you know, they will be killed.
‘And that’s when he said wouldn’t it be a shame if anything happened to your little Prue.’
Mrs Hetzel (pictured left) and her husband Paul (pictured right) believe Prue was killed in an act of revenge as Mr Hetzel had given evidence against his fellow gang members in the bomb investigation
Minogue denies any involvement in the girl’s disappearance and murder. But police are not convinced.
‘There is no doubt in my mind Camilleri commit crime with others and that this crime is a payback for the Russell Street bombing,’ Detective Senior Sergeant Brent Fisher told 60 minutes.
Minogue has said he intends to repay the community for his crimes by accepting the sentence, admitting his guilt and apologising, by making an effort to rehabilitate himself and by not re-offending upon release.
Minogue was not handed down extra time for the murder of his fellow inmate Tsakmakis in prison.
He is currently being held in a medium-security prison in Victoria.
The deadly bomb blast shattered precinct windows and shook up the policing community sparking a wide search for those responsible
Russell Street bomber, Stanley Taylor, has died in custody aged 79.
He was sentenced to life in prison for the 1986 car bomb explosion that killed a female police officer and injured 21 others outside the Melbourne police office on Russell Street.
Corrections Victoria confirmed a prisoner of that age died of natural causes at St Vincents Hospital on Wednesday.
Taylor had been ill for at least a year, according to numerous media reports.
A career criminal, Taylor was known for having a hatred for authority.
Before the bombing, he had served 17 years in prison for numerous bank robberies.
Eight years after getting out, he would commit one of the most brutal acts of terror in Victoria.
The car bomb was set up to explode at 1pm, precisely the time most people would be heading out to get their lunch.
It was stuffed with almost 60 sticks of gelignite and timed for maximum destruction.
Constable Angela Taylor, 21, was on her way to pick up lunch for her office when she was in the direct firing line.
She died of her injuries 24 days after the bombing, becoming the first Australian police woman to die in the line of duty.
The explosion was so large that debris was found three blocks away.
Police were led to Taylor and his accomplices when they were able to rebuild the car used in the attack, and found it had been stolen.
Alongside Taylor in 1988, Craig Minogue received life with a minimum of 28 years and Rodney Minogue was jailed for eight years with a minimum of six in 1988.
Another man, Peter Reed, was found not guilty but was later jailed for 13 years, with a minimum of 11, of the attempted murder of police during the investigation of the bombing.
Craig Minogue will be up for parole by the end of this year.
As with all deaths in custody, Taylor’s death will be referred to the coroner.
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 15 May 1998
Constable – appointed 15 May 1999
Senior Constable –
Sergeant – appointed 26 December 2010
Stations: Campbelltown LAC – 35 Division – 15 May 1998 – 26 March 2005,
Cobar 27 March 2005 – April 2010,
Central Hunter LAC ( SenCon ) April 2010 – 26 December 2010,
Lake Macquarie LAC – ( Sgt ) 27 December 2010 – July 2015,
Port Stephens LAC – July 2015, – Death
Service: From? pre May 1998to5 March 2016 = 18 years Service
Awards: Regional Commander’s Commendation for Bravery re Off Duty arrest at Nelson Bay on 6 February 2012
Commander’s Commendation
NSW Police Medal
National Medal
National Police Service Medal – posthumously awarded on 14 March 2016
NSW Police Medal – 15 year Clasp – posthumously awarded on 14 March 2016
The Commissioner’s Commendation for Service – posthumously awarded on 14 March 2016
Born: 6 August 1972
Died on: Saturday 5 March 2016 about 11.50pm
Cause: Motor vehicle accident – driver
Event location: Lovedale Rd, Allandale, NSW
Age: 43
Funeral date: Monday 14 March 2016 @ 11.30am
Funeral location: Christ Church Anglican Cathedral, Church Street, Newcastle, NSW
Buried at: ?TBA
Memorial at: PTS12 ( PorT Stephens 12 ) police vehicle is dedicated in May 2016 to Richo with personalised number plates RCH012
[alert_green]GEOFFREYIS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
As a sign of respect to our colleague lost overnight in a motor vehicle accident while providing assistance to others, Windsor Police Station is flying the State Flag at half mast. Our colleague leaves behind a wife who is a serving Senior Constable and two young boys aged seven and five months.
Funeral location: ?TBA
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
RICHARDSON
Sergeant
Geoffrey Graham
Of Nelson Bay
Formerly of Razorback
Dearly loved husband of Margaret. Much loved father of Patrick and Aiden. Loved son of Lofty Richardson and Jeanette Richardson. Loved son-in-law of John (dec) and Heather King. Loving brother of Warwick, Grant, Andrew, and Adrian. Loving brother-in-law of Denise, Eric, Raymond, Gordon, Annette, Robert, and John and uncle to their families. Valued member of the NSW Police Force Family.
Family, Friends and Colleagues are invited to attend a Funeral Service to be held in Christ Church Anglican Cathedral, Church Street, Newcastle on MONDAY (March 14, 2016) commencing at 11:30 am.
No flowers by request, donations in lieu may be made to NSW Police Legacy –
geoffreyrichardson. gofundraise.com.au
France Family Funerals
Nelson Bay 4981 4488
Monday, 14 March 2016
To the Richardson Family,
Our deepest Condolences you are all.
You all are in our Prayers.
R.I.P Geoffrey
From The Entire Skaines Family
~
Lynda ( Skaines) McGuire,
Guildford, New South Wales
Monday, 14 March 2016
Wish we had been able to get to know you better. RIP.
~
Kristie and Rohan Harrison,
Charlestown, New South Wales
Monday, 14 March 2016
My heart is breaking for The Richardson family at this sad time, My thoughts and prayers are with you all, especially Margaret, Patrick Aiden and Geoff’s colleagues, as a member of the public who didn’t have the privilege of knowing Sgt Richardson, I thank him for his Service. God bless you all, You can be forever Proud of this man taken far too soon.
My husband will be playing in the Police Band today as Sgt Richardson is farewelled.
May He rest in peace.
~
Roslyn Day-Anderson,
Seven Hills nsw
Monday, 14 March 2016
Geoff it was a pleasure to work with you, your enthusiasm for our job is an inspiration. You will be sadly missed as a colleague and a friend. Love to your family and friends.
~
Nadia Theiss,
Cardiff, New South Wales
Sunday, 13 March 2016
Your name will be echoed for ever, through the corridors of Campbelltown Police Station. For your mate ship, tenacity and leadership, we thank you Richo!
~
Conchita Ray,
Campbelltown, New South Wales
Sunday, 13 March 2016
To the Richardson family we extend our deepest sympathy in your time of loss and sorrow.
Kindest thoughts.
Jim & Carole Whitfield.
Tahmoor NSW
~
Jim & Carole Whitfield,
TAHMOOR, New South Wales
Published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Mar. 11, 2016
RIP Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson thank you for your service, thoughts & prayers go out to your wife Senior Constable Margaret King, & your two young sons.
The NSW Police Force lost a highly respected and much-loved member of its family last night.
Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson from the Port Stephens LAC – NSW Police Force was killed when the police car he was driving crashed into a tree on Lovedale Road, Allandale, around 11.50pm yesterday (Saturday 5 March 2016).
At the time, Sergeant Richardson had been driving to assist colleagues who were engaged in a pursuit. He was the only person in the car at the time of the crash.
Further police and Ambulance Paramedics were called to the scene, and got there a short time later, however Sergeant Richardson had passed away before their arrival. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
The matter is now the subject of a Critical Incident Investigation, which will be supported by the Newcastle Crash Investigation Unit and overseen by the Professional Standards Command.
Sergeant Richardson graduated from the NSW Police Academy in 1998. He served the Campbelltown LAC – NSW Police Force as a Constable until 2005, when he was transferred to Cobar and promoted to the rank of Senior Constable.
In April 2010, he was transferred to Central Hunter Local Area Command, before moving to Lake Macquarie Local Area Command upon his promotion to the rank of Sergeant in December 2010.
He served Lake Macquarie LAC – NSW Police Force until July of 2015, at which time he transferred to Port Stephens Local Area Command.
Sergeant Richardson provided 18 years of dedicated and distinguished service to the people of NSW. He was the recipient of numerous awards, including a Regional Commander’s Commendation for Bravery after he arrested a number of offenders while off-duty at Nelson Bay in 2012.
In every sense, he was a hard-working, highly regarded, popular and committed police officer, who will be sorely missed by the organisation he so ably represented and the communities he diligently served.
Above all else, he was a loving and much-loved husband and father. His wife, Senior Constable Margaret King, and his two young sons, are naturally devastated, and we ask that their privacy be respected during this extremely difficult time.
As the men and women of this organisation always do in times of tragedy, we will band together and support Sergeant Richardson’s family , his friends, and each other, through this extremely difficult situation.
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Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson killed on way to emergency in Hunter Valley
Date
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione has paid tribute to a police officer killed in a crash in the Hunter Valley on the way to an emergency on Saturday night.
Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson, 43, from Port Stephens Local Area Command died when his vehicle hit a tree at Allandale at about 11.50pm.
Standing outside of Nelson Bay police station on Sunday morning Commissioner Scipione said Sergeant Richardson provided 18 years of dedicated and distinguished service to the people of NSW.
“It’s a very sad day for the NSW Police Force today.”
“We have farewelled one of our officers.
“43-year-old Geoffrey Richardson from the Port Stephens Local Area Command was tragically lost to us, killed in a motor vehicle accident just before midnight last night”.
Commissioner Scipione met with Sergeant Richardson’s wife, Senior Constable Margaret King, and two children on Sunday morning to offer his condolences.
He said police had been at the family home since last night and would remain there to offer their support.
Sergeant Richardson graduated from the NSW Police Academy in 1998. He served the Campbelltown Local Area Command as a Constable until 2005, when he was transferred to Cobar and promoted to the rank of Senior Constable.
In April 2010, he was transferred to Central Hunter Local Area Command, before moving to Lake Macquarie Local Area Command upon his promotion to the rank of Sergeant in December 2010.
He served Lake Macquarie until July of 2015, at which time he transferred to Port Stephens Local Area Command.
He was the recipient of numerous awards, including a Regional Commander’s Commendation for Bravery after he arrested a number of offenders while off-duty at Nelson Bay in 2012.
In a statement, NSW Police said: “In every sense, he was a hard-working, highly regarded, popular and committed police officer, who will be sorely missed by the organisation he so ably represented and the communities he diligently served.”
“Above all else, he was a loving and much-loved husband and father. His wife, Senior Constable Margaret King, and his two young sons, are naturally devastated, and we ask that their privacy be respected during this extremely difficult time.
As the men and women of this organisation always do in times of tragedy, we will band together and support Sergeant Richardson’s family , his friends, and each other, through this extremely difficult situation,” the statement said.
Sergeant Richardson had responded to calls for help in a police pursuit through the Hunter when the crash occurred on Lovedale Road about 11.50pm.
Paramedics attended but the officer, who was the only occupant of the vehicle, died at the scene.
Details of the police pursuit through the Hunter have not yet come to light.
Newcastle Crash Investigation Unit will assist a critical incident team to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
That investigation will be overseen by the Professional Standards Command.
“All information will be provided to the coroner who will determine the cause of death and make any findings about the events leading to the officer’s death,” a police statement said.
Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Anyone who can assist police should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Police investigating death of father-of-two sergeant in NSW Hunter Valley crash
A police sergeant who died after his squad car crashed into a tree in the NSW Hunter Valley last night has been remembered as a highly respected officer and a loving father to two young sons.
Port Stephen area Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson, 43, was driving through Allandale on his way to help other officers in a pursuit when his car ran off the road and crashed into a tree about midnight.
He was the sole occupant of the patrol car and died at the scene.
Sgt Richardson is survived by his wife, a serving member of NSW Police, and two sons.
Police say Sgt Richardson put his life on the line countless times in order to protect others, and had won bravery awards for his tireless work.
A critical incident investigation is now underway to establish how and why the experienced police officer lost control of his car rounding a bend during a routine callout.
“At the moment we don’t have too many details. It’s all subject to investigation, obviously,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Geoff McKechnie said.
“The investigation will take some time, obviously, and we may have some further information we can provide at a later time.
Act. Dep. Comm. McKechnie said his thoughts were with Sgt Richardson’s friends and family.
“He is a father of two young children, and his wife and family are currently being supported by extended family and colleagues of the officer,” he said.
“NSW Police Force will ensure that all available welfare, support and assistance is provided to his family and his colleagues as we work through this tough period ahead.”
Sgt Richardson was remembered as a dedicated police officer who provided 18 years of service, in a tribute statement released by the NSW Police Force.
“In every sense, he was a hard-working, highly regarded, popular and committed police officer, who will be sorely missed by the organisation he so ably represented and the communities he diligently served,” the statement read.
“Above all else, he was a loving and much-loved husband and father.
“His wife, Senior Constable Margaret King, and his two young sons, are naturally devastated, and we ask that their privacy be respected during this extremely difficult time.”
“As the men and women of this organisation always do in times of tragedy, we will band together and support Sergeant Richardson’s family, his friends, and each other, through this extremely difficult situation.”
The full NSW Police Force statement is below:
The NSW Police Force lost a highly respected and much-loved member of its family last night.
Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson from the Port Stephens Local Area Command was killed when the police car he was driving crashed into a tree on Lovedale Road, Allandale, around 11.50pm yesterday (Saturday 6 March 2016).
At the time, Sergeant Richardson had been driving to assist colleagues who were engaged in a pursuit. He was the only person in the car at the time of the crash.
Further police and Ambulance Paramedics were called to the scene, and got there a short time later, however Sergeant Richardson had passed away before their arrival. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
The matter is now the subject of a Critical Incident Investigation, which will be supported by the Newcastle Crash Investigation Unit and overseen by the Professional Standards Command.
Sergeant Richardson graduated from the NSW Police Academy in 1998. He served the Campbelltown Local Area Command as a Constable until 2005, when he was transferred to Cobar and promoted to the rank of Senior Constable.
In April 2010, he was transferred to Central Hunter Local Area Command, before moving to Lake Macquarie Local Area Command upon his promotion to the rank of Sergeant in December 2010.
He served Lake Macquarie until July of 2015, at which time he transferred to Port Stephens Local Area Command.
Sergeant Richardson provided 18 years of dedicated and distinguished service to the people of NSW. He was the recipient of numerous awards, including a Regional Commander’s Commendation for Bravery after he arrested a number of offenders while off-duty at Nelson Bay in 2012.
In every sense, he was a hard-working, highly regarded, popular and committed police officer, who will be sorely missed by the organisation he so ably represented and the communities he diligently served.
Above all else, he was a loving and much-loved husband and father. His wife, Senior Constable Margaret King, and his two young sons, are naturally devastated, and we ask that their privacy be respected during this extremely difficult time.
As the men and women of this organisation always do in times of tragedy, we will band together and support Sergeant Richardson’s family, his friends, and each other, through this extremely difficult situation.
Hunter Valley sergeant dies in crash on way to help colleagues involved in police chase
Updated
A police sergeant on his way to help colleagues involved in a car chase has been killed in a crash in New South Wales Hunter Valley.
Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson, 43, was driving his patrol car when it veered off Lovedale Street at Allandale and hit a tree late on Saturday night.
He was on his way to help colleagues involved in a car chase when the accident happened.
Paramedics were called but Sergeant Richardson, who worked at the Port Stephens Local Area Command, died at the scene.
He was the only person in the vehicle.
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione, who has travelled to the region, said the force had lost a “very good man” in the tragedy.
“I have had a chance to meet with his family and certainly paid my condolences to his wife Margaret and his children,” Commissioner Scipione said.
“It is a terribly sad event, we’ve lost a very good man.
“He was respected, he was loved, and certainly he was one of our finest, and NSW is a much poorer state as a result.”
The accident is now the subject of a critical incident investigation to be conducted by Newcastle Local Command, Commissioner Scipione said.
“The officer was not involved in a pursuit, he was on his way to assist others that were involved in a pursuit,” he said.
Commissioner Scipione said support would be provided to Sergeant Richardson’s family, including his wife who was also a senior constable in the police force.
“My heart goes out to his family, we’ll do all we need to to make sure that they’re looked after, because they’re a really important part of our [policing] family,” he said.
Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward.
In a tribute released to media, police said Sergeant Richardson provided “18 years of dedicated and distinguished service to the people of NSW”.
“He was the recipient of numerous awards, including a Regional Commander’s Commendation for Bravery after he arrested a number of offenders while off-duty at Nelson Bay in 2012,” the statement reads.
He was a loving and loved husband and father, the statement reads, who leaves behind a “devastated” family.
In support of the Police Family your Association with NSW Police Legacy has set up a fund for the family of Sgt Geoffrey Richardson killed in a motor vehicle accident on the weekend.
The details are:
NSW Police Legacy Appeal BSB: 815 000 A/C: 282951S1 omit S1 if not transferring from a Police Bank account
(The S1 is only used for Police Bank to Police Bank transfers.)
Links to the fundraising site have also been added to the PANSW website homepage.
The 43-year-old Sergeant (Class 272 – 18 Years Service), who’s wife is Senior Constable Margaret Richardson (Nee King), was a much-loved husband and father with two young sons Patrick aged seven and Aiden five months of age.
As many members would be aware, Sgt Richardson was killed on his way to help colleagues engaged in a pursuit in the Hunter Valley, NSW.
It’s at these times the strength of the police family is fortified as we rally together to support the family and loved ones impacted by this tragic loss.
Like any member of the emergency services would know – it takes a great deal of courage to leave your own family behind to protect those you have never met on a daily basis.
It takes a particular type of person to step forward, often into harm’s way, and commit himself or herself to such a job, and to give up peace of mind to preserve it for others.
Our thoughts are with our fallen colleague, his family and friends and fellow officers at Port Stephens Local Area Command during this difficult time.
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NSW Police Force FB page: Tuesday 8 March 2016
A man has been charged with a number of pursuit-related offences after a police officer died in a motor vehicle crash in the Hunter Valley at the weekend.
About 11pm on Saturday (5 March 2016), police became involved in a pursuit with a white Ford Falcon sedan on Ken Tubman Drive Maitland, after it allegedly failed to stop.
The pursuit continued for approximately 30 minutes before police lost sight of the vehicle.
About 11.40pm, the vehicle was seen on Wine Country Drive, Lovedale, and a second pursuit began.
During the pursuit, Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson, who was making his way to assist other officers, died after his vehicle left the road and struck a tree on Lovedale Road, Allandale.
Sergeant Richardson, aged 43, was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
The second pursuit ended and the Ford was last seen on Elderslie Road, Greta.
Following investigations, about 1pm yesterday (Monday 7 March 2016), a 34-year-old man was arrested at Maitland. ( Paul JOHNSON )
Checks of the man’s licence status revealed he had been disqualified from driving for life in 2000.
He was subsequently charged with two counts police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly (Skye’s Law), driving in a manner dangerous, exceeding the speed limit by more than 45km/h, driving whilst disqualified, using an unregistered/uninsured vehicle, using unauthorised plates, having custody of a knife in a public place, and resisting arrest.
The Greta man has been refused bail to appear before Maitland Local Court today (Tuesday 8 March 2016).
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VALEDICTORY – Sergeant Geoffrey Graham Richardson???
As delivered by NSW Police Force Commissioner Andrew Scipione APM:
At about 11.50pm on Saturday the 5th of March 2016, Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson, from the Port Stephens Local Area Command, was driving to assist colleagues who were engaged in a pursuit.
The police car he was driving crashed into a tree on Lovedale Road, Allandale. He was the only person in the car at the time of the crash.
Ambulance paramedics were called to the scene by nearby residents, and they arrived a short time later. Sadly, Sergeant Richardson had passed away before they arrived.
Sergeant Geoffrey Graham Richardson attested as a Probationary Constable on the 15th of May 1998.
He commenced general duties at Campbelltown before being confirmed at the rank of Constable on the 15th of May 1999.
He remained at Campbelltown until the 26th of March 2005 when he transferred to Cobar in far western New South Wales. While at Cobar he was promoted to the rank of Senior Constable.
After just over five years at Cobar, Sergeant Richardson moved to the Central Hunter Local Area Command.
Shortly thereafter, on the 26th of December 2010, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and commenced duties at the Lake Macquarie Local Area Command.
Sergeant Richardson transferred from Lake Macquarie to Port Stephens Local Area Command – his final posting – in July 2015.
He was awarded the NSW Police Medal and the National Medal. He also received a Commander’s Commendation, a Region Commander’s Unit Citation, and many accolades from people in the community who had written in appreciation of his compassion and professionalism.
The day before Geoff’s passing, I travelled to Dungog to honour the memory of Sergeant 1st Class William Bowen, who passed away 100 years ago as the result of injuries he received while on duty.
The occasion was a commemoration; a centenary; almost a celebration of his memory. Time had eased the rawness of the tragedy of his passing.
But it brings to mind a sobering message that danger has always been a police officer’s enduring companion. It’s there both on and off duty, at the back of mind or at front, possibly in individuals or groups, in buildings, on pavements, around corners and on roads.
Police officers place themselves in harm’s way to reduce violence, crime, and the fear of crime. Sometimes their oath to protect and serve, their determination to do the best by their community, has a tragic outcome.
The price is a terrible one, but one that police officers are prepared to pay because they believe that the values we hold – and the freedom we enjoy – are worth the sacrifice.
We all pay the toll but we do not pay in equal measure; the burden falls heaviest on the families of officers who fall in the line of duty. No one feels more keenly the death of a police officer than their loved ones.
And on this occasion the loss is even more keenly felt because Geoff’s wife, Margaret, is also a police officer. Not only sharing the bond of family, but also sharing the ideals of protecting people and having to face hardship, conflict, and potential danger together.
Margaret, Patrick and baby Aiden have lost an adored husband and father. His father Graham – better known as Lofty – and mother Jeanette have lost a dearly-loved son; Warwick, Grant, Andrew and Adrian their friend, companion and brother.
However much we would like things to be different, nothing we do or say can change what has happened. All we can do is honour Geoff’s memory and hold his family in the warm embrace of the Police family.
Geoff was a much-loved and respected police officer. He was known as Geoff or “Richo”. To his close mates he was “Buddha”.
In the words of one colleague, he was a “policeman’s policeman”… committed to his job, committed to his mates, and committed to the community he served, and of which he was a part.
He was the exemplar of a family man. With his son Patrick, Geoff was involved in local junior Rugby and he was also deeply committed to his local Anglican Church – another bond that he shared with Margaret.
He took great pride in his uniform. He was always immaculately turned out and wanted other police to share that same pride. He was a protocol officer and serious about it. He understood that the way police present themselves matters; that authority brings with it a responsibility and that the symbols of office are important.
He wasn’t overbearing or a stickler. He led by example and other officers followed. He did not order or command or even badger. He didn’t need to.
And, by unanimous verdict, Geoff was not just a first-class police officer but a gregarious good bloke. A man popular with fellow officers and good with those he encountered in the course of work – he was firm with offenders but he would also empathise with victims.
One of his colleagues said of Geoff that his imposing stature and copybook attire never seemed to be a barrier to how victims responded to him. With Geoff they felt a genuine and comforting empathy in their time of need.
Geoff’s rapport with victims was part of a larger picture of a man who cared for those around him; especially his fellow officers. Geoff and Margaret were often in the vanguard of fundraising activities for colleagues in need.
Geoff himself was a peer support officer, an officer who volunteers to help colleagues in times of need. He would often reach out to colleagues he could see were in need of some support.
But it would be misleading to characterise Geoff as just a big-hearted Good Samaritan. As I said, he was equally at home handling a violent offender as he was with supporting the victim of an assault.
In fact, given the occasion, both husband and wife presented a formidable law enforcement presence.
The Region Commander’s Unit Citation he received was in recognition of bravery and commitment to duty when arresting offenders while off-duty in Nelson Bay on the 6th of February 2012.
What is remarkable about this incident is that the other recipient of that unit citation was his wife, Margaret. Together, while off-duty, they attended the scene of a collision to render assistance, but were confronted by a crowd of 10 to 15 hostile people.
Their citation read in part, “The officers responded to a motor vehicle collision to ensure the welfare of the occupants. Instead they faced a volatile and dangerous crowd who were actively protecting an offender and hindering police response.”
Despite both being assaulted, they managed to detain the driver and several other offenders, who were charged with various offences including High Range PCA, resisting arrest, hindering police, affray and malicious damage.
A key principle that underpins our Police Force is the notion that Police are the community, and the community are the Police. The reputation and success of the NSW Police Force therefore depends on the trust the community places in each and every police officer.
Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson epitomised all of the qualities needed to gain – and to maintain – that trust.
It is inevitable and appropriate that we grieve and feel his loss. To my mind, it is just as appropriate that we do his career and life proper justice; that we honour his memory by following his example.
We, all of us, can do well to look out more for others, at work and outside of work. To lead through our actions. To live our ideals.
Through his family, Geoff’s memory also lives on. And through his wife Margaret, his commitment to service will also live on.
It is my honour today, to posthumously confer three awards on Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson.
The National Police Service Medal: recognising his ethical and diligent service in protecting the community.
The establishment of the National Police Service Medal was signed by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II in November of 2010, and the Governor General awards the Medal on the recommendation of the responsible Commissioner of Police.
The 15 year clasp to the NSW Police Medal: recognising his ethical and diligent service.
After being approved by the Minister for Police and the Commissioner of Police, the medal was instituted on the 5th of February 2002. The medal is NOT awarded automatically for length of service. It is only awarded after a detailed review of the nominee’s service history to ensure the service was ethical and diligent. The clasp to the medal denotes the length of ethical and diligent service.
And:
The Commissioner’s Commendation for Service.
In part the citation reads:
…. for outstanding and meritorious performance of duty as a member of the New South Wales Police Force, from 1998 to 2016 ….
Sergeant Richardson has displayed integrity, loyalty, commitment, professionalism and devotion to duty as a member of the New South Wales Police Force and is highly commended for his service.
Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson gave his life in the very way he had lived it; in the service of others.
His loss, tragic for his family and many friends, is profound for each and every one of us. No words are quite adequate to express or diminish that loss.
His passing reminds us that preserving our values and our freedom can exact a heavy toll. A toll that is not shared equally in our community.
We farewell Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson but he will not be forgotten. As is right and proper, his name will be etched into the granite of the Police Wall of Remembrance in Sydney as a permanent reminder that he laid down his life for the people of New South Wales.
I am humbled and deeply honoured to represent every member of the NSW Police Force here today to farewell a highly-regarded police officer who served his community with courage, honour and distinction.
A husband and father.
A son and brother.
A friend and colleague.
A police officer.
Vale Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson.
Our prayers go with you … may you rest in peace.
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Boy’s poem for policeman killed in accident
By TIM CONNELL
TOM Finlay, 13, wrote a poem after he saw the funeral procession for Port Stephens police sergeant Geoffrey Richardson.
His teacher at Newcastle Grammar School had suggested poetry as a way for students to process the funeral taking place across the road at Christ Church Cathedral.
Tom’s poem is reproduced below.
The Great Knights of Port Stephens, by Tom Finlay.
Port Stephens, Port Stephens/Your knights are brave and bold
From the newest of the new, to the oldest of the old.
When criminal cometh to/Town, you mustn’t worry/For when knights hear thy/Criminals they come in quite a/Hurry.
But sometimes things don’t end/Like they do in the story,
Because some knights will end up/In heaven with all their glory.
But if your knight goes to heaven/You mustn’t feel a sting,
Because the great Richardson will/Give them their wings.
TOUCHED: Port Stephens Superintendent Chris Craner thanks Tom Finlay for his poem about police killed in the line of duty. Picture: Jonathan Carroll.
“HAVE you ever thought about it – would you ever see the police cry?”
The question at Newcastle Grammar School on Tuesday came from the Port Stephens police commander, Superintendent Chris Craner.
It was something Tom Finlay, a boy in year seven with autism, had asked himself.
Earlier this month Tom, 13, had watched from his school’s playground as the funeral procession for Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson, who had died in a crash on his way to an emergency, wound its way into Christ Church Cathedral.
“I’d just been thinking how people go to work every day, and how not everyone comes home,” he said.
“So I just wrote it.”
THANKS: Port Stephens police officers at Newcastle Grammar School thank students for their poems dedicated to their late colleague, Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson.
When Tom’s mother Michelle posted his The Great Knights of Port Stephens on social media, it got back to the police mourning one of their own.
In the superintendent’s words, “there were tears in the station”.
Some of the officers who read Tom’s poem – and the poems penned by his classmates, at the suggestion of their teacher Jordan Grant – attended Tuesday’s school assembly to express their thanks.
Outside, Senior Constable David Wynne from the dog squad introduced students to an as-yet unnamed pup being trained as a police dog, and the bravery award-winning German shepherd Ulrich demonstrated how to follow a scent.
Supt Craner said “carloads of cops” had wanted to visit the school, and he thanked Tom personally.
Shane Finlay said he was “amazed at how far” his son had come in his studies and social interactions with the help of his teachers at Newcastle Grammar and his previous teachers at the Aspect Hunter School for students with autism.
“The [autism] spectrum is wide, and in the last four years he’s really come on,” Mr Finlay said.
“I mean, he wrote that poem in 20 minutes.”
His mother Michelle Finlay added, “everything he does blows us away”.
About 1000 mourners, including NSW Governor David Hurley and Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione, attended the funeral earlier this month of Sergeant Richardson, who died aged 43.
Sgt Richardson is survived by his police officer wife Senior Constable Margaret King and their two young sons Patrick and Aiden.
New Port Stephens police car a fitting tribute for fallen brother in blue, Geoffrey Richardson
TRIBUTE: Superintendent Chris Craner and Sergeant Martine Morley with the new Port Stephens police car, which is dedicated to Geoffrey Richardson who died in the line of duty in March. Picture: Simone De Peak
THE newest addition to the Port Stephens police command’s fleet is not just any other car; it is a fitting tribute to fallen brother in blue Geoffrey Richardson.
Light blue in colour and bearing number plates that read RCH, the distinctive police car will serve as a visual memory for officers and members of the community that have been affected by Sergeant Richardson’s death.
Port Stephens Sergeant Martine Morley said it was an “honour and a privilege” to be amongst the officers who will drive the car, which arrived on Wednesday.
“It is a wonderful tribute to a fantastic officer and work colleague,” an emotional Sergeant Morley said.
“It’s really quite a special thing; a really special tribute.
“Geoff is part of Port Stephens, he always will be.
“This just reminds us of that.”
Superintendent Chris Craner said the tribute to Sergeant Richardson, who died in the line of duty on March 5, came from Port Stephens officers who wanted to do something a little different.
“We had a couple of different ideas from different staff,” he said. “We wanted to do something a little bit different.
NEVER FORGOTTEN: The newest addition to the Port Stephens police command’s fleet is a car dedicated to Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson. Picture: Simone De Peak
“It’s a change of colour, it’s a blue colour which represents a sergeant and it’s got personalised number plates that represent Sergeant Richardson.
“It’s just a nice way for the cops to look at the car and think about Geoff. And it’s a nice way for the community when you’re driving down the street to go ‘why is that a blue car?’ and find out why.
“The car tells a story and the story is Geoff. Geoff died on duty and his memory won’t be forgotten.
“You can walk out the front of the police station, have a look at this car, stop a minute, have a think about Geoff, jump in and take off.”
The car is a standard Toyota Camry. It will be driven by Port Stephens police Sergeants and used for patrols.
On the afternoon of Wednesday, 3 March 1976, about 4.50pm, when Sen Const Laube was performing a motorcycle patrol north along Coolart Road, Somerville, and collided with a car which had pulled out into his path from Eramosa Road.
Sadly, he received fatal injuries and died at the accident scene. He was 31.
Sen Const Laube joined Victoria Police on 21 February, 1964 and worked at various police stations during his career including Bourke Street West, St Kilda and Mentone before transferring to the Mobile Traffic Section in 1972.
He was survived by his wife Eve and son Steven.
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Unnamed VicPol member
| 03/07/2016
Unnamed VicPol member
Victoria Police Force
Regd. # ?
Rank: Constable
Stations: ?, Moonee Ponds
Service: From? to?
Awards: ?
Born: ?
Died on: Sunday 21 February 2016 about noon
Cause: Motor vehicle accident – rider – off duty
Location: Warburton-Woods Point Rd, Reefton, Victoria
Age: 36
Funeral date: ?TBA
Funeral location: ?TBA
Buried at: ?TBA
Memorial at: ?TBA
[alert_blue]Unknown VicPol is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue] * NOT JOB RELATED
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Funeral location: ?TBA
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
AN online fundraising campaign for the Underhill family, who lost their four-year-old daughter in an horrific crash on the Bruxner Highway, has raised more than $11,000 in less than a day.
About 1.20pm on Friday a red Mazda 323 was travelling west on the Bruxner Highway, about 10km east of Casino, when it collided with a white Subaru Liberty.
As a result of the collision the Mazda was torn in half.
Sergeant Steve Underhill’s four-year-old daughter in the back seat received fatal injuries and died at the scene.
Sgt Underhill’s other daughter, aged two, who was also in the back seat received serious injuries and was taken to Lismore Hospital before being transferred to Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital where she has since regained consciousness and is speaking to her parents.
News of the crash sent shock waves around the Northern Rivers and across Australia when it was revealed Sgt Underhill attended the scene of the incident.
To help the family deal with their grief and ease any financial burdens, Tammie Valle launched a GoFundMe webpage for people to donate to.
“The Underhill family suffered a major tragedy and as a community we all felt helpless in what we could do and many were asking where they could donate to ease the burdens,” she wrote.
The 18-year-old female driver of the Mazda was taken to Lismore Hospital with a laceration to her arm.
The seven-year-old female front seat passenger was also taken to Lismore Hospital suffering shock.
The driver and front seat passenger were unrelated to the back seat passengers.
The 81-year-old male driver of the Subaru, who was the sole occupant, was taken to Lismore Hospital with sternum injuries.
Police are appealing for any witnesses of the crash to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Policeman called to crash site finds girl who died is his daughter
Jeremy Pierce and Brittany VonowThe Daily Telegraph
A four-year-old girl, the daughter of a policeman, died in the two-car crash. Picture: Channel 7
IT’S the phone call every parent dreads.
But when Casino police called the father of a toddler killed in a horror road smash on Friday, they were calling one of their own.
Richmond police sergeant Steve Underhill rushed to the scene of the two-car crash on the Bruxner Highway in NSW to find his two young daughters in the wreckage.
Carnage… A girl, 4, died and her two-year-old sister was critically injured.
The car they were travelling in had been ripped in half.
Sgt Underhill’s four-year-old girl died at the scene, while his two-year-old was rushed to Brisbane’s Lady Cilento Hospital in a critical condition.
In a ray of light for a town gripped in grief, the girl later emerged from a coma.
Sgt Underhill is a local officer who has responded to accidents on the very stretch of road where his daughter died.
The young sisters and another eight-year-old girl were passengers in a car driven by their babysitter, Courteney Matthews, an 18-year-old ballerina who had just finished high school at a respected private school.
Courteney Matthews, 18, was driving the car with the young girls inside when the tragic accident occurred.
The dedicated community worker, who raised money to help people in Third World countries, escaped with minor arm injuries in the crash.
At the scene, local woman Tazman Currie rushed to help the girls tangled in the wreckage.
We were driving and heard a big bang and smoke, so we got out of the car to see what had happened. One half of the car was on the right side of the road and the other half on the other side,” she said.
“The little girl kept saying her back hurt so I got her to sit down and tried to settle her down.”
Tragic… Toddler’s car set in the road.
High impact… The scene following the collision.
A mother herself, Ms Currie described the moments when Sgt Underhill arrived.
“He was speechless, he was so shocked and upset. He wanted to know what had happened,” she said.
She said he tried desperately to help but was suffering from shock.
Ms Currie said the girls’ mother also soon arrived and was devastated to see her family torn apart.
She said the teenage driver was also devastated.
“She didn’t really care about herself, she wanted the little girls to be OK,” she said.
The scene of the fatal crash near Casino. Picture: Adam Head
Flowers have been left at the scene of the fatal crash. Picture: Adam Head
Ms Currie said the community, a tight-knit town of 10,000 people, was shocked and upset about the incident.
The driver of the second vehicle, an 81-year-old retired pharmacist, was taken to Lismore Base Hospital suffering internal bleeding and sternum injuries. The man’s son yesterday told The Sunday Mail his father was shaken by the accident but recovering.
The NSW Police Association sent officers from Sydney to help Sgt Underhill, his family, and his colleagues through the ordeal.
Police are investigating the cause of the crash and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
The girl’s death is the first since police launched Operation Arrive Alive on Thursday.
May God give the family strength to overcome this terrible tragedy. Our prayers go out to you and we are thinking of you all. The little girl is safe in the arms of God now. God Bless You All.
Shocking. No one can imagine how this father and mother feel. I’m a nana and it breaks my heart when I hear or read about a little one like this. So so very sorry for your loss. There’s a new star in the sky shining down.
What can anyone say about this story except why? Why do bad things happen to good people and the innocent while murderers, child molesters and those that prey on the weak live healthy, selfish and care free lives contributing nothing while taking whatever they can.
I’m an ex-cop and someone who believes in a merciful God but these things, and I’ve seen them happen time and time again, test my faith every time. This accident has pushed it to the limit once again.
I hope this will make people take more care on the roads this holiday season. It can happen to anyone, RIP little one, may your family recover from this terrible loss.
The pain and heartache is beyond words. Sadly, the policeman and his family will suffer this for a lifetime. Praying for speedy recovery for the injured.
I could not imagine anything worse than attending something like this and finding out it’s your family…….sincere condolences to the officer and his wife at this sad time……..
A sad day for the township, but even a sadder time for the Sergeant Underwood and his family. I could not imagine the grief all these people are feeling at this time.
One of those articles we wish we didn’t have to read. So dreadfully sad, my heartfelt sympathy to the Police officer and his family. Nothing will change the circumstances, but please know you have the support and thoughts of thousands.
It is refreshing to see below, that at this time all comments are of sympathy and support, nobody opining their speculative solutions.
I could not imagine anything worst, as this must be the nightmare every emergency worker thinks of before attending an accident. My heart goes out to the officer and the family involved. R.I.P. little one
Police have to attend all sorts of grisly events, but to arrive at the scene of a car accident only to discover your young daughter was a fatal victim is way off the scale.
My heartfelt sympathies to the officer and his family. There will be no Christmas for them this year.
My condolences to that police officer and his family….working in the emergency services can deal up some pretty hard calls at times…but a call like this officer faced is a call that know one in emergency service wants to face….one can only imagine what’s going threw that police officers mind ATM.
There will be a time and a place for answers Bruce but at the moment it is the time to be supporting the families involved. I have no doubts the police will be putting the utmost efforts in determining what happened. Such tragedies deserve respect to the families. It looks like the reporters are showing their respect to the families and police by allowing them to investigate the scene whilst not interfering or nagging police during such distressing times .
Empathy is what should be our focus at the moment. In time Bruce there will be answers.
My heart goes out to the Officer that would be one of the worst things that anyone would have to face. Bad enough going to these accidents but to find your little child would be beyond pain. I am sure his mates would of taken care of him. God Bless to all of them and I hope the others in the car make a full recovery. Rest in peace little girl and hugs to your family..
My sympathy to the officer and their family after suffering such a tragic acident.Country police always get called to those that they know and love. God bless.
Our prayers go out to the policeman who lost his daughter in the horrific car accident.What a tragic thing to happen , going to the scene of an accident and finding one of your family members deceased RIP
Policeman’s Christmas heartbreak: Off-duty officer arrived at crash scene to find his daughter, 4, dead inside and his youngest girl, 2, in critical condition… as police chief begs drivers to slow down
Police Sergeant Steve Underhill arrived at car crash near Casino, NSW
His two daughters were still trapped inside the vehicle at the time
His four-year-old daughter Elle died at the scene on Friday, 1.20pm
Car was being driven by their 18-year-old babysitter Courteney Matthews
Three other people across Australia died in road accidents on Wednesday
Police increasing safety operations over Christmas with double demerits
Published: 21:06 EST, 23 December 2015 | Updated: 11:44 EST, 24 December 2015
A grieving police officer who was called to the crash site where his four-year-old daughter perished and his two-year-old daughter suffered critical injuries will be offered more than $50,000 in donations.
Police Sergeant Steve Underhill arrived at the scene at Bruxner Highway near Casino in northern NSW on Friday while his two daughters were still trapped inside the Red Mazda 323 which split in half in the two-car collision, Daily Telegraph reports.
Sgt Underhill was off-duty at the time, local police confirmed to Daily Mail Australia, and had to be restrained after his colleagues called him to the horrifying scene, Nine News reports.
His four-year-old daughter Elle died at the scene, and his two-year-old daughter was airlifted to Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital in South Brisbane in a critical condition.
She had emerged from a coma the following day in a remarkable recovery, NSW Police told Daily Mail Australia.
She will reportedly remain in hospital for a week as a precaution.
The car was being driven by the girls’ babysitter, 18-year-old Courteney Matthews. She suffered lacerations to her arm in the accident.
The little girl’s death just a week before Christmas comes as three others died on Australian roads on the first day of the holiday season on Wednesday.
A passenger died in a two-car crash on the Bruce Highway, about 20km north of Gin Gin in central Queensland, about 12.45pm on Wednesday.
A motorcyclist aged in his 20s was killed hours later after he collided with a taxi in Albert Park, in Melbourne’s inner south.
Police believe the taxi was doing a U-turn when the man crashed into it just before 5pm.
Another man later died in Tasmania after his car collided with a vehicle travelling in the opposite direction south of Somerset.
Speed and alcohol may have contributed to the crash, Tasmania police believe.
Police around Australia are increasing safety operations over the Christmas period, including stepping up drug and alcohol testing.
Double demerits will also be in place from Thursday, December 24 to Sunday, January 3.
They will target speeding, illegal use of mobile phones, not wearing a seatbelt and riding without a helmet.
Tasmanian Police say there’s an eight-hour period on Christmas Eve when motorists are most likely to have a road accident after examining crash statistics from the past five years.
‘The most likely time for a crash to occur during the Christmas and New Year period is on Christmas Eve between midday and 8pm,’ assistant commissioner Donna Adams said.
It comes as heartfelt tributes rolled in for ‘beautiful girl’ Elle on the GoFundMe page set up for her family.
‘Such a beautiful girl and friend to our daughter, you will be greatly missed,’ one person wrote.
‘Our hearts go out to you for your loss of beautiful Elle and our prayers will be sent for her sister. We have only just been touched by tragedy ourselves and wish to pay forward some of the beautiful kindness we have also received,’ another said. ‘Stay strong for each other.’
‘Constantly in our hearts,’ another person who donated wrote.
The staff at Tweed Byron Police donated $1,000 to the family on Wednesday.
Altogether, more than $50,000 for the family in just three days, after family friend Tammie Valle launched the fundraiser.
The Casino local wrote that the community ‘felt helpless in what we could do’ to help the Underhill family following the tragedy.
‘The funds raised will go towards helping this family with assisting with the funeral, memorial, and help with accommodation, medical expenses and travel costs,’ the page reads.
Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione said the force was grieving with the family.
‘We care and we hurt,’ he told Nine News.
Three others were hospitalised when the two cars collided around 1.20pm on Friday.
A seven-year-old girl in the passenger seat of the same car was taken to Lismore Base Hospital suffering shock.
The 18-year-old woman driving, a babysitter, was taken to the same hospital, two hours south of Brisbane, with a laceration to her arm.
Neither the driver nor the seven-year-old girl are related to the two and four-year-old girls, who were sitting in the back seat of the car.
An 81-year-old man, the driver and sole occupant of the second vehicle, a white Subaru Liberty, was taken to hospital with sternum injuries and is understood to have been released from hospital on Saturday.
That day, a NSW Police spokesman said there was ‘good news’ for the two-year-old girl amongst the tragedy.
‘She’s out of the coma and breathing on her own now and talking to her parents.’
A toddler’s car seat, children’s toys and clothing could reportedly be seen in the wreckage near Irvington Wharf Road, about 10km east of Casino.
‘It’s an absolute tragedy that someone so long has been lost,’ NSW Police Traffic and Highway Commander Acting Assistant Commissioner Hartley said on Friday.
‘Let this time be one of celebration, an occasion where all the seats at the Christmas table are filled.’
Diversions were put in place away from the crash site for around seven hours on Friday.
The Crash Investigation Unit is investigating the crash with the assistance of local police.
They are appealing for any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police to come forward.
Elle Underhill: Family asks police to watch over her body as they hope and pray for their injured younger daughter
December 23, 20156:59pm
THE heartbroken family of car crash victim Elle Underhill have asked police to ensure their daughter’s body is not left alone as they keep vigil at the hospital bedside of their younger daughter.
Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione said Sergeant Steve Underhill and his wife Michelle had asked him to ensure Elle was “not by herself” while they were with their two-year-old daughter in Brisbane.
Mr Scipione also revealed the heartbreaking moments when Sgt Underhill arrived at the crash scene and had to be held back by colleagues as he realised four-year-old Elle and her sister were involved.
The two girls were in the back seat of a red Mazda 323 when it and a white Subaru Liberty collided about 1.20pm last Friday 10km east of Casino on the north coast.
Their babysitter Courteney Matthews, 18, and a seven-year-old girl, sitting in the front seats, suffered minor injuries and shock.
Elle’s sister was flown to the Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital where she was “on the mend”, Mr Scipione said.
Mr Scipione, who spent time with the Underhill family this week, said it was a “tragedy from start to finish”.
“It’s so horrific it’s difficult to even talk about,” he said.
“We deal with these matters every day but when it’s one of your own and when it’s so graphic, it’s difficult to tell other people. “In their conversations with me, it’s clear that they were mourning the loss of their angel. They were mourning the loss of their little girl, they didn’t want her to be alone.
“They were saying ‘Commissioner, will you please make sure she’s not by herself’.”
The drivers involved are receiving counselling and friends are rallying behind Ms Matthews. Retired analytical chemist John White, 81, suffered a fractured sternum and internal bleeding in the crash but is expected to be released soon from hospital.
Mr Scipione said police were investigating the cause of the accident.
“We have to get to the bottom of that,” he said.
THE tragic death of Elle Underhill has “cut deep to the bone” for the north coast and police communities who are now praying for her sister / Picture: SuppliedSource:Supplied
Tributes left at the crash scene in Casino / Picture: Supplied
Stations: Hendra Police Station before transferring to South Brisbane Traffic as a Senior Constable.
2007 Dan was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and transferred to the Oxley District Division Traffic Branch, working out of Mount Ommaney Police Station – HWP Cyclist
Service: From? ? 2002to 1 December 2010
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New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 32276
” Possibly ” in PREP Class 272
Rank: Constable
Stations: ?, Bankstown ( late 1990’s ),
Service: From? ? 1997to14 July 2001= 4 years Service with NSW Police force
Awards: Queensland Police Service medal – posthumously
Queensland Police Service Award for Meritorious Service – posthumously
Born: 6 January1977
Died on: Wednesday 1 December 2010
Death location: Bruce Hwy, approximately 15km south of Mt Larcom, Qld
Cause: Motor cycle collision – rider -v- jacknifing semi trailer
Age: 33
Funeral date: Thursday 9 December 2010 @ 10.30a,
Funeral location: St Peter Chanel Catholic Church, Chaprowe Roadn The Gap
Buried at: Settlement Road, and on to a private interment
Memorial at: Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve, Heathwood, 4110. Stapylton, Johnson & Paradise Rd & Logan Motorway, Qld
Lat: -27.6425
Long: 152.986389 Note: GPS Coordinates are approximate.
Sergeant Dan Stiller died when his motorcycle was struck by a truck.
[alert_green]DAN IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
Details of Death:
On 30th November 2010 Sergeant Stiller departed Brisbane on escort duty with another officer, escorting an oversized load from Brisbane, destined for Rockhampton in central Queensland. Sergeant Stiller was riding a Qld Police Service motorcycle and the other officer was in a marked police sedan. That afternoon they rested at Miriam Vale over night and recommenced at 6am on 1st December 2010. In this escort, Sergeant Stiller was the lead escort, behind a pilot vehicle which was approximately 500 metres in front, and the police sedan was to the rear of Sergeant Stiller. Approximately 15 kilometres south of Mt Larcom on the Bruce Highway, in heavy rain, at 7am on 1st December 2010 three articulated vehicles were travelling south and were advised by the pilot of the load travelling north that there was an oversized load ahead, and to pull to the side of the road to make room. In doing so one of the articulated vehicles, whilst braking, lost control of the vehicle, causing it to ‘jack knife’, and travel onto the incorrect side of the road. The articulated vehicle collided head on with Sergeant Stiller, who was travelling in the centre of the northbound lane. Sergeant Stiller was killed instantly as a result of the impact. Sergeant Stiller has been posthumously awarded the Queensland Police Service Medal and the QPS Award for Meritorious Service.
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Funeral location: ?
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
A police officer has been killed while escorting an oversized truck along the Bruce Highway in central Queensland.
Sergeant Dan Stiller, 33, was killed when the motorcycle he was riding was struck by a truck on the highway about 15 kilometres south of Mount Larcom at about 7am.
The crash closed the highway in both directions near Mount Larcom for more than five hours.
Deputy Commissioner Ross Barnett said it appeared the truck jack-knifed before it hit Sergeant Stiller, who was escorting a wide load and convoy along the Bruce Highway.
‘‘The tragic loss of a young promising officer of Sergeant Stiller’s calibre will be felt right throughout the organisation, particularly among those who were fortunate enough to work with him,’’ he said.
Mr Barnett said another police officer, in a police sedan, was also involved in the wide load escort but that officer was not injured.
Sergeant Stiller’s wife, also a police officer, was ‘‘naturally devastated’’ and was receiving the support of her colleagues and close friends, Mr Barnett said.
Premier Anna Bligh said Sergeant Stiller’s death was a ‘‘tragic reminder’’ that police put their lives on the line every day.
“Our thoughts, my thoughts, and think those of all Queenslanders are with his family. This is a very sad day for them,’’ she said.
“It’s also a very sad day for the police service. It’s been almost four years … since we’ve seen a Queensland police officer lose their life in the course of their duties.
Opposition leader John-Paul Langbroek also paid tribute to Sergeant Stiller.“This is a very sad day for our state’s police service and our greater Queensland community,” he said.
“I know each day that every one of Queensland’s 10,702 police officers go to work, they work in challenging and sometimes dangerous situations.’’
Police will prepare a report for the coroner.
The 33-year-old sergeant, originally from New South Wales, was an officer with the Oxley District Traffic Branch. Police are investigating the death of their colleague.
The investigating will be overviewed by the Ethical Standards Command.
11 comments so far
To my mate Dan,
You were a great guy, an excellent policeman and will be truly missed.
My condolences to your lovely wife Julie and your family.
Commenter
Ben G
Location
Sydney
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 2:06PM
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My deepest condolences to his family. I am very very sorry for your loss.
Commenter
Marie
Location
Brisbane
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 2:22PM
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My deepest sympathies go out to this young man’s family and friends. My respect and condolences go to all his brothers and sisters in the force.
Commenter
Roy
Location
Brisbane
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 2:56PM
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Dan. Incredibly sad to hear this news, you were a great guy and I will always remember your smile. Condolences to Julie and Dans family.
Commenter
Steven Cooper
Location
Melbourne
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 3:18PM
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Proud to have served with Dan in NSWPF, a friendly, lovely, smiling man taken from this world too soon. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. xoxo
Commenter
Kate Y
Location
Sydney
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 4:10PM
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My Deepest sympathies to those who have lost a loved one, while serving the community.
Something must be done about the way these extra wide loads are allowed to travel at high speed along the highways. The escort system and rules are NOW Broken and Inadequate. Attitude seems to be anything goes as long as there is an escort. As a regular car driver on the Burnett and D’Aguilar highways, I have often seen very close calls several times as the escorts often do not give enough warning to oncoming vehicles for a heavy load that now often spreads across the two lanes , travelling at maximum legal speed. The loads seem to be getting wider and larger and more frequent with all the huge mining plant being shipped to and from Central Qld mines.
I was almost unable to pull up recently travelling north at Collinton, almost running into the bridge as I tried to avoid a large load, with an escort barely 100m in front of it. If I had been in a semi, I or the escort most likely would not be here. The wide load was simply going too fast downhill to be safe.
Most escorts do a fine job, but the loads are just getting too big and fast to be safely controlled, in all circumstances. Cars can pull up safely, but heavy vehicles coming in opposite direction must often have difficulty stopping and getting off the road.
Commenter
Vini Vidi
Location
Queensland
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 4:57PM
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Such a tragic loss of a great police officer and all round good bloke. Dan, I’m proud to have called you a colleague and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends. You will live on in our hearts.
Commenter
Refidex
Location
Queensland
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 5:22PM
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The military and emergency services are two of few workplaces in this country where families and colleagues send their loved ones and mates out to the job with a greater fear that they will not return safely than most of us can understand. You have my profound thanks and my deepest respect.
Commenter
Les Hawken
Location
Melbourne
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 6:36PM
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a terrible loss that should have been avoided. why was a motorcycle doing this duty with the poor weather we have been experiencing lately. these wide load escorts are normally two pilot vehicles and three patrol cars. also in this weather the shoulder on most central queensland roads is far too soft to move a semi trailer off the bitumen onto grass where they get stuck as has happened on the beef road recently and had to get towed back onto the road by the prime mover pulling the wide load. not really an acceptable situation. who would have accepted responsibility if the the semi had tipped over in the mud.
Commenter
andrew
Location
brisbane
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 7:47PM
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The Police Force has lost another great Officer. Dan, you gave us plenty of laughs and you will be missed. NSW Police Force Class 272 – Delta (PREP of 1997) will always remember you. Our thoughts are with your wife, family, and friends. Rest easy now mate, your shift is done. We’ll take it from here.
Commenter
Rebecca C
Location
Wollongong NSW
Date and time
December 02, 2010, 8:53PM
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Rest in Peace my mate Sgt Dan Stiller. You will never ever be forgotten. A great Police Officer. A great Highway Patrol Officer. A true professional in every way. A loving husband that will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Julie, both families, your QPS mates and your NSWPF mates. I am shattered. Till we meet again.
This has been issued to all media on behalf of Sergeant Dan Stiller’s wife, Julie;
A born and bred Brisbane-boy, Dan Stiller grew up knowing one day he would be able to combine his love of motorbikes with his job. In 2007, after 10 years as a police officer, he did just that when he was promoted to a Sergeant at the Oxley District Traffic branch.
On Wednesday December 1, Sergeant Dan Stiller paid the ultimate sacrifice doing what he loved.
Dan Stiller was born on January 6, 1977 in Brisbane to a large family.
An exceptional swimmer, Dan still holds the swimming record at Nundah Primary School – something he continued to boast about even as an adult – and received a scholarship to Nudgee College because of his swimming talents.
Growing up, Dan knew he wanted to become a police officer, and in 1997 he was accepted by the New South Wales Police Force, where he served for four years before applying and being accepted to the Queensland Police Service.
On graduating into the QPS in 2002, Dan served at the Hendra Police Station before transferring to South Brisbane Traffic. In 2007 Dan was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and transferred to the Oxley District Division Traffic Branch, working out of Mount Ommaney Police Station.
I can still recall the first time we met, which was during orientation at the Hendra Police Station. I saw him across the room and I was immediately attracted to him.
It wasn’t long after that we were sharing our first motorbike together, and we have been inseparable since. We married on August 9 2008. Coming from a large family, Dan was ecstatic on hearing that he was going to be a dad.
No words aptly describe Dan. He was a fun person, extremely loving and caring and had a fabulous sense of humour.
His quirks and comments made me laugh. He was capable of making anyone laugh or feel better on a down day, and I learnt very early in our relationship that he was just as beautiful on the inside as he was on the outside.
Queensland Police ServiceOur apologies to those who commented on this previously. We’ve had a technical hitch, and had to repost it, which means your comments were lost.
Gary Anthony HilesAs a member of the Oxley District Traffic Branch, I am very proud to say that I knew Dan and can say that he was an outstanding Police Officer. He was professional, knowledgeable and helpful. He died doing what he loved and has left a hole in our office. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace mate.
Miche MaraeaI have a large family myself, so I can acutely imagine their loss and how it is to be without one of your own, especially during this festive season! I wish his entire family peace and love!
John MarksI am a Police Officer too and will never forget that feeling when I knew what I was heading out to that morning. My sincerest heartfelt condolences go out to Dan’s family, friends & colleagues. RIP Sgt Dan STILLER.
Jenelle ReghenzaniSo so sad what a fine young man to loose his life at such a young age…….RIP and my sincere condolences to his family. May god look over you and protect you in this sad time! I have so much respect for the QPS they have helped me over the years in some very hard times and I truly appreciate their dedication and hard work!
Barbara Ann JohnstonMy heartfelt sympathy to Dan Stillers family and loved ones and work mates. Carry on and live with the pride and happy memories of life shared with him…. as i am sure he would want you to do. Sometimes a loved one is taken from us way too early, but the love in our hearts and the happy memories, nothing or no one can ever take away. RIP young man…. another QPS HERO
David WicksMy thoughts are with his family. Yet another life lost doing a thankless motorcycle officers job. RIP. To the others still riding – be safe.
Vicki Leethe tears in your eyes can be wiped away but may the love in your hearts always stay…sincerest condolences to all Dan’s family, friends and colleagues, a special heartfelt one to his wife and unborn child. xo
Lisa RichardsHeart breaking for all involved. reading those beautiful words you can feel the love they shared for each other. im sure their child will bring joy and love to sgt stillers wife and their family. Taken way to soon. RIP SGT DAN STILLER
Lisa RosierHeartfelt condolences to Dan’s wife and his family both personal and professional. Dan has crossed over to the other side where he watches over his loved ones and waits to guide them on their journey to the other side.
Cheryl Wkit is always heart breaking when we lose one of our finest.
Julie, you will be able to tell your little one that their daddy was the best. Condolences to you and Sgt Stiller’s family,his friends and colleagues.
Barbara StoneSgt Dan Stiller will always be remembered with pride and love. He was certainly taken too soon. My thoughts and prayers are with the Stiller family, their colleagues and friends at this very sad time.
Carrie DavidsonJulie…words cannot describe how sorry I am for your loss. My thoughts are with you and Dan’s family, friends and collegues. The Police service will not be the same without him.
Elle OzDan – The Man!!!! Remember……..Oh I really couldn’t believe it when I turned on the TV that day, I still can’t believe it. You were always the life of the class with that smile that lighted up any room. I am so proud to have gone through the NSWPOL Academy with you it is yet another tragedy where a great Police Officer was once again taken from us. I will be thinking of you this Thursday as I attend the Remembreance Day Parade here in Townsville I will be thinking of you, Glen and Pete xo
Tim RobThe Dan Stiller Reserve is a fitting monument to this man. If you don’t know where it is, Google it and visit it! If you love bird watching, 105 species have been seen there in the last year or so. No facilities and unfortunately the reserve is over-run by morons on trail bikes during the weekend, but it is one of the special places of Brisbane, wild yet accessible.
Tim RobSome complete moron(s) has/have destroyed the memorial. I dont have words – well polite ones anyway – to describe what I think about these idiots. This is a senseless act of vandalism that demonstrates just how moronic they are. If you destroyed the memorial and are reading this then please know that any reasonable person thinks that you are a complete f-wit.
Jillian OliverI had the honour to work with Dan when he first started. He was a great officer and great person. It was a highlight to be working the truck with him. I valued his friendship and think of him often. My prayers and thoughts are with his family.
Wildlife corridor to be named after fallen policeman Dan Stiller, killed by jack-knife truck on highway
Sarah Vogler and James O’Loan
The Courier-Mail
December 07, 20109:27PM
A FALLEN policeman will have a wildlife corridor in Brisbane’s southwest named after him.
Sergeant Dan Stiller, 33, died on duty last Wednesday while leading a police escort along the Bruce Hwy in central Queensland.
He was killed when a semi-trailer jack-knifed and collided with him, becoming the first officer in over three years to die on the job.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Campbell Newman today bestowed on Stiller the rare honour.
“Sergeant Dan Stiller coordinated combined police and council enforcement operations against illegal trail biking while working at the Oxley Traffic Branch,” Cr Newman said.
“It is therefore fitting that we name the 122 hectares we’ve protected against illegal trail biking the Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve.
“It will be a place not just to remember Sergeant Stiller, but other members of the police force who have been killed on duty.”
The reserve lies at Larapinta, near Parkinson, and is bounded by the Logan Mwy, Johnson Rd and Paradise Rd.
Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said Stiller’s wife Julie and the entire police service appreciated the honour.
“The QPS is very appreciative of this recognition by the Brisbane City Council,” Mr Atkinson said.
“It is a fine and fitting tribute to a very professional and dedicated officer and will help in terms of his colleagues dealing with his loss.
“Having discussed this with Dan’s wife Julie, I believe she is also very grateful for this initiative.”
Cr Newman said the bushland would be transformed into a valuable environmental and wildlife corridor and is currently being fenced and marked as bushland reserve.
The land was acquired by council over the past two years, primarily to protect it against illegal trail bikers.
The land grab was part of the Bushland Acquisition Program, which protects vital wildlife corridors in some of Brisbane’s most environmentally sensitive areas from future development.
Council expressed its sympathy to Stiller’s wife Julie, his family and to his colleagues in the police force, particularly the Oxley Traffic Branch.
The funeral for Sgt Stiller will be marked by a motorcade and mounted police this Thursday.
His death sent shockwaves through the Queensland Police Service.
This Thursday’s funeral will be at St Peter Chanel Catholic Church, The Gap, at 10.30am.
“The cortege, including the QPS Pipes and Drums, the Mounted Police Unit and a procession of motorcycle police, will proceed from the church on Chaprowe Road to Settlement Road, and on to a private interment,” police said today.
The interment is for close friends and family only.
Sgt Stiller is survived by his wife Julie, also a police officer, who is pregnant with their first child.
Mr Atkinson has previously described Stiller as ” a dedicated traffic officer, committed to the safety and security of all Queenslanders”.
Dan Stiller was so determined to become a police officer that he didn’t let an initial knock-back extinguish his dreams, mourners in Brisbane have been told.
Hundreds of people, including his pregnant wife Julie, gathered today to farewell Sergeant Stiller, who died when a truck jackknifed and hit him as he escorted a wide load south of Rockhampton last week.
He was the first Queensland police officer killed on the job in more than three years.
Queensland Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson told mourners of the 33-year-old’s efforts to join the service.
‘‘His initial knock-back from the police service only hardened his resolve, and extra study saw his future guaranteed,’’ Mr Atkinson said.
‘‘In the words of his wife Julie: ‘As a boy, Dan always wanted to grow up and be a police officer. This, mixed with his ultimate love of motorcycles, made the traffic branch the place he was destined to be’.’’
Sgt Stiller met his future wife, a police detective, during a posting at Hendra police station in Brisbane’s inner north in 2002.
‘‘She remembers well the first motorcycle ride they shared soon after (meeting) and they were inseparable ever since,’’ Mr Atkinson said.
The couple married on August 9, 2008 and only recently announced they were expecting their first child.
Sgt Stiller was overjoyed about becoming a father and wasn’t shy about showing his love for his wife, Mr Atkinson said.
‘‘His love for Julie was complete and total,’’ he told mourners.
Mr Atkinson described Sgt Stiller as a dedicated, competent traffic officer whose work helped lower the road toll.
Sgt Stiller started his career with the NSW police service in 1997.
He moved back to his home state of Queensland in 2001 and joined the service as a recruit.
He was sworn in in early 2002 and two years later was transferred to the south Brisbane traffic branch where he was promoted to senior constable.
‘‘He achieved his destiny when he passed the police motorcycle course and became a full-time police motorcyclist in the traffic branch,’’ Mr Atkinson said.
‘‘His outstanding policing skills and leadership were rewarded in 2007 when he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and transferred to the Oxley District Traffic Branch.’’
REMEMBERED: A monument dedicated to Sergeant Dan Stiller, who died last December, was unveiled at a ceremony attended by his wife Julie Stiller last Wednesday. Sgt Stiller’s family and friends also planted trees as a living memorial.
AN environmental corridor in Pallara has been named in honour of fallen policeman Sergeant Dan Stiller in a moving ceremony held last week.
Sgt Stiller’s wife Julie, along with his family, friends and colleagues gathered for the official naming of the 122 hectare Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve on Wednesday afternoon, which also included the unveiling of a memorial.
Sgt Stiller’s brother, John Stiller addressed the crowd and said his family were truly honoured by the mark of respect the memorial offered.
“If you knew Dan you’d know that whatever he put his mind to he committed to it 110 per cent,” he said.
“I am extremely proud of my brother, and this reserve will serve as a lasting tribute.
“It will also serve as a place for friends and family to visit and share quiet thoughts.”
The memorial was unveiled by Lord Mayor Campbell Newman and Parkinson Councillor Angela Owen-Taylor.
The Lord Mayor said Dan had been instrumental in working with council to deal with illegal trail biking while working at the Oxley Traffic Branch.
“Sergeant Dan Stiller co-ordinated combined police and council enforcement operations against illegal trail biking while working at the Oxley Traffic Branch,” he said.
“It is therefore fitting that the 122 hectares we’ve protected against illegal trail biking be named the Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve.
“It will now be a place not just to remember Sergeant Stiller, but also other members of the police force who have been killed on duty.”
Cr Owen-Taylor said she had worked closely with Sgt Stiller on road safety and illegal trail biking and she felt this was a fitting tribute.
“The dedication of this bushland to Sergeant Dan Stiller is significant as it is the place where Operation Trailblazer started in July 2008,” she said.
Sgt Stiller was killed on December 1, 2010, by a jack-knifing truck while escorting a wide load on the Bruce Highway near Mount Larcom.
The Police Remembrance Day march and ceremony held at Browns Park in North Ipswich on Thursday.
IPSWICH police paid tribute to fallen detectiveDamian Leeding and Sergeant Daniel Stiller in a moving Police Remembrance Day ceremony yesterday.
A strong contingent of about 100 uniformed, plain-clothed and dog-squad officers gathered at the North Ipswich Reserve from about 9.45am, marching to the beat of the Salvation Army drummers along The Terrace, past Riverlink Shopping Centre, then up Downs St to Browns Park.
Ipswich’s Police Remembrance Day ceremony is held each year at the James Sangster Memorial, which was built in honour of the police officer who died in an attempt to rescue members of the Jackson family from floods in 1893.
There are now 139 names on the Queensland remembrance list – dating back to Laidley Constable Matthew Connolly in 1861 – all of whom died in the line of duty.
However, it was the two most recent additions to that list that drew special mention at the ceremony, led by Southern Region police chaplain Malcolm Twine.
The chaplain began with a prayer for all the men and women who have given their lives while serving the community.
Detective Senior Constable Damian Leeding was shot in the face with a shotgun after responding to an armed robbery at the Gold Coast suburb of Pacific Pines, on May 29 this year.
Family members turned off his life support three days later.
Sergeant Daniel Stiller was killed in a traffic crash while assisting in an oversized-vehicle escort near Rockhampton on December 1, 2010.
The 33-year-old’s wife was pregnant with their first child at the time. Superintendent Garth Pitman said the rain which persisted through the ceremony could not drown police pride.
“We’ll march in the rain if we have to,” he said while delivering the commissioner’s address.
Representatives of Ipswich City Council, the Ipswich RSL, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service and Neighbourhood Watch joined retired police and members of the community in laying wreathes next to the Sangster monument
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Policeman Dan Stiller memorial vandalised at Pallara
Kate Kyriacou
The Courier-Mail
August 08, 20121:26PM
Sgt Dan Stiller, tragically killed on duty in a traffic accident, and his wife Julie.
A MEMORIAL commemorating a police officer killed in the line of duty has been vandalised.
Oxley detectives are investigating after the memorial to Sergeant Dan Stiller, located in a reserve on Wadeville Rd, Pallara, was damaged late Tuesday.
Sergeant Stiller, 33, killed in 2010 at Mt Larcom when the wide load truck he was escorting crashed and hit his police motorcycle.
Police said the statue was damaged shortly after 5pm, when a thick glass panel covering a photograph of Sgt Stiller was smashed.
Investigators are now looking to identify three teenaged boys who were seen in the area at the time. Two of the boys were on scooters and the third on a skateboard.
They were last seen walking towards Lillypilly St, Heathwood.
In 2010, the park was renamed Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve in tribute to the well-respected traffic officer.
A memorial dedication and bushland reserve naming of 122 hectares bordered by Paradise Road, Johnson Road, Stapylton Road and Wadeville Street occurred on 9 March 2011 in honour of fallen Police Officer, Sergeant Dan Stiller.
A number of Dan’s colleagues turned up in honour of the occasion
Lord Mayor Campbell Newman and I unveiled the memorial in Dan’s honour.
Unveiling the Bushland Reserve Sign, named after Sgt Dan Stiller
The bushland reserve dedication and naming was commemorated with a planting
A 17 year old male has been ordered to pay full restitution to restore the Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial at Heathwood.
The Brisbane City Council memorial in honour of Sergeant Dan Stiller was unveiled in March 2011.
It was an absolutely despicable act by vandals to destroy a public memorial, let alone a memorial dedicated to a Police officer who put his life on the line for our community each day he stepped out in uniform.
I worked closely with Sgt Dan Stiller to tackle illegal trail bike riding in Parkinson Ward and the Oxley Police District, and our community owes him for the service and care he provided us.
Residents have indicated to me they have supported the public appeal to assist Police.
Further to a thorough investigation by Queensland Police, the offender was brought to justice in the Richlands Magistrates Court on Tuesday 28 August, and ordered to pay full restitution.
I conveyed to Police the full cost of the damage and now the offender is being made to face the full consequences under law for his disgraceful behaviour.
I assure residents and Dan’s family, friends and work colleagues, we are working is to ensure restoration of the memorial occurs as quickly as possible and it will be as protected as much as possible.
Brisbane City Council dedicated the 122 hectares of bushland within the reserve in recognition of Sgt Dan Stiller’s commitment to the community in reducing illegal trail bike riding which was impacting severely on residents’ peaceful enjoyment of their own homes.
I met on site with Police Superintendent Maurice Poiner and stonemason Pete Macfarlane ahead of the photo of Sgt Dan Stiller being reinstalled into the memorial.
The Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve is bordered by Wadeville Street, Paradise Road, Johnson Road and Stapylton Road.
THE State Coroner has begun investigating a fatal crash involving a police officer escorting a wide load on the Bruce Highway at Mount Larcom.
Coroner Michael Barnes began hearing evidence in Brisbane on Wednesday into the adequacy of police investigations into the collision which killed Dan Arthur Stiller.
Sgt Stiller, who was escorting a wide load carrying a large piece of mining equipment, died when a prime mover jack-knifed about 7am on December 1, 2010, on the highway between Gladstone and Rockhampton.
Mr Barnes will examine the “adequacy and appropriateness” of regulations and guidelines surrounding wide-load transports within Queensland.
He will also investigate whether police motorcycles should be used as wide-load escorts.
John Edward Dodd, the truck driver involved in the crash, was found not guilty of careless driving by a Brisbane magistrate handed last month.
Magistrate Jacqueline Payne found Dodd had reacted as any reasonable and prudent driver would have.
THE State Coroner has recommended a raft of reforms on how wide loads are escorted on busy Queensland roads following two fatal crashes within six months involving oversized escorts.
Queensland Police Sergeant Daniel Stiller was escorting a wide load on the Bruce Hwy at Mount Larcom when a prime mover jack knifed and crashed into his motorbike.
The 33-year-old died at the scene on December 1, 2010.
About six months later on May 17, 2011, Kenneth Roland Owens was travelling on a single lane section of the Bruce Hwy at Glenorchy, near Maryborough, with his wife and two friends.
A prime mover was travelling in the opposite direction and carrying a miner’s hut, which was so wide it protruded into the southbound lane.
Mr Owens hit the corner of the hut and was killed.
Following an inquest into the deaths, State Coroner Michael Barnes handed down his findings on Friday.
He was satisfied in Mr Owen’s case the driver transporting the wide load was safe and the oversized load satisfied guidelines.
Mr Barnes said while it was likely the lights and markers on the wide load could have distracted Mr Owens, there was no evidence to show why he did not avoid the corner of the miner’s hut.
But in Mr Stiller’s death, Mr Barnes found the blame for fatal accident could be partially contributed to how the wide load escort was carried out.
He found radio communications from the lead escort to other trucks approaching the wide load was confusing and trucks were not given clear instructions.
“Those escorting the wide load gave insufficient regard to the need for other vehicles to get completely off the road when the highway was only of two lanes and the difficulty this would pose for heavy vehicles,” Mr Barnes states.
Mr Barnes also found the driver behind the wheel of the truck which crashed into Sergeant Stiller did not slow sufficiently as he approached the wide load.
The State Coroner recommended wide load grants should not be issued if other transport is available, such as shipping to Gladstone and Mackay ports.
He has also recommended a review of placing police on motorcycles for wide escorts because of the increased risk of death or injury.
Mr Barnes also recommended a public awareness campaign about dealing with wide loads and more explicit signage.
A new section has been added to Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve in Parkinson to the south of Brisbane. It is well worth a look as it has good tracks and an interesting lagoon in the north-eastern corner. We recommend a weekend walk as there is quite high road noise from Logan Motorway in places.
“Dan” is a very interesting reserve that we have visited numerous times, and currently 152 bird species have been recorded there. Interested people may like to download our (updated today) birders guide from:
My wife Marg and I will be leading a BQ walk to “Dan” on May 10th, and will be delighted to meet you.
Tim
Quote from BQ website
” This will be the fist BQ visit to Dan Stiller Reserve for 2015. Meet at 7 am at the gate near the end of Axis Place (UBD 239, E6). This section of the reserve is relatively new and until recently had no good tracks. BCC has made a loop track that includes a section with close proximity to a lagoon on a minor tributary of Oxley Creek. It is also possible, time permitting, to see a large ex-sandmining lake that apparently will become part of an expanded reserve in the future. The track is well made and an easy walk. Boots are recommended for safe access to the edge of the lagoon. There are no toilet facilities in this reserve.
We will meet for morning tea at the park on Lincoln Green Drive (UBD 238, H16) where toilets are available.”
Stations: ?, Bairnsdale, Eastern Division 6, Sale – death
Service: From ? to 7 October 2015
Awards: ?
Born: ?
Died on: Wednesday 7 October 2015
Cause: Fatal Motor vehicle collision – motor cycle rider
Event location: Princes Highway near Lindenow South, 20 kilometres from Bairnsdale in Gippsland, Victoria
Age: 53
Funeral date: Monday 19 October 2015 @ 1pm
Funeral location: St Mary’s Catholic Church
Cnr Main and Pyke Streets
Bairnsdale
Buried at: ? TBA
[alert_blue]KATE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue] * NOT JOB RELATED
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Funeral location:
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Police officer killed in Gippsland motorcycle crash
Date
A police officer has been killed in Victoria’s east after her motorcycle and a four-wheel-drive vehicle collided.
The collision on the Princes Highway near Lindenow South, 20 kilometres from Bairnsdale in Gippsland, occurred about 7am on Wednesday and was being investigated by the police major collision unit.
It is understood the 53-year-old officer was travelling to work in Sale.
The male driver of the 4WD vehicle, who is believed to be a Gippsland-based doctor, was assisting police with their inquiries.
The Princes Highway was blocked in both directions, with traffic diverted at Benworden Road.
Police confirmed the victim was a senior constable from an Eastern Region police station but made no further comment.
Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on1800 333 000.
As some of you may know, yesterday one of our members, Senior Constable Kate McLeod was tragically killed in a road accident while travelling to work in Eastern Victoria.
The Police Association Victoria would like to offer our sincerest condolences to Kate’s family, friends and colleagues. We would like to remind them that we are here to support you in any way we can.
We know that our community would also like to offer their condolences to Kate’s family and police colleagues in Gippsland.
– TPAV Comms Team via Facebook on 8 October 2015
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Sharon BleggMy deepest sympathy to Lisa – her soul mate and life partner. Thoughts to family and friends. Kate – you will be sadly missed. Your detailed stories, your blushing, and you as ‘yourself’. One half of the ‘Bandits’…..your memories will live on. Good Bye Katrina Isobelle ….YES!!!!!!!!….I know, you “HATE” that. Kate. RIP Kate. xxx
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Simon WalshIt was terrible to hear of Kates passing, my sincere condolences to her colleagues, friends and family and my thoughts are with all her emergency service colleagues that attended the scene.
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Paula JohnsonWe worked many shifts together and I will always remember your stories …”katrina is a bell ding dong”, and they’re runners in Victoria, not ‘sand shoes’. My thoughts are with Lisa, you will be missed. Thanks for the laughs and the memories. RIP kate
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Rachel RogersThank You Kate-for your years of dedicated service, and for the friendship we made during them. You were a funny, cheeky woman, that knew what supporting a colleague was-a real asset to our world…extremely gullible though.. ?
As with the others-my thoughts and condolences are with Lisa, your friends and family, both blood and blue.
Ride Into Paradise xx
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Rhon NationFrom the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation Peninsula Branch our condolences to Kate’s family , friends and colleagues .
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Kelly MaySincerest condolences to Senior Constable McLeod’s family, friends and work colleagues. May her memory be cherished, always.
Thank you for your service, and for the protection you afforded the public, Senior Constable McLeod, may your soul be at peace.
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Grace ElizabethRIP Kate, my squady and roommate. Thinking of all of Kates family, friends and Gippsland brothers and sisters in blue
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Chloe SpertiRip Kate McLeod, thoughts are with the east Gippsland police and the families, may she rest in peace now.
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Brett DaelishKate, although I didn’t know you – You must have been a champion in life – so sad that you have left us tragically – I hope the tributes to you and your family reinforce why we have such a wonderful hard working Police force in Victoria. Rest in Peace.
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Sharni FluitsmaSo sad to hear this news. Sincere condolences to Kate’s family and friends. It was a pleasure to have known you and worked with you when our path’s crossed. RIP.
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Jaime HeveyRest in peace Kate, was great to get to know you over the summer holidays a few years back in Mallacoota. My thoughts are with your partner and family
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Lynne Ashtonyou were a wonderful officer, you will be missd especially at the sale police station thank you for being so kind to my son who was a junior officer, you inspired him to be an even better police officer rest in peace kate love to you family and colleagues..the Richards and Ashton family of Sale
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Rico ChetRest well my sister we will take it from here.
R.I.P. Condolences to your family.
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Maree ShellyIt was a pleasure to know you Kate. You were highly respected by your ambo mates & bloody awesome at your job. RIP cheeky lady.
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Christine Petrucelle GibbinsSo sorry to hear, i worked with kate a long time ago at the Y, she was a swimming instructor at the time and was well liked by all. Condolences to the family
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Marcus ReidMy deepest sympathy to Lisa and family, Kate will be sadly missed, it was a pleasure to work with you all those years ago teaching swimming lessons for so many years… May your spirit fly free and proud knowing you changed so many lives and served your community well.. To your soul mate Lisa hold your memories close, may you find strength at this difficult time from your family and friends who are all here to support you… Rip Kate
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Jo HurleyRIP Kate An amazing Police Officer!! Patience dignity and care for everyone around her at all times!!
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Dale ThomasRip Kate. Such a sad loss. From the team at Doyle and shields. Our condolences to Lisa and families
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Mel IshaRest in peace kate, I will miss your stories and your passion for the job. I am so lucky to have worked with you, thank you for passing on your knowledge. I will not forget the times we shared. Thoughts with Lisa and the family during this time xxx
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Val JackmanVery sad to read of Kate’s tragic passing. I remember her as a popular PE teacher when we worked together at GC Bendigo may years ago. She was always great fun and very popular with staff and students alike. RIP Kate!! Sympathy to all family, friends and work colleagues..
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Angela DmytrenkoThoughts and Prayers to Family, Friends and Colleagues. (proud to have Police in my Family).
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Murray CouttsKate is such a lovely person; she was in my sister squad at the Academy. Thoughts for her family and colleagues….
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Evelyn BuckleR.I.P CONSTABLE KATE McCleod thank you for your service with VICTORIAN Police & many thanks to your family for their sacrifices as well ….MAY both your familys remember you with fond & funny moments in time rather than tears & sadness….
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Sam RobertsAlways tragic to lose one of our own (emergency service workers). RIP Kate, thank you for your service. Thinking of family, friends, work mates.
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Valerie AdamsRIP knowing that you are thought of by many and that it is such a tragedy to die in such a way. Condolences to her family and colleagues.
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Ka Chun TseWhat shocking news – my partner and I would like to acknowledge Kate as members of the general public whom she had helped when we were living at Bairnsdale.
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April McKinnonSympathies to Kate’s family, friends & colleagues; Especially the emergency service personnel who attended the accident~ their worst fear when attending is to find one of their own. RIP
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Lois McKenzieOur sincere condolences to Lisa. One half of the famous “bandits”, we still have quite a bit of your ingenious handywork to cross off the list and will think of you both with each new log. Our thoughts are with you.
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Charlie ThredboMy condolences to Kate’s family and friends, and my admiration to all you police, including Kate, who do such a wonderful job shielding us from having to even have a comprehension of what you have to deal with. Some people don’t thank you for this. I do.
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Margaret ByrneCondolences to your family from a former NSW Policewoman. RIP Kate. Margaret (Watts) Byrne.
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Peter PhillipsEven as an ex East Gippsland member I feel for Kate’s family and friends “In the job”. So sorry to hear the sad news. Condolences to all.
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Patrick GosstrayJust reading some tributes for Miss McLeod and how rememberable and sad they are so many happy and different memories you all had .. Left me speechless when I heard … Although I didn’t not know her but Miss McLeod was stationed in my town I would like to thank Miss McLeod for her services that she had done … Condolences to her partner, family, all work colleagues that she has worked with and to the Victorian Police Force From the Gosstray family
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Kim EliseRIP Kate- a loyal and valued member of Squad 15, 2008. Thinking of her partner, family and colleagues out east at this very sad time Xx
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Dave YoungCondolences to all in Eastern Region Division 6. RIP Kate
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Shardai NotleyCannot believe I’m reading this!! I’m in complete shock :(( Thoughts are with family, friends and colleagues.. The world has lost such a beautiful person RIP Kate xx
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Mathew BillsI would like to express my heartfelt sympathy to all those affected by Kates death. I first met Kate when she was the Gay and Lesbian Liason Officer at Bairnsdale Police Station. She was the first one to offer me some comfort when I was a young teenager trying to come to terms with my sexuality. Whenever I would see her about town she would stop and ask if I was ok etc, even when she was off duty. She will be dearly missed. RIP Kate, I’ll miss you. All my Love….xxxx cry emoticoncry emoticon
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Andrea SavageYou’ll be sorely missed Kate- thanks for stepping up for community- thoughts are with Lisa & Kate’s family
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Inge DaunceyThis is so totally tragic. I was really fond of Kate and was so proud when she joined the job. Vale fine lady. The world is a poorer place.
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Rama GardnerRIP Kate. .many memories of vegco days before you joined the job love and thoughts to family her partner and work mates
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Ally HowardKate, I thought you were gorgeous. I’m so sorry you are gone. You were a shining light among us. Condolences & deepest sympathy to those who loved you most & who will miss you forever. Rest in Peace
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Luke BelfordRest in peace kate. My thoughts go out to your partner and family. We had some laughable and some not so laughable moments over the past few years. Love and light.
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Anthony GortasticVale Kate, I’m glad to have been on your first night shift all those years ago… and I’m sorry we almost broke your brain! I’ll miss you heaps.
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Lisa GodenziYou always stayed strong in your beliefs even in the face of adversity. Our thin blue line got a little thinner yesterday. Thoughts are with her partner Lisa, family and friends. RIP. ?
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Kirsty Lee HalseR.I.p Kate u will be missed . u were one of nicest police officer iv known n was so kind to me. Thoughts with her family n her work mates xx
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Tamara LundChocking back tears as I find that it was you Kate, thankyou for lending a listening ear when I needed to talk, will miss seeing you around bairnsdale! RIP Beautiful lady, never be forgotten
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Yvette FransWe will miss you Katie, you have been taken from us way to soon in a senseless way. Lisa will miss having you by her side
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Dave N Sam GilesFarewell Kate you were a great copper and awesome to work with on jobs. We’ll miss you! Rest easy.
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Kayanne Bradzgal BennettOh lord …..i didnt realise it was you!!! Deadset one of the nicest police officers iv ever met… #madrespect….. RIP……
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Shelie EzardTragicically taken , my daughter worked along side you, it shows to hold our loved ones so much closer and never take a day for granted
Kevin PowellSorry for your loss Kate you will be remembered with the honoured dead
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Charles MachenKate, I know you struggled when you first came to Bairnsdale but you certainly shone. You put in more then most. It was a pleasure to have known you.
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Steve AndersonNo words Kate. Just memories of long conversations you always ended, debates you always won, and most of all that true friendship we built from the ground up. I will miss you mate. Everyday.
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Driver charged over police officer’s death
THE driver of the four wheel drive vehicle involved in the death of a Sale police officer on Wednesday is facing charges of culpable driving and dangerous driving causing death.
Patrick Mattu, 30, from Bairnsdale, faced an out of sessions hearing on Wednesday night in Bairnsdale and was remanded to front Bairnsdale Magistrates’ Court on Thursday morning.
It is believed a four wheel drive vehicle was travelling east along the Princes Highway near Lindenow South when it and a motorcycle collided head-on about 7am.
The female rider of the motorcycle, whose name had not been released yesterday morning, died at the scene.
It is understood the 53-year-old Senior Constable was travelling to work in Sale and The Age reported that the driver of the four wheel drive was believed to be a Gippsland-based doctor.
The driver and his female passenger in the four wheel drive were not injured.
The Princes Highway was blocked in both directions, with traffic diverted at Bengworden Rd, as detectives from the Major Collision Investigation Unit examined the scene.
Police appeal for anyone with information about the collision to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
30yo man fronts court over motorcycle crash that killed off-duty policewoman at Lindenow South
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A 30-year-old man from Bairnsdale, in south-east Victoria, has been charged with causing a crash that killed an off-duty police officer on Wednesday.
Senior Constable Kate McLeod was hit by a car while riding a motorcycle on the Princes Highway at Lindenow South, about 7:00am (AEDT), and died at the scene of the crash.
Patrick Mattu appeared in the Bairnsdale Magistrates Court yesterday.
He has been charged with culpable driving and dangerous driving causing death.
