The Charleville Times of the 11th instant says :- Constable Patrick Curtin was accidentally killed at Adavale through his horse running him against a tree. The deceased had served several years in the Central Division, and was transferred here during the strike.” The deceased was well-known both in Rockhampton and at Mount Morgan, having been stationed at each place for a considerable time. He left here for the south in December last.
I have the unenviable task of letting you all know of the passing of Darren Steel Blue Liner No: 8 currently not active with the club. However it is of some note that Darren was a founding member of Blue Liners Australia, being present at the initial meeting at North Region with then Commissioner Tony Lauer, A/C Clive McLachlan, C.I. Middleton and past and famous president Ray “Robbo” Robinson.
It is from these humble beginnings that the Blue Liners Tamworth Ride was commenced and we celebrate the 25 Anniversary of that great event this year.
For those that don’t know of Darren Steel he is a a Duty Officer at the Tweed/Byron LAC. I have had the pleasure of knowing Darren since 1988 when he was an aspiring Plain Clothes Constable at Moree and was the sole Plain Clothes Investigator in the office for sometime an immense responsibility for a young police officer. He was designated as a Detective and moved through the ranks to Detective Sergeant and then to the rank of Inspector, Duty Officer at Oxley LAC and later transferred to Tweed/Byron LAC where he is currently stationed.
Darren was a fine and outstanding Policemen, Friend and Blue Liner ,
Darren will be sadly missed but never forgotten.
R.I.P. Brother, Til Valhalla
Harley Willox
President BLA
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Founding Member # 8 of the Blue Liners TMCC.
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March 28, 2017 | by Darren Coyne
Funeral today for former Tweed/Byron crime manager
A NSW police funeral with full honours will take place today for Detective Chief Inspector Darren Steel, who passed away last Wednesday.
The service is being held at the Melaleuca Station Memorial Gardens at Chinderah this morning.
Insp Steel joined the police academy in 1985 and served as a police officer in Moree, Tamworth and the Tweed/Byron Local Area Command, rising through the ranks to become crime manager.
Superintendent Wayne Starling, Tweed/Byron’s local area commander, said Insp Steel would be sadly missed by all.
‘I think we are all better people for having Detective Chief Inspector Steel in our lives,’ he said.
Insp Steel passed away last Wednesday with his wife and two children present.
Tweed MP Geoff Provest said he was saddened by the event but praised the efforts of an officer who dedicated 33 years of his life to his duties and never once took a sick day.
‘I worked with him for many years and always found him a fine, upstanding officer, deeply committed and dedicated to the wider Tweed community,” MrProvest said.
‘I was very shocked and saddened by what happened and my thoughts and my sympathies go out to his family and friends.’
THE Tweed has lost one of its heroes and a young family must now continue without a father and husband after police confirmed the sudden death this week of Detective Chief Inspector Darren Steel.
The 53-year-old officer’s death, although not suspicious, was unexpected and has left a community grieving.
Tweed Byron LAC Superintendent Wayne Starling paid tribute to his colleague and friend and said the event had left the command in shock.
“His fellow police will greatly miss Darren,” Supt Starling said.
“He was an outstanding police officer who cared for the welfare of the community he served.”
A NSW police funeral with full honours is planned for next Tuesday at Melaleuca Station Memorial Gardens at Chinderah.
Darren Steel Awarded National Clasp 25, with A/Comm Carlene York
Tweed MP Geoff Provest said he was saddened by the event but praised the efforts of an officer who dedicated 33 years of his life to his duties and never once took a sick day.
“I worked with him for many years and always found him a fine, upstanding officer, deeply committed and dedicated to the wider Tweed community,” Mr Provest said.
“I was very shocked and saddened by what happened and my thoughts and my sympathies go out to his family and friends.”
Det Ch Insp Steel will be remembered and celebrated by his wife and two children.
He served New South Wales Police in regions that include Moree, Tamworth and the Tweed Byron Local Area Command.
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Gold Coast R.P.A.
Dear Members,
I am aware that our Secretary has advised you of the pending funeral of Inspector Darren James STEEL of Tweed Heads Police Command – who was merely 53 years of age.
As Secretary KING has indicated Darren, was a man who not only overtly supported retired police, but one who went out of his way, to ensure serving police appreciated that
those who preceded them in the Police Force, were men & women of honour, deserving of the utmost respect, from all serving members.
Darren was a quite outstanding young man who never failed in his support for us ‘older folk’ – he was always there for US …. can we not repay in kind?
Please do make an earnest endeavour to see your way clear, to join with me and other members of your Executive Board, to honour Darren for his sincere advocacy on behalf of all retired NSW Police Officers.
He was never reticent in singing the praise of us ‘older folk’ – can we not now herald, our true appreciation, of this outstanding young man.
Rest in Peace Darren James Steel.
Malcolm Cox
Chairman
Gold Coast RPA Members – Darren was well known to our Branch members. Whilst he was still in the job, he was the one who looked after us on Retired Police Day, cooked the BBQ etc. When I told him that Bryan Kelaher would like one of the badges but couldn’t make it to the Retired Day, Darren went out of his way to personally deliver a badge to him at his home. That was the sort of bloke he was. Leaves a wife and 2 young sons. Very sad – JK
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Simon David DE WINNE
| 28/03/2017
Simon David DE WINNE
Victoria Police Force
Regd. # 27590
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 19 July 1989
Senior Constable – appointed 9 December 1996
Stations: D 24 General Duties, Traffic Operations Group – Melbourne Metro,
Benalla General Duties, Benalla Traffic Management Unit from 10 November 1997 – Death
Service: From 13 March 1989to 26 December 1998= 8+years Service
Awards: Victoria Police Star – posthumously in 2007. Presented to his sister – SenCon Megan De Winne.
No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? 1969
Died on: Saturday 26 December 1998 about 9.35am
Age: 29
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident – Driver – Urgent Duty -v- Tree
Event location: Midland Hwy, Yin Barun, near Swanpool, Victoria
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial at: 1/ Benalla Police Station Memorial Garden
2/ Simon de Winne Urgent Care Centre at Benalla Hospital
Senior Constable Simon De Winne Plaque Located at 19 Bridge Street West, Police Station, Police Memorial Garden, Benalla, 3672 in Victoria in Australia. GPS Location: Lat: -36.555495 Long: 145.975424
Senior Constable Simon David De Winne was posthumously awarded the Victoria Police Star
[alert_green]SIMONIS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
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Funeral location: ?
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
At 9.35 a.m. on Saturday, 26th December 1998, Senior Constable De Winne was travelling south along the Midland Highway, near Swanpool, intending to intercept a vehicle for a traffic offence. He lost control of his vehicle and collided with a tree, killing him instantly.
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Simon David De Winne joined Victoria Police on 13th March 1989 and was sworn in at a graduation ceremony on 19th July 1989. Simon worked on General Duties, D.24 and the Traffic Operations Group in metropolitan Melbourne before transferring to Benalla General Duties where he was promoted to Senior Constable on 9th December 1996. Senior Constable De Winne then transferred to the Benalla Traffic Management Unit on 10th November 1997.
On Saturday, 26 December 1998, Senior Constable Simon De Winne died on duty when his patrol vehicle collided with a tree on the Midland Highway, 15 kms south of Benalla.
The Victoria Police Star was posthumously awarded to Senior Constable Simon De Winne at graduation ceremony in 2007. The award was presented to Senior Constable De Winne’s sister, Senior Constable Megan De Winne.
——
Senior Constable Simon David De Winne died doing what he loved.
It was 9.35am on Boxing Day, 1998. It was wet and miserable, but Sen Const De Winne was out on our roads working while most of us were at home recovering from an indulgent Christmas feast.
Sen Constable De Winne was in pursuit of a speeding motorcyclist on the Midland Hwy near Swanpool when he was forced to terminate the pursuit as it had turned dangerous. But as he was slowing down, his patrol car slid off the road, slammed into a tree and killed the 29-year-old instantly.
Almost 15 years on, his brother Nick De Winne said the memories of his best mate were still so vivid and the pain of his tragic and unexpected death still so raw.
As Victorians prepare to remember our 131 fallen officers with National Police Remembrance Day on September 29, Nick paid tribute to the work of his brother and his colleagues.
“Simon was the type of guy who just made the best of every day, he loved life and loved being a police officer,” Nick said.
“I appreciate the work of our police more now, they deal with a lot of ferals every day,” he said. “I definitely do respect them (the police) a whole lot more.”
Nick said his brother’s zest for life continued to be an inspiration.
“Simon lived life to the full and he was just a bag of fun to be around,” he said.
Nick said for Simon joining the police force was his lifelong dream.
“He was like a father figure to us; we grew up without dad so he took me under his wing,” Nick said.
“It is shocking, nothing ever replaces it and no matter what I do I won’t be able to see him or hear him again and that’s the hardest thing.”
Sen Const De Winne joined the Victorian Police on March 13, 1989 and was sworn in at a graduation ceremony in July that year.
Like all officers, Sen Const De Winne began his career at the frontline of the force, in general duties in Melbourne before driving his passion into highway patrol.
But when country life took over, Sen Const De Winne transferred to Benalla Police Station where he accepted a general duties position before securing another highway patrol berth.
Sen Const De Winne didn’t just inspire his brother Nick or other brother Byron, he also encouraged his sister Megan to pursue a career within the force.
Megan De Winne is a police officer in Melbourne and has often starred on the television show Highway Patrol.
“Megan failed the first time but after Simon was killed she had more determination than ever to do it and she did,” Nick said.
His legacy continues to live on through Nick and his two mates from the station, Senior Constables Paul Bronsgeest and Richard Cameron.
“I guess I wonder why people speed, why they do it — I ask myself that all the time,” Nick said.
“It’s unnecessary and it’s not cool and it causes trauma. What our family has gone through I wouldn’t wish upon my worst enemy.”
National Police Remembrance Day is on September 29.
Benalla Police will host a ceremony at the station on September 28 from 9.20am. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.
The Simon de Winne Urgent Care Centre at Benalla Hospital commemorate Senior Constable Simon de Winne who was killed in the line of duty on December 26, 1998. The Simon De Winne Urgent Care Centre was opened on Wednesday 14th July 2011 by members of the Simon De Winne family.
Senior Constable De Winne was in pursuit of a speeding motorcyclist on the Midland Highway near Swanpool when he was forced to terminate the pursuit as it had turned dangerous. As he was slowing down, his patrol car slid off the road, slammed into a tree and killed the 29-year-old instantly. Senior Constable De Winne was a member of the Benalla Traffic Management Unit.
Front Inscription
Simon de Winne Urgent Care Centre
Plaque :
The Urgent Health Care Unit at Benalla Health was officially dedicated as a Police Memorial in memory of Senior Constable Simon De Winne, (27590) by Mr William Noonan, OAM Chairman, Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation on Thursday, 10th May 2012
Location of Urgent Care Centre: 45 – 53 Coster Street, Simon de Winne Urgent Care Centre, Benalla Hospital, Benalla, 3672
The Simon de Winne Urgent Care Centre at Benalla Hospital commemorate Senior Constable Simon de Winne who was killed in the line of duty on December 26, 1998. The Simon De Winne Urgent Care Centre was opened on Wednesday 14th July 2011 by members of the Simon De Winne family. Senior Constable De Winne was in pursuit of a speeding motorcyclist on the Midland Highway near Swanpool when he was forced to terminate the pursuit as it had turned dangerous. As he was slowing down, his patrol car slid off the road, slammed into a tree and killed the 29-year-old instantly. Senior Constable De Winne was a member of the Benalla Traffic Management Unit.
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Benalla Health Report – 2012
Following the refurbishment and reopening of the former emergency department in July, now known as the ‘Simon De Winne Urgent Care Centre’, a Dedication Ceremony was held earlier this year by the Police Blue Ribbon Foundation to honour Simon.
The Ceremony was attended by over 100 guests and officiated by Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner of Road Policing, Kieran Walshe APM.
We are very fortunate to have a generous community and we are extremely grateful to those who support us through philanthropy, volunteering and membership
of one of our auxiliaries. We sincerely thank them all for their tireless efforts to ensure that both patients and staff are given the opportunity to use state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
North East Health chief Margaret Bennett, Ann Brimblecombes parents Alex and Jennifer Brimblecombe, and Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe at the presentation. Picture: KYLIE ESLER
THERE couldn’t be a more appropriate way of paying tribute to Sen-Constable Ann Brimblecombe than what was unveiled yesterday.
The Wangaratta police officer died in 2006 while on duty after her car veered off the road when travelling to Mitta to give school children a bicycle safety lecture.
Children’s safety was close to her heart and it’s because of her that the Wangaratta Hospital’s paediatric unit has now become a safer place.
In tribute to Sen-Constable Brimblecombe, the unit received a $30,000 donation from the police Blue Ribbon Foundation for security doors and a refurbishment to their baby room.
Jennifer Brimblecombe said her daughter didn’t like a fuss being made over her.
“She’d be thrilled to bits for the honour but she was just very happy doing her work, hoping it would stick with all the children as they grew up,” she said.
“You can’t get around the fact she’s not here but at least her work is being carried on.”
Sen-Constable Brimblecombe’s passion for educating stemmed from her original ambition to become a schoolteacher.
“She actually couldn’t get a job when she finished a teaching course. She tried very hard for a while then the next thing we knew she applied for the police force,” Mrs Brimblecombe said.
Soon after she was offered a position to teach, but instead chose the police force.
“She was a very dedicated girl. When she decided she wanted to do something that was her focus completely,” Mrs Brimblecombe said.
Unveiling the plaques to commemorate the memorial was one of the last tasks for deputy police commissioner Kieran Walshe, who will retire after 44 years of service on July 1.
He said the Victorian police force was often described as having “a ringside seat at the greatest show on earth” but it still had its lows.
“When you are in a position of authority and leadership and you hear of these things, like what happened to Ann Brimblecombe and others, they’re lowlights in the organisation,” he said.
“But when you think of the Ann Brimblecombe paediatric rooms, it just really epitomises what Ann was about.”
Funding for the urgent care unit at Benalla Hospital was also revealed in memory of Sen-Constable Simon De Winne, who died in 1998 after colliding with a tree while trying to pull a car over for a traffic offence.
Ann Brimblecombe’s life was one well spent with almost 1000 mourners turning out to Wangaratta’s Holy Trinity Cathedral yesterday to bid the Victorian policewoman farewell.
Killed in a car accident at Larsens Cutting near Eskdale, last Wednesday, Sen-Constable Brimblecombe was known about the North East for her work in schools as a bicycle education officer.
The service, conducted with full police honours, reflected her jovial nature, her sense of community and voluntaryism and most of all, her strong relationship with the region’s children.
Her older brother, Peter Brimblecombe spoke of her love for sport, the Geelong Football Club, her idol Gary Ablett and of the North East as her “spiritual home”.
“After graduating from Chadstone College, she attended teachers’ college at Bendigo and after getting her degree there were no primary teaching jobs available,” he said.
“It was then she made the decision to join the Victoria Police.”
Mr Brimblecombe said his sister had eight nephews and nieces and remembered all their birthdays, was highly active in the Wangaratta bowls club, and taught adult literacy.
“Her other great loves were dogs and chocolate,” he said.
“She was old fashioned, quirky, bright and bubbly, she had a daggy sense of humour.
“Ann was a one and only.”
The service was attended by Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police Christine Nixon and Victorian Police Minister Tim Holding.
Most knew her as Senior Ann, and pupils of Wangaratta West, Chisholm St Primary, Wangaratta Primary, Cathedral College, St Monica’s Primary in Wodonga, St Patrick’s at Wangaratta, Moyhu Primary, Everton Primary, Wangaratta West, Yarrunga, Appin Park Primary and Bright P-12 College formed a guard of honour.
Wangaratta Primary teacher David Capper paid tribute.
“She had a terrific sense of humour, she used to make the kids do her Prince Philip walk and make them say ‘just like Senior Ann’ whenever she taught them anything,” he said.
Beth Hutchinson, of Beechworth, said her daughter India-Rose, 11, taught by Senior Ann, had asked to attend the service.
“She really got through to the kids, we were ever so grateful — she’s such a loss to the community,” Ms Hutchinson said.
– By Riccarda Burley, August 22, 2006
Police form honor guard at Senior Constable Ann Brimblecombe’s funeral.
In memory of our friend and colleague Ann Brimblecombe Senior Constable 21795 `Senior Ann` Tragically killed performing road safety in active duty August 16, 2006 Member of the Wangaratta Police complex ——- Commemorates Senior Constable Ann Brimblecombe placed in the Wangaratta Paediatric Unit. The memorial plaque was officially dedicated at Batchelor’s Green on the 10th May 2012. Senior Constable Brimblecombe was a Wangaratta Highway Patrol member who was killed in a car crash in August 2006 while travelling from Wangaratta to Mitta Mitta to give a bicycle safety lecture. She was affectionately known as “Senior Ann” by children as she ran bicycle education programs throughout the North East. Address of plaque: 21 Handley Street, Wangaratta Police Complex, Wangaratta, 3677, Victoria, Australia
BRIMBLECOMBE SEN.CON. ANN JANE “SENIOR ANN” 8.12.1957 – 16.8.2006 Loved daughter of Alex and Jennifer. Sister to Peter, Claire, Ian & Ross Treasured Memories
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‘Safety – Think It .. Do It’ to win $2,000 for your school
A message about safety at your school or in the community could win your school $2,000 and also have them receive the Ann Brimblecombe Memorial Award. The ‘Caring About Regional Safety’ (CARS) program, which is now in its eighth year, is a primary school based competition that gets kids thinking about safety.
CARS began as a way to both commemorate the valuable work that Senior Constable Ann Brimblecombe did with primary school children and also help ensure her messages about safety are ongoing. Tragically ‘Senior Ann’ as she was affectionately known by hundreds of school children, died as the result of a motor vehicle accident in August 2006.
Get Your Class Involved
The competition is open to all local primary schools in NE Victoria and Southern New South Wales and asks children to actively think about safety and create a promotional poster. It could be safety at home, in the school yard or even when they are travelling.
Teachers may like to encourage students to think about a safety message that they are individually interested in or have the class decide on a safety theme that everyone can concentrate on.
Teachers should collate all their students’ posters (ensuring that each students name, class and school are written on the back) and send to the CARS Action Team before the competition closes each year.
To help stimulate the students, a representative of the police force will be available to visit every school to talk to students about safety. If your school would like to organise a visit or if you would like to find out more about CARS contact:
CARS Action Team – Senior Sergeant Michael Connors
Wangaratta Police Station
1 Handley Street, Wangaratta VIC 3677
Phone: 0357 230 830
Safety Sam – Think It .. Do It
‘Safety Sam’ is our mascot to help promote the ‘Safety- Think It .. Do It’ message. If the winning poster has the image of Safety Sam included in it, the students who created it will (pending parental approval) win a ride in a police car as well as a ride in a police boat. Download an image of Safety Sam here.
Canberra United?Verified account @CanberraUnited 10 Dec 2016 Congratulations @ashsykes91, winner of the Ann Brimblecombe Memorial Medal for Player of the Match! #BlueRibbonCup #MCYvCBR pic.twitter.com/HZjAC0OM5c
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The Blue Ribbon Cup – Melbourne City v Canberra United
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Canberra United
Melbourne City & Canberra United will play for the Blue Ribbon Cup on Saturday in their second meeting of the 2016/17 Westfield W-League season.
The Blue Ribbon Cup is held in partnership with the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation, which perpetuates the memory of members of the Victorian Police Force killed in the line of duty, by supporting worthwhile community projects within the State.
This will be the first edition of the W-League Blue Ribbon Cup, with the player of the match to be awarded the Ann Brimblecombe Memorial Medal.
Senior Constable Ann Brimblecombe passed away on duty in 2006 when her vehicle ran off the road while travelling from Wangaratta to Mitta Mitta.
Senior Constable Brimblecombe was a serving member of the Victorian Police Force for over 26 years, and was promoted to Senior Constable in 1985 after six years in the force.
Canberra United Head Coach Rae Dower, a former member of the Queensland Police Force for over 20 years, said that the occasion adds something of a personal feel to the matchday.
“It’s a lovely initiative from Melbourne City, the Blue Ribbon Cup, played for between the two teams,” she said.
“And with nearly 21 years in the Police service I’ve lost a lot of friends on the job, unfortunately, but also with some illnesses; a lot of emergency services personnel commit suicide after they retire, or whilst they’re still on the job.”
“So it certainly will be a more personal touch, and probably gives us a little more incentive to go on and win that as well.”
More information on the Blue Ribbon Foundation can be found at http://www.remember.org.au/, including information on the projects managed by the organisation, and an honour roll of those who have served.
– See more at: http://www.canberraunited.com.au/article/the-blue-ribbon-cup—melbourne-city-v-canberra-united/camla3n5avhj1y2g4ax87nq9a#sthash.9P5iK5hl.dpuf
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2016
Brimblecombe, Senior Constable Ann Jane
08/12/57 – 16/08/06
To those involved in keeping ‘Senior Ann’s’ work and memory alive for ten years. Thank you with pride and gratitude from her family.
Published in The Border Mail o – See more at: http://tributes.bordermail.com.au/obituaries/bordermail-au/obituary.aspx?pid=181073547#sthash.1Mi0dvMF.dpuf
NEVER FORGOTTEN: Claire Lewis with the pink rosemary to be planted in memory of her sister, policewoman Ann Brimblecombe who died 10 years ago. PHOTO: Wendy Stephens
TWO rosemary bushes will be planted next to an existing commemorative plaque for Senior Constable Ann Brimblecombe.
The plants will be installed at Wangaratta Police station by Ann’s sister, Claire Lewis, on Tuesday on the 10th anniversary of Ann’s death.
The former Wangaratta police officer, affectionately known as ‘Senior Ann’, was tragically killed in a car accident at age 49 in 2006, on her way from Wangaratta to Mitta Mitta to present a bike safety session.
Rod JohnsI attended and took charge at this collision a very sad day and one I reflect on often, a lovely lady who put so much energy into the children at the schools she attended. A great community loss and to her family.
Nicole ShortisI was a member at the Wangaratta bowls club with Anne and her family when this tragedy happened. It was nice to see her face come up on Facebook. Great to see such a good project come from a sad tragedy.
Greg DohertyAnne was always on the look out for teaching aids I managed to get hold of the bicycle helmet that my sons mate was wearing when he was hit by a car the inner helmet was shattered saving the boys life it made a great teaching aid for her . Anne was always pleasant to talk to despite her illness she just kept on going. She was a very dedicated person and her sudden demise came as one hell of a shock to the T.M.U office at wangaratta. Vale Annie Brimblecombe.,
Pam O’SullivanRIP Ann. I hope those school kids get the message you were on your way to deliver. You’ve shown by example how quickly and without warning death can take the life of a road user. My condolences to your family and colleagues..
Ann Brimblecombe’s students teach police a thing or too
NATALIE KOTSIOS
Winners are grinners: Sgt Michael Connors and WAW Credit Unions Peter Challis gave Wooragee pupils their prize yesterday. Picture: MATTHEW SMITHWICK
A COMPETITION designed to give children safety awareness is teaching Victoria Police a thing or two, too.
This year’s Ann Brimblecombe Memorial Award was launched yesterday at Wooragee Primary School, the winner of last year’s safety awareness competition.
The award, in its 7th year, commemorates Sen-Constable Ann Brimblecombe, the North East’s road safety in schools officer, killed in a car accident in 2006.
She was the state’s only such officer and there hasn’t been another in the North East since.
Her memory lives on through this competition, which involves North East and Albury pupils creating posters with safety messages.
Sgt Michael Connors, of Wangaratta highway patrol, encouraged children to talk about all aspects of safety.
He said their observations gave police greater insights and were often “completely different to what the police are thinking”.
“I can’t stress enough how important that is. You couldn’t gauge how many kids have been saved by Ann Brimblecombe’s message,” he said.
Wooragee’s winning entry focused on stranger danger. Other themes were cyber-bullying, kitchen safety and phoning while driving.
The winning school receives $2000 from WAW Credit Union.
Wooragee Primary School principal Christine Varker said the children were already brain-storming ideas.
She said the competition had changed how pupils thought about safety and they “now talk about much broader issues than just road safety.”
The school will spend its prize money on building a chicken coop.
“They’ve even considered the safety of the chickens,” Ms Varker said.
“They’ve ensured it will be fox and wedge-tail eagle-proof.”
North East Health chief Margaret Bennett, Ann Brimblecombes parents Alex and Jennifer Brimblecombe, and Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe at the presentation. Picture: KYLIE ESLER
THERE couldn’t be a more appropriate way of paying tribute to Sen-Constable Ann Brimblecombe than what was unveiled yesterday.
The Wangaratta police officer died in 2006 while on duty after her car veered off the road when travelling to Mitta to give school children a bicycle safety lecture.
Children’s safety was close to her heart and it’s because of her that the Wangaratta Hospital’s paediatric unit has now become a safer place.
In tribute to Sen-Constable Brimblecombe, the unit received a $30,000 donation from the police Blue Ribbon Foundation for security doors and a refurbishment to their baby room.
Jennifer Brimblecombe said her daughter didn’t like a fuss being made over her.
“She’d be thrilled to bits for the honour but she was just very happy doing her work, hoping it would stick with all the children as they grew up,” she said.
“You can’t get around the fact she’s not here but at least her work is being carried on.”
Sen-Constable Brimblecombe’s passion for educating stemmed from her original ambition to become a schoolteacher.
“She actually couldn’t get a job when she finished a teaching course. She tried very hard for a while then the next thing we knew she applied for the police force,” Mrs Brimblecombe said.
Soon after she was offered a position to teach, but instead chose the police force.
“She was a very dedicated girl. When she decided she wanted to do something that was her focus completely,” Mrs Brimblecombe said.
Unveiling the plaques to commemorate the memorial was one of the last tasks for deputy police commissioner Kieran Walshe, who will retire after 44 years of service on July 1.
He said the Victorian police force was often described as having “a ringside seat at the greatest show on earth” but it still had its lows.
“When you are in a position of authority and leadership and you hear of these things, like what happened to Ann Brimblecombe and others, they’re lowlights in the organisation,” he said.
“But when you think of the Ann Brimblecombe paediatric rooms, it just really epitomises what Ann was about.”
Funding for the urgent care unit at Benalla Hospital was also revealed in memory of Sen-Constable Simon De Winne, who died in 1998 after colliding with a tree while trying to pull a car over for a traffic offence.
The Wangaratta community joined forces to honour one of their most beloved police officers and continue her dedication to road safety with the launch of the Ann Brimblecombe Memorial Award today at Yarrunga Primary School.
Senior Constable Ann Brimblecombe was Victoria’s only dedicated Road Safety in Schools officer, making her “truly one of a kind” according to her colleagues.
Tragically, S/C Brimblecombe was killed in a vehicle collision in August 2006 on her way to Mitta Mitta Primary School.
Assistant Commissioner (Region 4) Bob Hastings said the award was a fitting tribute to S/C Brimblecombe.
“One of Ann’s strengths was her commitment to road safety and the impact she had on hundreds of young lives in the area,” A/C Hastings said.
“I’m very proud to launch the Ann Brimblecombe Memorial Award and I strongly believe it will continue her work in road safety.
“Victoria Police is grateful for the support of WAW Credit Union and local schools in this initiative, which allows the community to be actively involved in promoting and developing the road safety message.”
The award was the idea of a number of Wangaratta police members after Region 4 Division 5 Superintendent Jock Menzel suggested they look at a way of honouring S/C Brimblecombe’s memory.
It invites schools to ‘Care About Road Safety’ (CARS) by identifying a road safety issue and developing an action plan to combat it.
The school that submits the entry judged to deliver the most benefit to their school community will also receive $2000 from WAW Credit Union.
A/C Hastings spoke at today’s launch about the impact S/C Brimblecombe had on the community.
“Ann had her own way of passing on the road safety message, trying to make it as fun as possible and as a result her messages would be remembered,” A/C Hastings said.
“There would be many occasions where Ann would purchase small toys or action figures on her own initiative, in an effort to show kids a message she was trying to get across, such as toy rollerblades and the correct way to lace them up.
“If you went to her class, you would probably remember the big board game of safety she invented so children could remember the rules of road safety. The message at number 100 was ‘You made it to school safely – well done!’.”
A/C Hastings also reflected on S/C Brimblecombe’s generous nature and her ability to make everyone feel special.
“Ann was awarded prize money at one point by the Wangaratta Council Youth Representatives and approached Senior Sergeant Bill Gore to check she was allowed to keep it, then spent it on prizes for the kids at schools,” he said.
“She had a way of making sure nobody missed out and when there were kids who maybe needed a helmet for riding their bike to school but perhaps couldn’t afford it, Ann always made sure they had the right equipment.
“She also received money from the North East Community Road Safety Council each year to communicate the road safety message through schools and Ann always spent this money on equipment to ensure ‘her’ kids were on safe bikes.”
In an effort to promote road safety, WAW Credit Union has also lent their support to the award.
“As part of our Community Support policy, WAW Credit Union actively looks for ways to support worthwhile projects in the areas our service centres operate,” said WAW spokesperson Linda Butler.
“The work S/C Ann Brimblecombe did within our region’s schools was invaluable and so we were very excited to be asked to be part of the Caring About Road Safety initiative.
“WAW knows that these sort of activities are certain to keep the memory of Ann and the work she did ongoing for many years to come and we applaud Victoria Police and the Blue Ribbon Foundation for their work in this area.”
A/C Hastings urged all students to think about how they could best make a positive impact on their school.
“This competition is about the school community so think about the ways you can improve road safety around it,” he said.
“A safer bus shelter, a fence around your school crossing to ensure children don’t spill out on to the roadway, road signs, anything else that you can think of that will make your school safer – put it together in a submission and send it in.
“We’ll never know how many young people are alive today because of Ann’s work over the years and Victoria Police and its partners in this competition hope to see this work continue.”
THICK fog is believed to have caused a single-vehicle crash that killed a country policewoman dedicated to teaching children about road safety.
Senior Constable Ann Brimblecombe, 49, was on duty and travelling from Wangaratta to Mitta Mitta yesterday when her vehicle ran off the Omeo Highway about 2½ kilometres south of Eskdale and struck a tree.
Senior Constable Brimblecombe, a bicycle education officer, was on her way to give a lecture at the time.
Police believe she left Wangaratta at 7.30am and at some stage her car left the road in foggy conditions. It was discovered by a farmer about 11am.
She had been a police officer for 27 years and had worked at force reserve in Russell Street before being stationed at Kew.
In 1981 she was stationed at the Russell Street policewomen’s division and also served in the community police squad in Melbourne’s east. She was promoted to senior constable in 1985 and while she returned to force reserve in 1993, she transferred to Wangaratta in 1995 where she had worked ever since.
Yackandandah Primary School, where Senior Constable Brimblecombe had spent the two days before her death teaching road safety, was in shock after learning of the tragedy.
Principal Kathy Petzke said the pupils looked forward to Senior Constable Brimblecombe’s annual visit.
“It was quite an interactive program she provided with a lot of home-made props … We’re all very shocked about what has happened yet grateful for the important role she played.”
Wangaratta police acting Inspector David Ryan said her death was a great loss not only to Victoria Police, but also to the general school community.
Assistant Commissioner Bob Hastings said Senior Constable Brimblecombe regularly travelled long distances as part of her job. “She was always a very cautious and safe driver … she was well prepared and knew the country and the terrain,” he said.
“I went to visit Ann’s parents and spoke with her mum and dad and brother and sister there and they are handling it as well as can be expected.”
Police Association secretary Paul Mullett said Senior Constable Brimblecombe was a well-respected member who would be sadly missed.
Police Minister Tim Holding yesterday expressed sympathy to Senior Constable Brimblecombe’s family. “Our thoughts also go out to her friends and fellow officers,” he said. “We honour her service and are greatly saddened by the tragic circumstances of her passing.”
Service: From? ? 2008? to 27 February 2017= 9? years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: 20 January 1978 in Scotland
Died on: Monday 27 February 2017
Age: 39
Cause: Depression – Suicide
Funeral date: Friday 10 March 2017 @ 9am
Funeral location: Western Australia Police Academy, 81 Lakeside Dr, Joondalup, W.A.
Buried at: Private Family Cremation will be held at the PINNAROO West Chapel, Whitfords Ave, Padbury at 12 noon
Memorial at: ?
LISA is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * BUT SHOULD BE.
LISA is NOT mentioned on the National Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO ( Still doesn’t appear on the National Police Wall of Remembrance as of 25 August 2022 )
Lisa with her 11 year old son.
Funeral location:
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
CANNON (Lisa Ann):
The Commissioner of Police and all members of the Western Australia Police regret the passing of our colleague, Lisa Cannon Registered Number 13557. Deepest sympathy to all her loved ones.
Published in The West Australian on Mar. 8, 2017
– See more at: http://www.westannouncements.com.au/obituaries/thewest-au/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=184391916#sthash.5kJZS2XC.dpuf
CANNON:
WA POLICE UNION Members are invited to attend the Funeral Service for our late serving member Lisa Ann CANNON 13557 at the WA Police Academy Chapel on FRIDAY (10.03.2017) at 9.00am.
Published in The West Australian on Mar. 9, 2017
– See more at: http://www.westannouncements.com.au/obituaries/thewest-au/obituary.aspx?n=lisa-cannon&pid=184404770&fhid=14419&eid=sp_ommatch&eid=sp_ommatch#sthash.NnbTpEbE.dpuf
CANNON:
The Funeral Service to Celebrate the Life of Lisa Ann Cannon of Butler will be held at the Western Australian Police Academy Chapel, Lakeside Dr Joondalup on FRIDAY (10.03.2017) commencing at 9am.A Private Family Cremation will be held at the PINNAROO West Chapel, Whitfords Ave, Padbury at 12 noon.
WANGARA 9409 9119
– See more at: http://www.westannouncements.com.au/obituaries/thewest-au/obituary.aspx?n=lisa-cannon&pid=184391902&fhid=14419&eid=sp_ommatch&eid=sp_ommatch#sthash.BFxt03wR.dpuf
We recently lost a friend and colleague to suicide because of PTSD. She left her son and partner behind because she did not get the help she required. We owe it to her 11 year old son and for all the other partners, children and family members left behind by the officers who can see no Light at the end of the tunnel except by ending their lives. It has to STOP.
For too long, management of Australian Police Forces have silently accepted horrifically high suicide rates amongst our troops – Disproportionately higher than the Australian population.
We demand a national Coronial enquiry, seeking answers in a State by State basis. We want to learn what are the primary stressors amongst our Police, what is/can be done to minimise this, and greater support services for our Police.
“F*** You SA Police” – this was the last social media post of a SA cop who tragically took his own life just days ago.
“Suicide and bullying are rife within the police force. I’ve served as a cop in SA for 11 years now – I’ve battled first hand the toxic “suck it up princess” internal culture. It’s destroying, and costing lives.”
“I’m proud of my job, for keeping our communities safe from crime. We lock up murderers, protect domestic violence victims, and remove kids from horrific abuse. But what I’m sick of is the bureaucratic crap, intimidation and abuse of power that goes on internally.”
“Stop sweeping the fact police are killing themselves under the carpet. This is too important. My colleagues are dying around me. For too long now, management of Australian Police Forces have silently, knowingly, accepted horrifically high suicide rates amongst our troops – disproportionately higher than the Aussie population.”
I am starting this petition on behalf of myself and colleagues who are seeking an enquiry into the cause of suicides by Police in each Australian State.
We need to learn what the primary stressors are among our Police to then decide how to minimise more tragic deaths from happening.
The ‘Thin Blue Line’ is getting thinner – Please help protect those who protect our community by signing and sharing our petition.
This petition will be delivered to:
Australian State Coroners
Federal Minister for Justice
Michael Keenan MP
SA Minister for Police
Peter Malinauskas MLP
Qld Minister for Police
Mark Ryan MP
NSW Minister for Police
Troy Grant MP
Vic Minister for Police
Lisa Neville MP
ACT Minister for Police
Mick Gentleman MLA
Tas Minister for Police
Rene Hidding MP
NT Minister for Police
Michael Gunner MLA
Minister for Police; Road Safety; Training and Workforce Development; Women’s Interests Hon. Liza Harvey MLA
Police Officers everywhere, both past and present, are inevitably bound by a common bond. This linkage, this manacle or shackle… this incredibly wonderful thing that ties us all together, is forged in both adversity and success. It manifests itself in both tragedy and triumph, in sadness and elation.
At the commencement of every shift, our goal is to ultimately make it home at the end of the day. To collectively ensure that our colleagues do the same. In achieving this, we go a long way towards providing the comfort and protection that communities around the world so desperately need.
Since the dawn of time, Police Officers everywhere have rested soundly in the knowledge that should some tragedy befall them, their loved ones will forever be looked after. That the bond with their colleagues, forged with blood, sweat and no shortage of tears will in part be passed onto those left behind.
And so it is in this case.
On 27 February 2017, Senior Constable Lisa Cannon of the Western Australian Police sadly left this world, leaving behind a son, Adam.
We are certain that Adam has been surrounded by love… that he is in no doubt that his mother loved him with her entire heart.
As he grows into a man though, it is vitally important that he is made aware of just how highly his mother was regarded on both sides of the world. As Adam’s Police family, our small part in this is to pass on this legacy.
Please assist us in our endeavours to raise as much money as we can for Adam if only to reinforce to him during this journey that he is not alone in his grief, that Lisa’s extended blue family walks beside him every step of the way.
The funeral for Brevet Sergeant Ashley Meek, South Australia Police will be held at 10.00am on Wednesday 15 March 2017 at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 388 Montague Road Para Vista S.A. and then at Kibby Gardens, Enfield Memorial Park, Browning Street Clearview for a committal service.
Ashley was a decorated veteran, serving proudly with the Royal Australian Army in both East Timor and Iraq, as well as faithfully serving the people of South Australia.
Despite the incredible outpouring of grief following Ashley’s death, what is abundantly clear is that Ashley was dearly loved by all his family and friends. Described as a champion bloke, we intend remembering Ashley the way that he lived, as a true hero.
Rest easy blue brother… your work here is done.
MEEK, Ashley.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr Grant Stevens, on behalf of all members of the South Australia Police, extends his deepest sympathy and condolences to Ashley’s family, friends and colleagues. Brevet Sergeant Ashley Meek will be sadly missed throughout SAPOL.
This is Ashley Meek. Late last night in rural Australia Ashley took his own life. He was the 6th recorded veteran of the last wars on foreign soil to have taken their own life in 2017. Last year 75 Australian veterans took their own lives.
For the last five years, ever since I was taken under the wing of the Australian Defence Force and toured through the war in Afghanistan I have heard one veteran after another, from every tier of Defence, from every part of Australia tell me how difficult receiving help is for them. It is not new news that The Department of Veteran’s Affairs or DVA is a cumbersome and hopelessly ineffective bureaucracy. Young men and women who had served many tours of Afghanistan quietly called them the DVE to me, or Department of Veteran’s Enemies.
For too many years the DVA only counted suicides amongst enrolled Defence Force members as suicides associated with service. The young man I met who was homeless in Sydney last year after serving 5 tours of Afghanistan would not have been counted because he had been discharged in 2012 with PTSD. If Defence had discharged you for psychological illness and you suicided, then your death was not associated officially with your deployment. It was cruel, misleading and wrong.
Now the DVA is pushing for veterans to be administered as welfare recipients under the community services portfolio. I was sitting at my computer last night trying to get my head around what the changes would mean for some of my young friends who suffer from PTSD after their service in Afghanistan. At the same time I was pondering the Legislative Amendment before Parliament Ashley Meek took his own life. DVA is closing the services that they have offered veterans ever since the Vietnam War. Veterans’ Access Network (VAN) offices around Australia have been steadily closing down. Instead of those services veterans will have no option but Centrelink.
Next time a Prime Minister commits tens of thousands of young Australians to war on the other side of the planet I hope that that same Prime Minister assures those young souls that they will be respected, supported and cared for when they return, and that no expense will be spared in their recovery. Otherwise, do not commit our youth to war..
A South Australia police officer posted “F*** you SA Police” on his Facebook before walking into a local hospital and taking his life in front of medical staff last night.
The man reportedly drove to Cowell, about a 500km drive west of Adelaide, before entering the District Hospital around 9.45pm, news.com.au reported.
It is not known if the officer was on or off duty at the time of his death.
A brief statement issued by SA Police said authorities were “preparing a report for the coroner following the death of a man at Cowell on March 5”.
“No other persons are being sought at this time,” the statement read.
A South Australia Police spokesperson told news.com.au they had “nothing further to add”.
Cowell District Hospital has been contacted for comment.
One of the police officer’s colleagues, who asked to remain anonymous, said the man “posted (a) ‘f*** you‘ msg (sic) to SAPOL” on Facebook moments before he died
“The messages said F*** SAPOL and some other comments,” the source said.
The man, who news.com.au has chosen not to identify, has been described on social media as “a well respected officer, and former ADF member, who will be missed by many”.
“This bloke was and will forever remain a dead set legend,” another person wrote.
“No one saw it coming. We got the watch now brother.”
“We are all better people having known you,” another said.
The reports prompted several state police officers to also come forward and highlight that a lack of welfare support for work-related mental health issues including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder was also a problem in state policing.
“South Australia has just seen one of their officers (take her own life),” one police officer told news.com.au.
We recently lost a friend and colleague to suicide because of PTSD. She left her son and partner behind because she did not get the help she required. We owe it to her 11 year old son and for all the other partners, children and family members left behind by the officers who can see no Light at the end of the tunnel except by ending their lives. It has to STOP.
For too long, management of Australian Police Forces have silently accepted horrifically high suicide rates amongst our troops – Disproportionately higher than the Australian population.
We demand a national Coronial enquiry, seeking answers in a State by State basis. We want to learn what are the primary stressors amongst our Police, what is/can be done to minimise this, and greater support services for our Police.
“F*** You SA Police” – this was the last social media post of a SA cop who tragically took his own life just days ago.
“Suicide and bullying are rife within the police force. I’ve served as a cop in SA for 11 years now – I’ve battled first hand the toxic “suck it up princess” internal culture. It’s destroying, and costing lives.”
“I’m proud of my job, for keeping our communities safe from crime. We lock up murderers, protect domestic violence victims, and remove kids from horrific abuse. But what I’m sick of is the bureaucratic crap, intimidation and abuse of power that goes on internally.”
“Stop sweeping the fact police are killing themselves under the carpet. This is too important. My colleagues are dying around me. For too long now, management of Australian Police Forces have silently, knowingly, accepted horrifically high suicide rates amongst our troops – disproportionately higher than the Aussie population.”
I am starting this petition on behalf of myself and colleagues who are seeking an enquiry into the cause of suicides by Police in each Australian State.
We need to learn what the primary stressors are among our Police to then decide how to minimise more tragic deaths from happening.
The ‘Thin Blue Line’ is getting thinner – Please help protect those who protect our community by signing and sharing our petition.
This petition will be delivered to:
Australian State Coroners
Federal Minister for Justice
Michael Keenan MP
SA Minister for Police
Peter Malinauskas MLP
Qld Minister for Police
Mark Ryan MP
NSW Minister for Police
Troy Grant MP
Vic Minister for Police
Lisa Neville MP
ACT Minister for Police
Mick Gentleman MLA
Tas Minister for Police
Rene Hidding MP
NT Minister for Police
Michael Gunner MLA
Minister for Police; Road Safety; Training and Workforce Development; Women’s Interests Hon. Liza Harvey MLA
MARCHING in the French National Day Parade and Western Front commemorative services, Sergeant Ashley Meek honoured fourth-generation cousin – and Gawler soldier – Lance Corporal Stewart Grigg last Thursday.
Sgt Meek, who has strong family connections in the Gawler area, serves in the 10th/27th Battalion, Royal South Australia Regiment, and recently embarked on a month-long trip, joining the army contingent for the French National Day Parade.
“The experience was extra special due to having a family history and connection within my unit to the battles in France,” Sgt Meek said.
“Getting to escort the colours, which my family fought for, was the icing on the cake.”
Gawler-born L.Cpl Stewart Grigg was enlisted in the 27th Battalion on February 4, 1915, and was awarded three medals for his service – the 1914-1915 Star, the British War Medal and a Victory Medal.
He served in Egypt, Gallipoli and the Western Front, where he was killed in action during the battle of Agincourt on March 26, 1917.
“Although his remains are yet to be found, his memorial is located at Villers-Bretonneux in France and I intend to visit this site one day,” Sgt Meek said.
He said the trip was a chance to pay his last respects to the late L.Cpl Grigg.
During the Western Front commemorations, he was part of the firing party during the reburial ceremonies.
“It is a very big honour to have been selected as part of the army contingent for French National Day Parade, and, in particular, to go to the Western Front and participate in the commemorative events taking place there,” he said.
In the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Nice, France, Sgt Meek said Australian troops remained “positive”.
“We are here to do a job and pay respect to our forefathers, but France, as a whole, is quite vigilant,” he said.
“The hospitality of the French people and the army has been great.”
Sgt Meek will return home later this month.
150 at Lock Dawn Service
IN sombre silence, more than 150 people gathered in the cold pre-dawn to commemorate Anzac Day at Lock.
After an Anzac Day introduction by Neil Cummins, Noel Siviour shared three short extracts from the 2/48th Battalion records.
Noel’s father, Lindsay Siviour, was in the 2/48th Battalion.
National serviceman Richard Cummins spoke of the charge of the Light Horsemen at Beersheba. His wife’s grandfather, Cliff Cabot, was in the 3rd Light Horse Regiment that served in Palestine.
Local Lone Scout Kendall Meyers beautifully recited the poem For the Fallen.
Mark Siviour, who served in East Timor and the Solomon Islands, spoke of Thomas Currie Derrick, known as Diver Derrick, who received the Victoria Cross for his assault at Sattelburg, New Guinea in 1943.
Brevet Sergeant Ashley Meek shared Ben Roberts-Smith’s heroism in Afghanistan during 2010 for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Ashley Meek also read out the Ode of Remembrance, which was followed by the haunting bugling of Doug Monks’ Last Post.
There was one minute of silence and then as Reveille was played, Brevet Sergeant James McFarlane raised the flag.
Reverend Sue Ellis of the Lock Uniting Church led the gathering with the Lord’s Prayer.
Before she read the Soldier’s Prayer, she spoke of Martin Andrews, a former priest, who was a stretcher-bearer for the Medical Corps.
Councillor Malcolm Hancock laid a wreath on behalf of the Elliston District Council.
Lone Scouts, Australian military, CWA and family members also laid wreaths and flowers in remembrance of the fallen and the ceremony closed with prayer and the benediction by reverend Sue Ellis.
LADS (Lock and Districts Services) president Wayne Hodge thanked all for attending and then the club provided a cooked breakfast for all.
Passed away peacefully at home after a long illness on 11th February 2017.
Seamus is survived by his loving wife Maria, Children Cara and Cian, Stepchildren Jacinta and Alison.
Father Sean and Stepmother Trinidad.
Sister Fiona, Brothers Kieran, Andrew and Brendan.
Sister-in-Laws Libby, Janet and Marianne.
Nephews and Nieces Luke, Jennifer, Matthew, Sean, Colum, Anthony and Jay. Stepsister Marivic and family, Marvin Jade and Gillian.
Seamus was Dearly loved and will be sadly missed by all.
Published in The West Australian from Feb. 14 to Feb. 15, 2017
– See more at: http://www.westannouncements.com.au/obituaries/thewest-au/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=184118796#sthash.buZG9EtI.LIYagRdM.dpuf
Thursday, 9 March 2017
Seán, Fíona, Maria and all the family,
My deep sympathy. I will go to Mass tomorrow and pray for Séamus and for you.
May you find the strength to cope.
James
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Seán and all the Doherty family. Seamus will be missed and fondly remembered by us all. We keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Shane, Helen, Lily and Rory
~
Shane Whelehan,
Perth, Western Australia
Tuesday, 21 February 2017
So sad to hear, RIP. We will have a drink in your honour next year at the Somalia 25th Reunion. On behalf of the 1RAR Association Southern Queensland Branch, thank you for your service. Condolences to your family.
~
Simone Blakeman,
Brisbane, Queensland
Sunday, 19 February 2017
On the behalf of (YTBF) The Pilbara Regiment Association.
RIP, a soldier, a gentleman and a great mate to many.
We would like to extend our sincere condolences to Maria, and his family and friends.
The Green Family has lost a digger, gone but never forgotten.
~
Natasha Cann,
Perth, Western Australia
Saturday, 18 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Our children Cara and Cian lost their dad. He will be missed but treasured forever. RIP Seamus
Published in: The West Australian
Friday, 17 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus):
Rest in peace valued friend and colleague, sadly missed by all who knew and served with him. Deepest condolences to Maria and family. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
Members, Directors and Staff WA Police Union
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 16 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): On the behalf of Seamus’ classmates of Mazenod College 1986 and the Mazenod Old Boys Association, we would like to extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends. We are very proud to call Seamus one of our own.
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 16 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Goodbye to a good mate. You will be truly missed. Our thoughts are with your family. RIP Cobber.
From the Marino family,
Boys from 20 DIV. ESS and 2 CER.
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 16 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus Liam): The Commissioner of Police and all members of the Western Australia Police regret the passing of our colleague Seamus Doherty Registered Number 10326.
Deepest sympathy to all his loved ones.
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 16 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Seamus, A treasured workmate and friend whose knowledge and humour will be sorely missed. Our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to Maria and family from all members of the Tactical Response Group and Bomb Response Unit.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 15 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus):
Deepest sympathy to Sean and the Doherty family. RIP Seamus. You gave us all you had to stay. Loved by us all. Remembered always for sharing your music with us, almost to the end. Rita Fallon and family, Ray Deely and Bill Byrne
Tuesday, 14 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus):
Vale Seamus Doherty, a Somalia Veteran and a valued member of the Riverton RSL. Deepest sympathy to his wife Maria, family and friends. Riverton RSL President Bill Collidge, Committee, Members and Staff.
Lest We Forget
Published in: The West Australian
Saturday, 18 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Deepest Sympathy to Maria, Cian, Cara and Stepchildren Jacinta and Alison and the Doherty family. Rest in Peace Seamus, you will be sorely missed.
Your mate and brother in-law Frank.
Published in: The West Australian
Friday, 17 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Maria, Jacinta, Alison, Cara and Cian. Father Sean and Trinidad and all extended family. Our prayers are with you during this sad time. Rest In Peace Seamus.
All our Love Francisco and Nazare Camacho and extended family.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 15 February 2017
DOHERTY
( Seamus Liam):
05.09.1969 – 11.02.2017
“Forever in our hearts”
Seamus passed over peacefully at home surrounded by his family after a long battle with cancer. He is now at peace with God and the angels. Seamus was a deeply loved and cherished husband, son, father, step-father, brother and friend to so many.Thank you to our family and friends for their support and prayers during this difficult time.In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Cancer Council of Australia (www.cancer.org.au).Rest peacefully, my heart. I will love you forever. ‘Til we are one again, your loving wife, Maria.
Published in: The West Australian
– See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/thewest-au/seamus-doherty-condolences/184118796?&page=2#sthash.SRwLES9q.dpuf
Seamus DOHERTY
Funeral notice
DOHERTY:
WA POLICE UNION Members are invited to attend the Funeral Service for our late serving member Seamus Liam Doherty 10326 at Fremantle Cemetery on Monday (20.02.2017) at 11.45am.
Published in The West Australian on Feb. 17, 2017
– See more at: http://www.westannouncements.com.au/obituaries/thewest-au/obituary.aspx?n=seamus-doherty&pid=184155091&fhid=14374#sthash.NwIMzHXm.d97krzQR.dpuf
The final farewell for serving WA Police Union Member Seamus Doherty 10326.
You have fought the good fight. Life’s race has been run.
Now peace your reward for eternity begun.
Vale Seamus Doherty
The Funeral Mass for Club Member Seamus Doherty of Canning Vale will be celebrated at 9.45am on Monday 20 February at the Sacred Heart Church on the corner of Ovens Road and Discovery Drive, Thornlie. The cortege will leave the church at the conclusion of Mass and arrive at 11.45am at Fremantle Cemetery, Carrington Street, Palmyra for the Burial service. Members and friends are asked to assemble at the Samson Pavilion the Fremantle Cemetery at 11.35am. Vigil Prayers and Rosary will be recited in Bowra & O’Dea Chapel, 1307 Albany Highway Cannington at 5.30pm on Sunday 19 February 2017. We will remember them. Lest we forget.
Interview with Sapper Seamus Doherty – Royal Australian Engineers – December 2009
Stations: ?, Specialist Response and Security and Tactical Response Team ( SRSTR )
Service: From? ? ? to? ? ? = ? years Service
Awards: No Find on It’s An Honour
Born: 25 January 1979
Died on: Friday 27 January 2017
Age: 38
Cause: Cancer – Bowel, Brain, Adrenal Gland and Lung
Funeral date: Tuesday 7 February 2017 @ 1pm
Funeral location: The Albert Hall, Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla ACT
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial at: ?
March 2016
March 2016
The Fight of “The Hammer” Like This Page · June 23, 2016 · In getting my fifth cycle of chemo. I’ve been knocked around a bit. Hopefully these next few weeks are better.
“The Hammer” in Action
“Gents – no matter how young, no matter how fit – go and get that prostrate checked by your GP” Cal
[alert_yellow]WARREN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
[divider_dotted]
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
WARREN JOHN CARLOFF
25 January 1979 – 27 January 2017
Immensely loved by Kate
his wife and partner of 17 years.
Deeply adored by his daughter Sienna
and his sons Connor and Nate.
Son of Rex (dec) and Marie Carloff.
Treasured son-in-law, brother,
brother-in-law, uncle and friend;
we will all miss him.
You are invited to farewell Warren
at 1:00 pm Tuesday, 7 February 2017
The Albert Hall, Commonwealth Avenue,
Yarralumla ACT.
A private cremation will follow.
Kate would like to thank Dr Sue Morton,
Dr Yujo Chua, Dr Angela Rezo
and Catherine Trevaskis.
Forever loved,
Warren will always be remembered and
live on in the hearts of
Kate, Connor, Sienna and Nate.
Thursday, 16 February 2017
It’s hard to understand why people are taken from us, but find comfort in knowing you were a special part of a well- lived life. Our love and thoughts are with your family.
Ron and Betty Wilkins.
Cleveland. Brisbane.
Thursday, 9 February 2017
sorry I could not be there for my sister marie and kate and children.
Mum and I are thinking of you all in time of need
~
Helen Woodward,
Brisbane, Queensland
Thursday, 9 February 2017
sorry I could not be there for you aunt marie and family and kate and children
~
Helen Woodward,
Brisbane, Queensland
Thursday, 9 February 2017
my thoughts and prayer go out to aunty marie and family and to his kate and children
~
Peta-Jane Jenkin,
Brisbane, Queensland
Wednesday, 8 February 2017
~
Robbie Carloff, Khun Thein Ngwe,
Cairns, Queensland
Tuesday, 7 February 2017
Rest in peace Warren. Love and prayers to the family.
One of the brightest lights in our family has just been extinguished. Your love will help you and Kate find each other again in another life. Our bodies die, love never does. Ave Warren.
Robbie and Khun Thein Ngwe.
~
Robbie Carloff,
Cairns, Queensland
Monday, 6 February 2017
You have paid the ultimate sacrifice when protecting the community. Thank you sir. I will never forget, I will always remember.
~
Mac Plewa,
Fremantle, Western Australia
Monday, 6 February 2017
Massive loss to this life – you will be missed by many. xxx
~
Belinda Owen,
Jerrabomberra, New South Wales
Monday, 6 February 2017
Thoughts with you all on this sad day. Sorry I can’t be there to say goodbye Kate, Marie and Robbie. RIP cuz
~
Scott Jenkin,
Oxley, Queensland
Monday, 6 February 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family xoxo
~
Allison Patron,
Brisbane, Queensland
Monday, 6 February 2017
RIP Brother!
~
Robert Carloff,
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Monday, 6 February 2017
We loved Warren so much as our nephew
Thinking of you Kate and the kids at this very sad time
Lots of love forever to you all
~
Patricia & Ken Cookman,
Yamba NSW
Saturday, 4 February 2017
Our thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time
~
Valerie Mothershaw,
Brisbane, Queensland
– See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/canberratimes-au/warren-carloff-condolences/183937748?cid=full#sthash.NvLnnleA.dpuf
Published in The Canberra Times on Feb. 4, 2017
– See more at: http://tributes.canberratimes.com.au/obituaries/canberratimes-au/obituary.aspx?pid=183937748#sthash.gxy9U7t6.dpuf
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Senior Constable Warren Carloff
25 January 1979 – 27 January 2017
As a member of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) Specialist Response and Security and Tactical Response Team (SRSTR) Warren (Waz) Carloff AKA “The Hammer”* is no stranger to a fight – just to get into the elite squad is a fight.
SRSTR specialise in Counter Terrorism, riot/disturbance control and search and rescue. The selection trials are a torturous serious of physical and mental challenges so there is no mistaking that Waz was at the peak of his health; he even competed in a Natural Body Building competition for the INBA.
In May 2010 Waz was about to fight the biggest fight of all – the one for his life.
Unbeknown to Waz he was experiencing the symptoms of Bowel Cancer for almost a year but just put it down to the rigours of training and his career. After seeing a Cancer Council poster on the back of a toilet door at work, Waz realised he was showing the symptoms and booked in for a colonoscopy with his GP, the early detection saved his life.
In Waz’s words “I was living the dream, as a young healthy fit man who had a great job and a fantastic family life.”
After 5 years of re-building his strength and fitness and re-establishing his career in September 2015 Waz was dealt the blow that the fight was not over.
After experiencing dizziness and blurry vision a quick trip to the Dr’s saw him in hospital hours later talking over with surgeons the removal of 2 large tumors in his brain.
Waz has stage 4 Terminal Metastasised Bowel Cancer to the Brain, Adrenal Gland and Lung, this fight is going to be tougher than the last…in the past 6 months he has had 4 brain surgeries, Brain and is currently undergoing whole head radiation as once the tumors in his brain have cleared, then the Doctors can start on the ones in his Glands and Lung.
Waz has been fighting Cancer since 2010 (as a 31yr old), he is happily married with 3 kids, has put himself in harms way in his career and since being diagnosed with Cancer has done work with the Cancer Council to help raise awareness of Bowel Cancer and Early Detection.
As a school friend watching on the sidelines via Facebook, I have been following Waz’s journey with complete awe and respect, his treatment photo’s he (almost) always smiling and giving his trademark ‘thumbs up’, his attitude of strength and determination to fight this disease is both inspiring and humbling.
Due to the power of Facebook most of our School Year – YTHS Class of ’96 has managed to keep in touch and this being 20 years since we graduated, I felt it would be a great way to bring us all together – to help one of our own.
Waz has taken care of the practical things to ensure the future of his wife and his kids, but this hasn’t left much over for the fun things and for creating some amazing memories for his children.
This is where I would like to reach out and ask for you all for help. The ultimate memory for any family with 3 young kids is of course Disneyland so this is where we will start.
With Waz’s treatments there is of course a level of uncertainty as to whether a trip to Disneyland will be possible and when, so there is another thing on Waz’s bucket-list.
If Waz and his family had the use of a camper van they could go on a series of mini-adventures in-between treatments and start making some memories sooner.
I have created a Go Fund Me Page for Waz and any contribution is a great one and is so greatly appreciated. Please feel free to share the story with your friends, family and anyone you think can help Waz reach this goal.
*The Hammer: Waz’s Wrestling Persona (oh yes, there are photos).
” It doesn’t matter how BIG, FIT, STRONG and TOUGH you think you are; CANCER does NOT and will NOT discriminate.”
-Warren Carloff, 2010
—-
more details as soon as I can find out unless someone could please post more, especially service records, maybe academy, any recognition, deployments, etc.
About 5.40am on Friday 19 February 1971, Constable Fleming was the observer in a police divisional van travelling along the Boulevard, Kew, when the vehicle ran off the road, crashed through a fence and plunged down an embankment. Fleming received massive head injuries and died instantly.
He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Police Star on the 5 April 2007.
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Western Port News, Victoria Tuesday 17 January 2017 Page 12
The Mornington Peninsula Branch of the Blue Ribbon Foundation together with our local police, Chief Commissioner and other distinguished guests today hosted a dedication to Constable Phillip FLEMING 15731 who was killed on duty in a motor vehicle accident on 19 February 1971.
The ceremony with Police Honours dedicated a purpose built emergency operating theatre at Peninsula Health as a permanent memorial to Constable FLEMING.
The service was a moving tribute to his memory and the creation of this new state of the art facility at Peninsula Health will ensure his memory lives on.
I take this opportunity to thank the Blue Ribbon Foundation, business and community alike for enabling the creation of this important medical facility.
Brett Coloe
A/Inspector
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A committed officer takes the exit ramp
John Silvester
THE sight of the apparently unflappable senior policeman giving calm television updates as the state burnt provided just a measure of reassurance as we faced our greatest natural disaster.
On Black Saturday, and in the days and weeks that followed, Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe was the front man, running the police response, from initial evacuation to the grim process of identifying victims.
With the death toll by late Saturday standing at 16, he knew it would get ”much worse”, but no one could have imagined the count would rise to 173.
Much has been said about then chief commissioner Christine Nixon choosing to head to a North Melbourne pub for a meal on the night of February 7, 2009, as Victoria burned.
But little has been said about how Walshe ran the emergency operation, providing strong leadership for police out in the carnage and a measured tone for the community trying to come to terms with an event almost beyond imagination.
What few knew at the time was that, behind the carefully constructed professional facade, the deputy commissioner was in turmoil as – like so many – he had been touched by those fires.
The father of four daughters, he had feared early on that his son-in-law’s family had been caught in one of the blazes. The worst was confirmed the next day. ”His mother and brother were victims who were lost in the Strathewen fires,” he says.
”I was trying to provide support for my daughter and her husband, but at the same time we had a job to do. I believe that if you take on a role, then you have to step up during the testing times.”
It has been part of the philosophy that has sustained him during his 44-year career, which has seen him rise from a 16-year-old police cadet to a deputy commissioner who served under three chiefs.
Big, broad and bald, with a copper’s handshake and a friendly manner, the senior policeman, now 61, will retire at the end of next week, proud at what he has achieved and confident the force has moved on from the poisonous office politics that previously infected its top ranks. This included assistant commissioner Noel Ashby’s bugged conversations that showed him trying to damage rival Simon Overland’s chances of becoming the next chief commissioner, and then deputy commissioner Sir Ken Jones’ well-documented spat with Overland.
”I have always believed that you must remain loyal to the organisation and to your leader,” says Walshe. ”So it was particularly disappointing when certain members of the executive showed less than true loyalty to the chief commissioner.”
The manner of Simon Overland’s forced resignation last year still grates. ”He had the organisation on the right track and was totally committed to the Victoria Police. The way he left remains one of the low points of my career.”
He says he also enjoyed working with Nixon. ”Christine has a different, more relaxed, management style. She recognised people’s skills and trusted them to do a job.”
Many kids flirt with the idea of joining the police. Most grow out of it. Walshe didn’t. Ever since he was nine, growing up in Bendigo, his career path was set. His father knew many of the local coppers, who left a lasting impression on the youngster, and as soon as he was old enough he moved to Melbourne to join.
It was 1968 and Australia was just starting to feel comfortable about decimal currency; former fighter pilot John Gorton was prime minister; and Richard Nixon moved into the White House.
As a cadet, Walshe was sent to get experience at busy stations, including Northcote, where he no doubt got under the feet of the head of the crime section, a certain Detective Senior Sergeant Fred Silvester. After graduating, he went to Russell Street before transferring to Collingwood, where he experienced firsthand the dangers of his job.
On a night shift in 1971, the Ford divisional van he was driving along The Boulevard in Kew smashed through a fence and plunged 45 metres down an embankment. When he regained consciousness he tried to help his partner, Constable Phillip Fleming, who was motionless in the passenger seat. Walshe radioed for help then clambered back up the hill, his head badly gashed. What he didn’t yet know was that his partner had been killed on impact.
Walshe, now finishing up as Victoria’s traffic chief, says that having been involved in a fatal accident (”losing a mate … you carry it your whole life”) taught him the consequences of each road death.
”There is the victim, the family and the friends. The effect is devastating to so many people. I think it is one of the reasons I have been passionate about road policing.”
Walshe moved around busy inner-city stations before moving to Ascot Vale and the CIB (criminal investigation branch). ”I tried to treat each investigation as a learning experience and a chance to build your skills.”
By the 1980s, he was in charge of the air wing, which he built up from one helicopter and two fixed-wing aircraft to a service that provided emergency rescues, ambulance response, transport, traffic observation, drug crop identification and criminal surveillance. Despite not being a pilot, he was once given a million dollars and told to go out and buy a single-engine helicopter. Considering the number of lame buys senior police have made over the years, including spending a fortune on a computer system with the power of a crystal set, it is a wonder he didn’t come back with a blimp.
His career – in which he has moved through all ranks and most areas of the force – proved to be the perfect grounding for high office. This included a stint with the ethical standards department, an area that he thinks too many police avoid as they ”don’t see it as a good career move”. While there are still police (including some elite investigators) who refuse to work in ESD, dubbing it ”The Filth” or ”The Toecutters”, Walshe says a spell in the area improves leadership skills. ”You learn to recognise the early warning signs of when someone might be about to make some poor decisions.
”ESD deals with serious criminal and disciplinary matters. We accept that when someone in the community commits a crime they should be prosecuted and we should have the same attitude when it comes to police.”
From 1999, Walshe also spent two years at Seymour, where he found a new respect for country police. ”Country policing is so different to metropolitan policing. There is no sense of anonymity as you live in the same community where you work. Everyone knows you are a police officer.” He sees police in Victoria’s 99 one-person country stations as ”the last bastion of authority. The house is usually next door to the station, so you are expected to be available 24/7.”
Like many, Walshe watched the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on New York’s World Trade Centre, soon realising it would change the face of policing. In 2005, he was made assistant commissioner counter terrorism and was involved in Australia’s two biggest terrorism investigations, Pendennis and Neath. ”These were significant disruption exercises. It remains of great concern that these cells were operating not only in Australia, but specifically Melbourne.”
He says there has been a marked shift in the expectations of police recruits today. ”It is a generational thing. The vast majority are as committed to serving the community as we were back in 1968, but more of them see it as a job rather than as a career. That never entered my mind when I joined, as I fully expected to stay until I retired – although I didn’t dream I would last 44 years.”
”When Ken [Lay] was appointed Chief Commissioner, I knew the time was right for me to go. There are some things I want to do while I am still fit enough to do them.” These include travel with his wife, Denise, and spending time with his family, including his eight (soon to be nine) grandchildren.
Mate and long-time colleague Lay told us, ”Kieran has had a magnificent career. I was his subordinate and he was the sort of boss you would die for. When we were peers I always appreciated his wise counsel and as my deputy he has been rock solid and loyal.
”You always know where you are with him. He will look you in the eye and tell you what he thinks. I will miss his wise advice, and the organisation will miss his leadership.”
Victoria’s top road safety policeman, Kieran Walshe says a fatal crash he was involved in 40 years ago puts him in a better position to understand road trauma.
Constable Phillip Fleming was killed when a police van driven by Kieran Walshe crashed in Kew, in February 1971.
Deputy Commissioner Walshe has spoken publicly about the crash for the first time, ahead of the launch of the international decade of action for road safety.
He has rejected allegations he was driving inappropriately and has told ABC Local Radio, he is able to do his job well, because of his experience.
“I live with it, I deal with it. I think it makes me a better position to understand what other people endure when they experience and go through road trauma,” he said.
“I think it helps me be a little bit more passionate about the message that I need to make sure I give to the community of Victoria.”
He has spoken out because of questions from former officers about his ability to do his job.
“Obviously, for some reason, someone wants to challenge my reputation, or challenge my credibility to do my job,” he said.
“I dispute that. I think that I’ve done my job and continue to do my job very well and you never get over these things.”
MARK COLVIN: There’s been more controversy around senior figures in Victoria Police today, with revelations that the state’s top traffic cop was the driver in a fatal car crash in Melbourne 40 years ago.
The facts of the accident have resurfaced, just days after the State Government ordered an independent inquiry into the upper echelons of police.
Liz Hobday reports.
LIZ HOBDAY: Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe was driving a police wagon at a notorious accident spot on Kew Boulevard in 1971, when he lost control of his vehicle. The van ran off the road and plunged down an embankment, killing his passenger and good friend 22-year-old constable Phillip Fleming.
Kieran Walshe was 19 at the time, and says he woke up in hospital.
KIERAN WALSHE: I have no actual recollection of what took place at the time the vehicle left the road.
LIZ HOBDAY: A coronial inquest delivered an open finding.
KIERAN WALSHE: There has been a thorough investigation. There is no evidence to implicate or any impropriety in the way I drove the vehicle.
LIZ HOBDAY: The revelations emerged in the Herald Sun this morning, two days after the Victorian Government ordered an inquiry into the actions of those at the top of the force, after a string of controversies.
Kieran Walshe says he doesn’t know who told the newspaper about the crash, or why.
KIERAN WALSHE: I don’t know what their motivations are. All I can say is that I can only assume there’s some endeavour by somebody to discredit me.
LIZ HOBDAY: Kieran Walshe says he didn’t tell Chief Commissioner Simon Overland about the crash when he got the job of deputy commissioner, regional and road policing.
KIERAN WALSHE: Simon Overland has only been in Victoria Police for a little over eight years, nine years. It wasn’t something that I thought it was necessary to go and say to him. This happened 40 years ago.
LIZ HOBDAY: The Police Association’s Greg Davies says the latest story won’t affect morale; the problem is more the numerous inquiries now underway.
GREG DAVIES: Well we’ve got obviously at least three inquiries running at the moment into the police force, we’ve got turmoil at the top levels, that has to have a cascading effect to other levels of senior management, down all the way to the youngest constable.
LIZ HOBDAY: And he says retired officers could be behind the latest story.
GREG DAVIES: As far as who might be behind it, well we can only speculate. I’d be more inclined to think it would be a retired police officer than a current serving one.
LIZ HOBDAY: The latest inquiry into senior management at Victoria Police, is expected to report to Government within six months.
VICTORIA’S top traffic cop has spoken publicly for the first time about the trauma of crashing a car in which his passenger, a fellow police officer, died.
Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe lost control of the police divvy van he was driving 40 years ago as it was travelling on The Boulevard in Kew.
The Falcon van crashed through a fence and plunged 45m down a steep embankment, killing Constable Phillip Fleming, 22, about 5.40am on February 19, 1971.
Mr Walshe decided to tell his story to reject recent claims by former police officers that he was driving inappropriately on what has for decades been one of Melbourne’s most notorious street racing black spots.
“That’s not something that I ever did. It was not in my nature to drive in that manner and there is just no evidence to say that I did,” he told the Herald Sun.
Mr Walshe said Chief Commissioner Simon Overland was not aware of his involvement in the crash when he appointed him head of the traffic branch, but was now, and was happy for him to continue in the role.
Mr Walshe said: “I have been subjected to a thorough investigation. I have been subjected to a coronial inquiry and at no stage was there any evidence identified that gave any indication of any inappropriate behaviour on my part.”
Coroner Harry Pascoe recorded an open finding in 1971, saying from the evidence available it was not possible to determine if Constable Fleming’s death was “accidental or otherwise”.
The former officers this week claimed they were raising the issue only because Mr Walshe was recently put in charge of road safety policing in Victoria.
“The question arises how he, with any credibility, can criticise people in their 20s for hoon-type behaviour on Victorian roads,” one of them said.
But Mr Walshe, 60, said yesterday that having been involved in the fatal accident made him better able to do his job.
“I certainly have a greater appreciation than other people would who haven’t been involved in trauma like I have been,” he said.
“It makes me more passionate about the message I am trying to deliver out there – anybody can be involved in road trauma.”
The death of Constable Fleming continued to haunt Mr Walshe.
“When you are the driver … and you lose a close mate it has an impact … that you carry for the rest of your life. It’s just a really difficult thing that you have to live with,” he said.
Mr Walshe was quizzed by accident investigator Sen-Constable James Kenneday about why he was driving on The Boulevard.
“Did you go to The Boulevard for a burn in the van?” Sen-Constable Kenneday asked in 1971.
Mr Walshe replied: “I don’t remember.”
The issue comes as the administration of VicPol has become a major political issue. Premier Ted Baillieu this week appointed Jack Rush, QC, to examine, among other things, the effectiveness of the senior structure of police command.
Detective Leading Senior Constable Susanne Elise JONES
AFP Service Number: 3390
13 March 1963 – 6 February 2017
As previously advised, Detective Leading Senior Constable Susanne Jones passed away on 6 February 2017.
Susanne Jones (nee GOTTSCHALK) joined the AFP in January 1983 and was initially attached to a joint AFP/VICPOL task force, she then moved to work in Legal-Projects and Planning Section, Drug Operations and at Melbourne Airport gaining a wide range of experience that enabled her to achieve the designation of Detective in 1988.
During her extensive career that continued at the Melbourne Office, her duties covered the full range of investigation operations including Criminal Assets Confiscation and Professional Standards. Her most recent posting was with the Joint Organised Crime Task Force.
During her 34 years of service Detective Leading Senior Constable Jones was awarded the National Police Service Medal, National Medal with clasp, AFP Service Medal with 30-year clasp and an Australia Day Achievement Medallion.
Funeral Details Follow:
Date: Tuesday, 21 February 2017
Time: 10:00am
Location:
Victoria Police Academy Chapel
1 View Mount Road, Glen Waverley, VIC
Dress:
Uniform members – Full Ceremonial uniform with tunic and medals. Plain clothes members – Lounge suit or equivalent with medals.
*****
Spare a moment today to think about Susanne and her family during this time and please share your kind thoughts and messages of support for her family.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by this tragedy please reach out and ask for help. Blue HOPE stands ready.
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Date of birth: 13 March, 1963 Date of passing: 06 February, 2017
JONES (nee Gottschalk), Susanne Elise
Detective Leading Senior Constable – AFP 3390
Passed way on Monday Feb 6th, 2017.
Loved daughter of Dorothy and Klaus (both dec),
Sister of Angelica,
Loved mother of Cameron and Christian,
Wife of Terry,
Friend to many.
Always loved and remembered.
Order of Service
A Service to celebrate the life of Susanne Elise Jones will be held at The Victorian Police Academy Chapel, 1 View Mt Rd, Glen Waverley on Tuesday 21st February, 2017 commencing at 10am. At the conclusion of the service, a burial will be held at the Springvale Botanical Cemetery.
In the gentle care of
Greenhaven Funerals
9569 0534
In loving memory of my dearest friend of 33 years. A kind, generous, honest and intelligent lady. I will miss our weekly coffees, and our almost daily conversations. Most of all I will miss you so very much, my beautiful friend. Always and forever Corinne. You will also be very sadly missed by Justin, Channy and families and no less by Brigitte.
JONES (Gottschalk). Susanne Elise 13.3.1963 – 6.2.2017
Loved daughter of Dorothy and Klaus (both dec. ) and younger sister of Angelika.
Much loved wife of Terry and much loved and adored Mum to Cameron and Christian.
There are no words that adequately reflect the degree of our pain and grief nor describe how desperately we miss you. Our World will never be the same again. We miss you Susanne, Mum and little sister.
No child could have a mother who loved and cared for her children more than you, nor one who was more loyal to and proud of her two son’s every milestone and life achievements. A fantastic and supportive wife of 24 years who brought great joy to Terry. All who knew Susanne would say these same words. She was vibrant, enthusiastic, extroverted, a beautiful smile, kind hearted, a loyal friend to many and extremely proud of her AFP career.
Our family wish to thank the Luther College Community for their love and support through this difficult time.
Our friend and colleague who we miss dearly. Our movie nights, Langham lunches and dinners will never be the same. The wine glass will always be full. Rest Peacefully Susie You will always be remembered.
JONES (nee Gottschalk). Susanne Elise (Detective Leading Senior Constable)
Passed away on Monday, Feb. 6, 2017
Loved daughter of Dorothy and Klaus (both dec. ). Sister of Angelica. Loved mother of Cameron and Christian. Wife of Terry. Friend to many. Always loved and remembered
Tears in our eyes will wipe away. You were always so loving, caring and kind. You may have left this world but the love in our hearts is there to stay forever.
Your loving sister Angelika Gottschalk and partner Neville Milne.
Australian Federal Police officer dies after shooting at Melbourne headquarters
February 7, 20176:39am
AN AUSTRALIAN Federal Police officer has died after suffering a gunshot wound at the crime-fighting body’s Melbourne headquarters.
The female officer was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after suffering a gunshot wound at the ( 383 )Latrobe St building at 5.45pm.
She died a short time later.
AFP Commissioner Andrew Colvin said the circumstances around the tragic incident are being investigated by Victoria Police who will prepare a report for the coroner.
“Our colleague’s death is not believed to be suspicious,” he said.
“My thoughts are with her loved ones and the broader AFP family who are dealing with the loss of one of our own today.
“We are offering support to her family and the wider AFP workforce.”
The AFP confirmed this morning that the death was ‘not accidental’.
A Victoria Police statement last night read: “Police are not looking for anyone else connected to the shooting. Police are investigating the incident.”
Attention current and former Australian Federal Police members. Please don’t suffer in silence. We stand ready to help you. If you would like to confidentially tell your story or speak with someone who has a first hand understanding of what you are going through please reach out to us. We can get you the help you need. Please contact Mark (former AFP member) at mark@bluehope.org.au
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Stuart RawlinsAs a former Qld Police Officer/Det who left due to mental illness (which i kept a secret for fear of the sigma that comes with) it is very disappointing to see this type of thing still going on. I have created a website www.healthymindhealthyfuture.com and a Facebook page Healthy Mind Healthy Future where I now write articles about my mental health journey to help others. I also explore different ways to improve my mental health which is the basis of a lot of my articles. Please feel free to share and/or have a read, if i can help some of my Police family, even just one then it has been worth it. Kind Regards Stu Rawlins Ex Sgt/Det 10909.
On the behalf of (YTBF) The Pilbara Regiment Association.
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Our children Cara and Cian lost their dad. He will be missed but treasured forever. RIP Seamus
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Seamus, A treasured workmate and friend whose knowledge and humour will be sorely missed. Our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to Maria and family from all members of the Tactical Response Group and Bomb Response Unit.
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Deepest Sympathy to Maria, Cian, Cara and Stepchildren Jacinta and Alison and the Doherty family. Rest in Peace Seamus, you will be sorely missed.
DOHERTY
