Rank: Commenced training at Goulburn Police Station on Sunday 30 July 1989 ( aged 19 years, 5 months, 5 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 25 January 1990 ( aged 19 years, 11 months, 0 days )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( YES )
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Detective Sergeant
Stations: ?, Inner City ( Sydney ), Newtown Detectives, Balmain ( 8 Division ), Newcastle, Lake Macquarie L.A.C., Northern Region Professional Standards
Service: From 30 July 1989 to 3 July 2013 = 23 years, 11 months, 3 days Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours
Born: Wednesday 25 February 1970
Died on: Wednesday 3 July 2013
Cause: Depression – Suicide – hanging – ON DUTY
Previous attempt in 2012 inside Newcastle Police Stn
Age: 43 years, 4 months, 8 days
Funeral date: Thursday 11 July 2013 @ 11am
Funeral location: Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, Sandgate Rd, Shortland
GABBY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance – Canberra
* BUT SHOULD BE. Last checked 2 Aug 2019 24 Jan 2024
GABBY IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance – NSW Domain
Grave location:
Grave of Gabrielle Patricia McDONALD – nee Gabby Eggleston
Class 242C Goulburn – Attested 25 January 1990 Gabby EGGLESTON, Front row, 3rd from right
Late of Maryland
Gabrielle passed away on 03/07/2013.
Her funeral is proposed to be held at 11am on Thursday 11th Instant at Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, 262 Sandgate Road, SHORTLAND.
Dearly loved wife of ANDREW, loving mother of JESSICA and JOSH. Loved daughter and daughter-in-law of CARMEL and NORM (dec’d) EGGLESTON, FRAN and WARREN McDONALD.
Sister and sister-in-law of PETER and MAREE, MEL and JULIE, MARIA and MARK, ANDREW and AREEYA, ANGELA and MARK, SUE and STEVE, PATRICK and CAROLINE, NICOLE and NIGEL, GREG and loved aunty of their FAMILIES.
The Relatives and Friends of GABRIELLE are warmly invited to attend her Funeral to be held in Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, Sandgate Rd, Shortland on THURSDAY 11/7/13 Funeral Liturgy commencing at 11am. An interment will follow at Sandgate Lawn Cemetery.
Family of NSW policewoman who took her own life suing state for millions
Exclusive by the National Reporting Team’s Lorna Knowles
Updated
The family of a policewoman who took her own life is suing the state of New South Wales for millions of dollars, for allegedly failing to protect her from harm.
[blockquote]
Key points:
Andrew McDonald has filed three negligence claims against the state
The claim alleges his wife did not receive adequate care after attending several traumatic incidents
It also alleges police failed to investigate a previous suicide attempt
Newcastle mother-of-two Sergeant Gabrielle McDonald developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression after witnessing a string of horrific incidents on the job.
She took her own life on July 3, 2013, the day after a police medical officer had declared her as fit for duty.
Her husband Andrew McDonald has filed three negligence claims against the state of NSW on behalf of himself and his two children, Jessica and Joshua.
His statement of claim, filed to the NSW District Court, said over the course of her career, McDonald attended numerous traumatic incidents, including domestic disputes, assaults, car accidents, suicides and murders.
She was particularly distressed by the drowning of a 17-year-old boy in 2009 and a double road fatality in 2010, but did not receive any counselling, debriefing or monitoring after the incidents, the statement of claim alleges.
In late 2010, she was promoted to Detective Sergeant in the Professional Standards Unit, Northern Region. But she struggled with the heavy workload, which included two stints relieving for her supervisor.
In 2012, McDonald attempted suicide in an office at the Newcastle police station, but police never investigated the incident.
“It’s investigation 101,” Mr McDonald, who was also a police officer, told the ABC.
“That’s what police do and it’s appalling that it was never done.”
Police medical officer found suicide attempt ‘was not genuine’
The day before McDonald took her own life, she was sent to see a police medical officer, Dr Naresh Verma.
Mr McDonald told the ABC, Dr Verma determined her previous suicide attempt was not genuine and he did not believe she had PTSD.
“All the staff thought well, OK, things must be on the improve, maybe Gabrielle is not sick at all, maybe she’s pulling the wool over our eyes and that was clearly wrong,” Mr McDonald said.
Dr Verma did not respond to repeated requests for comment.
The police force determined that McDonald should be transferred to another police station the next day.
According to the statement of claim, she was summoned to a meeting without warning and without a support person to be told she was being moved.
McDonald left the meeting in a distressed state, drove to a state forest and took her life.
Mr McDonald said he had one last telephone conversation with his wife.
“She said I can’t go on any more. I’m not getting better. I’m such a burden. They keep kicking me down at work. All I’m trying to do is keep my hours up. You know, this is hopeless,” he said.
“And I said: ‘You can’t do this’. I pleaded with her and begged her not to.
“She said I love you and the kids. We talked about all the things we’d done together, but nothing I said would make sense to her, she was just that determined to do it”.
McDonald ‘did not receive proper monitoring’
Mr McDonald’s lawyers allege that the police service ought to have known the meeting would cause her distress and that she was at risk of self harm.
They allege the NSW police force was negligent because it failed to maintain a safe system of work to avoid injury to McDonald.
It had also allegedly failed to provide her with adequate training to perform her duties and to take precautions for her safety, “putting her in a position of peril”.
The service is also accused of failing to provide adequate training on how to recognise the symptoms of psychiatric injury.
“The deceased did not receive any or proper monitoring of her condition while she continued to work in a stressful environment,” the claim states.
The claim also alleges the police force had failed to devise a system for the flagging of police officers involved in numerous distressing or traumatic incidents.
As a result of its negligence, McDonald had suffered a major depressive disorder, chronic PTSD, alcohol abuse and death by suicide, it is alleged.
Mr McDonald said he now suffered from an adjustment disorder with depression and anxiety.
He was on track to become a superintendent, before he was medically retired.
He is claiming about $900,000 in future lost earnings, in addition to damages and interest. He is also seeking damages on behalf of his two children.
Damages are limited to $750,000 in the NSW District Court, but it does have the discretion to lift the cap.
In a statement to the ABC, the NSW police force said it could not comment specifically on the tragic circumstances which led to the death of a serving officer.
“NSW police continues to improve its practices and procedures, having made significant advances over many years to minimise the psychological impact of policing duties on our officers, who frequently undertake stressful and difficult work,” the statement said.
“As a major priority, NSW police encourages the reporting of these impacts and offers a range of services to support, guide and educate our staff.
“These support services are comprehensive and effective.
“It is well understood that every officer’s circumstances are unique and most often extremely complex with regard to the impacts of psychological injury.”
Gabby was my partner Newtown D’s. She was rock solid, loyal and supportive. She spoke her mind and was honest in opinion and views.
Gabby was from the Eggleston family of the Hunter & loved horses and racing. She taught riding to kids with patience & care. Gabby also helped place horses with the Mounted Section NSW Police.
Along with Gabby & Deb Hayton, we had a tough feminine perspective to our office in the 90’s.
Sad to know when she was in need, Gabby felt alone.
Gabby was loved by many and will be missed by all!
Tracy Ann GRAY
| 11/07/2013
Tracy Ann GRAY
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # ?
Rank: Leading Senior Constable
Stations: ?, Campbelltown L.A.C. ( 35 Division ) – death
Service: From? ? 2000to 2 June 2010 =10 years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? ?
Died on: 2 June 2010
Cause: Suicide
Age: ?
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial: NSW Police force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, B6 ( right wall )
Leading SenCon Tracy Ann GRAY – 2 June 2010
[alert_red]Tracy is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_red]
REST IN PEACE
LEADING SENIOR CONSTABLE Tracy Ann GRAY
2 June 2010
NSW Police Force
”She was a tremendous officer. Tracy was exceptionally professional and polite – she was popular with other police officers.”
“She was a well respected and an extremely good trainer for young police and she always had a special care for victims of crime.” ~ Chief Inspector Bryan Doyle
Tracey had apparently “won a job” as a Sergeant 3rd Class but had not taken up that position at the time of her death.
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Absolutely no other information can be found on this woman – even 6 years later. If someone see’s this memorial page and can offer further information – please contact Cal@AustralianPolice.com.au
Morgan James HILL
| 11/07/2013
Morgan James HILL
New South Wales Police Force
Goulburn Police Academy Class # ???
Regd. # 40683
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on ? ? ?
Probationary Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Constable 1st Class
Stations: Waverley
Awards: Commissioner’s Unit Citation for actions on Sunday 11 December 2005
Service: From 29 April 2005 to 27 March 2009 = 3+ years Service
Born: Tuesday 25 January 1983
Died: Friday 27 March 2009
Age: 26 years, 2 months, 2 days old
Cause: Severe PTSD – Suicide – self inflicted gunshot wound, with Service Glock, at Fishermans Rd, Malabar
Funeral date: Thursday 2 April 2009
Funeral location: Our Lady of Sacred Heart Church, 193 Avoca St, Randwick
Grave location: Ashes Interned at Botany Cemetery on 25 January 2010
RC6 – Roman Catholic FM 6 – 560
Morgan commenced his shift at Waverley Police Station at 8pm on the evening of 27 March 2009.
At 8.39pm, at Fisherman’s Road, Malabar, in his private vehicle, Morgan ended his life whilst suffering severe depression induced by the effects of anti-depressant medication he had been prescribed.
Morgan was born on 25 January 1983 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 29 April, 2005.
He was 26 years of age at the time of his death by suicide and stationed at Waverley, Eastern Suburbs Local Area Command.
Morgan is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of RemembranceBut Should be
MORGAN ( as of 2017 ) IS mentioned on the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance
* Stemming from the continued work of the wives of four Fallen NSW Police to Suicide – those four names will now be included in the newly refurbished NSW Police Wall of Remembrance, Sydney, as of 2017
Congratulations to those family members who fought the fight to right this wrong.
Commissioner Scipione has telephoned each of us today to advise that our loved ones names are being added to the replacement NSW Police Force Wall of Remembrance, to be unveiled in the next few weeks.
We would like to thank everyone who has offered support over a long and difficult journey and truly hope this sets a precedent for all police departments, not only in Australia but the global policing community.
It is so very important to remember that policing can and often does have a detrimental effect on those who serve.
We believe that the inclusion of suicide deaths, stemming from a work related psychological injury, is the most compassionate way of showing that the police hierarchy truly cares.
7 years ago this Easter Sunday, on 27 March, we lost our only brother and son, Morgan Hill. He took his life on duty that night. I would never wish this type of grief on another family. What has made it worse than losing Morgan though is being subjected to the stigma attached to suicide. With every year that goes by this is reinforced by NSW Police that Morgan’s death (and many before and since) are not worthy of the respect they deserve, because of HOW they died. But…we will continue to highlight this injustice and the shame is not on Morgan or our family…it is actually on YOU – the high ranking officials of the NSW Police Force – and leaders of any Force – that perpetuates this stigma by specifically excluding them from your Wall of Remembrance!
The response, from the Commissioner of Police, to the above Coroners report:
On 2 April 2012, Police Commissioner AP Scipione APM advised the Coroner as follows:
“The NSW Police Force established a Self Harm Prevention Advisory Panel (the Panel) in 2010, following a recommendation of the Deputy State Coroner Dillon in 2009 arising from the death of Sgt Ian Muir. The role of the Panel was recently reviewed and amendments are currently being made to its charter to oversight the NSW Police Force response to Recommendations in all coronial matters involving self-harm by police officers.”
I’d just like to say that it’s my hope sometime down the road after Code Nine has met with much success and people are being helped instead of silenced. I hope I never have to write another poem like this again. Because ending stories like this is what they’re all about. Please remember Mr Hills family and friends in prayer and ask that they be comforted by the memories they treasure. And not haunted by the way his life so suddenly ended. Thanks to all of you for praying. Sincerely Edwin C Hofert
This poem is one of a series of poems written by me for Code Nine Officer Needs Assistance And is intended to honor the fallen officers and their families that are to be featured in the finished documentary. As well as all others.
Morgan Hill – Commissioners Unit Citation re 2005 Cronulla Riots
NSW Police Force
Commissioner’s Unit Citation
Awarded to Constable Morgan Hill
Awarded for outstanding bravery and devotion to duty as a member of the New South Wales Police Force response to civil disorder within the Miranda, Eastern Beaches, St George, and Campsie Local Area Commands.
On Sunday, 11 December 2005, a protracted public order management policing operation commenced in response to a major civil disorder situation in the Cronulla area. The ensuing violent civil disorder continued in Cronulla and other areas, including Maroubra, Brighton, and Campsie, until Tuesday, 13 December 2005, when the situation was brought under control, with peace and good order restored by members of the Force.
The dedication and devotion to duty rendered by these police who were on the frontline throughout this protracted and dangerous policing response and operation exemplifies the courage, expertise, professionalism and commitment of the New South Wales Police Force.
While protecting members of the community and property from rioters, officers were subjected to various forms of assaults and missile attacks. These members of the Force, many of whom sustained injury, remained steadfast in the performance of their duty.
Constable Hill warrants due recognition for his courage and meritourious service during this period of civil unrest and thus is highly commended.
A P Scipione APM
Commissioner of Police
Dated 18 September 2008 but NOT signed.
‘Despite the above Commendation being dated 18 September 2008 ( 6 months before Morgan’s death ), the Certificate was handed to the family Posthumously on the very same day that they were also handed documentation stating that Morgan was NOT going to be mentioned on the Wall of Police Remembrance due to the fact he suicided.
These documents were not given to the family until late 2010.’
Today Tonight TV programme Channel 7, aired this show on Wednesday 23 July 2014.
The below comments were copied and pasted from the TodayTonightadelaide website on 23 March 2016
Jean Simpson says: The Government should be looking at a change in the whole health system , to ask the question why are so many young , old , just so many of the population coming down with Depression , (The Back Dog) . Definitely more counselling services. As well as the government ,we should all try to be more considerate , compassionate to all in society , there is so much suffering out there , and so many issues to deal with today than there was a few years ago. Teresa Cranes comments about the corruption , threats and underhanded dealings within the force has been talked about for as long as i can remember. It makes me really sad to see the young adults of today joining the force with all good intent , with a passion to help our society , only to find that they go to work each day fighting against an epidemic of corruption within there own work place. Like Teresa on this page i knew of an elderly Sergeant who has now retired , because he was told to take an early retirement . To find someone in the force that is not corrupt would be a hard task. How does the average person tell who is who anymore? So sorry for the ones that are trying to make this world a better place , for the opinion of a lot of people is that unfortunately they get tarred with the same brush , one can only imagine the affect on the innocent ones , Wow what a fight they have on there hands ! Love and light to all .
: 4 likes
Amanda Schultz says: Teresa Crane you got it spot on! My dad took hi s life in 1981, right in those good old corrupt years! Made a boss aged 32. Took his life aged 37. Left a wife and three daughters. What else do you do when your “boys” are on the take and the bosses buried their heads? I think there needs to be Royal Commissions to make the brass accountable and expose those we know were hypocrites and criminals. SA Police took a good man and destroyed him and his family….we live with it everyday.
: 0 likes
Peter Roberts says: Very interesting story and definitely needs looking into
: 1 likes
Heather Johns says: It’s unfortunate that they aren’t required to debrief or to talk about an issue without being labelled. It is not just police, fire, ambos, we see it a huge amount in defence too. Why can’t we remove the stigma of PTSD & depression & help those in need as they are helping us? Where is the government funding for more counselling services?
: 0 likes
Ross Beckley says: Great story and thanks for making this public. All emergency service personnel are suffering silently and their organisational management need to start addressing these concerns raised in this story.
: 1 likes
Trevor Hardy says: SAPOL officers need to find themselves a good private psychologist and see them regularly. You can work through problems and if SAPOL are going to continue to sweep the problems under the carpet, then members need to do it for themselves. Or quit. No job in this Universe is worth killing yourself over.
: 0 likes
Jessica Courtney Evans says: Yep…. Someone I’m my family was an officer in nz and took his own life. It’s tragic and awful. They need more support….
: 1 likes
Tanya Eldridge-Tregenza says: It’s no bloody secret it’s been happy for a long time.
: 1 likes
Lynette Millowick says: Missed out on story was working
: 1 likes
Clare Heiss says: Oh poo!! Was really looking forward to seeing it! Thanks for letting us know though!
: 3 likes
Today Tonight Adelaide says: Unfortunately we cannot load the video until it has aired in Perth – at the moment it looks like it may run tomorrow so the video won’t be online until Monday morning
: 2 likes
Berrick Boland says: Today Tonight, rocks.
: 4 likes
Lauren Busbridge says: Same with paramedics!!!!!
: 4 likes
Today Tonight Adelaide says: The video will be uploaded tomorrow
: 1 likes
Clare Heiss says: I can’t find the story in this link @TodayTonight
: 2 likes
Ann Krieg says: PTSD needs to be told and understood. We need to know what and how it happens and to whom. The service men, whether police, or army or navy or air, or whether it is from work and a bad boss or bad experience from an accident, we need to know. 🙂
: 3 likes
Berrick Boland says: The Forgotten 300 Facebook page come on and like us for the families of PTSD and Police suicide victims.
: 12 likes
Anne Heinrich says: Well I am only one of many people I know who admire the police for their kindness and care of those in need, their patience and persistence and tenacious spirit to keep people alive! Maybe if more people told them so (and I include the media) they might feel more appreciated and needed. Don’t give up guys- there are lots of us who think you’re great!
: 2 likes
Sandy McLellan says: I have known many Policeman, but one in particular tells me of the many who simply cannot cope with the ghastly things they have to deal with. We have NO idea how bad it is, very sad. They put their lives on the line for us all the time. Maybe they need much more support on the job and from us, the public.
: 3 likes
Tony Crowley says: They should cover SAPOL . We are not clean either
: 10 likes
John Hirst says: Be good to see it’s getting some publicity and not ‘swept under the carpet’. Lost a few good colleagues from this and there are so many more stepping close to the line with little or no support from the employer. Tony Crowley for your info.
Posted Monday 20 June 2016:
CORONERS COURT
Morgan James Hill:
Deputy State Coroner Mitchell On 9 September 2011 at Glebe and Parramatta
FINDINGS.
I find that Morgan Hill who was born on 25 January 1983 died at Fishermans Road Malabar NSW at about 8.39 pm on 27 March 2009 of a gunshot wound to the head, self inflicted while suffering severe depression.
RECOMMENDATIONS;
That a psychiatrist or psychiatrists be employed in the Health and Well being Unit of Welfare Safety Command or retained so as to ensure qualified psychiatric oversight of all police fitness assessments where mental health or emotional stability are an issue.
2. That appropriate criteria be developed and established to guide and inform police medical officers in assessing the fitness of police officers for various duties within the police force and the fitness of police officers to have possession of a firearm.
3. In particular, that the criteria so developed and established provide that fitness for duty and to carry a firearm is not merely a matter of the absence of a diagnosable psychiatric condition or mental illness.
4. That police medical officer be encouraged to explore with police officers referred by commanders for a fitness assessment the history of that officer and any current or recent medical diagnoses and treatment plan or plans and the identity of that officer’s medical practitioner and to seek the consent of the police officer to that medical practitioner providing appropriate medical information to the police medical officer and that unwillingness to provide that consent be among the matters to be reported to the referring commander.
5. That psychologists assisting in the preparation of fitness assessments be accorded independence from police medical officers.
6. That police medical officer be reminded of the provisions of the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002 and, so far as the provision of information to commanding officers is concerned, be encouraged to act in accordance with its terms.
7. That the practice of placing reliance on psychological tests in the preparation of fitness assessments be reviewed by an independent expert.
8. That the freedom of commanding officers to make their decisions as to the removal or restoration of firearms informed by considerations other than those dealt with by police medical officers be encouraged.
9. That commanding officers be reminded of their entitlement to the provision of information pursuant to the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002.
10. That consideration be given to the establishment of a mentoring system of young officers by more senior officers with a view to the guidance, support and oversight of the performance of those young officers.
RESPONSE
On 2 April 2012, Police Commissioner AP Scipione AMP advised the Coroner as follows:
“The NSW Police Force established a Self Harm Prevention Advisory Panel (the Panel) in 2010, following a recommendation of the Deputy State Coroner Dillon in 2009 arising from the death of Sgt Ian Muir.
The role of the Panel was recently reviewed and amendments are currently being made to its charter to oversight the NSW Police Force response to Recommendations in all coronial matters involving self-harm by police officers.
”Please click here to link to a table which sets out the full Police Force response to the recommendations made by Coroner Mitchell. (Unavailable)
Denise HodderThis is hideous that these precious lives are lost and no one in power seems to care ….?
Clare HeissI can tell you, as Morgan’s sister, whom attended this inquest for the two weeks duration it ran, that our family have not once heard about any follow up to these recommendations. Furthermore my parents were invited to be on the “self harm committee” when it began, BEFORE the inquest mind you, but attended maybe two meetings and as far as we know either does not exist anymore or is called something else, but either way we have not been asked to continue to be a part of the panel in terms of reviewing the recommendations made by then Coroner Scott Mitchell (now deceased) nor any ongoing consultation as a family who have lost a police officer to suicide.
Funeral location: St Paul`s Anglican Church, Church St. Tamworth
Grave location: lawn portion of the Tamworth Regional Council Cemetery, Showground Rd. Tamworth.
GPS: -31.0903969, 150.9007111
David IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
David RIXON
David RIXON
Funeral for David Rixon
memorial plaque at the front of Tamworth Police Station.
Stubby cooler
SenCon David Rixon
Senior Constable
Father of six, shot and killed at Tamworth, NSW, Australia, today Friday 2 March 2012. May you forever Rest In Peace with the rest of our Brothers and Sisters who have paid the ultimate price in Policing.
There is a memorial fund to support the family of S/C Rixon who are dealing with a loss at this time. Donations can be made to this fund with the following details: Account name: David Rixon Memorial Fund, Account number : 269978 (add S1 at the end for Internal transfer by PCU members) Police Credit Union BSB: 815000
David and Fiona Rixon have six children.
David James RIXON – touch pad at National Police Wall of Remembrance, ACT
Details of Death:
Shortly before 0800hr on Friday, 2 March 2012, Senior Constable Rixon from Tamworth Highway Patrol stopped and spoke to the driver of a vehicle at 10-12 Lorraine Street, West Tamworth for the purposes of a random breath test. As Senior Constable Rixon approached the vehicle, the offender drew a firearm and shot him. Senior Constable Rixon was able to return fire from his service pistol, which hit the offender. Senior Constable Rixon was able to place ahandcuff on the offender, before he collapsed from his injuries and died at the scene. He was unable to be revived.
Senior Constable Rixon joined the New South Wales Police Service as a Trainee on 28 October 1990 and was attested as a probationary Constable at the New South Wales Police Academy, Goulburn on 26 April 1991.
He was initially posted to Hamilton Patrol in Newcastle and soon after was posted to Belmont Patrol.
He was confirmed as Constable on 26 April 1992.
He commenced duties in Highway Patrol at Waratah in the Hunter area on 12 February 1995, and shortly afterwards, on 7 May 1995, he transferred to Gunnedah Highway Patrol.
On 14 July 1996, Senior Constable Rixon transferred to Tamworth Highway Patrol, where he remained posted until the time of his death.
He was posthumously awarded the Commissioner‘s ValourAward.
RIXON, David James
Dearly loved husband of Fiona
Loving father of Renae, Jemma, Scott, Mathew, Hayley and Patrick.
Loved son, stepson and son-in-law of Gwen & Max Russell, Ken Rixon, Kathryn & Robert Brooking, loved step brother and brother-in-law of Katie and Beau, Tammy, Leanne (dec), Rachelle, Nadina and Damien.
The relatives and friends of David Rixon were respectfully invited to attend his funeral.
The Service was appointed to commence at 10.30 am, Thursday, 8th March, 2012, at St Paul`s Anglican Church, Church St. Tamworth, thence for interment in the lawn portion of the Tamworth Regional Council Cemetery, Showground Rd. Tamworth.
Presented to the family.
The inscription reads:
27947
Senior Constable
David James Rixon
Oxley Local Area Command
NSW Police Force
2nd March 2012
* * * * *See flyer for a huge fund-raising evening that we are holding at City Diggers Club, Wollongong, on the 2 June. As you can see the entertainment line up is unbelievable.Please feel free to share this flyer with your friends. $5,000 from the evening will be donated to the Senior Constable David Rixon Memorial Fund. David left behind a wife and 6 children when he was tragically killed recently. His friends from within the New South Wales Police have set a target of $1,000,000. This is our way of showing support. Please do not put off getting your tickets as we are capping the evening at 250.
NSW policeman honoured after on-duty death
It was meant to be a regular day for Tamworth police officer and father-of-six David Rixon.
The NSW highway patrol officer was carrying out a routine breath check in 2012 when the driver, Michael Jacobs, pulled out a revolver and shot him in the chest.
He returned fire, hitting Jacobs in the abdomen, leg and shoulder, called for back-up and handcuffed Jacobs before collapsing.
His killer went on to receive life-saving surgery and a life sentence.
But Senior Constable Rixon died at the scene, leaving behind a heartbroken wife and six children.
Three years later, he has been honoured for his bravery.
Sen Const Rixon is one of 25 people to receive an Australian Bravery Decoration on Wednesday from Governor-General Peter Cosgrove.
Mr Cosgrove says Sen Const Rixon and the other recipients are a source of courage, support and inspiration, but he acknowledged there can be devastating consequences resulting from their bravery.
“Sadly, there are those whose brave acts mean they are no longer with us,” he said.
“Today, to their families, I express the nation’s sadness at your loss but pride in your loved ones’ actions.”
The Australian Bravery Decorations recognise acts of bravery by members of the community who selflessly put themselves in jeopardy to protect the lives or property of others.
The recipients are nominated by members of the public, with the governor-general deciding the awards.
They vary from Mustafa Ruhi Akkan and Nattapat Penpanussak, who helped police apprehend a man who stabbed three backpackers in 2000, to Jamie Alan Strong, for helping rescue two people trapped in a burning house in 2014.
One of the highest honours, the Star of Courage, is awarded to a 21-year-old RAAF pilot named James Wallace Hocking.
In 1944, he saved his crew and the English township of March by flying his stricken bomber away from civilian danger. He died when the plane crashed into a nearby field.
There are four levels of decoration and a Group Bravery Citation, an award for a group of people involved in a single incident. They are the Cross of Valour, the Star of Courage, the Bravery Medal, Commendation for Brave Effort and the Group Bravery Citation.
Police Commissioner statement: “The NSW Police Force Commissioner, Andrew Scipione, has commended Senior Constable David Rixon for his service as a NSW Police Officer, following the announcement that he will receive a posthumous Australian Bravery Award.
Snr Cst Rixon died after being shot during what should have been a routine traffic stop in Tamworth on 2 March 2012.
Snr Cst Rixon stopped the man, believing him to be a disqualified driver, when the man produced a gun and shot him.
Despite being critically injured, Snr Cst Rixon returned fire and arrested the man.
Commissioner Scipione said Snr Cst Rixon was a deserving recipient of a posthumous Australian Bravery Award.
“Snr Cst Rixon died under tragic circumstances while protecting the community in what should have been a routine traffic stop,” Commissioner Scipione said.
“His death affected his family, friends, the local community, and the entire NSW Police Force; and today’s award is testament to the fact that his sacrifice will never be forgotten.
“Snr Cst Rixon’s courage and conviction under incredibly difficult circumstances continues to inspire us and strengthen our resolve to protect the community,” Commissioner Scipione said.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Troy Grant said this award is testament to the courage and dedication the men and women of the NSW Police Force display every day.
“Senior Constable Rixon put his life on the line to protect the community and he paid the ultimate price. “This award recognises his actions and his bravery on that day. “My thoughts are with Senior Constable Rixon‘s family and the NSW Police Force.”
An officer and a gentleman: Remembering Senior Constable David Rixon a year on
By Kitty Hill
March 1, 2013, noon
A SOMBRE anniversary falls today as police officers and community members join the family in remembering fallen Tamworth police officer Senior Constable David Rixon a year after his death.
On March 2, 2012, Senior Constable Rixon was fatally shot on a routine traffic stop in West Tamworth.
Senior Constable Rixon’s wife Fiona and their children will be joined by officers from across the state to mark the anniversary, many of whom have spent the past week completing a charity walk in his honour.
Officers will form a sombre march to Tamworth Police Station to arrive at 8am, where the flag will be lowered to stand at half mast.
NSW Police Commissioner, Andrew Scipione, will unveil a plaque honouring Senior Constable Rixon, during a ceremony at Tamworth Community Centre at 11am.
Fiona Rixon said she will take a private moment during the day to remember her husband, the man who she described as her “other half”.
“He was my best friend, we did absolutely everything together, everything,” she said.
About 60 police officers of the 140 who walked arrived in Tamworth last night after a 370km journey titled “Our Mates, Our Families,” which began in Wyong last Monday.
Rainy weather welcomed the walkers as they completed the last few kilometres of their 10-day trek, ending at the Longyard Hotel.
Senior Constable Rixon’s stepdaughter and Probationary Constable Jemma Galea, who walked alongside four officers from the Oxley Local Area Command, said today’s memorial services would be bittersweet for her and her family.
“I guess it’s hard to say how it will affect you until the day,” Probationary Constable Galea said.
Completing the last of the walk alongside her mother yesterday, she was wearing the bright pink cap she wore for the the duration of the walk.
The cap was the subject of a personal joke between her and her stepfather.
“David said to me when I bought it, ‘When are you ever going to wear that hat?’” Probationary Constable Galea said.
“So now I wear it, to remember him.”
Senior Constable David Rixon’s stepdaughter and probationary constable Jemma Galea who wore a bright pink cap as a joke between her and David. Photo: Marina Neil
Ms Galea said the walk was harder than expected, and she was full of “sore muscles, blisters and a bit of sunburn”, and everyone was looking forward to a hot shower before the fundraising event at Wests’ Diggers last night.
The walkers camped along the way, passing through six police local area commands, many of whom sent officers to Tamworth to help out in the days and weeks after the tragedy.
Organising police from Tuggerah Lakes said they were inspired by the Cooee recruitment march, a famous walk that began in Gilgandra in 1915 with 35 men, its ranks swelling to 265 by its end in Sydney, all eager to join the Australian war effort for WWI.
Oxley Local Area Commander Superintendent Clint Pheeney said his officers were honoured to take part in the walk, and ceremony, to remember their former colleague.
“David’s death was heartbreaking for all of us at Oxley Local Area Command,” Superintendent Pheeney said.
“But when a police officer is killed it’s not only the local police and their immediate colleagues who are touched, it’s the entire police force and community as a whole.”
“I’m extremely proud of all the officers who have taken part in the gruelling walk as it shows their resolve and determination to honour their mate, and to raise funds for not only his family, but the families of other fallen officers.
“I’m particularly proud of all of David’s colleagues here at Tamworth who have continued to do their job on a daily basis since his death, even though all their hearts have been broken.
“David has never been far from our minds and this will certainly be the case tomorrow, especially during the ceremony. The plaque will serve as a permanent honour to him in the community and one I’m sure all who knew him will be extremely proud of.”
Commissioner Scipione said the relay-style walk from Wyong Police Station to Tamworth was raising money for both the NSW Police Legacy and the David Rixon Memorial Fund.
“Last year we experienced the tragedy of losing two of our officers and so we all have extremely heavy hearts today,” Commissioner Scipione said. “However the ceremony gives us the opportunity to reflect on Senior Constable Rixon’s life and career, and to remember the outstanding husband, father, friend and colleague that he was.
“The walk and ceremony are testimony to the honour that exists among those who have chosen to become part of the police profession. It also demonstrates our respect, our grief and our resolve to continue, despite the hardships that may confront us.”
The official ceremony will take place at 11am at Tamworth Community Centre in Darling St.
Michael Allan Jacobs becomes first person jailed for life without parole for killing police officer, Senior Constable David Rixon
Amy Dale, Chief Court Reporter
The Daily Telegraph
October 04, 20132:45PM
THE man who shot Senior Constable David Rixon has become the first person jailed for the term of his natural life for murdering a police officer.
Michael Allan Jacobs has this afternoon been sentenced to life with no parole for murdering Sen-Constable Rixon, the crime described by Justice Richard Button as “a life irrevocably taken”.
Jacobs is the first person to be convicted of murdering a police officer since the O’Farrell government introduced legislation in 2011 to ensure such an offence is punished by a sentence of life with no parole.
He said the murder of a police officer “is a direct assault on the system of parliamentary democracy and the rule of law.”
“The offender informed the intention to kill him,” Justice Button said.
“That intention may have been held utterly fleetingly and irrationally … but it has been established to a criminal standard.”
Court artist sketch of Michael Allen Jocobs.
Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione and NSW Police Minister Mike Gallacher joined more than 20 police officers in court for the landmark sentence.
Sen-Constable Rixon was shot once in the chest with a bullet fired from a .38 calibre revolver after approaching Jacobs’ stopped Holden Statesman for a random breath test early on March 2 last year.
The policeman returned fire and hit Jacobs three times, leaving the man with “an out of control drug addiction” critically wounded, before he collapsed from his injuries.
“The offender almost died from his injuries,” Justice Button said, adding that in his dying moments Sen-Constable Rixon had handcuffed Jacobs to arrest him.
The court heard Jacobs screamed “ah die, I’m sorry sir, sorry” just after the shooting and while “lying gravely wounded could be heard repeatedly saying ‘I’m sorry.'”
But Justice Button said he couldn’t be more satisfied “that the offender is responsible for this murder.”
Police arrived shortly after the shooting but Sen-Constable Rixon couldn’t be revived, while Jacobs received lifesaving surgery and eventually recovered after spending more than a month in hospital.
The Crown claimed he was high on ice at the time, making him more prone to aggression, and shot the policeman to avoid being locked up and convicted for repeatedly driving unlicensed.
Justice Button said of Jacobs‘s motive to avoid “being briefly refused bail or at worst a sentence of a matter of months … the offender saw fit to fire a handgun at a police officer.”
He said Sen-Constable Rixon would have had “less than a second before the shot was fired.”
David Rixon murder: Michael Jacobs gets life in jail
The sun had only recently risen over the roof of Tamworth police station when the white, dark-windowed bus arrived.
One by one about 30 officers filed on and settled in for a six-hour journey that they hoped would end with justice for a fallen comrade and perhaps a small measure of closure for those left behind.
Eight hours and 400 kilometres later, a NSW Supreme Court Justice gave the family, friends and colleagues of murdered police officer Senior Constable David Rixon the result they desired – a life sentence for the man responsible for his death.
In a landmark decision, Michael Alan Jacobs, 49, became the first person sentenced to life in prison under new laws requiring a mandatory life sentence for anyone who murders an on-duty police officer in NSW.
”Let this serve as an example to all those in the future who think it’s OK to harm our police officers,” NSW Police Minister Mike Gallacher said after the sentence was handed down.
”This decision today draws a line in the sand.”
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione after the sentencing at Darlinghurst Courts with Fiona Rixon, (and family) wife of Senior Constable David Rixon and his colleagues from Oxley LAC. Photo: Dallas Kilponen
Nearly a quarter of the Oxley Local Area Command were present to hear the sentence, forming a guard of honour as Senior Constable Rixon‘s widow, Fiona Rixon, and their children left the court.
”I’m very proud of my children – we’ve been through this hurricane, tornado, roller-coaster ride, whatever you want to call it, for the last 18 months,” an emotional Mrs Rixon said.
”Hopefully now life will be a little bit more quiet.”
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione with a family member after the sentencing at Darlinghurst Courts. Senior Constable David Rixon was killed while on duty. Photo: Dallas Kilponen
On March 2 last year, Jacobs shot and killed Senior Constable Rixon, a 40-year-old father of six, during what was to have been a regulation breath test on Lorraine Street, West Tamworth.
During a month-long trial earlier this year, the court was told that the experienced highway patrolman had recognised Jacobs as a disqualified driver and followed him from nearby Gunnedah Road to the quiet side street.
Senior Constable Rixon’s police microphone recorded him saying ”G’day mate, how you going?”
In an increasingly distressed voice he is then heard to say: ”I’m just gonna breath test you, buddy.”
Jacobs then fired a single shot from a .38 calibre pistol that went straight through Constable Rixon’s left wrist and into his chest, puncturing his heart and lung.
The officer returned fire, hitting Jacobs in the leg, abdomen and shoulder. He collapsed soon after.
Jacobs is heard to say ”die … I’m sorry sir, sorry, sorry”.
The officer’s last act was to handcuff his killer.
Jacobs later claimed that it was not he but a local drug dealer, Terrence James Price, who fired the fatal shot after the policeman ”interrupted” them in the middle of a drug deal, but this was rejected by the jury.
In sentencing Jacobs to life in prison, Justice Richard Button said the 49-year-old had no apparent motive for committing the crime and had shown little or no remorse.
”It is almost impossible to believe that, in order to avoid a short period of being denied bail or, at worst, a sentence of a matter of months for driving whilst disqualified, the offender saw fit to fire a handgun at a police officer,” he said.
”The murder of a police officer in such circumstances is a direct assault upon our system of parliamentary democracy and the rule of law.”
As well as providing some relief to Senior Constable Rixon’s family and fellow officers, the life sentence represents a landmark decision for the state’s mandatory life sentencing laws.
Jacobs’ case was seen by many as a test of the laws, introduced in 2011, which require judges to impose a life sentence on any offender found guilty of murdering an on-duty police officer.
Crucially, Justice Button found that Jacobs’ crime met all the criteria set out in the mandatory life sentence legislation, including that he had acted with the intention to kill the officer.
”That intention may have been held only fleetingly and utterly irrationally, but nevertheless I consider that it has been established to the criminal standard,” he said.
”The result is that the mandatory life sentence is to be imposed.”
The Hon. MELINDA PAVEY: My question is addressed to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Will the Minister inform the House about National Police Remembrance Day?
The Hon. MICHAEL GALLACHER: I thank the honourable member for her question and I again welcome the opportunity to share the details of this significant day for the New South Wales Police Force with the wider community. National Police Remembrance Day was observed on Friday 28 September 2012. It is a day held in memory of police officers across the country who have died in the line of duty. On that day I had the honour of attending a service held at the New South Wales Police Wall of Remembrance in the Domain at which the 251 officers who have given their lives to protect the people of New South Wales since the formation of the New South Wales Police Force 150 years ago were rightly honoured.
It was a solemn reflection of the ultimate sacrifice those officers made and their legacy. The service included special acknowledgement of Senior Constable David Rixon, who was killed on 2 March 2012 whilst on duty in Tamworth. Senior Constable Rixon‘s tragic death was a salient reminder of the dedication police give to the service and protection of our communities. In upholding the law and keeping the people of New South Wales safe, police put their lives on the line on a daily basis. National Police Remembrance Day honours the courage and bravery of all police officers across the country. It is also an important day to remember police officers who have lost their lives as a result of illness and in other circumstances.
National Police Remembrance Day recognises the families of all serving police officers and the families of those who did not make it home at the end of their shift. New South Wales Police Legacy is a not-for-profit organisation that looks after the families of deceased police officers in New South Wales. The organisation does an invaluable job providing financial and emotional support to more than 1,000 widows and widowers and 200 children across New South Wales. Importantly, New South Wales Police Legacy ensures that these families remain part of the wider police family. The police family is a close-knit group of people who support each other and their families.
Also in attendance at the service at the Wall of Remembrance was 12-year-old Elayna Day and her grandmother. Elayna was only six years old when her father, Sergeant Graham Clifford Day, died but she remains a firm member of the police family. She is the proud recipient of the 2012 Commissioner’s Scholarship. The New South Wales Police Legacy scholarship will assist Elayna as she enters high school next year to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian. She is a prime example of the fine work undertaken by New South Wales Police Legacy in supporting the families of our fallen police officers. The need for an organisation like Police Legacy highlights the risks associated with being a police officer. It is a difficult, stressful and dangerous job. In informing the House on the significance of National Police Remembrance Day, I would like to take this opportunity to thank police officers across the State, all of whom are serving and protecting the people of New South Wales. Their commitment is acknowledged and respected, their bravery and courage is honoured and admired and I thank them for their contribution in ensuring that we have a safe community.
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on Sunday 20 February 1994 ( aged
Probationary Constable – appointed 19 August 1994 ( aged
Constable – appointed 19 August 1995
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Time employed with NSW Police: From: 19 August 1994 to 18 April 1997 = 2 years, 7 months, 30 days
Served: From 20 February 1994 to 18 April 1997 = 3 years, 1 month, 29 days Service
Retirement / Leaving age: = 25 years, ? months, ? days
Time in Retirement from Police: 0
Stations: Liverpool ( 22 Division )( 19 August 1994 – 19 November 1994 ),
Fairfield ( 20 November 1994 – 18 April 1997 ) – Death
Awards: Commended for Good Police Work & Professionalism displayed in connect with an attempted hold-up of a takeaway food store in Fairfield in February 1996.
Commissioners Valour Award
No find on It’s An Honour
Born: 1971 in Parkes, NSW
Age: 25
Died: Friday 18 April 1997
Cause: Stabbed ( Murdered )
Event date: Friday 18 April 1997
Event location: Cambridge Tavern, Horsley Dve & Alan St, Fairfield
Location of the Murder:
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried / Cremated: Carty Family property – Parkes, NSW
Memorial location: 1/ Police Dog Carts ( coincidentally also stabbed to death )
2/ David Carty Reserve, Fairfield East, NSW ( cnr Fairfield St & The Horsley Dve )
3/ David Carty Conference Room – Fairfield Police Station, Smart St, Fairfield, NSW ( Dedicated / Opened on 18 April 2017 )
Constable David Carty ( 1997 )
David Carty – whilst a Student Police Officer
DAVID IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
About 8pm on 17 April, 1997 Constable Carty and other police had reason to speak to a number of people in the street at Fairfield while carrying out foot patrols. Some time later the constable and other police, then off duty, attended a local hotel, the Cambridge Tavern. About 2.10am as he was leaving the hotel Constable Carty was set upon by a number of offenders, including some of those he had spoken to earlier, and was stabbed to death. Senior Constable Michelle Auld ( # 23293 ), who had gone to his assistance, was also seriously assaulted in the cowardly attack.
Both Constable Carty and Senior Constable Auld were awarded the Commissioner’s Valour Award.
The constable was born in 1971 and was sworn in as a probationary constable in August, 1994. At the time of his death he was stationed at Fairfield.
Constable David Andrew CARTY touch pad at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra.
A small section of St John Of God, Richmond Hospital, where Police ( and others ) with PTSD have gone for Inpatient Treatment.
This is a small Memorial that previous patients ( Police ) have done to remember our friends who have fallen before us. The Black & Dark Blue Memorial stones are by Army members.
Photo posted up on NSW Cops, Old, Bold & Retired FB Group on 28 May 2017.
Remembering our colleague, Constable David Carty after 25 years.
An Official Ceremony will take place on Tuesday 19 April 2022 @ 10am at the Fairfield RSL ( Due to weather conditions it won’t be held at David Carty Park ).
Senior Constable Michelle AULD ( # 23293 ) at Constable David Carty’s Funeral – 1997
Tuesday 18 April 2017 20 year Memorial
18 April 2017
18 April 2017
Fairfield Police Station Wall of Remembrance Smart St, Fairfield
David Carty Conference Room – Fairfield Police Station ( Dedicated / Opened on 18 April 2017 )
Constable David Carty was remembered as a respected man at the 17th anniversary of his death
Kimberley Caines
Fairfield Advance
April 23, 201412:00AM
Constable David Carty is remembered as a respectable country man.
THE pain of April 18 doesn’t get any easier for Fairfield police officers who recall Constable David Carty as a respectable country man.
Const Carty (pictured) was remembered by police officers and former colleagues at Fairfield police station on Friday, the 17th anniversary of his brutal death.
On April 18, 1997, Const Carty, 25, was stabbed in the Cambridge Tavern car park, after having a drink with colleagues after a late shift.
Superintendent Peter Lennon said April 18 was one date he and his fellow officers would never forget. “He (Const Carty) came from the country and was well-respected by everyone,” he said.
During the memorial service, a minute’s silence was held and wreaths were laid in memory of the young man.
Supt Lennon said being in the police force meant brave men and women confronted dangers as they performed their duties.
“Police officers put their lives on the line every day for their community,” he said. “Whilst this event was after hours, he was still a serving officer because he was known to be a police officer when the incident occurred.”
HONOURING DAVID CARTY
■ David Andrew Carty, from Parkes, joined the NSW Police Force on February 20, 1994
■ After being posted to Liverpool police station, he was transferred to Fairfield police station on November 20, 1994, and confirmed to the rank of Constable on August 19, 1995
■ During the early hours of April 18, 1997, Constable Carty, 25, was stabbed in the car park of Fairfield’s Cambridge Tavern, where he had enjoyed a drink with colleagues after a late shift
■ His memory was honoured at Fairfield police station on Friday for the 17th anniversary of his death
Friday was the 17th anniversary of the murder of David Carty. Fairfield police officers held a minute’s silence at the station’s Wall of Remembrance. Picture: Tim Clapin
Fairfield police officers and former colleagues holding a memorial for the 15th anniversary of the death of Constable David Carty.
The David Carty Memorial set up at this week’s service in Sydney.
NSW Police Force held a memorial service on Wednesday to commemorate the life and service of former Parkes man Constable David Carty, who was slain 15 years ago.
Const Carty was stabbed to death as he left licensed premises in the Sydney suburb of Fairfield in the early hours of Friday, April 18, 1997, after having a drink with colleagues following a late shift.
At 10am on Wednesday April 18, 2012, colleagues and friends gathered at Fairfield Police Station for a memorial service, on the 15th anniversary of his death.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Michael Gallacher, NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione, South West Metropolitan Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Frank Mennilli, Fairfield Local Area Commander, Superintendent Peter Lennon, former colleagues, local police officers, local members of Parliament and members of the Fairfield community also attended.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Michael Gallacher, and NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione, pay their respects to slain local police officer, David Carty and Wednesday’s special memorial service in Sydney.
Senior Catholic Police Chaplain, Father Paul O’Donoghue, led the blessing for serving police and emergency service officers.
Constable Carty’s family also held a memorial service on the family property in Parkes where Lachlan Local Area Commander, Robert Ryan, and local police officers paid their respects.
Supt Lennon said while it was painful to recall the circumstances of Constable Carty’s death, it was important for his memory to be honoured.
“David was a young man with a great future, personally and professionally,” Supt Lennon said.
“He had committed himself to protecting his community and paid the ultimate price.
“Every day, officers confront dangers as they perform their duties, and the memory of a departed colleague reminds us that a safe community can come at a high price for officers and their families,” Supt Lennon said.
Police officers during the ceremony
Constable Carty joined the NSW Police Force on February 20, 1994, attesting as a Probationary Constable on August 19, 1994, and began working at Liverpool.
On November 20, 1994, he was transferred to Fairfield and confirmed to the rank of Constable on August 19, 1995.
Before joining the NSW Police, David Carty worked on the family farm and showed as much dedication and independence there as he did as a Constable.
“Constable Carty’s relatively short experience in the NSW Police Force showed him to be an exemplary police officer,” Supt Lennon said.
Mr GUY ZANGARI (Fairfield) [12.11 p.m.]: On 18 April 2012 Fairfield police station held a 15-year memorial service for the late Constable David Carty. The memorial was to be held at David Carty Reserve but due to the torrential rain it was held at Fairfield police station. Besides the Fairfield memorial, a memorial was held also at the Carty family property in Parkes where Lachlan Local Area Commander Robert Ryan and local police officers paid their respects, together with the Carty family. The memorial at Fairfield was attended by the police commissioner, assistant commissioners, police Minister and local and State government representatives. Local fire, ambulance and State Emergency Service representatives paid their respects on this solemn occasion. Also present were the emergency response officers who, in the words of Superintendent Peter Lennon, moved heaven and earth to save this officer’s life. Inspector Brendan McMahon was the official master of ceremonies, with Commissioner Andrew Scipione offering kind and comforting words to the entire community. Superintendent Peter Lennon brought home the message of the loss to the community of David Carty and how to this day, so many years later, people in Fairfield still feel the pain. Father Paul O’Donoghue offered blessings and prayers to the gathering. Following the prayers a wreath-laying ceremony took place. It was at that point that emotion set in and not a dry eye could be seen in the gathering. Many of those who were present did not know David but they had grieved his loss for years. I recall that David’s death in 1997 was a shock to the entire community. So brutal was his death that churches around Fairfield held masses and services in his memory. At that time I was teaching at Patrician Brothers College, Fairfield, and I remember witnessing the grief that beset the community. Students and teachers held prayer services following David’s death. Sitting at the memorial service gave me the empty feeling that Fairfield experienced in 1997. I can only imagine what it was like for David’s work colleagues and especially for his family. David Carty was a country boy who came to Sydney to fulfil his dream of becoming a police officer. He joined the NSW Police Force on 20 February 1994, was sworn in as a probationary constable in August 1994 and began working at Liverpool. On 20 November 1994 Constable Carty was transferred to Fairfield and quickly established himself in the Fairfield Local Area Command and in the community as a hardworking police officer. On 17 April 1997, whilst on a daily foot patrol, David and other police officers had reason to speak to a number of people on a local Fairfield street. Later that evening, whilst off duty, Constable Carty and his colleagues attended the Cambridge Tavern. At about 2.10 a.m., as he was leaving the tavern, David was set upon by a number of offenders, including some of those he had spoken to earlier that day. Constable David Carty was stabbed to death by his attackers. Senior Constable Michelle Auld also was seriously assaulted whilst giving David assistance. Early that morning a piece of Fairfield was taken away. We will never forget David Carty. As a community we keep his memory alive by having a reserve named in his honour—the David Carty Reserve. There are plans in the Fairfield community to include a memorial garden in the reserve, to create a place where the community can offer prayers and thanks to the late Constable David Carty and reflect on the many sacrifices that he ultimately made as a result of his vocation as a police officer. David was never given a chance to marry, to have children and to experience what so many of us take for granted. What we as legislators can do is to ensure that our police are given the powers and support they need not only to keep the community safe but also to keep uniformed officers safe in the line of duty. Constable David Carty will never be forgotten by Fairfield.
Mr DONALD PAGE (Ballina—Minister for Local Government, and Minister for the North Coast) [12.15 p.m.]: I take this opportunity to thank the member for Fairfield for reminding us of the terrible murder of David Carty. I am sure that all members and the people of New South Wales remember the despicable murder that took place late at night in a car park outside licensed premises when David Carty was off duty. David Carty’s father, John Carty, is a constituent of the member for Dubbo who is in the Chamber. I was interested to hear the member for Fairfield mention the David Carty memorial that is to be established in the Fairfield reserve—a nice tribute to a man whose life was cut short by a most heinous crime.
[alert_red]Robert is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_red] * BUT SHOULD BE
Robert Wayne TAIT headstone – Narrabri Lawn Cemetery. Portion A2, row Q
Robert Wayne TAIT – Grave
Robert Wayne TAIT – Memorial Stone outside of Narrabri Police Station. Rob’s mother also planted an Olive Tree there at the same time. 29 September 2002
In 1996 Inspector Bob Tait was the officer in charge of police at Narrabri. On the morning of Friday 29 March of that year he ended his own life at the Narrabri Police Station.
The Northern Daily Leader of 30 March, 1996 reported the death.
Stunned colleagues and the Narrabri community are this morning trying to come to terms with why such a respected policeman would kill himself. Inspector Robert Tait, 49, went to work yesterday morning, where he had been serving as the patrol commander, walked into an unoccupied office, took his service revolver and ended his life.
The inspector joined the New South Wales Police Force on 24 February, 1964 as a cadet, and was sworn in on 19 March, 1966. At the time of his death he was stationed at Narrabri, where he was the patrol commander.
It took up 451 hearing days, heard from 902 public witnesses and cost an estimated $64 million. Malcolm Brown reports on the Wood royal commission, 10 years on.
It began on June 15, 1995, when an unnamed Annandale detective jumped to his death from the seventh floor of a building, apparently through fear of the Wood royal commission. The detective’s suicide was followed by those of Ray Jenkins, a dog trainer (July 10), and Inspector Robert Tait, the acting patrol commander at Narrabri ( March 29, 1996 ). Nineteen days later a former Wollongong alderman, Brian Tobin, gassed himself.
On May 8 the same year, Peter Foretic gassed himself the day after giving evidence about pedophilia. On September 23, Detective Senior Constable Wayne Johnson shot himselfand his estranged wife after being adversely named in the royal commission. On November 4, David Yeldham, a retired judge about to face the royal commission on questions of sexual impropriety, killed himself. A month later Danny Caines, a plumber and police confidant, committed suicide at Forster, on the North Coast.
Altogether, 12 people enmeshed in the Wood royal commission took their own lives. Scores of others were so profoundly affected by proceedings that their supporters and families believe it shortened their lives. A former detective, Greg Jensen, suffered a recurrence of the stomach cancer that ultimately ended his life, while another former detective, Ray McDougall, who faced the threat that commission investigators might expose his extramarital affair if he did not co-operate, succumbed to motor neurone disease.
There is no doubt that the Royal Commission into the NSW Police Service, headed by the Supreme Court judge James Wood, purged the force of a rollcall of rotters. A total of 284 police officers were adversely named, 46 briefs of evidence were sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions and by 2001 nine officers had pleaded guilty to corruption offences and three not guilty. Seven police officers received jail sentences, including the former Gosford drug squad chief Wayne Eade and a former chief of detectives, Graham “Chook” Fowler.
Several high-profile police ended their careers in disgrace, including Ray Donaldson, an assistant commissioner, whose contract was not renewed, and Bob Lysaught, the commissioner’s chief of staff, whose contract was torn up. Charges against 14 officers were dismissed because of irregularities in search warrants and their execution.
That left the question of what to do with police who were on the nose but who could not be brought to account by normal means. The solution was the creation of section 181B of the Police Service Act, under which the police commissioner could dismiss an officer on the basis of what had come out of the royal commission. Section 181D allowed the police commissioner to serve an officer with a notice indicating that he “does not have confidence in the police officer’s suitability to continue as a police officer”. The officer could show cause as to why he should be retained, and if dismissed could appeal to the Industrial Relations Tribunal.
In the wake of the two legislative changes, 380 officers were targeted for dismissal or internal investigation. By March 1998, 19 police officers had been dismissed under section 181B and three under 181D. Another had been dismissed under a separate provision of the act, 14 had resigned, four had been medically discharged and 15 had been given performance warning notices. Others were under consideration, and as the Police Integrity Commission – a legacy of the royal commission which became a permanent watchdog – has demonstrated, even officers who had been corrupt many years before were not necessarily in the clear.The former independent MP John Hatton, who was instrumental in setting up the royal commission, said he thought the Police Integrity Commission was the royal commission’s “greatest achievement”. The Child Protection Enforcement Agency, which launched a purge of sex offenders, is another positive legacy of the royal commission.But 10 years on, was the exercise worth it?To some there were considerable benefits. Some appalling malpractice – known as “process” or “noble cause” corruption – prompted Wood to wonder at one point about the quality of a lot of police evidence he had accepted over the years.Despite this, many officers still believe the royal commission was too puritanical. They claim the investigators, not able to grapple with the really big issues, jumped on anything they could: “They had to have runs on the board,” says Michael McGann, who as a policeman in 1984 participated in the so-called Kareela Cat Burglar case, in which police used mace on an unco-operative thief and sex offender. To some critics this treatment did no serious harm and only required a word of caution. But under the spotlight of the royal commission 12 years later, it ended the careers of high-flying police such as John Garvey, Brian Harding and Steve York.A decade later, Harding works in corporate security but insists that the real sting was that the investigators had fabricated evidence. When that finally came out, he says, the group received a confidential settlement, but it did little to redress the feelings of outrage.
Another former policeman, Dr Michael Kennedy, says the commission was a political response to the police commissioner, Tony Lauer, bringing about the downfall of the then police minister, Ted Pickering.
The attorney-general, ministry and judiciary took little responsibility for the state of the force, Kennedy says, while the responsibility of the police rank-and-file grew to “the size of a Pacific driftnet”. “I don’t think the royal commission contributed anything to the reform process except to provide a template for double standards,” he says.
“Chook Fowler put $200 into his pocket from Louis Bayeh. Chook was a lazy, good-for-nothing drunk. But he was put into the same category as Ray Williams and HIH.”McGann says that against the string of petty corrupt activities uncovered, “you have to look at what the government did and did not do with gambling and vice, over the decades. There have been direct links to Parliament for 50 or 60 years. That is hypocrisy.”The critics’ view is that the royal commission has left a demoralised police force, tarnished and rudderless, with limited operational effectiveness and the problem of corruption unsolved. Seven police officers have taken their lives since 2001, including two this year.”It highlights the fact that the structure no longer takes in the needs of the NSW police force,” says Mike Gallacher, the Opposition police spokesman, and a former internal affairs police officer.Gallacher believes, as does the NSW Police Commissioner, Ken Moroney, that the tentacles of corruption no longer spread to embrace entire squads or larger units. But it does not prevent low-level incidents of corruption and there are continuing nests of corruption.In its most recent report, the Police Integrity Commission said it had undertaken 21 major investigations in 2005-06. These dealt with extortion, theft, unauthorised disclosure of confidential government information and perverting the course of justice, police brutality and the handling of $250,000 stolen from automatic teller machines. The then police integrity commissioner, Terry Griffin, said there had been 51 investigations in the 12 months, compared with 44 in 2004-05, and the 1141 written complaints represented a 15 per cent increase.Moroney says all these reports are disappointing, but one of the significant statistics was the number of police who were reporting on other police. “You go back a decade and the number of informants who were police was 5 to 10 per cent,” he says. “In the Ombudsman’s last report, that figure was 49 per cent.”The mechanism for dealing with internal complaints has been expedited: “I have not been afraid to use a section 181D notice,” Moroney says.He believes there is a different mentality in the force. A video of the royal commission had been shown at a recent reunion dinner of the old criminal investigation branch. “It is part of our history. But the interesting thing is that when Chookie came onto the screen, everyone booed. That was a signal to the Fowlers and the Eades that those found to have acted corruptly would not be accepted.”
However, Moroney accepts that corruption is not a thing of the past. “In the contemporary period, there are huge monies to be made from the illicit drug environment. You are talking in some cases of millions of dollars. It is the greatest menace in society today. And the greatest menace to officers is drug money. That is why rotation of officers out of specialist squads on a regular basis is important.”Taking over as commissioner five years ago, he had brought a low-key “Uncle Ken” influence, sorely needed, and had had to balance the principles of police accountability against the public demand for law and order, and the task has been awkward.A senior counsel told the Heraldthis week that the focus on integrity, scrutiny of professional standards and attacks by defence lawyers meant that talented police prepared to do the dirty work were deterred. “In the old days the best and the brightest went into plain-clothes,” he said. “But when the police perceive that when they have to go the extra yard [to get convictions], they are crucified – ‘Why should I go to plain-clothes when I can just get some uniform job with a 12-hour shift, and a second job?”‘Clive Small, a former assistant commissioner who set up crime agencies and established the child protection unit, says that after so many detectives were disgraced in the royal commission, the police force sought to take the spotlight off detectives and put more of the onus of responsibility for crime control onto local area commands. Crime agencies had a continual battle to keep up to strength. Regionalising responsibility for crime control reflected a lack of understanding. “A lot of crime spreads through the metropolitan area, across the state and across the nation,” he says.Kennedy, now a university lecturer, says the “business model” approach is incompatible with good police work. “We cannot expect police to behave like they are in the private sector, where competence is measured in terms of productivity,” he says.Kennedy attended the recent CIB reunion dinner and sat at a table with former drug squad detectives who remained friends of Wayne Eade. He takes issue with Moroney‘s claim that people at the dinner made catcalls when Fowler came on screen. “No one supported Chook,” he says. “But the animosity of the crowd was directed straight at Justice Wood and his commission.”Clive Small, who was also at the dinner, says: “I think it is really a matter of interpretation who they were booing. There were things the royal commission did not take care about. There was a lot of collateral damage. And the implementation [of its recommendations] has been pretty ordinary.”
CRUSADER WHO MADE THE CALL
JOHN HATTON well remembers the audience on May 11, 1994, when he made his speech calling for a royal commission into the NSW Police Service. MPs were listening, of course, but it was a gallery above him, packed with the “top brass of the police force – the commissioner himself, the deputy commissioner, superintendents – they were an intimidating force on the Parliament”.
“They thought they could stare down the Labor Party support for my motion,” Hatton, now retired, says. “It was probably the best indicator of the way in which the police force thought they could control the agenda.”
Hatton won the day, putting paid to a claim by then police commissioner, Tony Lauer, that “systemic corruption” was “a figment of the political imagination”. Hearings started on November 24, 1994, and Justice James Wood delivered his final report on August 26, 1997.
Ten years later, Hatton believes he was vindicated. He says Wood was “the right man” to head the commission and the recruitment of interstate police was crucial, along with the decision to use phone taps and surveillance.
The 11 volumes of material Hatton gave the royal commission had been accumulated over 14 years, he says, from the time he had first spoken up. He had received information on illegal gambling, drug trafficking and police involvement with the mafia.
There had been earlier moves to address police corruption, including inquiries by the Independent Commission Against Corruption, but these had only scratched the surface. “I can remember on one occasion I reported a death threat which had to do with the McKay murder in Griffith and 48 hours later the bloke who had given the information was threatened by a shotgun at his door in Queensland,” Hatton says.
The royal commission came into being because Hatton and other independent MPs held the balance of power in Parliament. The Labor Party may have had high public motives, but also saw a chance to attack the Fahey government. Labor stipulated that an inquiry into police protection of pedophiles, previously in the hands of the ICAC, become part of the royal commission.
The process of gathering information was helped greatly by Trevor Haken, a detective who became an informer and covert investigator as part of a deal to avoid being prosecuted himself.
Hatton says Haken‘s entry was “out of the blue”. Though useful, in the long term it had had a detrimental effect on the fight against corruption. Living in fear and watching his back, Haken had provided “the greatest disincentive for someone coming forward to finger corruption in the system”.
Malcolm Brown
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i. ROBERT TAIT
Inspector Tait was a member stationed at Narrabri in 1996. Tait received a letter from the Royal Commission, which set out:
“This is to notify you that evidence will be adduced shortly from a witness who is to be called to give evidence before the Royal Commission into the NSW Police Service to the effect that you did fail to report or investigate complaints of criminal conduct.”
There is ample evidence to support the change in TAIT ‘s demeanour and behaviour following receipt of this letter. He was seen by the Police Psychologist and his own Doctor but on the 26-3-96 he shot himself in his office with his service revolver. He left a note clearly indicating how tortured he had become as a result of being named.
In 1992 Constable Hernandez was a member of the State Protection Group and a qualified firearms instructor. He was accidentally shot in the chest while testing police in their annual firearms proficiency tests at the Redfern Police Complex. Following emergency surgery Constable Hernandez died at St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst the same day as the accident.
The constable was born in 1959 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 18 February, 1987. At the time of his death he was attached to the State Protection Group.
Touch Plate at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra
Photo credit: Kelvin Harband NSW Fallen Police New Member · Juan Hernandez was accidentally shot in the chest while doing firearms training as an Instructor at the Redfern Police Academy on 1 December 1992. Emergency surgery was unable to save his life and he passed on that same day. Juan and I went through the Academy together in 1987 and he will always be remembered and a great bloke whose life was cut way to short by the tragic accident. Juan is in the middle squatting down in this photo which was taken on the day of our attestation ( 15 May 1987 ).
Carl is also credited with designing the TOU insignia – which was maintained in respect to his.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Tuesday 1 December 1992, page 4
IN BRIEF
Policeman shot dead
SYDNEY: A police weapons training instructor was fatally wounded by another officer during a gun training session yesterday.
Constable Juan Carlos Hernandez, 33, an instructor with the elite State Protection Group, died in hospital several hours after being shot in the chest at the old Police Academy at Redfern.
Constable Hernandez was supervising about 15 officers at a training session when a .38 calibre police-issue revolver discharged, wounding him in the chest.
The Hon. CATHERINE CUSACK: My question is addressed to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Will the Minister inform the House about the newest recruits to the New South Wales Police Force?
The Hon. MICHAEL GALLACHER: I thank the honourable member for her question. Last Friday, 23 August 2013, it was my great pleasure to attend the attestation ceremony for class 319 at the Goulburn Police Academy. I assure members that the calibre of probationary constables coming through the doors of the academy to pursue challenging and rewarding careers as police officers in this State remains very high indeed. They passed the stringent physical and academic tests, and have demonstrated the commitment and character befitting their new role. These qualities were no more visible than when the commissioner’s valour award was presented to Senior Constable Justin Knight on the parade ground last Friday. The award was conferred for conspicuous merit and exceptional bravery when an offender armed with a sawn-off rifle fired at Senior Constable Knight with intent to murder on 20 January 2007 at Eveleigh Street, Redfern—the Block.
In the course of pursuing a suspect, Constable Knight alighted from his vehicle and pursued an offender on foot, calling for him to stop. The offender produced a sawn-off rifle and, despite the risk, Constable Knight continued to follow him. The offender fired a number of shots at Constable Knight, narrowly missing him. The constable felt one of the projectiles go past his arm and thought that he had been shot. Being aware of the sensitivity of the local community towards police and despite the escalated danger, Constable Knight did not respond by firing his service firearm. The offender fled the scene, but was later identified and charged with attempted murder of a police officer. The offender was subsequently convicted.
I ask members to reflect on those circumstances and whether we would have acted with the same level of commitment, bravery and judgement as Constable Knight on that occasion. Too often the community reacts to instances where police officers have been accused of wrongdoing, but the events of that night in 2007 remind us of the challenges and risks faced by officers of the NSW Police Force, in this case potentially quite deadly. I am confident that Senior Constable Knight’s example will flow through to the 161 probationary constables who attested and have joined a force with record authorised strength in this State.
A number of the new police officers deserve special mention. The winner of the Robert Brotherson award for the highest level of academic achievement was Probationary Constable Natalie Martin. The winners of the Steven Roser memorial award for the highest male and female achievers in physical training were Probationary Constable Mitchell Thompson and Probationary Constable Guilhermina El-Mir. The Juan Carlos Hernandez award, given to the student with the highest marksmanship score, went to probationary constables David Edwards, Anton Sahyoun and Shanahan Toering—all three tied for that award. Probationary Constable Toering also received the award for the highest achiever in the Simulated Policing Acquiring Competence program.
One of the many proud parents at the attestation was Detective Superintendent Arthur Katsogiannis, whose son Daniel is now a probationary constable and commences his career at City Central Local Area Command. It was terrific to see 23 members of the attestation of class 319 identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, of which 16 were graduates of the Indigenous Police Recruiting Our Way [IPROWD] program that I have spoken about in this forum. Congratulations to them. I had the pleasure of witnessing the graduation of 13 dog teams from the State Protection Group Dog Unit. Some were general purpose dogs and others, obviously, were sniffer dogs. That is good news for Byron Bay and its former mayor, the Hon. Jan Barham. The attestation parades provide an opportunity— [Time expired.]
The Hon. CATHERINE CUSACK: I ask a supplementary question. Will the Minister elucidate his answer?
The Hon. MICHAEL GALLACHER: I pay respect to the following five officers who retired from the NSW Police Force, taking with them collectively 190-plus years: Superintendent Ben Feszczuk, Detective Superintendent Col Dyson, APM, Superintendent Ray Filewood, Detective Inspector Dennis Clarke, APM, and Inspector Leslie Dickens. All five officers led the parade on Friday. It was an incredibly proud moment for them, their families and the communities they have represented in just short of 200 years of policing. As I said to the graduating class, “If you want to look for role models, look at these five as a classic example of what you can give back to a community that will give you so much more.”
The Hon. CATHERINE CUSACK: My question is addressed to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Will the Minister inform the House about the newest recruits to the NSW Police Force? The Hon. MICHAEL GALLACHER: On 3 May it was a great pleasure to attend the attestation ceremony for class 318 at the Goulburn Police Academy, and I can assure the House that the calibre of probationary constables coming through the academy to pursue a challenging and rewarding career as a New South Wales police officer remains high. All attesting officers have made it through physical and academic tests, and, most importantly, they have demonstrated the commitment and character of people prepared to ensure the safety and security of the community they will serve. The 202 probationary constables who attested have joined a police force now boasting a record authorised strength of 16,176. As members opposite know full well, we have been increasing the authorised strength of the NSW Police Force since we took office. After the further increase this month of 80 positions from the May class, we have boosted the authorised strength by 370, and we are on our way to increasing the force by a total of 859 positions, to a record authorised strength of 16,665 officers in August 2015. This month 50 additional positions were added to the Police Transport Command, bringing its authorised strength to 401. We have also added 30 positions to the authorised strength of the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, bringing it to 1,295. That makes an increase of 50 new authorised positions to this command, and that is halfway to our commitment to increase the strength of the command by 100. While another 202 probationary constables have been drawn to this career, I am equally pleased with how many officers stay in this exciting and rewarding profession. Indeed, there is such demand for a career in policing that the NSW Police Force has implemented a freeze on new applications. Members opposite have mischievously tried to claim that this is a sign of cuts to the Police Force. That is as far from the truth as members opposite could possibly get. Thanks to the Government making the necessary reforms to the Death and Disability Scheme set up by members opposite and restoring the confidence of serving police officers by ensuring that they will have the back-up they need, I am advised that attrition within the Police Force is currently averaging about 40 officers a month, down from the average of 70 under the previous administration. Therefore, it stands to reason that if fewer officers are leaving the force, fewer replacements are needed. Under Labor, the NSW Police Force was faced with more than 800 officers on long-term sick leave and officers leaving the force at such a rate that police could not recruit fast enough to plug the holes. Placing a temporary freeze on new applications will ensure that potential applicants do not need to spend application fees, which easily total $500, including on such items as medical certificates, when there is a substantial wait before their application can be considered. We are getting on with the job of ensuring that the NSW Police Force is better resourced, better equipped and better supported than ever before. Members opposite are peddling misinformation and seeking to undermine the community’s confidence in a police force experiencing record numbers. A number of the new police officers deserve special mention. The winner of the Robert Brotherson Award for the highest level of academic achievement was Probationary Constable Thomas Stillwell. The winners of the Steven Roser Memorial Award for the highest male and female achievers in physical training were Probationary Constable Adam Splithof and Probationary Constable Caitlin Billingham. The Juan Carlos Hernandez Award, given to the student with the highest marksmanship score, went to Probationary Constable Matthew Skellern. [Time expired.]
The Hon. CATHERINE CUSACK: I ask a supplementary question. Will the Minister elucidate his answer?
The Hon. MICHAEL GALLACHER: I am sure that all members would like to hear about these outstanding young probationary constables, including Probationary Constable Nathan Dechaufepie, who was the recipient of the Simulated Policing Acquiring Confidence Award. These officers can be proud of their achievements. Their families can be proud of them and, most importantly, their communities are proud of them. I am sure that the House will join me in wishing our newest police officers all the very best for their careers in the NSW Police Force.
The Hon. SCOT MacDONALD: My question is addressed to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Will the Minister inform the House of the results of the latest police attestation?
The Hon. MICHAEL GALLACHER: I apologise to the House for my inability to be here last Friday. I had a very important role to fulfil as the Minister for Police and Emergency Services at the graduation of class 312 at the Police Academy in Goulburn. It was my first in my new role as Minister for Police and Emergency Services. One of the first things I had an opportunity to announce down there was clarification of the uncertainty that exists around the name of the organisation.
The Hon. Duncan Gay: It was well received.
The Hon. MICHAEL GALLACHER: It was well received. It will now return to its former name of the New South Wales Police Academy, not the police college. That announcement was very well received by the sworn officers. The attestation certainly brought back memories of when I was in a similar position, standing on the parade ground at Redfern more than 30 years ago. Whilst a lot of things have changed in policing, a lot of things have not. Obviously the equipment, the cars and the uniform have changed, but certainly one thing that has not changed is the high calibre of probationary constables coming through the academy. They are required to pass through a tough course, both physically and academically, to prove they can cut the mustard as officers in the New South Wales Police Force. Who knows, even Eric Roozendaal might apply to join the New South Wales Police Force—although he may not pass the integrity test.
They are men and women who are prepared to do their best for the people of this State and who will undertake this job on a daily basis, often in the most difficult of circumstances. The 111 probationary constables who attested at the ceremony have joined more than 15,000 officers in the Police Force. They come from all walks of life. Over 22 per cent of those who attested are women. Forty per cent come from outside metropolitan Sydney. Sixteen were born overseas, in countries such as Russia, Germany, Malaysia, China and even Botswana. They speak Arabic, Greek, Cantonese, Armenian, Dari, and Khmer. They will be posted to 59 local area commands across the State, from Albury in the south, to Richmond in the north, from Barrier in the west to the heart of Sydney. Forty-four of the officers have been assigned to non-metropolitan or rural regions.
Irrespective of where they have been posted they are on the front line. They stand between the community and the dangers of crime and other antisocial behaviour. A number of these new police officers deserve special mention. Firstly, the winner of the Robert Brotherson Award for the highest level of academic achievement was Probationary Constable Stephanie Hill. The winners of the Steven Roser Memorial Award for the highest male and female achievers in physical training were Probationary Constable John Feuerstein and Probationary Constable Sandra Chaban. The Juan Carlos Hernandez Award, given to the student with the highest marksmanship score, was Probationary Constable James Patrick. Probationary Constable Jessica Agland was the recipient of the Simulated Policing Acquiring Confidence Award.
I met some of the officers on Friday and I can confidently say that the New South Wales Police Force has a strong future. These officers can be proud of their achievements. Their family and friends can be proud of them for all the hard work they have put in to get there. The people of New South Wales can be proud of these people for choosing a selfless profession, dedicating their working lives to ensuring the safety and protection of the community. I am sure all members of the House will join me in wishing our newest police officers all the very best for their careers in the New South Wales Police Force.
Service: From 26 June 1978 to 17 December 1990 = 12+ years Service
Born: 1954
Died: 17 December 1990
Age: 35 – 36
Cause: Illness – Suicide – firearm
Location of event: ?
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: ?
Grave location: ?
CANBERRA – NATIONAL POLICE WALL OF REMEMBRANCE TOUCH PLATE. NSWPF SUICIDE THAT ” IS ” MENTIONED ON THE POLICE WALL OF REMEMBRANCE.
[alert_green]Peter IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
Constable Tickle was a member of the Police Tactical Response Group and following a barrage of ill-informed and inaccurate media attacks on the squad he tragically took his own life on 17 December, 1990.
The constable was born in 1954 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 26 June, 1978. At the time of his death he was attached to the Tactical Response Group.
Full name is ‘possibly‘ Peter WAYNE Tickle.
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There are many on this site that served with SenCon Peter Tickle in the TRG. Peter was an excellent copper who was totally dedicated to the job and his workmates. I can’t even begin to count the number of times he went through doors with a shotgun in his hands or was involved in riots at Bathurst, our States Gaols etc. He was one of the bravest coppers I ever worked with and you could always count on him having your back no matter what the odds. It was because of this dedication to his mates that drove him to suicide. TRG were under heavy pressure from Pollies, The Bosses and the Media after the Darren Brennan shooting. Peter was asked to attend a school to show the kids some Police equipment. ONE parent complained to the Media that he had allowed ‘innocent’ little children to play with a fully loaded shotgun (the shotgun was innocuous and unloaded) but the Media had a field day. Peter came under extreme pressure from management and felt that he had brought more pressure on the Group and had seriously let his workmates down. He believed that because of this TRG would be disbanded. His dedication to his mates and the Group was overwhelming and he took his own life. Does the act of doing this wipe out all the brave and excellent work he did as a copper ? Does his service and dedication deserve to be commemorated ? I believe it does.
Friday 21 August 2015 – Barry Lewis
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Grant Charles EASTES
| 11/07/2013
Grant Charles EASTES
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 18467
Joined via NSW Police Cadets on 4 July 1977
Cadet # 3345
Class 161 of 1978
Rank: NSW Police Cadet – started 4 July 1977
Probationary Constable – appointed 9 February 1979
Service: From 4 July 1977 to 13 January 1990 = 12+ years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: Tuesday 9 February 1960
Died: Saturday 13 January 1990
Age: 29 yrs 11 mths 4 days
Cause: Illness – Suicide – overdose – P.T.S.D.
at Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, Qld
Funeral date:?
Funeral location:
Buried at: Casino Lawn Cemetery
Memorial location:
Grant IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
Senior Constable Grant Charles EASTES – Grave. Casino Lawn Cemetery, NSW.
Senior Constable Grant Charles EASTES touch plate at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra.
On 13 January, 1990 Senior Constable Eastes took his own life in a Brisbane Motel. On 20 October, 1989 he had been one of the first police to arrive on the scene of the horrific bus crash upon the Pacific Hwy, Cowper, ( commonly referred to as the Grafton bus crash ) in which twenty one people died and twenty two more were injured. At the time it was the worst road accident in Australia’s history. Following the accident the senior constable reported off duty on sick report, suffering from Acute Post Traumatic Shock Syndrome.
The constable was born in 1960 and joined the New South Wales Police Force as a Cadet on the 4 July, 1977. At the time of his death he was attached to the Lismore District Accident Investigation Squad.
[blockquote]It was during that time that I had a lengthy conversation with a highway patrol officer, Grant Eastes. I could sense that this man was in quite a bad way, finding it hard to cope. It was just his attitude, what he was saying, how he expressed how he was feeling. As we talked he brought up all these other incidents on the highway that he’d attended in recent months. I was so concerned that I mentioned the conversation to some senior police officers and later, Major Errol Woodbury, who was one of the State’s senior police chaplains at the time.[/blockquote]
A postscript to the Grafton tragedy. Three months after the accident, 29 year old Senior Constable Grant Eastes, the officer I was so concerned about on the night of the tragedy, was found dead in a motel room in the Brisbane suburb of Fortitude Valley. He’d taken an overdose of pills.
Grant’s father Ken told journalists his son’s life had been destroyed by the sight of the dead and injured at the Grafton bus crash scene.
I’m afraid to say his suicide didn’t surprise me. Here was a crash investigation officer who had witnessed a real slathering of fatal accidents up and down that highway. The bus crash was the catalyst for his suicide. It was just too much.
