Service: From ? ? 1957 to ? ? 1988 = 31+ years Service
Awards: ?
Born: ?
Died: 7 March 2014 in BUPA Nursing Home, Yagoona
Cause: ?
Age: 83
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: Rookwood Cemetery
Buried at: Rookwood Cemetery
The Torch Newspaper, Wednesday 2 April 2014 page 16
The Torch Newspaper, Wednesday 2 April 2014 page 16
Grave location:
Charles BEATTIE
| 09/04/2014
Charles BEATTIE
New South Wales Police Force
Registered number: ‘Q‘ 5483
For the purposes of this website ‘Q‘ represents those Police joining between 1 March 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system )
Probationary Constable – appointed 17 November 1887 ( aged 32 years, 7 months, 13 days )
Constable – appointed ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ?
Retired – Constable 1st Class
Service from: 17 November 1887 to? ? 1915? = 27 years Service
Born: 4 April 1855 in Bervie Kincardine, Scotland
Died: Sunday 25 August 1929 at his residence: Drumtochty at Seven Hills, NSW
Age: 74 years, 4 months, 21 days
Buried: St Bartholomew’s Church, Prospect, NSW.
Subject:Police and St Bartholomews
BEATTIE, Charles Lees
Sect 1
Black granite desk with marble plaques
4 4 1855: Charles was born in Bervie Kincardine Scotland, son of James Beattie and Mary Watts
1881 census Kincardineshire Scotland[1]
Charles 25 born Brevie Scotland farm servant
Agnes 22
Charles 7 months
24.3.1887Charles and his wife Agnes McCombe emigrated to NSW on the Abyssinia, on board with Charles and Agnes were 3 children, Helen, Charles and William. A daughter was born on the journey.[2]
Charles was listed as a farm servant, born Kincardine, Presbyterian; he was to join his brother in Sydney[3].
Four children were born in NSW [4]
1891 Harold died 1891 buried in Sect 1
1892 Olive M,
1895 Dorothy A,
1902 James died 1904 buried in Sect 2.
Charles joined the NSW police as a constable on 17.11.1887.
Prior to this he worked as a labourer.
Charles became the Prospect Police Constable, he travelled on horseback.
He was described as being 5 feet 8 and an half inches tall, with light brown eyes, brown hair and fresh complexion.
1889Constable Beattie went to the Chinese gardens at Prospect to serve a summons on Hing Foo.
Joseph Backhaus the complainant in the summons then identified Hing Foo and the summons was served, when the matter appeared in court the defendant was not the man Beattie had served[5]
1893 Constable Beattie of Prospect visited Blacktown once or twice a week, generally on a Saturday he usually walked over and before the hotel on the Blacktown Road closed he needed to visit there occasionally[6]
1901 census Charles Beattie of Western Road Prospect
1903 electoral role Charles was noted as ‘police constable’ of the Western Road Prospect, Agnes was noted as domestic duties of Prospect
He was promoted to 1st class constable and retired just after leasing his property to the Police force. The police station was located in a weatherboard cottage on the Western Road, and was rented from Charles from 1.3.1915 to June 1920. The rent was 15 shillings a week[7]
After leaving the police force Charles lived at Seven Hills in a cottage beside Seven Hills Road South, close to Australorp Ave.
As Prospect Police Constable, Charles was required to visit Blacktown on a daily basis.
Charles was one of the 2 supervising police officers at the first election held for the Blacktown Shire Council[8]
1907 Constable Charles Beattie was appointed as slaughterhouse inspector for Blacktown Shire Council. He was also shire sanitary inspector.[9] (Collected 5 pounds 4 shillings for 419 animals killed at the slaughtering house of G H Watts at Prospect)
1915 Constable Beattie left the Prospect district to live nearer to Seven Hills[10]. The residents of Prospect arranged a social for Mr & Mrs Beattie who had lived at Prospect for nearly 30 years. Charles Beattie had attained the position of first class constable after 27 years in the police force.[11]
25 8 1929 Charles (of Seven Hills and Prospect) died [12] at age 74. He died at his residence Drumtochty at Seven Hills [13]
1932 Agnes died, she was the daughter of William she was 74
Event location: Home – Loch Maree Street, Kingsford, NSW
Age: 30
Funeral date: Friday 8 April 1938
Funeral location: “Hundreds lined the pavements of George street and Railway square this afternoon to watch the funeral led by 30 uniformed police and the Police Band leave Wood Coffill’s chapel for Botany cemetery’
Buried at: Botany Cemetery, 12 Military Rd, Matraville, NSW
Grave Location: ADDD Anglican FM DDD, Position 208
George is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance BUT SHOULD BE
Some articles state that the suicide was on the 6 April whereas other articles state the suicide was on the 7 April
Constable Gray was found shot dead at his home in Loch Maree Street, Kingsford, a few hours before he was to have appeared at the City Coroner’s Court to give evidence about the death of Mrs. Dorothy Alice Graveur on Christmas Eve, 1937.
It is almost certain that the constable committed suicide after worrying himself about his temporary absence from his post in Oxford Street, Paddington when Mrs Graveur was killed by a motor cycle.
Constable Gray was not held responsible for his absence by the Police Department, but he had convinced himself that the accident wouldn’t have happened had he been present at the time. The continual worry about the death had also begun to affect his health, and after a minor operation on his throat he was to have been transferred to a station on the South Coast.
At the inquest on 23 April, 1938 the constable’s wife Mrs. Marjorie Gray gave evidence to the effect that just before going to bed on the night before his death her husband had been reading some papers relating to the inquest into the death of Mrs Graveur, due to be held the following day. She said he seemed worried about the case.
About 6.45 am she was awakened by a shot, and she quickly informed a constable who lived two doors away. Her husband’s body was found in the bathroom with his service pistol nearby.
In a note addressed to Marjorie, found beside his body, Constable Gray had described himself as a failure, and said that he could not stand the worry and shame he had brought on himself.
At the time of his death the constable was aged 30 years and was stationed at Darlinghurst.
Detectives are at a loss to explain the Suicide of Constable George Herbert Gray, 30, at Kingswood, except for the fact that he was extremely grieved over the death of Dorothy Alice Graveur, 45, who was killed in a motor cycle accident in Oxford street on Christmas Eve.
Gray was on point duty near the spot, and during his temporary absence on a personal matter, the woman was killed. A departmental inquiry absolved him of the responsibility, but the woman’s death worried him, as he believed the accident would not have occurred if he had been there.
After the event he became ill, and was transferred to the South Coast with his wife and children to give him a chance to recover.
His tonsils were recently removed, and early this week he said his health was much improved.
Before shooting himself with his service revolver, Gray wrote an affectionate letter to his wife, but did not give any reason for his act.
At the conclusion of the inquest concerning Mrs. Graveur, the coroner returned a verdict of accidental death.
Constable George Herbert Gray (30) who was found dead at his home, Kingsford, yesterday, with a bullet in the temple, was to have been the principal witness at the inquest into the death of the two women who had been killed in separate accidents by a motor cycle, ridden by Thomas R. Curyer, of Paddington.
The police say that Gray has been worried for some time over the case. A revolver was found lying beside him.
Further Particulars. SYDNEY, Friday Noon
Detectives are at a loss to explain the suicide of Constable G. H. Gray (30), at Kingsford, except for the fact that he was extremely grieved over the death of Dorothy Alice Graviur (45), who was killed in a motor cycle accident in Oxford St., on Xmas Eve.
Constable Gray was on point duty near the depot., and during his temporary absence on a personal matter, the woman was killed.
The departmental inquiry absolved him of responsibility, but the woman’s death worried him, as he believed the accident would not have occurred if he had been there.
Const. George Herbert Gray ( 30 ) who committed suicide at his home at Kingsford yesterday is believed to have been worried over the fact that, while he was temporarily away from point duty a woman was killed in a motor cycle accident. Gray’s death was revealed yesterday at the inquest on the woman. He was absolved by the departmental inquiry, but he became ill, and arrangements were made for his transfer to the country. Gray left an affectionate letter to his wife, but gave no reason for shooting himself.
Worry About Work Thought To Be Reason SYDNEY, April 8.
Worry about his temporary absence from his post, is believed to have been the reason why Constable George Herbert Gray, 30. committed suicide yesterday. Gray was found dead by his wife at his home in Loch Maree street Kingsford, several hours before he was to have appeared at the City Coroner’s Court to give evidence about the death of a woman.
revolver was lying beside him with a note addressed to his wife, in which he regretted that he had to leave her.
Police officials believe that Gray committed suicide after worrying himself about his temporary absence from his post when Mrs. Dorothy Alice Graveui of Glenore road, Paddington, was killed by a motor cycle in Oxford street near Dowling street, Darlinghurst, on Christmas Eve.
Gray was not held responsible for his temporary absence by the Police Department, but it is believed that he thought the accident might not have happened if he had been present.
Worry affected his health. After a minor operation to his throat he was to have been transferred with his wife and three children to a station on the south coast.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police ( Mr. T. Lynch ) said today that Gray had a good record in the Police Force.
In the tragic death of Constable George Herbert Gray, 30, of Darlinghurst Police Station, on Wednesday has left his young wife and three small children in a sad plight.
They are practically penniless, and Mrs. Gray, who is an Englishwoman, has only one relative — her mother – in this country, and she, too, is not well off.
Constable Gray was found dead at his home in Kingsford on Wednesday. There was a bullet wound in his temple and a revolver was found nearby.
Overcome with grief, Mrs. Gray, for the present, is staying with neighbours, who are also caring for the children.
The children, all girls, aged 2, 5, and 7 years, respectively, nave not yet been informed of their father’s death. They were told that “Daddy” was In hospital.
Will Be Cared For
The grant that Mrs. Gray will receive from the Government will only be small, but, according to police officers, she will be “looked after.”
Already many officers have intimated their intention of contributing to a distress fund, and it is anticipated that a considerable sum will be subscribed.
Neighbors say that Mr. and Mrs. Gray were a most devoted couple.
It was explained yesterday that Gray was greatly worried over a motor cycle accident in Oxford Street, Paddington, on Xmas Eve last when Mrs.
Dorothy Alice Graveur, 45, of Paddington, was fatally injured.
Gray was on point duty near the scene of the crash, but at the time he had left his post temporarily. It was while he was away that the accident had occurred.
Gray, according to his colleagues, although he was not held responsible for the accident, believed that the woman would not have been killed if he had been there.
The late constable, who was born in England, came to Australia about 1927, and after working on the buses for a period, obtained an appointment in the police force.
His bride, then a young girl of 20, came out from England soon afterwards and they were quietly married at a suburban church.
Led by the Police Band, the funeral left parlors in George Street, City, yesterday afternoon for Botany cemetery.
Deceased had no relatives in Australia, and besides his wife and her mother, the chief mourners at the funeral were his fellow police officers, who formed a large contingent.
Tortured by the fear that, he had failed in his duty and had wrecked his career, Constable George Herbert Gray, 30, shot himself with his own service revolver on April 7, the morning when he was to have given evidence at an inquest, the City Coroner ( Mr. Oram ) found to-day. ‘It was most tragic, as he had done his duty properly and was regarded as a most capable officer,’ said Mr. Oram.
‘There is no doubt that Gray was worried very much by the inquest, which concerned a woman who had been killed in a motor cycle accident. It preyed on Gray’s mind that he did not report the motor cyclist for a breach, as the same motor cyclist was involved in another accident a few days later when a girl was killed. ‘The sad and painful fact is that Gray had no cause at all for worry as at the Inquest, It was found that the first mishap was entirely an accident and there was no reason why the motor cyclist should have been reported.
A finding of suicide was returned by the City Coroner (Mr. E. T. Oram), at the conclusion of an Inquest into the death of George Herbert Gray, aged 30 years a police constable, who was found dead on April 6, the day on which he was to have appeared as a witness in a Coroner’s Court inquiry.
In returning his finding the Coroner said that Gray‘s death was a very sad and painful matter. There was no doubt that he had worried about the outcome of an inquiry into the death of a woman in which a motor cyclist had been involved.
A few days after the death of the first woman the same motor cyclist had been involved. ” There was no need for deceased to have worried as he did, said the Coroner, ” for the inquiry into the first accident showed that there was no action on the part of the motor cyclist which should have been reported by Gray. The action which the constable took was correct and his death is most unfortunate.
Marjorie Iris Gray, wife of the deceased, said that her husband, before retiring to bed on April 5, was reading some papers referring to a Coroner’s inquiry to be held the following day. He seemed worried about the case.
About 6.45 a.m. on April 6 she was awakened by a shot and she informed a constable who lived two doors away. Her husband’s body was found in the bathroom with his service pistol near by.
Sergeant L. G. Salkeld ( Leslie George SALKELD NSWPF # Q 9438 ) said that deceased had a good reputation in the police force and witness could not understand why he should have taken his life. In a note which witness found beside the body, Gray had described himself as a failure, and said that he could not stand the worry and shame he had brought on himself. .
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF NEW SOUTH WALES — PROBATE JURISDICTION — IN THE MATTER of the Estates of the undermentioned deceased persons, and in the matter of the Wills, Probate, and Administration Act. 1898 -1932; the Public Trustee Act, 1913 – 1938; and the Testator’s Family Maintenance and Guardianship of Infants Act, 1916. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Public Trustee has this day filed in the Registry of this Honourable Court his elections to administer the Estates of the following deceased persons: —……..
GEORGE HERBERT GRAY, late of Loch Maree Street, Kingsford, In the State of New South Wales, Police Constable, who died 7th April, 1938. Intestate.
Stations: Region Traffic Co-ordinator, North Region, Newcastle in 2010
Cadet #: 2413
Regd. # 14483
Joined NSW Police Cadets: 2 December 1965
Service: From 2 December 1965 to ? ? 2010 = 42 year career
Died: at his Newcastle home, Tuesday 1 April 2014
Illness: Heart attack
Age: 62 old
Funeral: Wednesday 9 April 2014 at noon
Funeral location: St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Adamstown
Buried at:
Senior Sergeant Mal Read dies at home “a credit to humanity”
By LILY RAY
Senior Sergeant Malcolm Noel READ
Funeral for Senior Sergeant Malcolm Noel READ
ASSISTANT Commissioner John Hartley has praised the life and work of one of the Hunter’s most loved and respected traffic police, Senior Sergeant Mal Read.
The retired police officer died of a heart attack at 62 in his Newcastle home on Tuesday.
He was well known in the Hunter for his passionate work in road safety education.
Senior Sergeant Read retired from his 42-year career in the police force in 2010, having been a traffic officer for 16 years.
“Even though they may not know it, there are many families who have travelled throughout northern NSW who have their loved ones with them today thanks to Mal’s leadership and dedication,” Assistant Commissioner Hartley said.
“He was an exemplary role model and someone people, including myself, looked up to for advice and guidance when improving road safety in NSW.
“His police family will miss him.”
Daughter Lisa Stumkat said his children were very proud of him.
“He’d do anything for anyone. He was a good father and a good grandfather,” she said.
“He spent his retirement caravanning with Mum. He was always off buying stuff for his car and caravan and planning the next trip.
“I’m glad he got to see so much of Australia last year,” she said.
Senior Sergeant Read was also involved in a range of charities and community groups including the Variety Club and Lions Club.
Neighbour and close friend Steve Owens said he had known Senior Sergeant Read for more than two decades.
“He was a credit to the police force and a credit to humanity,” he said.
Senior Sergeant Read’s funeral will be held at noon on Wednesday at St Stephen’s Anglican Church in Brunker Road at Adamstown.
Stations: Served at Blacktown G.D’s & Rescue Squad ( 27 Division ), Flemington / Auburn ( 32 Division )
Service: From ? to ?
Awards: National Medal – granted 22 August 1980
1st Clasp to the National Medal – granted 15 May 1986
Born: ?
Died: 2 April 2014 – Mater Hospital, Newcastle
Cause: from a lengthy illness.
Age: ?
Funeral date: Wednesday 9 April 2014 @ 2pm
Funeral location: 176 Anderson Dve, Beresfield, followed by a gathering at Beresfield Bowling Club
Buried at: Cremated
Sgt 2nd Class Henry Levy
Henry was a long time member of this websites Policing Forum, the Thin Blue Line – having joined the Forum on 16 June 2003 and being known as ‘ Henell ‘, he contributed greatly to the forum over the following 11 years passing his knowledge to people wishing to join the Police Forces who were / are members of that forum.
Henry suffered greatly, in his final years, from hearing and site loss but persisted with helping others.
Henry was a tin miner at Captains Flat in his younger days before joining the NSW Police Force and was also a member of the Police / RAAF Richmond Gliding Club.
Margaret Elizabeth (Betty) TALARICO, 86 old, the Widow of Herbert and a Veteran Member of the Central Coast Branch of the RPA.
Betty passed away on 06/03/2014 and her funeral is proposed to be held at 1.30pm tomorrow, Thursday 13th Instant at Palmdale Memorial Park, Palmdale Road, PALMDALE.
Cecil Roy ABBOTT
| 09/04/2014
Cecil Roy ABBOTT QPM AO
aka Cec
Late of: St George area, NSW
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 4668
Joined NSW Police Force via NSW Police Cadet System
Probationary Constable – appointed 7 February 1945 ( aged 20yrs, 6mths )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 16 November 1965
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed 25 November 1968
Inspector – appointed ? ? ?
Superintendent – appointed 1 December 1978
Acting Commissioner ( Crime ) – appointed 14 November 1979
Commissioner – appointed ? December 1981 – August 1984
Final Rank: Commissioner of Police
Service: From 12 February 1941 to? August 1984 = 38 years Service
Awards: Queen’s Police Medal ( QPM ) granted 31 December 1976 in recognition of service to the NSW Police Force ( Insp 2/C )
National Medal – granted 11 June 1982 ( Commissioner )
Officer of the Order of Australia ( AO ) granted 26 January 1985 in recognition of service to the NSW Police Force ( Retired )
Born: Thursday 7 August 1924
Died: Wednesday 12 March 2014
Age: 89 years, 7 months, 5 days
Funeral date: Wednesday 19 March 2014 – 11am
Funeral location: St Declan’s Catholic Church, 92 Penshurst Street
(at the intersection of Forest Road), PENSHURST
Buried at: ?
CECIL is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
Location of Funeral Service:
Former commissioner ‘Cec’ Abbott’s career saluted
By Sheree Mutton
March 18, 2014, 3 p.m.
Remembered: Former NSW Police Commissioner, Cecil Abbott AO, QPM, is being farewelled on Wednesday. Picture: Supplied
FORMER NSW police commissioner Cecil “Cec” Abbott will be farewelled at a funeral service at Penshurst on Wednesday.
Mr Abbott (pictured), a resident of St George, died last Wednesday in St George Hospital, aged 89.
He joined the NSW Police Force as a cadet in 1941, was sworn in in 1945 and rose to become the 16th police commissioner from December 1981 to August 1984.
Mr Abbott was awarded the Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in May 1967 and the Queen’s Police Medal in January 1977. He received the National Medal in June 1982 and was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in January 1985.
Among his many achievements, Mr Abbott was instrumental in the formation of the police undercover branch and the formation of covert police sites.
Commissioner Andrew Scipione said Mr Abbott made a significant contribution to the NSW Police Force in his 43 years’ service.
“It is widely accepted that the foundations of contemporary drug law enforcement nationally can be attributed to his leadership and commitment throughout his dedicated service to the people of NSW,” he said.
From the other side of the desk, I was a young 16 year old in Sydney when I got into trouble for drug related offences…..Cec Abbott was the head of the drug squad and whilst we were on totally different “wavelengths”, he treated me very well and with a lot of integrity….something which cannot be said about some other police, but that is another story. He was a very father like figure to many of us drug users, but still stood for no nonsense.
.
M Abbott sean 3 months ago
Sorry that this is a little bit delayed – I wasn’t aware that this thread existed. Thank you so much for those kind words.
.
daniel nakhle Wednesday, March 19, 2014 6:15 PM
condolences to cecils family and friends he was a great neighbour and top cop wishing your family love and support through this difficult time he was a true pillar of the community rip.
.
Nick Vlahos Wednesday, March 19, 2014 2:20 PM
A true gentleman of yesteryear, a shining light from an era where words such as INTEGRITY, RESPECT & HONOUR had real meaning and valued! A great man held in high regard and a fantastic neighbor. Our thoughts and prayers to his immediate family, Edna, Paul, Jessica, Chloe & Micaela Abbott.
.
Rebecca Tuesday, March 18, 2014 9:57 PM
Mr Abbott was a truly good man and NSW was all the better for having him as a Commissioner. All condolences to his family.
Popular police commissioner Cecil Abbott ‘a man of integrity’
By Sheree Mutton
March 20, 2014, 5:55 a.m.
Last salute: NSW Police march at Cecil Abbott’s funeral at Penshurst yesterday. Below right, Mr Abbott. Picture: Chris Lane
Man of integrity: Cec Abbott
Picture: Chris Lane
Picture: Chris Lane
FORMER NSW police commissioner Cecil ‘‘Cec’’ Abbott was remembered as a ‘‘popular and inspirational leader’’ at a funeral service at Penshurst on Wednesday.
Mr Abbott, who grew up in Hurstville Grove, died last week in St George Hospital. He was 89.
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione addressed mourners at the service held at St Declan’s Catholic Church.
‘‘Cec believed that the ideal police officer married academic accomplishment with street wisdom and experience,’’ Mr Scipione said.
‘‘A man of the utmost integrity, he fought tirelessly against corruption. He also put his considerable energy towards modernising the Police Force, investing in training and modern equipment, stressing that criminals don’t stand still, so the police couldn’t afford to either.’’
Mr Abbott joined the NSW Police Force as a cadet in 1941 when he was 16.
He was sworn in as a police officer in 1945 and went on to become the 16th police commissioner, serving December 1981 to August 1984.
The former Hurstville inspector was awarded the police long service and good conduct medal in 1967 and the Queen’s police medal in 1977.
He also received the national medal in 1982 and was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1985.
Mr Scipione said Mr Abbott was a skilled detective who could communicate with people from all walks of life.
‘‘From a member of the public or the police officer on the street, through to those holding the highest of office in Australia and overseas, Cec was equally approachable and giving of his time and experience,’’ he said.
‘‘A man of integrity, a man of foresight, who, in his time as Commissioner, proved himself a popular and inspirational leader.’’
He is survived by wife Edna, son Paul and three grandchildren, Jessica, Chloe and Micaela.
On the 20 July, 1984, the NSW Police Academy was officially opened in Goulburn by the Minister for Police and Emergency Services the Hon. Peter Anderson (M.P.);
Commissioner of Police Cecil Abbott, QPM; and the Principal of the NSW Police Academy, Executive Chief Superintendent Ron Wark. (Although students were in residence from May, 1984).
Cec Abbott, Q.P.M.
Assistant Commissioner – Crime
Cecil Roy Abbott, Q.P.M., Assistant Commissioner (Crime) from 14 November, 1979 can justifiably reflect back on a fruitful I period of service spanning 38 years. He is a native of Hurstville, where he resides with his wife Edna and son Paul.
Mr Abbott was educated at Sydney Technical High School, joined the New South Wales Police Cadet Corps in 1941 and
graduated to the Police Service on the 7 February, 1945.
Mr Abbott, arising from his vast experience and dedication as a Detective in the investigation and study of drug related crime, is recognised as a leading authority on an International level, by Drug Law Enforcement Bodies throughout the World.
The Assistant Commissioner is a dedicated Police Officer, who believes team-work is the essence of efficiency. His message to Police is to believe in their ability to maintain law and order in a trendy society; provide the service to Government and to the community for which we are obligated and above all, apply wisdom, understanding and common sense in the performance of same. Discretion and tact are the essential requirements if
public support is to be obtained.
VALEDICTORY: Retired NSW Police Commissioner Cecil Roy Abbott
7 Photos · Updated 6 years ago
When you are Commissioner of Police you are squarely in the public eye. In times of natural disaster, the media, government and community looks to you. If there is a fugitive on the loose, every move you make is scrutinised. If an officer does the wrong thing – or even does the right thing – your response is awaited; anticipated. Not a day goes by where you are spared judgement. Not a day goes by when you can relax completely, satisfied that you have met all expectations. Only the passage of time affords a measure. And in Cec Abbott’s case, history has him down as one of our state’s finest Police Commissioners. A man of integrity, a man of foresight. A man who, in his time as Commissioner, proved himself a popular and inspirational leader. Cecil Roy Abbott was born in 1924 and grew up in Hurstville Grove, just a few kilometres from where we gather today to remember, to celebrate his life, and to offer our good-byes. Cec, to all who knew him, was educated at Sydney Technical High School and joined the New South Wales Police Cadet Corps in February 1941. Cadet Number 0302, he was just 16 years old. On the 7th of February 1945 Cec was attested to the New South Wales Police Force as a Probationary Constable, performing general duties and motor cycle policing in Darlinghurst. In an interesting insight to that time, entry 2018 on his service register shows that on the 27th of December 1946 Cec was granted “permission to marry Miss Margaret Edna Robinson on the 15th of February 1947”. And we join with Edna and their son Paul today. As well as Cec’s three grand-children Jessica, Chloe, and Micaela, and members of the extended Abbott family. It was in late 1946 that Cec would commence Detective Training, and he performed duty in the Criminal Investigation and Special Branches, rising to the Officer in Charge of the Drug Squad in 1959. At that time the advancement for Squad Commanders was limited to Detective Sergeant First Class, and so in 1974 Cec’s career moved away from criminal investigation duties with a promotion to Inspector, first at Hurstville, and then as Deputy Principal at the Police Academy. In 1977 the now Inspector First Class Abbott lent his expertise to the Woodward Royal Commission into Drug Trafficking. And later to the South Australian Royal Commission into the Non-Medical use of Drugs; as a Liaison Officer. Further promotions followed: to Superintendent in 1978, Assistant Commissioner in 1979, and Senior Assistant Commissioner in 1981. Cec was appointed Commissioner of Police on the 30th of December 1981, the state’s 16th Police Commissioner. And as Commissioner, perhaps one of his proudest days came in 1983 when he attested his own son Paul into the profession he had committed his working life to. His service register lists page after page of letters of appreciation at all stages of his policing career for good work, assistance rendered and for the professionalism he brought to his work. Awards, too, were many. In May 1967 Mr Abbott was awarded the Police Long Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal in 1976 and later the National Medal in 1982. And on the 26th of January 1985 he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for his contribution to public service, particularly with the New South Wales Police Force. Commissioner Cec Abbott AO QPM retired from office after 43½ years of service on the 6th of August 1984. Cec believed that the ideal police officer married academic accomplishment with street wisdom and experience. A man of the utmost integrity, he fought tirelessly against corruption. He also put his considerable energy towards modernising the Police Force, investing in training and modern equipment. Stressing that criminals don’t stand still, so the police couldn’t afford to either. And it was not just on drug matters that he was a pioneer. In many other ways he was ahead of his time. He was instrumental in forming the Police Undercover Branch and establishing covert police sites. He championed a role for female police in investigative roles. And in the cause of coordinated, effective law enforcement, he worked tirelessly to connect police forces divided by state and national borders We see in today’s Police Force the culmination of many of the initiatives that Cec began. Cec had the rare ability to communicate easily and as an equal with people at all levels. From a member of the public or the police officer on the street, through to those holding the highest of office in Australia and overseas, Cec was equally approachable and giving of his time and experience. And that never changed. Now senior officers fondly recall meeting Commissioner Abbott very early on in their careers, and being struck by how down to earth and genuinely interested in their lot he was. As my summary of his service attests, Cec was also an experienced drug detective for more than 30 years and his name became synonymous with drug law enforcement. When you spoke of the Drug Squad, or of Drug Law Enforcement, you spoke of Cec Abbott. His skill and tenacity as a young Detective would see him recognised as a leading international authority by drug enforcement bodies. He worked with the Narcotics Bureaus in Hong Kong and in Tokyo, he provided assistance to Singapore with their drug laws, he addressed numerous conferences and symposia, he spoke at schools and hospitals. He spoke passionately on the emerging scourge of drugs, to the Houses of Parliament, at schools and on television, compelling all that would listen on the need for action. And he is on record at the Institute of Criminology as far back as 1968 saying that unless ruthlessness was adopted in drug law enforcement, principally by politicians, and the installation of powers and resources, then he feared for the future. And his passion and commitment bore fruit. Cec submitted a report that was considered by many senior officers of the day to be, as Cec would later put it: “pie in the sky”. But as always, he persevered, his recommendations were accepted, and a Squad of about 16 officers was formed. Creating the Drug Squad much as we now know it. Detectives, surveillance, safe houses, many of the resources that we consider fundamental today. And the successes followed, with drugs removed from the streets, and traffickers put before the Courts. In 2007 Cec was among three retired officers that the Drug Squad of the State Crime Command honoured as Squad Patrons. At that important Ceremony, a first for the State Crime Command and the NSW Police Force, the Squad formally recognised and paid its respects to Cec for his ground breaking work and leadership in the profession of drug law enforcement. For creating the foundations on which the Squad now flourishes. When our working life is over I expect that each and every one of us wants to look back over our time with a sense of pride and achievement, and with a belief that those tens of thousands of hours of labour were worth it. That the cause was worth the effort, was worth fighting for. That we used our time well. If we’re honest, I am sure we’d also like to think that those we worked with and for thought well of us, respected the job we did and the person we were. There is a video of the ceremony that captures the address given by Cec at the State Crime Command Ceremony I mentioned earlier. His passion for detective work, and drug enforcement in particular, are plain to see, undimmed by the passing of more than two decades since his retirement. The State Crime Command is home to our most skilled detectives … investigating our most complex and serious cases. To impress this group, you need to have something special. You need to know your stuff. And Cec clearly knew his stuff. The respect from the Detectives gathered to hear him speak is so unmistakably evident. Every officer in the venue held in thrall. There could be no doubt that Cec had used his time as a police officer well. In so many endeavours, we now see further and with greater clarity, by standing on the shoulders of those who have gone before. In retired Commissioner Cecil Roy Abbott AO QPM the NSW Police Force truly stands on the shoulders of a giant. I am privileged to be able to represent every member of the NSW Police Force to farewell a Commissioner who served the Force and the people of New South Wales with honour, and distinction. Our prayers travel with you Cec, may you rest in peace.
Funeral Location: Castlebrook Garden Chapel, Windsor Road, Rouse Hill, NSW
Buried at: ?
Grave GPS: ?
Memorial: NSW Police force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, F4 ( Right Wall )
GARDENER, Adam Stuart
Passed away peacefully on 1st March, 2014
Late of Parklea
Dearly beloved husband of Gail,
loved and cherished father of Brendan, Bree and Caleb.
Much loved and adored son of Pam and John,
son-in-law to Sandra and Neil,
loving brother-in-law to Susie, Mitch and Belinda.
Will also be sadly missed by all his family, extended family and friends.
Aged 28 Years
Taken from us too soon, forever in our hearts”
Relatives and friends of ADAM are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held in the Castlebrook Garden Chapel, Windsor Road, Rouse Hill on Saturday, 8th March, 2014 commencing at 12noon.
GARDENER, Adam Stuart Passed away peacefully on1st March, 2014 Late of Parklea Dearly beloved husband of Gail, loved and cherished father of Brendan, Bree and Caleb. Much loved and adored son of Pam and John, son-in-law to Sandra and Neil, loving brother-in-law to Susie, Mitch and Belinda. Will also be sadly missed by all his family, extended family and friends. Aged 28 Years”Taken from us too soon, forever in our hearts”Relatives and friends of ADAM are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held in the Castlebrook Garden Chapel, Windsor Road, Rouse Hill on Saturday, 8th March, 2014 commencing at 12noon.
– See more at: http://tributes.dailytelegraph.com.au/notice/27002242/view#sthash.rjJNlhz4.dpuf
A few days ago I told of the sudden and unexpected death of one of our own, Adam Gardener.
Adam was only twenty eight and not in his early thirties as I first thought. A wife and young family made it all the more tragic, tragic beyond words.
Adam was buried today in a very moving and massively attended funeral in Rouse Hill.
The NSW Police did him and itself proud.
I mention this tonight to tell you that Superintendent Wayne Cox, the Local Area Commander for Parramatta, Adams station, gave all his people last night, today and tonight off on Special Leave to enable those wishing to the time to attend.
With all the talk these days of the ever precious budget and the penny pinching that Commanders are forced to do, I can’t help but feel that this altruistic gesture stands out.
I know I’d go a little further for a boss like that.
RIP Adam.
Adam was diagnosed with lymphoma about two weeks prior to his death and passed away from a heart attack as there was a growth from the disease on his heart.
At the time of his passing, his best mate and his wife were with him.
May Adam forever Rest In Peace.
Colin Robert WATKINS
| 09/04/2014
Colin Robert WATKINS
Joined NSW Police Force via NSW Police Cadet system on 15 March 1948
Cadet # 745
New South Wales Police Force
[alert_yellow]Regd. # 6558[/alert_yellow]
Rank: Police Cadet – commenced 15 March 1948
Probationary Constable – appointed 9 December 1949
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed 1 November 1976
Inspector – retirement
Stations: ?
Service: From 15 March 1948 to? ? ? = ? years Service
Funeral location: South Chapel, Woronora Crematorium, SUTHERLAND
Buried at: ?
Memorial at:
[alert_yellow]Colin is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] * NEED MORE INFO
With regret I advise the death of Colin Robert WATKINS, 83 old, former Regd. No. 6558, a Veteran member of the Sydney Branch of the RPA.
Colin passed away on 04/03/2014 and his funeral is proposed to be held at 12noon on Wednesday 12th Instant at the South Chapel, Woronora Crematorium, SUTHERLAND.
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Gabriel CONDON
| 09/04/2014
Gabriel CONDON
aka Gabe
New South Wales Police Force – Retired
[alert_yellow]Regd. # 7238[/alert_yellow]
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 31 March 1952
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed 1 December 1978
Inspector – retired
Stations: Wollongong early – mid 1970’s
Service: From pre 31 March 1952 to ??? = ? years Service
Awards: No find on It’s an Honour
National Police Service Medal – presented to his wife, Patricia ( Pat ), at Lake Illawarra Police Station on Thursday 8 September 2016.
Buried at: Wollongong Memorial Gardens, Berkeley Rd, Berkeley, NSW
Inspector Gabe Condon
Inspector Gabe Condon
CONDON, Gabriel March 17, 2007 peacefully at home of Kiama Downs, formerly of Dapto. Dearly beloved husband of Pat (nee Chapman), loved father and father-in-law of Graham, Gary and Marie, Andrew and Jacqui, beloved grandfather of his grandchildren.
Aged 74 Yrs.
A quiet achiever, in all his endeavours, performed above and beyond the call of duty.
Gabe’s funeral service will be held in The Chapel, Stan Crapp Funeral Home, Cnr Manning & Farmer Streets, Kiama on Thursday March 22, 2007 at 1pm.
In lieu of flowers donations are invited to Kiama Lions Club. A collection box will be provided.
Illawarra Mercury, Tuesday March 20, 2007
Gab was an Inspector at Wollongong many, many years ago and, in his later part of life, was suffering from Parkinsons Disease.
I spoke with Gab about 8 months ago, on the phone, and he was extremely hard to understand because of the disease.
