For the purposes of this website ‘Q’ represents those Police joining between 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system )
Rank: Constable – appointed 22 February 1879
Senior Sergeant – appointed ? ? ?
Sub Inspector – appointed ? ? 1897
First Class Sub Inspector – appointed April 1903 at Hay ( could this ‘possibly’ be ‘Q’ # 3036 ??? )
First Class Sub Inspector – appointed 1 April 1906
Superintendent Henry ‘Harry’ GRUGEON
Born c1855 at Edmonton, England.
Died 10/1/1911, Deniliquin, NSW.
32 years service.
Buried Deniliquin, NSW 1881. Married Johannah HENNESSY, Deniliquin, NSW 1897. Promoted from Senior Sergeant to Sub Inspector 1898. Was a Sub Inspector at Narrandera.
15/10/1898, in the Australian Town and Country news paper.
The police district is under the control of Sub-inspector Grugeon, and the local force comprises, in addition, four footmen and three troopers. The gaol is in charge of Senior constable Bowman.
1906. Promoted from Sub Inspector to Inspector 1906-1909. Would appear that he was stationed at Parramatta as an Inspector 1909. Promoted from Inspector to Superintendent.
17/7/1909, Evening News Newspaper
Police Superintendent Grugeon was entertained at the Woolpack Hotel, Parramatta, at a farewell fraternal gathering, on the eve of his departure for Deniliquin to take charge of the South Western Police District. The Mayor (Alderman Haugh) presided, and there was a large attendance of prominent residents, magistrates, court officials, and others.
Among the speakers were Colonel Ferris, -ex -Superintendent Brennan, Mr. M. S. Love, S.M., Superintendent Day, Mr. G. Addison, C.P.S. and Parramatta Chamber Magistrate, Father O’Reilly, Dr. Kearney, and Sergeant Lucas.
During the evening Mr. Love, on behalf of the court officials, handed Superintendent Grugeon a cheque with which to buy a buggy on his arrival at Deniliquin. (Note that he was given a cheque to buy a buggy)
14/1/1911, Nepean Times.
FATAL BUGGY ACCIDENT. Superintendent of Police Henry Grugeon, of Deniliquin, died about 6 o’clock on Tuesday morning, as the result of a buggy accident. It appears that the superintendent was out driving in his buggy, with a pair of horses, accompanied by his son Stephen and daughter Mary. The horses became restive on Mathoura road, about three and a half miles from Deniliquin, and bolted, and, on turning short, the buggy capsized, throwing the occupants out.
Mr Grugeon fell on his head, and received several nasty cuts on the head and face. He was unconscious.
His son at once went to the freezing works and telephoned to Dr. Marsden, who went out and brought Mr Grugeon to his home, where he was attended by Dr Marsden and Hoskin, but never regained consciousness.
The son and daughter received only a few scratches.
Mr Grugeon was inspector in charge of Parramatta before being appointed superintendent at Deniliquin.
At the Parramatta Police Court on Tuesday sympathetic reference was made to the death of Superintendent Grugeon by Mr E L Maitland, S.M., by Mr E K Bowden on behalf of the legal profession, and by Inspector Bedingfield ( possibly Q # 2799 ) ( deceased’s successor at Parramatta) on behalf of the police.
His death was also mentioned in ‘The Argus’ Melbourne. Not transcribed.
He left a wife, 6 daughters and 3 sons. His wife Johannah died 28/7/1945 at Lewisham Private Hospital.
2/1/2019, Deniliquin Times.
Eight honoured on police memorial wall’ –
Seven former local police officers and a former police chaplain were honoured during a police reunion in Deniliquin.
They were the first to be added to the police memorial wall at the new Deniliquin police station.
Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888 – 1950), Saturday 26 August 1911, page 6
On Sunday afternoon (reports the Deniliquin ‘Independent’ of August 18) a large number of representative towns people, including the aldermen, of the municipality, attended at the local cemetery to witness the unveiling of the beautiful monument erected by a section of the police force of New South Wales, to perpetuate the memory of the Late Superintendent Grugeon, who was killed by an unfortunate buggy accident in January last.
All the members of the local police force were present.
Messrs. J. and H. ( Harry )Grugeon, two of deceased’s sons, had also journeyed to Deniliquin, to be present at the ceremony.
The monument is a beautiful piece of work, and was executed by Messrs. Wilson and Co., of Bendigo, which firm was represented at the unveiling by Mr. H. M. Hammer.
The design is a very choice one, being a pedestal with carved drapery, surmounted by a beautifully carved figure representing an angel with arm extended dropping flowers on the grave beneath. The pedestal and figure are worked from the best Carram marble. The monument is supported by a base of Harcourt granite, with two sets of kerbings of the same stone. Marble posts with marble kerbings, neatly moulded, take the place of the customary iron railing, while the inside of the grave is covered with black and white marble tiles.
The monument bears the inscription, ‘In memory of Harry Grugeon, Esq., J.P., Superintendent of Police, Deniliquin, died 10th January, 1911, as the result of a buggy accident.
Aged 56 years.
‘Thy will be done, O Lord.’
Erected as a mark of esteem by the officers, non-commissioned officers, and men of the New South Wales Police Force.”
In the early part of this year, the popular Superintendent of Police at Deniliquin Mr. Harry Grugeon, J.P., died from injuries received in a buggy accident and since then the members of the New South Wales police force have decided to commemorate his memory by the erection of a monument over his grave in the Deniliquin Cemetery.
The design selected is very choice, being a pedestal with carved drapery surrounded by a beautifully carved figure representing an angel with arm extended dropping flower’s on to the grave beneath. The pedestal and figure are worked from the best Carrara marble. The monument is supported by a base of Harcourt granite with two sets of kerbings of the same stone. Marble posts with marble kerbing neatly moulded take the place of the customary iron railing while the inside of the grave is to be covered with black and white marble.
The inscription has been cut out and filled with lead, making it of a lasting character. It reads thus: – ” In memory of Harry Grugeon, Esq. J.P. Superintendent of Police, Deniliquin, died on January 10, 1911, as the result of a buggy accident. Aged 56 years. Thy Will be done O Lord. Erected as a mark of esteem by the officers, non-commissioned officers and men of the New South Wales police. ”
The work has been entrusted to Messrs J. B. Wilson and Co., the well known firm of monumental sculptors of this city and is being prepared by them at their works in Mitchell street.
A marble tombstone, suitably inscribed, has just been completed over the grave of the late Superintendent of Police, Mr. Harry Grugeon, the cost of which was borne by the police of the South-western and Parramatta districts.
The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Day, will unveil the monument at the cemetery here next Sunday.
Mr Harry Grugeon, who is leaving Narrandera, after a residence of ten years, during the greater part of which period he had been engaged in the law office of Mr Quirk, was tendered a farewell by his many friends on Wednesday evening at the Railway Hotel, and presented with a valuable gold albert.
Mr Grugeon, who is a son ofInspector Grugeon, has accepted a position with Messrs Atkinson and Warren, solicitors, of Hunter street, Sydney.
Narrandera Argus and Riverina Advertiser (NSW : 1893 – 1953), Friday 2 July 1909, page 4
LOCAL AND GENERAL.
New Justices. —
In a batch of 260 names added to the Commission of the Peace on Monday last are included the following:— Harry Grugeon, Superintendent of Police, Deniliquin……
& loving uncle of Jessica, Blake, Georgie, Grant, Zayli and Maygan.
Relatives and friends are warmly invited to attend Peter’s funeral service to be held at St Brigid’s Catholic Church, Brisbane Street, Dubbo on Monday 15th April 2019 commencing at 11am followed by interment at Western Districts Memorial Park, Boothenba Road, Dubbo.
All serving and retired Police personnel are cordially invited to attend.
In lieu of floral tributes donations to the Black Dog Institute would be appreciated & may be left with the funeral director at the service.
Peter Ensor, Mark Meredith, Warwick Campbell and Tom Magann were four of the Dubbo riders involved in the Remembrance Ride.
Warwick Campbell, Mark Meredith, Peter Ensor, Nathan Edwardson from Canberra, and Tom Magann at the Police Remembrance Ride.
A GROUP of dedicated police officers have returned to Dubbo after helping raise much-needed funds for an organisation close to their hearts.
Five officers from the Orana Local Area Command – Mark Meredith, Peter Ensor, Warwick Campbell, Tom Magann and Craig Marchant – spent three days battling cold, early starts and saddle soreness to complete the Remembrance Ride for Police Legacy.
Starting from the Police Memorial in The Domain, the Dubbo riders formed part of a group of about 125 riders that split into five pelotons for the trip down the Hume Highway to Canberra.
Day one saw them rest overnight in Mittagong, day two took them to the Police Academy in Goulburn, and the final day saw them roll into Canberra, the finish line being the National Police Memorial.
For the first time the NSW officers were joined by colleagues from the ACT and Victoria for the final leg of the event.
“When you leave the memorial in Sydney and finish at the memorial in Canberra it’s pretty touching,” Detective Sergeant Meredith said.
“You see the people who have fallen in the line of duty, and when the services were taking place there were friends, family or people who knew these officers there and you could just see the emotion they carry.
“Police Legacy is such a great cause as well, helping the families of officers that pass away or officers that fall on tough times. It’s our way of giving back and helping the people that put so much on the line.”
Part of the group, the Dubbo contingent, were friends of fallen officer, Detective Inspector Bryce Anderson, who died after being stabbed while responding to an incident in the Sydney suburb of Oakville in 2012. Detective Sergeant Meredith said having people from outside the force keen to be involved was a positive for the event, now in its fourth year.
“One of the guys that was friends with Bryce Anderson is a builder and he paid $2600 for a signed Mark Renshaw jersey at an auction we had in Goulburn on the second night,” he said. “The ride has grown a fair bit in four years to the point where there was about 125 riders this year and some weren’t even police officers.
“From our perspective locally this was the first time we’ve participated and hopefully we can be involved again next year and have more people take part.”
Dubbo police officer Peter Ensor laid to rest after his death in Fiji on April 4
Kim Bartley
Dubbo “stopped” on Monday to give a fitting and final farewell to all-around good guy and police officer Peter Ensor.
His loving family has been overwhelmed by hundreds of tributes to a humble and funny man “who touched so many lives”.
UNEXPECTED AND TRAGIC: Serving and retired police officers were among the mourners at the Dubbo funeral of Detective Senior Constable Peter Ensor who died in Fiji on April 4. Photo: Contributed
Peter Ensor
A guard of honour forms after Peter Ensor’s funeral on Monday.
Peter Ensor was in the thick of the 2006 New Year’s riot in the Gordon Estate.
Pictured with Detective Senior Constable Matthew Hemsworth.
Peter Ensor and his son Luke, a cycling star in the western region.
Peter and Luke Ensor take part in Zoo 2 Zoo.
Warwick Campbell, Mark Meredith, Peter Ensor, Nathan Edwardson from Canberra, and Tom Magann at the Police Remembrance Ride. Photo: CONTRIBUTED
Peter Ensor loved playing guitar in a band.
NSW Police ran a “full protocol funeral” including a guard of honour and the escorting of the hearse carrying Mr Ensor‘s body to the Western Districts Memorial Park.
About 1200 mourners turned out to St Brigid’s Catholic Church for the funeral.
Dubbo City Bowling Club hosted the wake where Peter’s uncle, retired Detective Sergeant Greg Salmon, said there were “so many people that you could not have fallen over”.
On Wednesday Mr Salmon and his wife Melissa told of a “hugathon”.
“If there is anything positive to come out of this it was the love in the room not just for Peter but colleagues and friends who are helping each other get through this,” Melissa Salmon said.
Born and raised in Dubbo, Peter James Ensor‘s death in Fiji on April 4 was “unexpected and tragic”.
Grief has rippled through the community no more so than on Monday when police and community members lined Brisbane street and the hearse travelling past the police station where flags were flying at half-mast.
Outside the CBD there were more people paying their respects and removing hats for a man who at every step put the community first, including the night of the Gordon Estate riot in 2006.
Mr Ensor received a commissioner’s unit citation for professionalism after the riot which he never discussed.
“He wouldn’t bang his own drum,” Mr Salmon said.
“More so, he was quiet and respectful of others and compassionate with people with problems.”
Beyond work the 50-year-old detective senior constable, a diligent forensic investigator, made community connections through cricket, cycling and playing his guitar in bands.
“Everything he wanted to do he did well,” Mr Salmon said.
“He was gifted when it came to sport but everything else came from just persistent and hard work.”
The devoted father of one would have “shook his head” at the outpouring of grief.
“The whole of Dubbo stopped and gave him the send-off he deserved,” Mrs Salmon said.
“He would never have thought that he meant that much to so many people.”
The eulogy was delivered by Mr Salmon and cousin, Senior Constable Lisa Horton, who told her colleagues “what we do is unique and it takes its toll“.
In lieu of flowers, mourners donated about $1200 to the Black Dog Institute.
Peter Ensor is survived by his wife Michelle and son Luke, a cycling star in the western region.
People in need of help can call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
In loving memory of …. Ali Shee…. Passed away peacefully. Adored ‘Mumma’, Beloved daughter and sister. Much loved ‘Aunty Al’. A fierce and fun-loving friend of many.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in memory of Alison to NSW Police Legacy or Love Your Sister (for breast cancer research). A collection box will be at the service.
Funeral Details
Parkview Funeral Home – Ballina
21 Kalinga Street
West Ballina NSW 2478
Date: 6 April 2019
Time: 10:30 am
Ali was also bit of a muso – playing in a Pipe Band
We’re very proud to be supporting Ballina Police Station in their fundraising efforts for Detective Senior Constable Alison Sheehan while she undergoes a combination of radiotherapy, chemotherapy and hormone therapy to fight her rare Cancer diagnosis. Book your tickets to the Wig out for Cancer on Friday 28th of November to show your support. https://wigoutforcancer.gofundraise.com.au/cms/home
Surprise cancer diagnosis put Ali in fight for her life
by rstevens
4th Oct 2014 5:00 AM
WHEN Alison Sheehan went to her GP complaining of back pain following a freak fall at home several weeks before, the last thing she expected was a cancer diagnosis.
But this is the cruel reality facing the 33-year-old mother of one, detective, and children’s cancer fundraising champion.
“She had a number of tests and eventually they diagnosed her with breast cancer and, unfortunately, the legions had spread to her spine and lymph nodes,” friend and colleague Donna Tutt said.
“Ali has been told when she beats cancer she may be faced with a significant disability due to the damage to her spine.”
While Ms Sheehan undergoes treatment at Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra hospital, her partner Adam had to resign from his job as a manager at the Byron Bay Brewery to care for 18-month-old Jack, who suffers EoE, an allergy related inflammation of the oesophagus, which results in difficulty swallowing, chest discomfort and heartburn.
A regular fundraiser for children’s cancer sufferers in the region, earlier this year, Ms Sheehan helped raise money for Jacob Mercy-Ireland who has osteosarcoma.
“Ali cut all of her hair off to raise money and then donated it to “Beautiful Lengths” – a Pantene charity that makes wigs for chemo patients.”
A former constable with Lismore PCYC, Ms Sheehan did a lot of work with youth from the Lismore region before she was transferred to the ranks of Byron Bay detectives two years ago.
“She was the dux of our original class 14 years ago and she was the dux of the detectives’ class as well – so she had a huge career ahead of her.”
To support Ms Sheehan and her fight against cancer, Ms Tutt has organised the Paddle for Ali, on October 26.
“Come and support someone local who has been a huge fundraiser for children’s cancer.”
Participants will paddle nine kilometres along the Brunswick River, from Heritage Park, Mullumbimby, to Banner Park, Brunswick Heads. “Any type of non-motorised watercraft can be used, from canoes, to kayaks, skis and surfboards.”
An event safety briefing will be held at 9.30am, with the paddle to start at 10am.
On arrival at Banner Park, a barbecue and raffle will be held, with all proceeds going toward Ms Sheehan’s fundraising campaign.
People who are unable to paddle can still donate at any Westpac branch.
Connor & Harris LANDGRAF speak about their Step Mother ( Renae LANDGRAF ) and walking the Kokoda Track in her Memory.
NSW Police Legacy
Next up in our Police Legatee Stories series: NSWPF Probationary Constable Harris Landgraf, who’s been with NSW Police Legacy since the age of just nine years old.
“Three metres deep in the ground, covered in someone’s turds? Nah.”
Harris Landgraf is a country boy, embodying the very best of the open, friendly, and occasionally earthy outlook that entails. Approaching the end of his first year as a NSW Police Force Probationary Constable, his cheery demeanour has served him well in his chosen profession. But how did he get to this point? Let’s go back a little.
Like a lot of kids in his situation, the first that Harris knew about NSW Police Legacy was when they became a sudden presence in his life after tragedy. When Harris was just nine, his stepmother, Snr Cst Renea Landgraf, passed away. At her funeral, he had his first real experience of the love and community of the Police Family.
“There were hundreds of cops… Dad’s best mate Bushy took us there in his highway patrol car. The church was just filled with police officers. Hugs all round. It was pretty emotional.” To the young boy, it made a huge impression. “That’s when I knew the police were going to be a big part of my family.”
Harris’s father was also a police officer, but Harris didn’t initially enter the force, signing up at age sixteen to do a plumbing apprenticeship instead. At the encouragement of our Community Support Manager Leisa Doherty, he applied for, and received, the Kerslake Scholarship – an award given to fund technical education. He was thrilled at the support. “You know, being a young fella, you get five grand put into your account and all I wanted was that big drill set!”
His next big involvement with Police Legacy came through doing the Kokoda Trek in 2019. It was a transformative experience. He loved sitting around at the end of the day with all of these people who shared a similar story. “You’ve always got someone in your corner understanding where you’re coming from”
Another person on the trek that year was then-Commissioner Mick Fuller, who was hugely encouraging of Harris’s desire to become a police officer. On returning to Australia, Harris asked for, and was given “huge amounts” of support from Leisa and then-Chair Det Supt Gary Merryweather, who helped him get into the Police Academy. Leisa also put him in touch with Cain Anderson, another Police Legatee, who was going through in the class above him. The Police Family really swung into action.
Since attesting in December last year, he’s had a wide variety of experiences, and he can’t imagine now wanting to do anything else. “It’s more than just a job; it’s a passion,” he says. His Dad, now retired, has been incredibly supportive. “I’m living his dream,” says Harris. Dad calls every few days to hear the stories, and check in with how Harris is coping with it all. Things are very different to when his Dad was on the job, with police counsellors and all kinds of support services available. And Harris often finds himself checking in with his colleagues, helping them decompress from tough days.
As passionate as he is about his newfound career, he is equally passionate about Police Legacy. With the support of his Inspector, he recently organised a tri-state golf day in the region where he’s stationed, bringing together police officers from VIC, SA, and NSW, and raising more than $9,000 for NSW Police Legacy – a phenomenal feat. And apart from the money, he loves that he’s helped to share the story of why this organisation matters. “People say ‘I give money to Legacy each pay, and what do they do?’… but when I tell my story, and what I’ve been through… people say ‘look at what they’ve done!’”
?, Harris LANDGRAF, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?
Harris LANDGRAF with Commissioner Mick FULLER
Harris LANDGRAF, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?
Leisa DOHERTY, Harris LANDGRAF, Steve LANDGRAF, ?
Connor LANDGRAF, Steve LANDGRAF, Harris LANDGRAF, ? LANDGRAF
The guard of honour that paid tribute to Senior Constable Renae Landgraf. Hundreds of friends and colleagues gathered to farewell the senior constable at St Brigid’s Catholic Church yesterday.
The drums sounded and police officers saluted as they farewelled one of their own yesterday.
Senior Constable Renae Landgraf, nee Spackman, died as a result of health complications last Friday, at the age of 31.
Her sudden death has rocked Dubbo’s police family and the wider community.
Accompanied by his three sons and baby daughter, Steve Landgraf, an officer himself, was surrounded by hundreds of friends and colleagues as he farewelled his beloved wife yesterday at St Brigid’s Catholic Church.
Speaking on behalf of the family yesterday, Nicole Muir, Jodi George and Carly Stephens painted a beautiful picture of Renae’s life, moving from Western Australia at a young age with her family and residing in Narromine, where she completed her schooling and started work.
In 2001 Renae achieved her dream of being accepted into the Goulburn Police Academy, where she later graduated as probationary constable Renae Spackman.
Renae transferred to Dubbo Police Station in 2005, the same year she married her long-time friend Steve Landgraf, which her family remembers as being the happiest time of her life.
In marrying Steve, Renae welcomed with loving arms his two sons Connor and Harris and then in 2007, Renae was blessed with her first child, Ethan.
In February this year Steve and Renae had their second child, baby girl Mackenzie.
Family members said while Renae’s life was short-lived, she was able to achieve all she had dreamed to achieve and that was to become a police officer, a wife and a mother to a son and a daughter.
As a person, friends and family described Renae as being energetic, loving, fun and ambitious.
She was an extremely dedicated, mother, wife and police officer who worked hard and stuck her neck out for other people.
Superintendent Stan Single read a valedictory at the funeral outlining Renae’s police service and a description of her achievements and commendations.
Renae’s police service follows her father Neil’s army service and the policing career of her husband and role model uncle Peter.
Together with police colleagues a large contingent of nursing and medical staff attended the funeral in support of Renae’s mother, Sandra.
Renae will be remembered by her peers and family for her insistence in having all things right.
Her insistency on right and wrong and her compassion, dedication and work ethic are qualities she has imposed upon a number of junior police she has helped train.
Following the service, one section of Brisbane Street was closed off and Renae’s fellow officers, including drummers marched in front of the hearse as it made its way to the New Dubbo Cemetery for the burial.
Officers on bikes led the procession, and marked police cars transported the family.
NATIONAL POLICE REMEMBRANCE DAY TRIBUTE TO SENIOR CONSTABLE RENAE CAROLINE LANDGRAF
Page: 18486
Mrs DAWN FARDELL (Dubbo) [6.41 p.m.]: On Tuesday 29 September ( 2009 ) I attended the National Police Remembrance Day service held in the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Brisbane Street, Dubbo, at the invitation of Ross Godfrey, Police Chaplain. Similar services were held around New South Wales on that day, which no doubt many other members of this Parliament attended. The Reverend Canon Roger Zohrab, Rector of Holy Trinity Dubbo, carried out the welcome and invocation. Scripture readings and the homily followed by Police Chaplain David Warner, CGS. The solo of Amazing Grace was beautifully sung by David Cooper, RNS Dubbo. Superintendent Stan Single, APM, the Commander of the Orana Local Area Command, addressed the congregation. Police Chaplain David Warner said prayers for the New South Wales police.
Constable Jason Blake, who had not been a member of the police force for very long, read the roll of honour. I will list the names of those members of the New South Wales Police Force deceased during the period 29 September 2008 to 28 September 2009: Sergeant Sean Stephen Lamerton, General Administrative Support Officer Jane Gardiner, Constable Morgan James Hill, Probationary Constable Mason Hammond, Senior Constable Lindsay “Guy” Winkley, Senior Constable Janice Anne Hennessy, Senior Constable Ian West, Constable Gilbert Joseph Roussel and Senior Constable Renae Caroline Landgraf. Renae was one of our own from Dubbo.
Senior Constable Renae Landgraf, nee Spackman, unfortunately lost her life in May this year at the age of 31 as a result of health complications. Her sudden death has rocked the Dubbo police family and wider community. Accompanied by his three sons and baby daughter, Steve Landgraf, an officer himself, was surrounded by hundreds of friends and colleagues as he farewelled his beloved wife at St Brigid’s Catholic Church. In 2001 Renae achieved her dream of being accepted into the Goulburn Police Academy, where she later graduated as Probationary Constable Renae Spackman. Renae transferred to Dubbo Police Station in 2005. In the same year she married her long-time friend Steve, which her family remembers as being the happiest time of her life.
In marrying Steve, Renae welcomed with loving arms his two sons Connor and Harris. In 2007 Renae was blessed with her first child, Ethan. In February this year Steve and Renae had their second child, baby girl Mackenzie. Family members said that, while Renae’s life was short, she was able to achieve all she had dreamed of achieving: becoming a police officer, a wife and a mother to a son and a daughter. Friends and family described Renae as being energetic, loving, fun and ambitious. She was an extremely dedicated mother, wife and police officer who worked hard and stuck her neck out for other people. Superintendent Stan Single read a valedictory at the funeral outlining Renae’s police service and a description of her achievements and commendations. Renae’s police service followed her father Neil’s army service and the policing careers of her husband and role model uncle Peter.
Together with police colleagues, a large contingent of nursing and medical staff attended the funeral in support of Renae’s mother, Sandra. It was a sad and tragic day when Renae passed away. Renae was a vibrant community member. I knew of Renae well and the work she did with the youth in our Dubbo community. Sandra used to attend the National Police Remembrance Day service each year with Renae. She was a true Briton to attend the service on her own this year. It was a tough day for Sandra but hopefully in time it will become easier for her. Renae and Steve’s children Steven, Connor, Harris, Ethan and Mackenzie are in the good hands of their surrounding family and the police force family, as it is known. Our sympathy goes to them all. The National Police Remembrance Day reminds us of the hard work the police perform in our community but it is very tough when it involves one of our own.
It is with great sadness that another WA Police officer ( male ) has taken their own life overnight. If you know their name please do not divulge it, thank you.
If you need to speak to someone please reach out to anyone be it a friend, relative, Soldiers and Sirens, Soldier On, MHERL even if you reach out through Facebook please just know you can talk to someone. We do understand a number of us have been on the edge before and know what its like.
CURTIS:
The Funeral Service for the late David Harold Wright Curtis of Vitali Crescent, Kalgoorlie will assemble at the main entrance of the Goldfields Crematorium, Memorial Drive, Kalgoorlie for a Cremation Service at 10.30am on TUESDAY (12.2.2019).
IVAN VUKOVICH
Kalgoorlie 9021 2023
Member AFDA
Published in The West Australian on Feb. 5, 2019
Senior police officers lead the funeral procession for Senior Constable Dave Curtis. Picture: Tori O’Connor
‘He loved us so much’: Son of WA cop who took his own life speaks out
Senior Constable Dave Curtis was the sort of cop who would consistently reach out to other officers going through a tough time.
Affectionately known as ‘DC’ by colleagues, he would routinely get in touch with fellow officers who’d been assaulted on the job, making sure they were okay.
He was also known to speak at various police-related and other community events over the years without a microphone – such was the power of his booming voice.
It always got people’s attention.
But Senior Constable Curtis – who first joined WA Police as a cadet in November 1982 – stunned his fellow officers and family by taking his own life in January.
He was just 53.
“The last time we saw one another was at my son’s belated birthday party the weekend before,” his son John Curtis said.
“At the time, he seemed deflated.
“You always offer some assistance or some time to talk, but in this particular circumstance he didn’t see it fit to speak to anyone about it.”
‘He just loved us all so much’
John Curtis said his father told him shortly before he died he would never have to worry about him “doing something stupid”.
“So obviously to get the subsequent news was quite a shock,” he said.
“He’s not the kind of person who would have liked to have burdened anyone with his trouble.
“He didn’t want to shift that burden that he was wearing elsewhere to help himself.
“He loved everyone around him, he didn’t want to cause them any harm or stress.
“He just loved us all so much.”
Senior Constable Curtis’ death is understood to be one of several police suicides across the country in recent weeks and months.
The “tragic and unnecessary deaths” – the Police Federation of Australia says – “demonstrate that holding the thin blue line comes at a very significant cost”.
Senior Constable Curtis’ passing has also once again put a spotlight on the psychological toll policing and other frontline emergency work has on people.
It is for this reason WAtoday has begun a three-part series on the issue starting from today. On Thursday, we will explore the newly restructured police unit tasked with helping officers and their families with mental health issues, and the toll PTSD has on serving and former cops.
‘I’m still stunned by it’
Close friend and fellow WA cop Geoff Stewart said he’d been left rocked by the passing of his mate and colleague.
“The thing I liked the most about him was his integrity,” Superintendent Stewart recalled.
“In all the time I knew him, I never saw him get angry or hear him talk ill of his colleagues. He knew the value of a team.
“DC’s passing has rocked us all and I’m still stunned by it.
“Every police station has a DC. That one individual who is the centre of the place, keeps things ticking and always had the interest of the team at heart.
“Look up country copper in a dictionary and there will be a picture of DC.”
Superintendent Stewart said Senior Constable Curtis was one of several officers stationed at Newman who had to deal with the tragic events of a police air wing crash in the regional town in 2001.
The crash claimed the lives of four police officers.
“That would have left an impact on anyone and I know it did for DC,” Superintendent Stewart said.
Another fellow police officer who knew the 53-year-old said: “He was a typical, old-school, country copper.
“Firm but fair, with a big heart and very community-minded.
“It makes me sad that a strong, resilient man who had given so much and seen so much, got to a point in his life that he could not go on.”
‘We are hurting’
At the time of his death Senior Constable Curtis was a branch official and a director of the WA Police Union.
“He genuinely cared for the welfare of his fellow officers,” WA Police Union boss and close mate Harry Arnott said.
“Around the board table, he always provided a considered, highly-valued opinion.
“A man of few words, when he spoke, people listened and he was a strong voice for regional coppers.
“We are hurting because we have not only lost a great police officer and union man, we’ve lost a great mate.”
A Senate report released in February recommended a range of changes with regard to how governments respond to the mental health concerns of first responders, like police officers and paramedics.
Among the report’s 14 recommendations was a suggestion that compulsory mental health awareness training be introduced in every first responder organisation across Australia.
Research released last year by Beyond Blue found one in three police officers and other emergency service workers experienced high or very high psychological distress compared to one in eight Australian adults.
The research also found police officers and other emergency service workers report suicidal thoughts twice as often as other adults.
John Curtis said he hoped his father’s passing would prompt other people who may have such thoughts, or who are battling any mental health issues to speak up.
This Guest Book will remain online until 8/03/2019.Learn More
Friday, 1 February 2019
CURTIS (Dave):
On behalf of the WA Police Union Directors and Staff, we extend our sincerest condolences to Kerrie and family on the passing of their beloved Dave.
Dave was loved by everyone and our thoughts are with you all at this very difficult time.
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the sudden and tragic passing of a serving WA Police Force officer overnight and we have lost one of our finest.
Dave was a wonderful supporter of the band and was also a member of our Friends of the Band Program.
Sincerest condolences to all Dave’s family and friends.
If you need to speak to someone we urge you to please, please, reach out.
Talk to your colleagues, a friend or loved one or make that call to one of the numbers below or the Helpline for wherever you reside.
Some details on the officer in WAPOL that was lost to the world this week.
PUTP unfortunately has recently lost one of our own but known personally of 3 police related deaths in the last 2 months. We grieve still.
Our thoughts go to family of this officer both blood and in blue.
In memoriam: Senior Constable David ‘Dave’ Curtis, WA Police Force, died suddenly on the night of 30th January 2019
Senior Constable David Harold Wright Curtis dedicated 34 years of diligent service to the community of Western Australia. His larger-than-life personality and his willingness to help impressed many in the Goldfields region and beyond. His presence made a significant impact in Western Australia and his leaving has left our world a poorer place.
Dave Curtis was a wonderful supporter of Police Legacy and many other community initiatives, including his contributions to Polair 64 memorial and events. The support he offered to members following the tragedy at Newman will forever be remembered; he held the community together through very trying times. As the Eastern Region Director, he was a valued Member and contributor to the WA Police Union for more than a decade.
As he leaves behind his loving wife and children, he is reunited with his late father and step-daughter. Dave Curtis will forever be remembered for his many accomplishments, and as a great friend, colleague and a true gentleman. His loss has left us all feeling deeply desolate with grief.
Our hearts go out to his family, friends, colleagues; everyone who loved him. May peace and comfort find them during this incredibly difficult time.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.
FAREWELL TO A ‘GENTLE GIANT’
Jason Mennell Wednesday, 13 February 2019 10:44AM
There was a huge outpouring of solidarity as more than 200 police officers from across the State yesterday joined family and friends to farewell Senior Constable David Curtis at a touching funeral service in Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
At the service he was described by friends and colleagues as a “gentle giant” who always put others before himself.
But underneath his sunny and selfless nature, Sen. Const. Curtis faced emotional turmoil and to the stunned dismay of friends and family he made the decision to take his own life last month at the age of 53.
His death came after 36 years with WA Police, in a career which began at Kambalda in 1982. He went on to serve at Kalgoorlie Police Station, Mt Magnet Police Station and Newman Police Station.
At the funeral service yesterday, an emotional former policeman and State Member for Kalgoorlie Kyran O’Donnell, who knew Sen. Const. Curtis for 30 years, told the Kalgoorlie Miner his friend would be sorely missed.
“We are always there to support each other but we weren’t there for Dave,” he said.
“We didn’t know. It’s just a waste.
“If we can learn by this by learning to identify this in the future, it won’t happen again.”
Mr O’Donnell said he had never seen so many officers at a funeral before and it was a fitting send-off for a “gentle giant”.
“He was one of the nicest guys,” he said. “No one ever had a bad word about him. It didn’t matter whatever you asked of him, he did it. He was one of those coppers he would still be there hours after his shifts, finishing jobs to help others and he wouldn’t even claim overtime.”
The service began with a solemn procession led by police motorbikes and cars travelling down Memorial Drive as officers stood tall on either side of the road with hands held stiffly at their sides.
The vehicles were followed by 12 members of the WA Police Pipe Band who played a selection from the Retreat Slow Marches.
Behind the pipe band, senior police officers marched ahead of the hearse carrying a casket that was flanked by close friends and family members. The procession peeled off into the Kalgoorlie Cemetery where people who could not fit inside the Kalgoorlie Crematorium Chapel stood outside to listen to the service.
During the service the chaplain said the selfless officer must have been facing emotional turmoil before he made the decision to take his own life.
He said the sudden death of Sen. Const. Curtis would have left family, friends and colleagues questioning what they might have done to intervene beforehand, but that they should not be hard on themselves.
A friend of Sen. Const. Curtis, Anita Grace, talked fondly about the officer’s time in Newman.
She said Sen. Const. Curtis was popular with the Martu people in the region and was “a big man with a big smile” who “always had time to chat”.
Superintendent Geoff Stewart who served with Sen. Const. Curtis in Newman said friends and family had been left “stunned” by the tragic news.
“He was a big man and he left a big impact on all of us,” he said.
“It wasn’t only what he did but it was how he held himself. The man had integrity.”
Supt Stewart said a light aircraft crash, which killed four police officers in January 2001 in Newman had left an indelible mark on his former colleague.
WA Police Commissioner Chris Dawson, who was also at the service, told the Kalgoorlie Miner the police force was like a family.
“This is unsurprising for me as commissioner to see this demonstrable show of unity, but we are really here to care and support Dave’s immediate family and recognise his service over many, many years,” he said.
“For us it is a touching, sad and sombre moment but it’s very important that we also celebrate his life and give support to his family, friends and colleagues.”
Thomas Ernest WAIBEL
| 13/04/2019
Thomas Ernest WAIBEL
AKA TOMMY
Late of Dubbo, formerly of Goulburn
Husband to Sgt Mandy Trindall # ?????
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class # ? ? ?
New South Wales Police Force
Original NSWPF Regd. # ?????
AFP Regd. # ?????
Rejoinee Regd. # 35490
NSWPF Rank 1st time: Probationary Constable – appointed ???
NSW Constable – appointed ???
NSW Constable 1st Class – appointed ???
NSW Senior Constable – appointed ???
Final Rank = NSW Senior Constable
AFP Rank: ???
Also Served, for a short time, with AFP, Canberra
Apparently Tommy left NSWPF around the 1990’s and joined the AFP ( Australian Federal Police ).
He apparently spent a few years stationed at Canberra City Police Station on GD’s and also as an Intelligence Officer.
Tommy enjoyed his time with the AFP and it is believed he was commended by his superior officers due to implementing new systems to combat stolen goods being sold in Pawnbrokers stores within the ACT.
Tom left the AFP due to personal reasons and rejoined the NSWPF
NSWPF Rank 2nd time: ???
Stations: ?, Canberra City Police Station – AFP – ACT, Liverpool GD’s, Goulburn HWP, Tarago GD’s ( one manner ), Police Academy ( Weapons Instructor, Police Rescue Squad, Goolgowi, Leeton, Griffith, Dubbo – Traffic and Highway Patrol Command – Death
Service 1 – NSWPF: From? ? ?to? ? ? = ? years Service
Service 2 – AFP: From ? ? 1990’s? to ? ? 1990’s? = ? years Service
Service 3 – NSWPF: From ? ? ? to 13 January 2019 = ? years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? 1958 – 59
Died on: Sunday 13 January 2019 @ 6pm
Age: 59
Cause: Cancer – Prostate
Event location: Dubbo Base Hospital
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Friday 25 January 2019 @noon
Funeral location: St Peter & Pauls Old Cathedral, cnr Verner & Bourke St, Goulburn
Wake location: Goulburn Workers Club
Funeral Parlour: R J Sydney Craig, Goulburn 48212122
Buried at: Goulburn Lawn Cemetery, Sydney Road, Goulburn
Memorial located at: ?
Wayne FRIEND # 18288, Tommy WAIBEL, Bill WHITE, Howard JONES, Michelle HOBBINS nee LANGEREIS # 22169 Goulburn Police Academy
[alert_yellow] TOMMY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
[alert_pink] TOMMY IS NOT YET mentioned on the Sydney Police Centre Memorial Wall[/alert_pink]
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
WAIBEL, Thomas Ernest (Tom) – 13th January 2019, at Dubbo Hospital.
Late of Dubbo, formerly of Goulburn.
Loved partner of Amanda.
Sadly missed by his children, grandchildren and his many friends.
Aged 59 years.
‘Loved And Remembered Always’
Tom’s family and friends are invited to attend his Prayers of Christian Burial commencing at 12-00 noon Friday, 25th January 2019 at S.S Peter And Paul’s Cathedral, Bourke Street, Goulburn.
Interment will follow at he Goulburn Lawn Cemetery, Gorman Road, Goulburn.
298 Sloane St.,
Goulburn Phone (02) 4821 2122
January 25, 2019
It was my privilege to know you and call you my friend. I will never forget the time we travelled to Darwin to say goodbye to “Merro” – another good bloke taken from us too soon. The period we worked together at OSTU are amongst the happiest memories of my life and I thank you for sharing it with me.
My heart goes out to your family you all had so much more to look forward to in the years ahead.
Goodbye my friend.
Laurence Barlow
*
January 24, 2019
Always in my thoughts my friend you will be dearly missed I know where you are going you will be surrounded by former brothers in blue. Another angel to protect us.
On the 13th of January, surrounded by the ones he loved, the world lost a gentleman. A kind soul that filled everyone who ever had the honour of meeting him with happiness. His infectious laugh and his mischievous pranks were like no other. The way he would jump around the room, wake us up with a cup of ice then run away giggling… it’s a memory I will never forget.
His dedication to his job, and his unwavering loyalty to his colleagues, who he considered family, earned him the respect of hundreds of people across the world.
The love he shares with his partner will last until the end of time. An unbreakable bond between two of the kindest souls that gave me hope for the future. A woman I respect and will forever be grateful to for everything she ever did for him and for loving him so deeply.
I had the honour of calling this man my Dad. My hero. My protector. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for me or my siblings. His gentle voice, his patience, the way he protected us so fiercely.
My children and my nieces and nephews had the honour of calling him Poppy Tom. He was always wrestling with them, laughing with them, watching cartoons and laughing harder than anyone else in the room. Watching his strength and love while he carried my baby boy in his coffin had me in awe.
Thank you for the page on Lawrence Blake Leonard. I thought you might be interested to know he had a brother in the NSW Police & another in the Queensland Police. I understand William was posted to Moulamein, Broken Hill and then Albury. The following is copied from Trove : Western Herald 1 Jul 1903
Constable William Leonard, brother of Constable J. B. Leonard, of Enngonia, died on Friday last at the Hospital, Albury, from pueumonia. Deceased was a married man and about 37 years of age. Very general sympathy is extended to both Mr and Mrs Leonard, who have each lost a brother within a few days, and also to the young widow and remainder of the family.
William had married Emily Theresa Stevens in Moulamein.
A third brother, Joseph Blake Leonard, joined the Queensland Police. This is from the Daily Mercury, Mackay (Trove) 1939
Many friends will regret the passing of Mr. Joseph Blake Leonard, who was a retired Sergeant of Police, death taking place in Brisbane on Monday last. The late Mr. Leonard spent many years in Mackay, and after serving a short period in the North, went to Gayndah. After his retirement Mr. and Mrs. Leonard built a home at Ashgrove, where Mrs. Leonard died in 1938. Their son, Blake, survives them.
The three were the children of James Leonard, (an assisted emigrant from Woodford Galway in 1850) and his wife Catherine Blake. All three were born at Jerrara, Goulburn, New South Wales. James was a farmer.
Service: From? ? ?to24 December 2018 = ? years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? ?
Died on: Monday 24 December 2018
Age: 45
Cause: Cancer ? –
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Friday 4 January 2019 @ 11am
Funeral location: St Pauls Catholic Church, John St, Camden
Request: rather than flowers, a blood donation (if you can) would be a wonderful gesture to Jasons memory. We would not have had him with us for so long without blood transfusions. A third of all blood transfusion donations help people with cancer. Each donation only lasts 42 days, you can donate with the Australian Red Cross Blood Service.
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial located at: ?
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Jason took his last breath close to midnight on Christmas Eve. He so wanted to stay with us but it wasn’t to be.
Thank you to his dear friends and family who made him feel so cherished, he knew how much he was loved.
We will lay him to rest 11am Friday 4/1/19, at St Pauls Catholic Church, John St Camden.
Please, rather than flowers, a blood donation (if you can) would be a wonderful gesture to Jasons memory. We would not have had him with us for so long without blood transfusions. A third of all blood transfusion donations help people with cancer. Each donation only lasts 42 days, you can donate with the Australian Red Cross Blood Service.
William Peter CROOKS
| 13/04/2019
William Peter CROOKS
AKA PETE, CROOKSY
Late of Umina
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class # ???
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 32060
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Inspector
Stations: ?, Eastwood, Police Prosecutor, CMR Region Office, Office of General Counsel and Brisbane Water Police District – Death
Service: From? ? ?to29 November 2018 = ? years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: 3 February 1969
Died on: Thursday 29 November 2018
Age: 49
Cause: Brain tumour
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Monday 10 December 2018
Funeral location: Green Point – Central Coast, NSW
Wake location: ?
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?TBA
Memorial located at: ?
[alert_yellow] WILLIAM is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
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Funeral location: TBA
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
