Hundreds of people have packed St Paul’s Anglican Church in Tamworth, in north-west New South Wales, for the funeral today of long serving Kootingal policeman Steve Pepperell.
The crowd at this morning’s service was told of a family man who faced tragedy in his life, but who also made an enormous contribution to the police service since his induction in the early 1970s.
Senior Constable Pepperell was killed in a motorbike accident last week, sending shockwaves through the community he had served for many years.
The overflowing crowd watched the service on big screen TVs that had been placed outside the church.
The head of the Tamworth-based Oxley local area command, Tony Jefferson, says he remembers an officer who trained many young officers, who in turn have made a large contribution to the police service.
“He’d walk in here when he’d report to Tamworth with this devilish smirk on his face, and you’d never know what he’d been up to,” he said.
He says he will miss Senior Constable Pepperell’s roguish sense of humour.
Kootingal police officer honoured on memorial plaque
Breanna Chillingworth
A FORMER Kootingal police officer who died in an accident almost eight years ago has been honoured at an official memorial in Sydney.
Senior Constable Stephen David Pepperell was a familiar face after serving for more than two decades in the Kootingal and Tamworth areas as a police officer, right up until his tragic death in a motorbike accident in southern NSW in 2007.
Yesterday, Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione unveiled a commemorative memorial plaque at the Sydney Police Centre in Surrey Hills, featuring the names of several sworn and unsworn officers including Senior Constable Pepperell who have died while serving in the NSW Police Force.
Several of Senior Constable’s Pepperell’s family including his parents travelled to Sydney for yesterday’s service. They said they were touched by the commemoration of their father, son and grandfather.
“We are honoured that Dad, even after his passing, will be recognised for his service and lifelong commitment to the police force,” daughter Natalie Pepperell told The Leader.
“Dad was one of the longest-serving police officers in one station and he was quite proud of that; he was so well-known in the community.”
Senior Constable Pepperell joined the force in Sydney in 1971 and never looked back.
After a city stint, he moved to Tamworth in 1980 and served for two years before transferring to Kootingal, where he was stationed until his tragic death.
“It was very touching because we grew up in the police station, in the police residence for all those years and the police force was a big part of our lives,” Ms Pepperell said.
FAMILY TIES: Anthony, Sienna, Ebony, Jenna, Natalie, Daphne and Edward Pepperell.
“So we have a lot of respect and gratitude towards the police, and appreciation that after seven years they continue to remember Dad. It is a really nice tribute.”
It was also his work outside the force made him a familiar face around Kootingal.
Senior Constable Pepperell was member and president of the Kootingal Lions Club, president of Kootingal Bowling Club, a Group 4 referee and also an avid Harley-Davidson rider.
He continues to be honoured with the Steve Pepperell Memorial Shield football match, which is played annually in Kootingal and raises funds for the Cancer Council – a cause close to his heart after he suffered Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
The Kootingal-Moonbi rugby league club is calling on teams competing in Group 4 to pledge their support behind the, 2018 Steve Pepperell Shield Memorial Day.
The day honours Steve Pepperell’s tireless dedication to the community of Kootingal, with all proceeds from the day going to the New South Wales Cancer Council.
Prize money is up for grabs for the winner and runners-up. The fundraiser will be held on March 10.
Pepperell Shield biggest yet as second division gets into gear
GROUP 4 Second Division clubs have been converging on Kootingal for the past five years to play a bit of footy before the start of the season and raise some money for the Cancer Council.
The sixth Steve Pepperell Memorial Shield tomorrow will be one of the biggest yet with eight teams entered.
Even re-formed clubs Walcha and Boggabri have joined their new second division opponents is supporting the event, played in honour of the late Steve Pepperell.
Walcha and Boggabri meet in their first game of the day in an all-Kangaroo derby, before Walcha tackles Quirindi and Boggy faces Manilla.
All teams will play two games each and the winner will be the team with the best record for the day.
Werris Creek is the defending champion having won every trophy available to a second division club last season. With so many teams entered the day is a long one.
The first game is at 9am when Manilla tackles Bendemeer, with the last game to finish about 5.30pm before the presentation of the shield.
There will also be some exhibition league tag games between Dungowan, Kootingal, Quirindi and Walcha – the first league tag games to be played under the Group 4 banner.
Family mourns dedicated Wangaratta police officer, father and ‘lovable idiot’ Gavin Frew
Shana Morgan
The death of Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew has devastated his family and Wangaratta police colleagues who always found joy in his unique ways.
He had been stationed with the Wangaratta Highway Patrol in recent years after moving to the region from Horsham, but died this week.
Daughter Kaycee Frew said her father was her best friend.
“He was a loving husband, an amazing father and a lovable idiot to all,” she said.
“His many years of service in the Victoria police brought joy to the people who worked with him – the hole left in our lives is deep and painful.”
Leading Senior Constable Frew was known for his dedication to the job and sense of humour, but also suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Ms Frew described him as her “sad clown” and wanted to make him the face of the disorder within Victoria Police. His death comes as Police Remembrance Day will be commemorated on September 29.
Superintendent Paul O’Halloran said messages of sympathy for the loss of Leading Senior Constable Frew had come from the Border region and from Horsham.
“He was always quite vocal around the building … it’s had a really significant impact,” he said.
“We’re shocked and saddened. Gavin was a well-liked and very well-respected member of the Wangaratta Highway Patrol and he’s also really well known across the force.”
Horsham-based friend Michael Ryan said Leading Senior Constable Frew was loved by all.
“He was a gorgeous young man. It was very hard to not like him, even as a copper. He was just good to people,” he said.
“There was nothing about him that was evil or mean.”
Mr Ryan knew Mr Frew through their mutual involvement with Horsham Saints Football Netball Club.
“Gavin came from a fantastic family – really good community-minded people,” he said.
“He was really good policeman. It takes a bit of skill and nous to be good at the job and still be at peace with your community, but he was both. We could do with a lot more people like him.”
A service for Leading Senior Constable Frew will be held in Wangaratta next week.
If you or anyone you know needs help, support is available by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Date of birth: 26 March, 1969 Date of passing: 23 September, 2017
FREW – Gavin John
(Late of Mt Bruno and formerly of Horsham)
Tragically taken too soon on Saturday September 23, 2017 aged 48 years.
Soulmate and best friend to Rebecca, Brendan, Jemma and Kaycee.
Beloved son of Neil and Maree and son-in-law to Gary and Diane.
Adored brother and brother-in-law of Jodie, Nicole, Fiona-Louise, Rodney and their families.
You left a space no-one can fill.
You were loved beyond life.
Funeral Details
Funeral Prayers for Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew 27893 will be offered in Our Lady’s Catholic Church, corner of Murdoch Road and White Street, Wangaratta on Thursday October 5, 2017 commencing at 10.30am.
A Private Cremation will follow this Service.
POLICE HONOURS
In lieu of flowers, a donation made to the Starlight Foundation for Rosie Carroll would be greatly appreciated. Donation envelopes will be available at the Church.
The final salute of respect for much-loved Wangaratta police officer Gavin Frew
Shana Morgan
The emotional, and at times funny, funeral for Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew was a fitting tribute to the well-loved Wangaratta police officer.
His colleagues lined White Street after the service on Thursday in a guard of honour, saluting his casket and family members as a final mark of respect.
Leading Senior Constable Frew’s death came as a shock to those around him, and wife Bec Frew thanked the hundreds of people at the funeral for their support to keep her strong.
“If everybody just took on that little bit of love and happiness, and shared it with everyone around them, what a wonderful world it would be,” she said
“You were my other half, my soulmate, my anchor in so many storms … You made our world a better place, you will be forever in our hearts.”
He was remembered as a proud father, larrikin big brother, devoted friend and although he was constantly making those around him laugh on and off the job, he was the ultimate professional as a police officer.
Daughter Kaycee Frew said the day was a chance to “celebrate the life of a very loved idiot”.
Kaycee Frew September 24, 2017 · It hurts my soul to inform you all that my best mate Gavin has left us too soon. I will miss you forever. Thanks for helping to make me the amazing person I am today. Miss you so much already Dad. Rest easy my Gangster. ❤️
“My dad had the amazing ability to make people laugh in any circumstance, especially under serious ones. His cheeky smile and quirky personality is what we’ll all miss the most,” she said.
Leading Senior Constable Frew graduated the police academy in 1989, passing the final fitness test despite a broken collarbone he suffered while trying to do a stand-up somersault after winning a football final.
He served in Broadmeadows, Ararat and Horsham, before moving to Wangaratta in 2012.
Most of the speakers at the funeral recounted Leading Senior Constable Frew’s favourite piece of trivia he would constantly ask family, friends, colleagues and even people he pulled over on the road: when was the Battle of Hastings?
Wangaratta Highway Patrol Sergeant Michael Connors confirmed the legend that the officer was always looking for a motorist who knew the right answer, 1066. “If they got that correct, there was a chance of them getting a warning,” he said.
Leading Senior Constable Frew’s call sign “Wangaratta 610” has been retired as a mark of respect.
Thursday’s service was also attended by Acting Chief Commissioner Andrew Crisp and Acting Assistant Commissioner Clive Rust.
Donations to the Starlight Children’s Foundation were being collected by the family in lieu of flowers.
Police ‘macho culture’ needs to change
Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew was a man of extraordinary light and good humour, but he was also one of many police officers who suffered post-traumatic stress disorder.
His family now want to raise awareness of the condition.
Long-time friend Anthony Hoffmann told Thursday’s service about the many good times he had with Leading Senior Constable Frew, but said things had to change when it came to dealing with PTSD.
“Over the years we’d always get together and trade some war stories – some funny, some not so funny – but we’d never talk about how these moments affected us, I guess mainly because silently we did not want to appear weak,” he said.
“This is wrong and we need to change this attitude.
“If there’s one thing we can and should take away from this tragedy, it’s that we need to change this macho culture and to learn to talk and to ask for help when we need it, otherwise we’ll needlessly lose more sons, daughters, husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters – enough is enough.
“I implore you to take this message away today: life is precious and our time here short, so we owe it to our loved ones to be the best we can, but we can’t do that alone so it’s time to man up and be honest with those around you.
“Don’t wait to be asked, just please ask for help if you need it.”
Mr Hoffmann said his friend was a very courageous man, looking out for team mates on the football field and in other parts of life.
“He never took a backwards step, even when the odds were stacked against him,” he said.
If you or anyone you know needs help, support is available by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14.
SPECIAL MAN: Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew was remembered as an “idiot to all and loved by everyone”.
GUARD OF HONOUR: Wangaratta, Horsham and police command officers along White Street after Thursday’s funeral. Pictures: MARK JESSER
Horsham Saints Cricket Club Like This Page · September 26, 2017 · Vale Gavin Frew. This morning I learnt of the untimely passing of Gavin Frew who by his own words couldn’t bat and couldn’t bowl. Gavin played just the 20 matches for the club for 68 runs (HS 26) but he did return for our premiership reunions earlier this year as a member of the C Grade 1988/89 premiership team. Gavin was a Vicpol member here in Horsham before heading up to Wangaratta. On behalf of the Horsham Saints (formally St. Michael’s) Cricket Club we pass on our condolences to his family. – Trent King, Secretary Remember is ok to not be ok. It’s always okay to ask for help. If you notice mates acting strange it doesn’t hurt to ask if they are okay. with Mike Toone.
Darren Robert JONES
| 05/04/2018
Darren Robert JONES
Husband to Serving Member – Trish and brother of Serving Member Paul ( Tocumwal )
Sergeant Darren Jones is a serving member of the NSW Police Force based at Parramatta Local Area Command.
Darren was diagnosed with Stage 3 Bowel Cancer in June 2015 which he successfully treated with Chemotherapy. He was in remission in August of 2016 when Doctors found metastasised cells in Darren’s abdomen. He underwent further Chemotherapy and all was looking good until mid-February 2017, when he received a Stage 4 Liver Cancer diagnosis.
Darren and Trish, also a serving member of the NSW Police Force have twin 11-year olds, a boy and a girl, Ty and Charli. Ever since Darren and Trish had their children, they have dreamt of being able to take their family on a holiday to Disneyland. A goal that now seems more pressing to create special memories for the children, and to give the family some precious time away together.
With the assistance of NSW Police Legacy, Darren’s mates and colleagues are fundraising to support Darren with his medical expenses, and to give the family their dream holiday.
Sergeant Patrick William KELLY. Born Sydney 1884. Died 11/6/1922 Coast Hospital from ‘Enteric Fever‘ (Typhoid fever) aged 38. Joined 1904, 18 years Service. The attached link is to his obituary is all I can find about this man who died whilst still serving.
Some background. The Coast Hospital (established around 1882 to isolate and treat patients with infectious diseases) was particularly valuable during the bubonic plague in Sydney of 1900 and then again when soldiers returning from Europe brought the influenza virus back in 1919. The Coast Hospital became Prince Henry Hospital in 1934. In 2001 services were transferred to Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney and the hospital site became available for residential use.
Sergeant Patrick William Kelly, of No. 1 (Clarence-street) Station of the N.S.W. Police, died at the Coast Hospital on the 11th inst. of enteric fever, at the early age of 38 years. The deceased, who was a native of Sydney, was the eldest son of the late Mr. John Kelly and of Mrs. Mary Kelly, of County Galway, Ireland, and residents of Ultimo for over 35 years.
Sergeant Kelly joined the police force in 1904, and rendered fine work to the department, gaining the confidence of the Inspector-General and other officers, and the esteem of all associated with him. The deceased was an inmate of the hospital for only one week, when he was called to his reward. He was attended spiritually during his illness by the Rev. Fathers McHugh and Quinn (Maroubra), who administered the last rites of the Church.
The interment took place at the Catholic Cemetery, Rookwood, on Friday, the 13th inst., the funeral leaving the residence of his mother, 79 Quarry-street, Ultimo.
The cortege was headed by the Police Band, followed by about 100 uniformed and 50 plain clothes men and detectives, who proceeded with the other mourners to the graveside.
The Rev. Father J. Troy (Diocesan Inspector of Schools) officiated, and, in referring in feeling terms of the remarkable courage and fortitude shown by Sergeant Kelly during his last hours, said he was typical of those who comprise the splendid force of police that the State of New South Wales is justly proud; and he took this public opportunity of expressing his appreciation of the members of that great body, who were the custodians of peace and the guardians of life and property.
The chief mourners were his mother, Miss H. Kelly (sister), Mr. J. J. Kelly (brother), Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Finn and family (Carlton), Mr. and Mrs. J. J.White and family (Erskineville), Mr. J. Farraher, uncle (Redfern), Mrs. Goodridge (Moss Vale), Mr. and Mrs. Tom Mack (Moss Vale), Mr. and Mrs. Spencer (Taralga ), also at the graveside were Superintendents Park (representing the Inspector-General of Police), Bannan, ex-Superintendents Brooks and McLean, Inspectors Turbet, Long, Robertson, Pauling, King, Mankey, and Mr. John Robinson (ex-local auditor, Commonwealth Audit Office, Sydney ). The pall-bearers consisted of six comrades of the deceased from the foot and water police. — R.I.P.
A POLICEMAN has been killed on his way to work in a tragic car crash in Shepparton.
Acting Sergeant Gavin Sproule, 37, from Kialla, was driving to work when he collided with another car at the intersection of Verney Road and Nightingale Way just after 9pm on Saturday.
He was flown to hospital but died on arrival. The Shepparton-based officer is being mourned by loved ones.
Inspector Troy Hargadon paid tribute to Acting Sergeant Sproule.
“Gavin was a well respected and valued member,” Insp Hargadon said.
“He had recently spent a period of time carrying out duties as a supervisor and he was well on his way to achieving his goal of promotion.
“He was much loved and respected by all. He is remembered by his wife and children.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this tragic time.
“It will have an impact on our local members who do a wonderful job and who have lost a colleague and a friend.
“Victoria Police will continue to support our members in these tough times.”
Acting Sergeant Gavin Sproule, 37, was driving to work when he collided with another car. Picture: Supplied
Friend Annette Newman wrote on Facebook: “Rest in Peace Gavin. You will be sorely missed by everyone that knew you.”
“You will be forever missed but never forgotten. Will always love ya mate you were one in a million! And I was very lucky to call you my friend,” read another post.
A Police Association spokesman said it would provide support to Act Sgt Sproule’s family and colleagues
“The Police Association is deeply saddened by the death of one of our members, who was killed while on his way to working night shift in Shepparton,” a spokesman said.
“We offer our deepest condolences to his family, and we have reached out to them, and to the member’s colleagues who attended the scene, to offer any assistance and support they require.
“A senior Police Association representative is in Shepparton today to help guide affected members through this tragic time.”
The female driver of the other car was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
Investigators believe that a car travelling on Nightingale Way turned right onto Verney Road and collided with Act Sgt Sproule’s ute.
The vehicle flipped and came to a rest on its roof.
Off-duty police officer killed in Shepparton smash a ‘true legend’
A police officer killed in a car accident while on his way to work on Saturday night has been remembered as a “true legend”.
Acting Sergeant Gavin Sproule, a member of Shepparton Highway Patrol, was on his way to night shift when a car collided with his Toyota ute about 9pm.
The Kialla man, a father of two young children, was airlifted to Melbourne but died on arrival.
Shepparton Inspector Troy Hargadon paid tribute to his colleague on Monday afternoon.
“He was vibrant and well-respected member who is sadly missed,” he told reporters.
“[He] has been a local member for a number of years having worked in Shepparton and most recently in an acting in the role as a supervisor.”
Inspector Hargadon said a number of officers who had attended the scene on Saturday night were friends and colleagues of Mr Sproule.
“It is a significant event when people lose their lives on our roads and no doubt it always has an impact on the wider community,” he said.
“The complexity for us is that it is a colleague, and unfortunately, some of his peers and his friends, they responded to the horrible scene we were faced with on Saturday evening. They did so in such a manner that was outstanding and [I’m] certainly extremely proud of the efforts that they put in on that evening.”
Inspector Hargadon also praised the efforts of other emergency services and the greater community who provided the support on Saturday night at the scene of the crash.
He said officers who were traumatised by the incident were receiving ongoing care and counselling.
Mr Sproule, 37, has been remembered as a much-loved officer, with The Police Association said they were “deeply saddened” by the tragedy.
“We offer our deepest condolences to his family, and we have reached out to them, and to the member’s colleagues who attended the scene, to offer any assistance and support they require.
“A senior Police Association representative is in Shepparton today to help guide affected members through this tragic time.”
Tributes have poured in on social media for Mr Sproule, who was described as “a really great bloke” and “true legend” who would be sadly missed.
Investigators believe that a vehicle travelling on Nightingale Way turned right onto Verney Road and collided with Mr Sproule’s Toyota.
The female driver of the other vehicle was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
Passed away tragically as a result of an accident on Saturday February 17, 2018.
Dearly loved husband of Jayne, adored father of Max and Beau,
beloved son of Paul and Shirley,
loved brother of Brad.
Forever Loved Sadly Missed
.
February 22, 2018
I remember Gavin as a young man growing up. Gavin was always a happy and polite young man with a wonderful outlook on life. He will be sadly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, Paul,Shirley,Brad and their families.
Brendan Gellion,
Geelong
February 23, 2018
SPROULE Gavin Matthew
Acting Sergeant 36488
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Acting Sergeant Gavin Matthew Sproule will be held at the Sir Ian McLennan Community Centre Echuca Road, Mooroopna on Monday February 26th, 2018 commencing at 1.00pm.
A private cremation will follow.
In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Victoria Police Legacy.
Gavin Sproule was a well respected police officer who started out in Horsham
Elijah Macchia
TRIBUTES are flowing for Wimmera man Gavin Sproule.
Gavin, 37, died after a car crash at Shepparton on Saturday night.
He had worked as an acting sergeant for the Victoria Police, based in the Goulburn Valley, for about 10 years.
Gavin grew up at Pimpinio before his father Paul took the reins as the police officer at Minyip.
Older brother Brad Sproule said Gavin was like any little brother.
“He was very adventurous, very boisterous, full on, flat out. But then he also had a very soft side,” he said. “He was very caring and loving.”
Brad said Gavin took those traits into fatherhood and became an exceptional parent.
Gavin and wife Jayne have two sons, Max and Beau.
“He and Jayne were a really good couple. There are always highs and lows in relationships and they just got through everything.They worked together,” Brad said.
Brad said Gavin wanted to follow in their father’s footsteps as a police officer, but tried several jobs before he embarked on that journey.
“He was a farm hand and did a bit of truck driving, but he loved the police force,” he said.
Gavin started his policing career in Horsham and later worked in Shepparton.
“When he was younger he pushed a lot of boundaries but he ended up being a very respected and very good police officer,” Brad said.
The life of Shepparton police Acting Sergeant Gavin Sproule will be celebrated at a funeral service in Mooroopna on Monday.
Acting Sgt Sproule was killed when his car and another vehicle collided at the intersection of Verney Rd and Nightingale Way just after 9pm — on Saturday, February 17.
Earlier this week colleagues remembered Mr Sproule as a ‘‘vibrant and respected’’ man.
‘‘He’s a brother, he’s a father, he’s a husband, and he’s a valued member of our organisation,’’ Shepparton police Inspector Troy Hargadon said.
‘‘To lose a life at any circumstance is a tragic event, and it has a significant impact on anybody, whether it’s a member of the police force, or a community member.
‘‘I’d like to thank the community for their support. Please stick with us, we are here, we are dedicated to serving you. We will continue to do that day in, day out, regardless of the circumstances.’’
Insp Hargadon said traffic diversions would be in place on Monday with vehicles expected to be diverted on Echuca Rd, Mooroopna.
‘‘Respectfully, we ask the community to be mindful,’’ he said.
Hundreds of people are expected to attend the full police honours service including police horses, motorbikes, vehicles and a pipe band.
Acting Sgt Sproule had been stationed at Shepparton and Mooroopna, for a number of years, and also had connections to the Cobram and Wangaratta forces.
The funeral service will be held at the Sir Ian McLennan Community Centre on Monday, February 26 commencing at 1pm.
Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate (NSW : 1876 – 1954), Monday 3 July 1950, page 1
Eight Killed In Road Accidents Eight people were killed i road accidents in New South Wales and Victoria at the weekend.
Constable Allan James Fuller, 27, of Tamworth, was fatally injured yesterday when his motor-cycle and a lorry collided on the New England Highway, Scone. Fuller, a married man with one child ( daughter ), was on week-end leave and was riding his own machine.
There was a large attendance at the police funeral at Werris Creek on Tuesday of Constable Allan James Fuller, who was killed when his motor cycle collided head on with a motor truck near Scone on Sunday week.
The service. held at St. Bede’s Church of England, was conducted by the Rev. W. J. Pritchard.
The coffin was draped with the Australian flag, on which deceased’s cap had been placed.
After the service at the church, a squad of police led by three police cyclists, marched ahead of the hearse through the main business section of the town.
From there the marchers went by car, and with the cyclists still in the lead the cortege moved on to the Church of England portion of the Werris Creek Cemetery.
At the graveside the Werris Creek Band played the hymn, ‘Abide With Me.’
There was a large attendance of police officers from all parts of the North and North-West.
They included the Inspector-in-Charge of Tamworth sub-district ( Mr. G. Smith ), who deputised for the Superintendent of the Northern Police Administrative District ( Mr. C. J. Delaney ), Sergeant E. Lambert and Constable W. Matheson ( Quirindi ), Constable W. Brett ( Willow Tree ), Constable R. Gibson ( Murrurundi ) , and Sergeant H. Jerome and Constable B. .Shannon and Constable R. Paff ( Werris Creek ). Tamworth District Ambulance Service was represented .by Messrs H. J. Rowland and H. W. Kearns.
Werris Creek sporting bodies and business houses were represented.
The police cyclists were Constables Lawler, Aldred and Elliott. Pall-bearers were Constables Nicholson, Ralph, Holmes and Watkins.
The District Coroner, Mr. N. Hunt, held an inquiry into the death of Allan James Fuller (27), of Tamworth Police, who was killed almost instantly on 2nd July last, when his motor cycle crashed into a truck being driven by Athol Hope, carrier, of 9 Barber-street, Gunnedah.
Evidence revealed that the deceased’s cycle had struck a bump in the highway near the intersection of Gurnsey-street, causing the cycle to veer over on to the other side of the road.
Sergeant T. Newell, of Muswellbrook Police, assisted the Coroner at the inquiry, while Mr. R. S. Watson represented Mr. Hope and the Government Insurance Office. Mr. A. A. McLellan, solicitor, of Scone, appeared to watch the interests of the Scone Municipal Council. The widow of the deceased and members of his family were also present in Court throughout the proceedings.
CONSTABLE’S EVIDENCE
Constable William Charles Black told the Coroner he went to the scene of an accident on the New England Highway near the intersection of Guernsey-street on the afternoon of 2nd July, at about 2.45 p.m. Saw a Harley Davidson motor-cycle lying on its side on the bitumen, five feet in and about 14ft. 8ins. from the kerb. At the rear and near side of the motor cycle was a pool of blood. The deceased had been removed prior to witness’s arrival. Also saw a motor lorry, heavily loaded with beer, drawn over to the side of the highway. The driver gave his name as Athol Hope, of Gunnedah.
Noticed some marks on the right mudguard and right hand side of the bumper bar, as well as other marks on the body of the lorry and driver’s cabin.
Constable Black said he inspected the road and found several depressions right at the bend of the road and on the north-eastern side, extending on to the edge of the bitumen. There were also marks resembling skids on the northern side from the blood.
Later, in company with the deceased’s brother and the Coroner, visited the Scott Memorial Hospital, where deceased was identified.
Answering Sergt. Newell, Constable Black stated the marks on the motor lorry could have been caused by the vehicle coming into collision with the cycle on the roadway.
Sergt. Newell: What was the condition of the roadway? — At the point of impact the road surface was level, but for a distance of 8 or 10 feet from this point the road north of the impact and extending further north to the curve on the north-eastern side, that is right on the inside of the bend, the road surface is very uneven.
Witness marked several identification spots on photographs of the scene of the accident, and these were later tendered as exhibits.
Answering Mr. Watson, Constable Black stated the cycle was the private property of the deceased. The point of impact would be on Hope’s side of the road. It is possible that the deceased did not know there was a curve in the road ? — Yes, it is possible he did not know, much about the locality. I don’t know, and I had never met him. He was stationed at Tamworth. As an experienced traffic constable, is there anything that makes this roadway abnormal or dangerous? — Only that it is very deceptive upon approach from the north. It is actually a worse bend than it appears from 100 or 200 yards away. Do the depressions you referred to add to the danger of the curve? — Yes, considerably with a motor cycle, but I don’t know about a four-wheeled vehicle. Is there any warning of this curve approaching it from the North? – No. Do you consider it a curve which should have the normal traffic warning ? — It would be a benefit to have such a warning.
Constable Black, through Mr. Watson‘s examination, stated there was a 30-miles-per-hour sign about 40 yards away from the scene of the accident. Most motorists slowed down after passing such a warning, and witness was of the opinion the sign would be placed to better advantage if moved further north in order to give motorists time to slow down before reaching the curve in the highway. Answering Mr. McLellan, Constable Black stated it was a fact that a good deal of traffic went straight down Guernsey-street from the main road, due to the closing of traffic from the highway at certain times by the railway crossing gates. Replying to Sergeant Newell, witness stated the brakes on the truck involved in the collision had been tested and found to be in perfect condition. They conformed with the standards required.
BROTHER’S EVIDENCE
George Fuller, of Werris Creek, brother of the deceased, stated he had identified the body of the deceased on July 3 last. Had not seen the deceased for a fortnight prior to the accident, but at that time his late brother had been in good health and spirits. The deceased had been in the Police Force for five years, was 27 years of age, and at the time of the accident was going to visit his wife’s mother at Branxton. Could not say whether he had passed through Scone before, or whether his life was insured. Could not say whether the deceased had known the roadway through previously travelling over it.
LORRY DRIVER’S STORY
Athol Hope, carrier, residing at 9 Barber-street, Gunnedah, told the Coroner that at about 2 p.m. on July 2 he was travelling in his lorry with a load of beer on board. Passing through Scone, he had travelled from Swansea that day. Went over the railway crossing and was proceeding to go around a curve in the highway when he heard and saw a motor cycle coming. ” It was roughly a hundred yards away when I first saw it, before I approached the turn. I was travelling slowly — about 10 miles an hour— and the cycle was coming towards the curve. ”
Sergt. Newell: Did you form any opinion as to the position of yours and the other vehicle as to approached the curve? — When I was approaching the carve, I saw the cycle would have difficulty in getting around the curve. As the cycle came on to the curve it hit a rut in the road and the front wheel went up in the air. I saw it happen distinctly and it then came straight towards my truck. The way I saw it, the front wheel seemed to jump straight towards me. The bike hit the front portion of my truck. Would say the rider had no control over the machine. I stopped my truck after the impact.
Sergt. Newell: Did the rider of the cycle try to do anything to avoid the collision? — No. There was no way of getting the cycle under control. When he hit the rut he came straight towards me. It all happened so suddenly I had no time to do anything. I walked back to where the deceased was lying, but he did not speak.
Answering Mr. McLellan, witness said it would be hard to estimate how far away the cycle was when witness first saw it. It would be hard to estimate the cycle’s speed, but thought it would be travelling at about 50 miles an hour.
Replying to Mr. Watson, witness said he agreed with Constable Black that the deceased was travelling on the wrong side of the road at the point of impact. Witness’s vehicle was on its correct side, with the off-wheels off the bitumen. Thought there should be a ‘Curve’ sign to the north of the bend in the road.
PHOTOGRAPHER’S EVIDENCE
John Arthur Smith, engraver and photographer, residing at 100 Main-street, Scone, gave evidence of having taken certain photographs of the road at the scene of the accident. These photographs were then tendered and marked as exhibits one to four.
MEDICAL EVIDENCE
Dr. A. B. Cuthbert, fully qualified medical practitioner and resident of Scone, gave evidence of having made an examination of deceased at the Scott Memorial Scone Hospital on the afternoon of July 2. The deceased had died a short time before and found extensive lacerations of the right hand side of the jaw bone and down under the neck and to the sternum. The lacerations involved injury to the main vessels of the neck, the bleeding from which was the cause of death. Death had not been instantaneous, but within a few minutes of receiving the injuries. It was quite probable the deceased had been unconscious from the time of receiving the injuries.
ADDRESSES
Mr. McLellan and Mr. Watson addressed the bench at length as to their views on how the accident occurred.
Mr. McLellan stated there was evidence which pointed to the fact the deceased was travelling at a speed in excess of the safe speed he might have travelled at, taking into account the condition of the roads. It was a fact that roads were not in the first-class order they were in some years ago. The deceased, travelling at an excess speed, plus the fact of his cycle striking a rut at this speed, was sufficient to cause the accident.
Mr. Watson was also of the opinion that the deceased was travelling at an excess speed — probably that of 50 miles an hour. Had the road been in good order, that speed, when slowed down to the 30-miles-an-hour limit past the speed sign, would have been quite all right, but for the fact of hitting a rut caused the cycle to deviate off the correct side. The other fact pointed out by Mr. Watson was the driver of the lorry was on his correct side and travelling at a slow speed. His client, Mr. Hope, was in no way to blame for the occurrence.
CORONER’S REMARKS AND FINDING
From the Bench, the Coroner stated that he accepted the evidence of Mr. Hope, the only witness to the tragic happening, as being a truthful version of the accident. ” His evidence, with that of Constable Black, and the very helpful photographs, for which the Court is indebted to Mr. Smith, complete with inspections of the location of the accident, appears to me to make it clear that the front wheel of the motor cycle, driven by the deceased, struck an uneven patch on the roadway, obviously the result of necessary repair work thereon. This apparently caused the cycle to come into contact with the lorry driven by Mr. Hope.
I am satisfied that this lorry was being driven in a lawful manner on the correct side of the road, in accordance with the traffic laws, and at a most reasonable speed, having regard to the locus. There can be no blame attached to the driver of the lorry.
‘It is always difficult to speculate on the speed of a moving vehicle, particularly one which is moving towards you, but the balance of probabilities lead me to infer that the deceased was travelling at a speed somewhat greater than the 30 miles an hour, having regard to the results.
In considering the speed, one must have in mind the fact that the evidence discloses that the deceased was an experienced and efficient driver of motor cycles, both in his private capacity and as a police officer. I lean to the hypothesis submitted by Mr. Watson that the deceased was travelling at a speed which would ordinarily be perfectly safe under normal circumstances, but which by reason of the deceptive nature of the turn and the condition of the roadway, formed a combination of factors which occasioned the accident. ” It is the considered opinion of this Court that a recommendation should be conveyed to the appropriate authorities that all possible expedition be given to the eradication of the uneven patches on the roadway surface in the immediate vicinity of the intersection. I may say that I am mindful of the difficulties which present-day conditions place on such a proposition. I would further recommend that consideration be given by the appropriate authority to the removal of the existing 30 miles an hour sign to a position some distance further on the northern side of the curve ; that the yellow line be repainted and that if found possible, a ” Curve ” sign be placed adjacent to the turning. While the existing warnings are adequate for normal circumstances, I feel that if this were done, it would make an efficient contribution to the road safety which every member of the public desires, ” concluded the Coroner.
The Coroner then read his finding, that the deceased had met his death as a result of haemorrhage, due to injuries he accidentally received when the cycle he was riding collided with a motor lorry.
Mr. Hunt extended his thanks to the Police, counsel, and also the sympathy of the Court to the relatives of the deceased, as also did Sergeant Newell, Mr. McLellan and Mr. Watson.
James BARTON 1283/1831 V18311283 15
[Item 1283 for year 1831, Vol 15]
State Records NSW SR Reel No. 5003
Register of Baptisms, Burials and Marriages
Registry Vol. Nos: 11-16 Part
Pages 30 and 31, Burials in the Parish of Saint John, Parramatta
in the County of Cumberland in the Year 1831
Name: James Barton
Abode: Pennant Hills When Buried: 19 March 1831
Age: 31 years
Ship’s Name: —
Quality or Profession: Free, Constable
By whom the Ceremony was performed: Samuel Marsden
—————————————
James BARTON 9504/1831 V18319504 2C
[Item 9504 for year 1831, Vol 2C]
AO Reel No: 5001
Register of Baptisms, Burials and Marriages
Registry Vol Nos: 1-2
Page 487 Year 1831
Date of Burial: March 19 1831
Names: James Barton
Abode: Parramatta
Age: 31
Quality or Profession: Constable
Where Ceremony Performed: Parramatta
Where Registered: St. John, Parramatta
1830. Mentioned in dispatches as having been dismissed for repeated drunkenness. HOWEVER 1831. Profession at time of death, Constable 1832. In SMH, Wills and Estates. James was still mentioned as a Constable, Parramatta and left an estate of nearly 10 pounds.
I was previously looking for a James BURTON but tried a different spelling. Over to you if you can find out more.
For the purposes of this website ‘Q‘ represents those Police joining between 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system )
Jacob Willmott with his sons Jack (left) and Arthur (right); Jacob Willmott was the first police sergeant at Corrimal. 1920
Wedding of A Willmott, son of Jacob Willmott; Back row from left: Mr Walters, Miss Shepherd, Bride, Miss Shepherd, .A. Willmott. Sitting from left: Mrs Walters, H. Willmott, Arthur Willmott, J. Willmott, Mrs Shepherd (sister of the bride and mother of the Misses Shepherd). ca. 1912
[alert_yellow]ARTHUR is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
[alert_red]ARTHUR is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_red] *BUT SHOULD BE
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Narrandera Argus and Riverina Advertiser (NSW : 1893 – 1953), Friday 26 February 1937, page 2
Obituary
SERGT. ARTHUR A. J. WILLMOTT
For the second time within a period of a year, Leeton has been robbed of its Sergeant of Police to death.
On Tuesday morning Sergeant Arthur Alfred Jacob Willmott, aged 48 years, died at his home from heart trouble. The first sign of sickness was on Thursday of last week at the court of petty sessions, but the sergeant carried on till the close of the court on Friday. On Saturday it was necessary for him to go to bed. On Monday he spoke of going on holidays next week on account of feeling run down.
His sudden death came as a shock to the people of Leeton, for it is less than a year since his predecessor ( Sergeant Ferris ) died suddenly at the same house on April 8 last, after being only three months at Leeton.
Sergeant Willmott went to Leeton from Burwood in June last. He is survived by his widow and one daughter, Mrs. Blackmore, of Pennant Hills.
The body was taken to Sydney for burial.
Sergeant Willmott visited Narrandera in the course of his duty at the last sitting of the Quarter Sessions, and was very well respected by his comrades in this district, as well as others with whom he came in contact.
Sergeant Alfred Arthur Jacob Willmott, aged 48, who came to Leeton on June 3 last, from Burwood, Sydney, died suddenly this morning, ( 23rd ) after three days’ illness. Before coming to Leeton, he was senior station sergeant at Burwood. Sergeant Willmott was in robust health up till Saturday, and his death has shocked the community, especially in view of the fact that his predecessor, Sergeant Ferris, formerly of Wagga, died in almost exactly similar circumstances less than a year ago after he had been in Leeton only three months.
It is a coincidence that both Sergeant Ferris and Sergeant Willmott died in the new official residence in similar circumstances, the first occupant of which was ex-Sergeant Thomson, who went into it a few months before he was due for retirement. He suffered a critical illness, but is now restored to health.
SERGEANT Arthur Alfred Jacob Willmott, aged 48 years, of the Leeton police force, died this morning at his home, from rheumatics around the heart.
The first sign of sickness was on Thursday last ( 18 Feb ) at the Petty Sessions Court, but the sergeant carried on till the close of the court on Friday ( 19 Feb ). On Saturday ( 20 Feb ) it was necessary for him to go to bed. Yesterday ( 23 Feb ) he spoke of going on holidays next week on account of feeling run down.
The late Sergeant Willmott came to Leeton on June 3 last, from Burwood. He was an obliging and courteous officer and a man who gave personal attention to any cases of distress, which came under his notice.
Prior to coming to Leeton, he was senior station sergeant at Burwood divisional headquarters for six years, and had had all-round experience including traffic, motor cycle duty, plain clothes and detective work. He had also been a member of the police band.
His sudden passing has come as a shock to the people of Leeton, for it is less than a year since his predecessor Sergeant Ferris, died suddenly in the same house on April 8 last, after only being three months in Leeton.
The late Sergeant Willmott is survived by his widow and one daughter, Mrs. Blackmore, of Pennant Hills.
The body will be taken to Sydney today for cremation, under arrangements of Ashtons.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001),
Friday 7 May 1937 (No.64), page 1911
In the Supreme Court of New South Wales.
PROBATE JURISDICTION.
In the matter of the estates of the undermentioned deceased persons and in the matter of the Wills, Probate and Administration Act, 1898-1932; the Public Trustee Act, 1913-1936, and the Testator’s Family Maintenance and Guardianship of Infants Act, 1916.
NOTICE is hereby given that the Public Trustee has this day filed in the Registry of this Honourable Court his elections to administer the estates of the following deceased persons:—
Arthur Alfred Jacob Willmott, late of Leeton, in the State of New South Wales, sergeant of police, who died 23rd February, 1937 (will dated 4th July, 1919).
South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus (NSW : 1900 – 1954), Friday 12 August 1932, page 13
CORRIMAL
Sergeant Jacob Willmott; formerly officer-in-charge of Corrimal police station for many years, died in Sydney on Tuesday, aged 72 years. One son, Arthur is a police sergeant at Burwood. His wife predeceased him a few months ago.
South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus (NSW : 1900 – 1954), Friday 6 May 1932, page 10
Bulli – Woonona
FUNERAL OF Mrs WILLMOTT
The remains of the late Mrs. Willmott, whose death is reported elsewhere, were interred in the C. of E. cemetery, Woonona, on Wednesday afternoon, alongside her son, Jack.
Rev. Turner administered the last sad rites and the chief mourners were the husband, Jacob Willmott, and son and daughter-in-law, Arthur and Ada.
The pall-bearers were old and intimate friends of the family — Messrs A. V. Green, A. Robb, R. Moore and J. Fitzgerald.
There was a wealth of floral tributes from friends in all parts of the State.
Those at the graveside included Detective Dymock, Mrs. Coleman and family, Mr. and Mrs. Ted Sweeney, Mr. Fahey ( Bankstown ) and Messrs English and Barker.
On 6 November, 1919Constables Joseph Hush and Arthur ( Arthur Alfred Jacob )Willmott ( Q 9019 ) went to Roseville where they made enquiries into a robbery. On completion of these enquiries at about 5pm, they accepted a lift back to their station with a lorry driver. They had almost reached the Chatswood Police Station when a tyre on the vehicle blew out, causing it to overturn. Both constables were trapped beneath the vehicle and seriously injured. Both were conveyed to the Royal North Shore Hospital where Constable Hush unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. Constable Willmott recovered from his injuries.
The Sydney Morning Herald of 7 November, 1919 reported that ” Constable Hush, who was 39 years of age, had been in the police service for nearly 12 years. He was known as a steady, reliable man, who had performed good work on many occasions. He lived in Edward Street, Willoughby, and leaves a wife and six children. “
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Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 – 1954),
Wednesday 2 July 1919, page 10
WILLMOTT .- July 1, at R.P.A. Hospital. Sydney. John Thomas Willmott, ( late 20th Batt. A.I.F. ) dearly loved husband of Mary Adelaide (Molly ) Willmott of Fairmount street, Lakemba, aged 28 years.
WILLMOTT.- July 1, 1919, at R.P.A. Hospital, Sydney, John Thomas ( late A.I.F. ) dearly loved son of ex-Sergeant of Police Jacob Willmott late of Corrimal. South Coast, and brother of Constable A. J. Willmott of Chatswood police, aged 23 years.
Dear people. This is a VERY long post about Mounted Constable John Thomas O’BRIEN and his time line. Born 1845, died 1906.
I put it up because of the entry in 1883. This was not just a normal sitting on the last day of the Court at Cooranbong for the time being. After all proceedings had been dealt with, it would appear that it was a ‘set up’ by a number of Magistrates, JP’s and persons of note who were present at the end of Court proceedings at which Constable O’Brien was giving evidence. These other Magistrates etc would not normally have been in the one place at the same time.
At the time of his death he had a wife and 6 children ( his second wife ) to which she was paid a ‘gratuity‘ of 240 pounds to pay for funeral expenses. His second wife died September 1906 at Picton 4 months after John. He had about 8 children with his first wife whom had died then married his second wife.
I have NEVER seen/found a testimonial given to a serving Constable under such circumstances as a transfer.
His stations included Muswellbrook, Cessnock, Coonamble, Cooranbong, Lockup Keeper at Preston, Lochinvar, Mulbring and possibly Forster. At the time of his death he was stationed at Raymond Terrace.
1845. John Thomas O’Brien, born 13/10/1845, Menangle, New South Wales to Irish born parents both of whom were born County Limerick, Ireland.
1876
John Thomas O’Brien – Appointment to Mounted Police NSW 4 Oct, 1876. Registered No. 2815. Height: 5ft 7inches. Eyes: Hazel. Hair: Dark. Complexion: Dark. A Native of: N S Wales Married or Single: M. Calling: Timber Dealer. Religion: R C. Appearance: Good. District: North East. Date of Apptmt: 4 Oct, 1876 Rank: Constable. Remarks: 1st Class 1/6/78 1877
Stationed at Muswellbrook, NSW. (Trove court notices) 1878
1/6/1878. Promoted to Constable 1st Class 1880
Stationed at Cessnock, NSW. (Trove court notices) 1883
An extract from Maitland Times 1883 regarding Const John Thomas O’Brien on the final day of the 2 week sitting of the CPS Cooranbong, who gave evidence on a couple of matters.
Before the court adjourned, and whilst the magistrates were still on the bench, between four and five p.m., the Police Magistrate presented to Constable John Thomas O’Brien a very handsome gold watch and chain (Burton make and Indian turned), which had been sent after Mr.O’Brien by the people at Cessnock, where he had lately been stationed, in recognition of had lately been stationed, in recognition of his services there. The watch and chain, valued at £34 sterling, were accompanied by a suitable address.-
The Police Magistrate (Mr. Beeve), in presenting the watch and chain to Constable O’Brien, said:
“Mr. O’Brien, the Cooranbong Bench are very happy indeed to see that your services have been so cordially recognised, and so handsomely acknowledged by those amongst whom, at Cessnock, for some considerable time, you discharged your duties as a peace officer. Speaking for myself personally, and feeling sure that I am only expressing the sentiments of my brother magistrates, Mr. Andrew S. Browne and Mr. Thomas Bussell, J.P, I am bound to state that I esteem this portion of Brisbane Water, and the country adjacent thereto, extremely fortunate in having a police officer stationed here, who is at once courteous, fearless, intelligent, and independent-animated (as we think) by a sincere desire to do all his duty, without any wish whatever to go beyond it, We are then more pleased to be the persons chosen to hand you this very beautiful watch and chain, because their value has been, in our opinion, very greatly enhanced through an official permission, given to us by your superiors publicly to make this presentation to you on behalf of your friends at Cessnock. The neatly engrossed address (above referred to) signed on behalf of the inhabitants of Cessnock, by Messrs. Martin Bouffier, Walter C. Green J.P., J, A. Jones, William Stafford, L, C. Kelman, John Gouldsbury, John Doyle, and Michael Carroll, was also handed over to Constable O’Brien, with the watch and chain.
It was as follows: To Constable J. T, O’Brien, Cessnock.
Dear Sir. Hearing that you are about to be promoted to another station we desire to express our regret at your departure. During the period of two years’ and a-half residence amongst us, you have discharged important and frequently very difficult duties, with benefit to the public and much credit to yourself. The representatives of every interest acknowledge that your activity and vigilance have given security and protection. Your exemplary propriety of demeanour has justly gained for yourself and family our respect and esteem. With this intimation of our appreciation of your meritorious conduct, we solicit your acceptance of the accompanying gold watch and chain. Wishing that you, together with Mrs. O’Brien and family, may be prosperous and happy in your new sphere of action. We remain, dear sir, yours sincerely,.
The two assisting magistrates, Mr. Andrew S. Browne, J.P., and Mr. Thomas Bussell, J.P., intimated their hearty concurrence in all that had been said by their chairman, Mr, E. Beeta-
Mr. J. T. O’Brien, in returning thanks to his good friends at Cessnock for the very handsome testimonial just presented to him in their name and in so complimentary a manner by the Bench, desired to say that he could only hope he might long continue to have a just claim to such terms of approval. It would always be his study to do his utmost to gain and to retain the support of the bench at the place at which he might be stationed; and, at the same time, to do his duty, fearlessly and conscientiously, towards the public at large. Whether he could always expect to please everybody by such a course was, of course, another matter. He begged their Worships to have the goodness to convey to the people of Cessnock his very strong sense of the kind feeling which they had been pleased thus liberally to manifest towards him, and to assure them of the very great pleasure it had given him to receive not only that beautiful watch and chain, but the kind address with which that testimonial was accompanied. He confessed he could hardly understand how he could have merited such a distinguished mark of approval from the people of Cessnock during the comparatively short time that he was amongst them, but during that short time he had, he felt bound to say, always driven to discharge his duty. It might have been that in so doing he might have sometimes have given offence to somebody; but if so, he could not help that.
Every policeman had his duty to do, and that duty he was at all times bound to hold himself ready to discharge, without laying himself out to please any person whatever, outside of it. He had made that, at the outset of his service in the force, a rule of duty, and he would always stick to it, he would never let any secondary consideration come between him and what he thought he ought to do. He begged the Bench to transmit to those who had sent him this watch and chain his heartfelt thanks. He would like also, in the same way to send his heartfelt thanks to Messrs. Carroll, Stafford, and Doyle for their friendly aid in assisting him to shift his things to Cooranbong, at his rather hasty removal from his old station, where, it seemed he had still, he was proud to think, so many friends. A similar acknowledgement was also due from him to those ladies at Cessnock, whose kindness and attention to Mrs. O’Brien and their young family on their leaving Cessnock was something it would be quite impossible for him ever to forget. The Court then adjourned until Monday, the 12th November. 1886
Stationed at Coonamble, NSW. Appointed as Clerk of the Petty Sessions. 1891
Possibly stationed at Greeta 1906.
Constable John Thomas O’Brien died 31/5/1906.
Constable John Thomas O’Brien, of Raymond Terrace, dropped dead outside the courthouse there on Thursday, from heart failure. Deceased was a well-known member of the police force of the State, in which he had served for 29 years and four months, and would have been entitled to retire upon his pension in eight months’ time. He had been in failing health for some time, and was just upon 6O years of age. Deceased, who was a smart, efficient constable, leaves a large family. For many years he occupied the position of lockup keeper at Paterson, and had also been stationed at Cessnock, Cooranbong, Mulbring, Lochinvar, and Foster.
From a public member family tree. – Buried at the “Pioneer Hill” Raymond Terrace Historic Cemetery. Burial service by Father Bernard McKierman.
I have sent off an inquiry to the Raymond Terrace Historical Society regarding our above friend and a possible burial site/headstone. Being the weekend, I may not hear for a while.
On 30 September, 1971, Sergeant 2nd Class Riley and Senior Constable McDiarmid attended a dwelling in Mimosa Avenue, Toongabbie to investigate a report that a man had shot and killed his brother at that address. On arrival the police saw the offender RonaldClarke who quickly ran to the rear of the house. Senior Constable McDiarmid followed him while the sergeant entered through the front door. As the senior constable entered through the back door the offender opened fire with a shotgun, inflicting a fatal wound. It appears the offender then went back through the house where he also shot and killed Sergeant Riley. Although the senior constable was still alive when other police arrived he died a short time later in an ambulance on the way to hospital. The offender was shot and killed by police ( Cst 1/c Alf GREGORY ) the same day.
William Riley was born in 1921 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 3 December, 1945. At the time of his death he was stationed at Blacktown. He was posthumously promoted to Sergeant 1st Class.
Maurice McDiarmid was born in 1932 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 9 July, 1956. At the time of his death he was stationed at Blacktown. He was posthumously promoted to Sergeant 3rd Class.
George Lewis Memorial Trophy
This trophy for the year 1971, which is for the most courageous act performed by a member of the New South Wales Police Force, was awarded posthumously to the late Sergeant 1st Class W. W. Riley and the late Sergeant 3rd Class M. R. McDiarmid who were stationed at 27 Division.
The trophies were presented to Mrs Riley and Mrs McDiarmid at the Police Academy during 1972.
PETER MITCHELL TRUST AWARDS
The ten awards under this Trust for the year 1971 were made to the following police, the trophies being presented at the Police Academy during 1972:
Most Courageous Act Posthumously awarded to the late Sergeant 1st Class W. W. Riley and the late Sergeant 3rd Class M. R. McDiarmid in conjunction with the George Lewis Memorial Trophy.
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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Tuesday 21 March 1972, page 3
Plaque
SYDNEY, Monday. — At the Pine Grove Memorial Park near Rooty Hill today, Bishop Hulme-Moir, chaplain of the NSW Police Force, dedicated a plaque in memory of Sergeant Maurice McDiarmid and Sergeant William Riley, who were shot when attempting to arrest an armed man at Toongabbie on September 30 last year.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Wednesday 6 October 1971, page 3
Funeral
SYDNEY, Tuesday. -More than 400 policemen attended the funeral this morning of the two policemen shot by a man in Toongabbie last Thursday. Both men, Sergeant William Watson Riley and Senior Constable Maurice Raymond McDiarmid, were given full police honours at their funeral.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Thursday 13 January 1972, page 11
Payments to 3 police widows
SYDNEY, Wednesday. – The NSW Government agreed today to make, as “an act of grace”, lump-sum payments of $12,500 to each of three police officers’ widows.
“The Premier, Sir Robert Askin, said the payments would be in addition to the pensions and dependant’s allowances already paid out of the police superannuation and reward fund.
The three policemen involved in the payments are Senior Constable W. E. King, who was murdered at East Gresford police station on August 13 last year, and Sergeants W. Riley and M. McDiarmid, who were shot by a man at Toongabbie on September 30 last year.
Sir Robert said members of the police force had always been specifically excluded from the definition of “worker” under the Workers Compensation Act.
He said the Commissioner of Police, Mr Allan, had brought to the notice of the Government that, in certain matters of workers’ compensation, police were in an anomalous position in relation to other Crown employees.
Sir Robert said a full examination would be made of overall benefits of workers’ compensation available to police.
NOT FORGOTTEN: Blacktown Police Chief Inspector Bob Fitzgerald pays his respects at a memorial to slain officers Sergeant 1st Class William Riley and Sergeant 3rd Class Maurice McDiarmid. Picture: Harrison Vesey
A solemn memorial stands to remind Blacktown police officers of the price paid by two of their colleagues.
William Riley and Maurice McDiarmid were both killed in the line of duty on September 30, 1971, while trying to apprehend a murder suspect in Toongabbie.
They are now remembered by commemorative plaques outside Blacktown Police Station, as well as a plinth at the entrance to the memorial rose garden at the NSW Police Academy.
The plinth features two police caps pictured the way they fell when the men were murdered, and bears the words: “For The People”.
Detective Senior Sergeant Adam Wilson, Probationary Constable Peta Kendall, Acting Inspector Lauren Martin and Chief Inspector Bob Fitzgerald.
Chief Inspector Bob Fitzgerald said the permanent memorials were important for police and the community.
“I hope it’s a reminder when you come to work, you do the job to the best of your ability and go home to your family,” he said.
Acting Inspector Lauren Martin said Police Remembrance Day gave every officer a chance to think about those who didn’t make it home.
“It’s good to have a visual reminder so you can reflect on what could happen when you come to work,” she said.
Sergeant 2nd class Riley and Senior Constable McDiarmid were attending a home in Mimosa Avenue, Toongabbie, following reports a man had raped a woman and shot her lover, who was also his brother.
The offender, Ronald Clarke, shot and killed both officers as they attempted to surround him. He was shot and killed by police in Hillview later that day.
“It is a very sad day for all those who believe in upholding the law and order,” Police Commissioner Norman Allen said at the time.
Both officers were posthumously promoted for their outstanding courage and devotion to duty.
More than 400 officers attended their funeral in Blacktown. They were laid to rest at Pinegrove Cemetery with plaques bearing the inscription: “Doing His Duty”.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Saturday 27 November 1971, page 9
Two policemen commended by coroner
SYDNEY, Friday. — A Sydney coroner has commended two policemen who chased and stopped “an armed and desperate man“.
The man, Mr Ronald Desmond Clarke, had earlier shot and killed two other policemen after having killed his own brother in Toongabbie on September 30.
The coroner, Mr J. Parnell, SM, found on Wednesday that Mr Clarke in turn died in a car of cerebral lacerations and gun shot wounds to the brain inflicted by a person defending himself.
Constable A. C. Gregory, giving evidence at the inquest into the deaths of the four men, said that he and Constable L. ( Les ) A. Crawford in a police truck had rammed Mr Clarke‘s car, causing him to lose control.
Constable Gregory had seen Mr Clarke transfer a gun from his left hand to his right. The gun had been pointing at the policeman’s face and the constable had fired “one shot towards his shoulder“.
“The impact of this bullet appeared to throw him towards the passenger side of his car, but he still had the revolver, which he now held in both hands, levelled at my face“, Constable Gregory said.
“He appeared to be endeavouring to discharge the gun and it was then that I fired two quick shots at him“.
The four men who were killed were Sergeant First Class William Watson Riley, 50, and Sergeant Maurice Raymond McDiarmid, 39, of Blacktown, and Ronald Desmond Clarke, 20, and Warren John Clarke, 22, both of Toongabbie.
( Both policemen were promoted posthumously. Sergeant Riley was raised from second-class to first class, and Sergeant McDiarmid from senior constable to sergeant third class. )
Mr Parnell found that Mr Warren John Clarke died from gunshot wounds inflicted by his brother, Mr Ronald Desmond Clarke.
He found also that Sergeant Riley died from a fractured skull and lacerations to the brain, and Sergeant McDiarmid died in an ambulance between Toongabbie and Blacktown Hospital.
Both died as a result of bullet wounds inflicted by Clarke.
He said Mr Ronald Clarke, a professional criminal, had shot his brother, Warren Clarke, after having raped his brother’s de facto wife.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Friday 1 October 1971, page 1
Shooting in Sydney Brothers, two police die
SYDNEY, Thursday. – Two policemen and two other men were shot dead in the outer western Sydney suburb of Toongabbie today.
The policemen were shot while investigating a report of rape and murder.
Earlier, Mr Warren Clark about 22, died in his bed. Police said his elder brother, Ronald. 23, had shot him through the head with a .22 calibre repeater rifle.
A young woman, living in the house in Mimosa Ave, Toongabbie. with Mr Warren Clark, told police that Mr Ronald Clark had awakened her and then shot his brother.
The woman alleged that Mr Ronald Clark then raped her and forced her to accompany him in his car.
After driving her around for several hours, he had released her at Black town.
The woman went to Blacktown police station.
She was in a hysterical condition.
Sergeant Second-Class William Riley, 50. and Senior-Constable Morrie McDiarmid, 39. left the station immediately to go to the house.
While they were on their way the police radio directed other police to the house.
The next-door neighbour, in Mimosa Ave, Toongabbie. Mrs Ethel Roberts, 54. said she first knew something was wrong when a police officer ran down a driveway at the side of her house.
He began kicking on the door of the house next door.
“He eventually forced the door and went inside”, she said.
“All was quiet for perhaps two minutes, then three shots rang out.
“I ran to the front porch as a young blond man ran from the house with a rifle in his hand, entered a car and screeched off down the road”‘. Mrs Roberts said.
“After he drove off, I saw a policeman’s blood stained hand grasping the back steps of the house”.
Stem flow of blood
“I ran to the road where a woman was delivering bread and told her to call an ambulance”.
Another neighbour, Mrs Dawn Harris, was called by Mrs Roberts, who was trying to stem the flow of blood from Constable McDiarmid.
“When I reached the house a policeman was propped against the back steps”, Mrs Harris said.
“His mouth and part of his face were torn and shredded from the shotgun blast.
“Another policeman was lying dead on the ground.
“In a bedroom in the house another man covered with a sheet was also dead and blood could be seen everywhere”.
Police said later they believe Sergeant Riley died immediately when he was shot at point-blank range with a shotgun.
Constable McDiarmid was taken by ambulance to Blacktown Hospital. He died shortly after arrival.
Meanwhile an all-points bulletin was broadcast over the VKG police network for all cars to be on the lookout for a bright blue 1950 sedan.
The broadcast warned, ‘This man is dangerous. He has a .22 rifle, a shotgun and two police pistols”.
“We have sighted him”, one car replied. “He is going toward Hillview”.
“We have stopped the car”, was the officer’s next report.
Constable Alfred Gregory and Constable Les Crawford said later they had rammed the suspect’s car with their police van.
The sedan got out of control and crashed into a bowser at a service station.
Constable Gregory jumped out of the van. As he approached the car he saw Mr Clark take one of the police pistols from the seat and transfer it to his right hand.
Three shots from pistol
Constable Gregory fired three shots from his pistol.
One of his shots struck Mr Clark in the side of the head, killing him.
In the car, police found several Commonwealth Bank cash bags, a blood stained nightgown and two suitcases containing mostly women’s clothing.
Two police revolvers, a .22 repeater rifle and a sawn-off shotgun were also recovered.
Tonight forensic and ballistic experts were still examining them.
The policemen killed are each survived by a widow and two children.
Sergeant Riley joined the force in 1945 and Constable McDiarmid in 1956.
A CIB spokesman said this afternoon the families were eligible for a special allowance paid to police killed while on duty.
He said that the lack of witnesses, particularly when the two policemen were shot, was hampering investigations.
POLICE KILLED OR WHO DIED FROM INJURIES RECEIVED IN THE EXECUTION OF THEIR DUTIES
On 13th August, 1971, Senior Constable William Edward King, who was then the officer-in-charge of police, East Gresford, was shot dead at East Gresford Police Station by a man who fired upon him with a rifle.
On 29th August, 1971, Constable 1st Class Patrick Mark Hackett died from injuries received in a motor accident at Polis, Cyprus, whilst performing duty with the New South Wales Police component of the Australian Police Contingent of the United Nations Peace Keeping Force.
On 30th September, 1971, Sergeant Second Class William Watson Riley and Senior Constable Maurice Raymond McDiarmid, both then attached to Blacktown Police Station, were shot dead in a house at Toongabbie which they had entered to arrest a man who a short time before had murdered his brother and raped a woman in the same house.
A police funeral with full ceremonial honours was accorded these deceased officers at which appropriate tributes were paid.
In recognition of their outstanding courage Sergeant Riley and Senior Constable McDiarmid were posthumously promoted by me to Sergeant 1st Class and Sergeant 3rd Class respectively. In addition, I submitted recommendations to the Premier for favour of consideration of Royal Awards being granted in both cases.
To assist the widows of the deceased police the Premier approved the payment to each of them of the sum of $12,500 as a gratuity. This payment did not in any way affect their entitlements to payments under the provisions of the Police Regulation (Superannuation) Act.
