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Joshua PAROCI

Joshua PAROCI

AKA  Josh
Husband to Service NSW Police Force member
Late of  ?

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. #  ?????

Rank:  Detective Senior Constable

Stations?, State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad – Parramatta,  – Death

ServiceFrom  ? ? 2008 to  19 May 2018 10 years Service

Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

Born:   ? ? 1987

Died on:   Saturday  19 May 2018

Age:  31

Cause:   Drowned

Event location:   Shotover River, Queenstown, New Zealand

Event type:  White water rafting accident

Event date:  Saturday  19 May 2018

Funeral date:   ? ? ?

Funeral location:   ?

Funeral Parlour:  ?

Buried at:   ?

 Memorial located at:   ?

Joshua Paroci

 

[alert_blue]JOSHUA is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue] * NOT JOB RELATED

 

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 Funeral location TBA

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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RIP Detective Senior Constable Joshua Paroci,
Our respect and condolences from our families to yours. And the Thin Blue Line.
Thank you for your service Sir ????

The NSW Police Force regrets to inform the community of the death of a serving police officer in an accident in New Zealand.

Detective Senior Constable Joshua Paroci, aged 31, died following a rafting incident in Queenstown, New Zealand on Saturday (19 May 2018).

Det S/C Paroci joined the force in 2008 and was most recently working at the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad.

Commissioner Mick Fuller extended condolences to the Paroci family on behalf of the NSW Police Force.

“The hardest part of my job is when we lose one of our own and my thoughts are with Det S/C Paroci’s wife, who is also a police officer, family, friends and colleagues,” Commissioner Fuller said.

Det S/C Paroci was well respected by all those who knew him, and the police family will rally around his loved ones during this difficult time.

Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent John Kerlatec, said Josh was a great man and an excellent detective, and will be sorely missed by the team.

“Professionally, Josh was a tireless worker; dedicated to investigating some of the most heinous crimes against children,” Det Supt Kerlatec said.

“His passion was justice for victims. Not only was he a police officer, he was completing a law degree, which he intended to use to create better outcomes for young victims.

Josh was inspirational, and everywhere he worked, he turned colleagues into mates; today, we mourn the loss of our good mate.”

Det S/C Paroci’s family have requested their privacy at this time.

New Zealand Police continue to make inquiries on behalf of the Coroner, and with the assistance of Maritime NZ, which is conducting its own investigation into what happened.

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Nine News re accident

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Tributes flow for Australian policeman killed in rafting accident near Queenstown

Australian Joshua Paroci, pictured with his wife, who is also a police officer.
Australian Joshua Paroci, pictured with his wife, who is also a police officer.

The Australian man who died in a rafting incident near Queenstown was a detective senior constable with the New South Wales police force.

Joshua Paroci, 31, was one of a group of six Australians rafting on Saturday afternoon with Challenge Rafting on the Shotover River when they overturned near the Toilet Rapids.

Company spokeswoman Tsehai Tiffin said Paroci was being brought back from the far side of the river when he lost his grip on the rescue rope and was swept to the next rapid.

He was helped by a safety kayaker through another rapid and then to shore, but lost consciousness and could not be revived.

NSW police Commissioner Mick Fuller said Paroci would be missed.

“The hardest part of my job is when we lose one of our own and my thoughts are with Detective S/C Paroci’s wife, who is also a police officer, family, friends and colleagues,” he said in a statement.

Detective S/C Paroci was well respected by all those who knew him, and the police family will rally around his loved ones during this difficult time.”

It was the second death on the same section of the river within two months after guide Keith Haare, 62, also known as Chief, died from a medical event in late March.​

Tiffin said Challenge Rafting offered its “deepest sympathy to [Paroci‘s] family and friends”.

It was not unusual for rafts to overturn on grade four or five rivers, like the Shotover, Tiffin said. Customers were issued with equipment to help keep them warm and safe, including a wetsuit, neoprene jacket, booties, spray jacket, lifejacket and helmet.

Another member of the same group was injured and was flown to Lakes District Hospital for treatment. The rest of the group were flown out by helicopter and all flew back to Australia on Monday morning.

The weather was fine and sunny on Saturday and the river was at a medium to low flow at 16 cubic metres a second, well within standard operating parameters, Tiffin said.

Challenge Rafting worked closely with Queenstown Rafting, whose general manager, Luke Taylor, said he and his staff were devastated.

“Our hearts go out to our guests and the families of those involved in this. Both our companies wish to offer the group our sincere condolences and ongoing support,” he said.

Queenstown Rafting and Challenge Rafting have voluntarily suspended operations on the river until further notice.

NSW child abuse and sex crimes squad Commander, Detective Superintendent John Kerlatec described Paroci as a great man and an excellent detective, who would be sorely missed by the team.

“Professionally, Josh was a tireless worker; dedicated to investigating some of the most heinous crimes against children,” he said.

“His passion was justice for victims. Not only was he a police officer, he was completing a law degree, which he intended to use to create better outcomes for young victims.

“Josh was inspirational, and everywhere he worked, he turned colleagues into mates; today, we mourn the loss of our good mate.”

Police said they were investigating the cause of Saturday’s incident, and Maritime New Zealand was conducting a separate investigation.

An autopsy was expected to be carried out in Invercargill on Monday.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/104047806/one-dead-in-rafting-accident-near-queenstown?rm=m

 

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Friends pay tribute to Child Abuse Unit Detective Joshua Paroci

THE “larger than life” detective who drowned in a rafting accident in New Zealand was on a buck’s weekend with his colleague, who is due to marry next month.

Friends who worked with the Child Abuse Unit’s detective Senior Constable Joshua Paroci paid tribute to their colleague who pursued criminals with dogged determination.

The 31-year-old was due to return to work at Parramatta with his close friend, detective Senior Constable Robert Popovic, last week after they went to New Zealand four weeks before the wedding.

The two had trained together at the police academy in Goulburn and formed a tight bond. They were on the trip with three friends when tragedy struck.

Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Grech, who was Sen-Constable Paroci’s team leader at Parramatta, said Sen-Constable Popovic had been left devastated by the accident that claimed his mate’s life when a raft overturned in rapids at Skippers Canyon, near Queenstown, on May 19.

Sen-Constable Paroci, who was married and the father of a four-year-old boy, was one of six Australians on the raft.

“He’s pretty shattered,’’ Sen-Sgt Grech said of Sen-Constable Popovic.

“He’s talking about not having the wedding.

“He’s very close to his friend. They were bosom buddies. It was a buck’s trip, so there was lots of planning involved. It’s the time of their life.”

He said Sen-Constable Paroci had been in the squad for 18 months and “made a lot of noise” until he saw justice prevail.

“He was big in stature and larger than life on the floor,’’ he said.

“It impacts the office really significantly.”

Squad commander detective Superin­tendent John Kerlatec also praised Sen-Constable Paroci.

“Josh was a tireless worker, dedicated to investigating some of the most heinous crimes against children,” he said. “Not only was he a police officer, he was completing a law degree, which he intended to use to create better outcomes for young victims.”

Maritime New Zealand and the coroner are investigating.

https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/parramatta/friends-pay-tribute-to-child-abuse-unit-detective-joshua-paroci/news-story/d33605bf95b690f33de6df47498d84f9

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Australian police officer dies in rafting accident near Queenstown, New Zealand

Updated

An Australian man who died during a rafting trip in New Zealand’s South Island has been identified as 31-year-old Joshua Paroci of New South Wales.

A New South Wales police officer, Detective Senior Constable Paroci was reportedly with five other Australians on the raft, operated by Challenge Rafting, which overturned on rapids on the Shotover River, north of Queenstown.

Police colleagues have described him as well respected and an excellent detective who would be sorely missed.

In a statement, the rafting company said the raft overturned about 3:45pm on Saturday near the Toilet Rapids at Skippers Canyon.

The company said the rafters followed standard rescue procedures when they were pitched into the water.

Detective Senior Constable Paroci lost his grip on the rescue rope as the raft was being towed to a bank and he was swept through another rapid.

Attempts by paramedics to resuscitate him on the shore failed.

Another member of the same group was injured and received treatment at a New Zealand hospital.

Queenstown Rafting general manager Luke Taylor said he and his staff were devastated by the incident.

“Our hearts go out to our guests and the families of those involved in this. Both our companies wish to offer the group our sincere condolences and ongoing support,” Mr Taylor said.

In a statement, NSW Police said Detective Senior Constable Paroci joined the force in 2008 and was a member of the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad.

His wife is also a police officer.

“Detective Senior Constable Paroci was well respected by all those who knew him and the police family will rally around his loved ones during this difficult time,” Commissioner Mick Fuller said.

Detective Superintendent John Kerlatec, the Commander of the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad, said the 31-year-old was “a tireless worker, dedicated to investigating some of the most heinous crimes against children”.

“His passion was justice for victims,” he said, adding that the young detective was completing a law degree which he had hoped to use to further help young victims.

“Josh was inspirational and everywhere he worked he turned colleagues into mates; today we mourn the loss of our good mate.”

Police said Detective Senior Constable Paroci’s family had asked for privacy at this time.

The rafting company voluntarily suspended operations until further notice, and Maritime New Zealand is investigating the incident.

New Zealand Police confirmed Detective Senior Constable Paroci’s death in a statement and offered “their condolences to Mr Paroci’s family and friends at this difficult time”.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was providing consular assistance.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-05-21/australian-man-dies-in-rafting-accident-near-queenstown/9782714
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Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN

Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN 

AKA  Dutchy
Late of Hazelbrook

Tasmanian Police Force

transferred to

NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class #  ???

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. #  * 60011

Rank: NSWPF Probationary Constable – appointed 4 July 2011

Leading Senior Constable

Final Rank = Leading Senior Constable

Stations?, Blacktown, Blue Mountains PAC & Blue Mountains Police Rescue Squad ( Squad from 2015 – 2018 ) – Death

Service TasPolFrom  26 June 2006  to  18 June 2011 =  5 years Service

Service NSWPFFrom  4 July 2011  to  29 November 2018 =  7+ years Service

Total Service:  12 years Service

Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

Born:   25 May 1978

Died on:   Thursday  29 November 2018

Age:  40

Cause:  Snow avalanche – Buried / Suffocation

Event location:  Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Eugenie Glacier on the eastern flank of Footstool, New Zealand

Event date:   Thursday  29 November 2018 around 1.30pm N.Z. time

Funeral date:   Friday 14 December 2018 @ 11am

Funeral location:   the Chapel, Blue Mountains Grammar School, 3 Matcham Ave, Wentworth Falls

Wake location:  ?TBA

Funeral Parlour:  Blue Mountains Funerals – 47356900

Buried at:   ?TBA

 Memorial located at:   ?TBA

Skye Deutschbein and her husband Nathan, who was killed by an avalanche near Mt Cook on Thursday. Photo / Supplied
Skye & Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN

[alert_blue] NATHAN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue] * NOT JOB RELATED

[alert_pink] ?  IS mentioned on the Sydney Police Centre Memorial Wall[/alert_pink]

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 Funeral location:  

 

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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FUND RAISERS:

http://deutschbeinfamilyappeal.gofundraise.com.au/
https://www.gofundme.com/support-for-skye-deutschbein
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FUNERAL NOTICES AND FAMILY TRIBUTES

Nathan passed away suddenly 29th November 2018 whilst mountaineering in Mt Cook, New Zealand. Late of the Blue Mountains.
Devoted husband of Skye.
Proud father of Taylor and Ashley.
Beloved son of Nancy and Ray.
Loyal brother of Rod.
Inspiring friend. Avid adventurer.
Aged 40 years.
God’s Greatest Gift.

Greg Callander – Retired NSWPF 17463 on 13 December, 2018 at 11:49pm

May you forever Rest In Peace.

Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN

Ken Kemp on 7 July, 2019 at 11:24pm

I only knew Nathan as “Vern” via Flickr. He was one of my (Ken’sKam) Flickr contacts and I always enjoyed his photos and exchanging comments on those. He was obviously full of life and an avid adventurer. His love of his family came through in the photos of them on his Flickr page. I will miss him, even though we only had contact via Flickr. I can only offer my condolences to his family and friends and I am so sorry that these are so late. I only learned of his passing today as I was browsing photos from my Flickr contacts and stumbled upon his last post (one that I had also commented upon).

Sherrie Gaul on 14 December, 2018 at 3:05pm

Growing up with Nathan he really was a brother from another mother!
I’m saddened by the whole situation especially when I think of his family!
My thoughts are with everyone affected by the loss. Rest In Peace Nathan!

Phil and Emma Boyd on 14 December, 2018 at 7:07am

– [ ] Skye, Ash and Tay – Today you and your family celebrate the amazing life shared with Nathan. A life filled with hope, dreams, adventure and love that most people wouldn’t experience in a life time. The short time we hung out in Tassie was one of the best seasons we remember and the loss has been felt deeply; we can’t imagine the pain you and your family must be experiencing. Our prayer is that God fills your loss and emptiness with a strong and immense presence and peace that only He can bring. We can’t be there with you today but our prayers and thoughts are with you all. Love Phil, Emma, Micah and Tait x

Greg Callander – Retired NSWPF 17463 on 13 December, 2018 at 11:49pm

May you forever Rest In Peace.

Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN

Michelle Schofield on 13 December, 2018 at 11:08pm

Skye my deepest sympathies go to you and your girls at the loss of your husband. I knew Nathan as a kid and I’ve always remembered his huge smile and happy nature.
Many condolences note and forever.
Michelle xxx

Michelle Schofield on 13 December, 2018 at 10:58pm

Dearest Ray and Nancy
I’m so very sorry to hear of the loss of your gorgeous boy, Nathan.
My memories of him are of his constant smile and happy nature.
It’s too hard to believe that he has been taken far too soon.
My love and heart reach out to you at this impossible time.
Much love
Chellie xxx

Chris Cupit on 13 December, 2018 at 4:28pm

My heartfelt condolences go out to family and loved ones of Dutchy – especially his wife and two girls.
Was an absolute pleasure to work with you at Bridgewater mate. A fantastic bloke and loyal colleague that was taken way too soon.
You will be sadly missed by everyone who knew you mate.
Love to family and friends – Cupe

Jemma Tidyman on 11 December, 2018 at 9:36pm

My dear Skye, I am so very sorry and sad at the news of Nathan’s passing. He was a smart, happy, thoughtful family man, who loved his family with everything he had,t hat was easily seen by his constant smiles. He will be missed by everyone around him.
My condolences to you, your girls, yours and Nathan’s family. Sending love to you all.

Rachel Gibson on 10 December, 2018 at 5:21pm

So shocked to hear this awful news. I knew Nathan (known to me as Vern) only through Flickr – and had been off the site for a long time. Just recently I visited the Blue Mountains and thought of him and his beautiful images and wondered about their locations. When I got home to far north Queensland, I looked him up again and read of his death in Mt Cook – a place I came to know partly because of his adventures there and the beautiful photographs he shared via Flickr.
I am so sad to hear he is gone. Although I knew him only through Flickr, he was always a humourous and encouraging photography muse. Unlike so many in the online world, he was the real deal and I felt like I knew him. I am not surprised to learn that he worked serving others in the police force. The world will be poorer without him.
Heartfelt condolences to his wife and children.

Pippa Brown on 10 December, 2018 at 8:39am

Nathan was a year ahead of me in the academy in Tasmania, part of our christian mailing list and a wonderful man to know. He was always quick with a smile. I’m so sorry for your loss

Janette Asche on 9 December, 2018 at 6:40pm

I am so sorry to hear of Nathan’s tragic death. I got to know him through Flickr and then Facebook and loved to see his adventures and the way he introduced his young daughters to the outdoors and adventure. My deepest condolences to family, friends and work colleagues.

Hermosas Y Amadas ! on 7 December, 2018 at 8:54am

Que dios les dé fuerzas y consuelo,sabemos que nuestra esperanza es el reencuentro en el cielo.Oro a Dios para que puedan enfrentar esos días sin Nathan con corage .Si en el cielos existe montañas de seguro él estpá en el topo. Las amo dulces muchachas,Dios sea con vosotras xoxox

Daryl and Evelyn Peninton on 6 December, 2018 at 8:59pm

There are so many memories… seeing Nathan pull up in his red Jeep and pull out his guitar whenever he played at church. Seeing him onstage with the band Oracle, organising youth events with him and Skye and the team, flatbed truck rides at youth camp, but my favourite memory was when he used to come over to our place once a week and he, Daryl and I would watch “the Contender” reality tv series. One night he walked in and handed Daryl a packet of mint slice, it was open and a couple were missing. He just smiled and said “sorry, I got hungry”. We often recall those great times we all shared doing youth together. You will be missed Vern, Rest In Peace.

Max & Meg Richards on 6 December, 2018 at 8:58pm

Dear Skye and girls and all the family, sending our love and prayers as you journey through this time of loss. God will be your comforter and guide through the coming days as you keep your eyes on Him. We will continue to pray for you all from a distance. Much love Max & Meg xxx

Rhia, Chris and Gabriel Sarte on 6 December, 2018 at 7:39pm

Our prayers are with you Skye and your family. May God’s loving arms comfort you at this difficult time. We are always here for you. God bless.

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https://www.facebook.com/Penrithconveyancing/posts/10217152269741687
Dave Stuart

http://deutschbeinfamilyappeal.gofundraise.com.au/

Nathan Deutschbein aka Dutchy epitomised what a person would expect in a mate, work colleague and for those closer to him a husband, dad and relative. Nathan had a genuineness that is rarely seen.

His passing is a tragedy and causes reflection on what we all value from life and how precious that it is. If Nathan’s legacy becomes our own benchmark on how we do things, care for people and enjoy life generally – we can only be better off for that.

The blue family will be awesome to support his family and foster his memory.

Senior Constable Brad REDFERN & Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN
Senior Constable Brad REDFERN & Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN

"Proud father moment"
“Proud father moment”

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NEW ZEALAND

Mountaineer killed in avalanche near Mt Cook was 40yo Australian senior police constable

30 Nov, 2018 8:04pm

The wife of the Australian climber killed in an avalanche in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park yesterday has posted a moving tribute to their family’s “Captain Awesome“.

Nathan Deutschbein, a senior New South Wales police officer and father of two girls, died while descending The Footstool, a prominent, 2764m-tall peak on the Main Divide about 8km from Aoraki/Mount Cook village.

The 40-year-old was a senior constable in the Blue Mountains Area Command.

Wife Skye Deutschbein said on social media, “Our beloved Nathan was in an avalanche on the mountain he was climbing yesterday and did not survive. We are broken and cannot imagine a world without him. He was our Captain Awesome.”

Nathan Deutschbein leaves behind his wife Skye and their two daughters. Photo / Supplied
Skye & Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN

In an earlier post, she indicated her husband and two companions were planning to climb 3109m Mt Elie De Beaumont at the head of the Tasman Glacier.

A Gofundme page has been set up to support Deutschbein’s wife Skye and their two young daughters.

“Our hearts are utterly devastated for Skye,” said page administrator Shalene Roberts.

“We are praying fervently and trusting Christ to comfort Skye and the girls during this tragic time, and we ask that you do the same.

“We also know that many expenses lie ahead for the family, and we would like to try to ease some of that burden.

“The Christmas holiday this year is going to be exceptionally hard, and we don’t want financial need to compound the devastation.”

The tragic incident occurred around 1.30pm yesterday as Deutschbein and a fellow mountaineer were descending the Eugenie Glacier on the eastern flank of Footstool.

Department of Conservation Aoraki/Mt Cook operations manager Brent Swanson told Newshub the 20m-wide avalanche travelled 300m, pushing the climbers into a crevasse, making their rescue difficult.

A helicopter couldn’t land so a DoC staff member suspended on a fixed-line recovered the injured climber and Deutschbein.

The New South Wales Blue Heelers, a group of police officers who represented their state each year in the National Police Australian Football Championships, described him as a “genuine good bloke“.

Thoughts today with the friends and family of Senior Constable Nathan Deutschbein of the Blue Mountains PAC who was tragically killed yesterday in New Zealand,” the group wrote on Facebook.

Known as a really great person who served the community of the Blue Mountains in both general duties and as a police rescue operator.

He will be missed by many.”

The Australian police said they were offering support and condolences to the Deutschbein’s wife and family.

Sources have told the Herald Deutschbein was an experienced mountaineer, who regularly visited New Zealand to climb peaks in the Southern Alps.

An adventure website run by Deutschbein showed spectacular images from his trips to New Zealand, including of climbing 3033m-high Mt Aspiring and 2627m-high Mt Sealy.

Friends had been posting messages of support for the family and tributes to Deutschbein on Facebook.

Nathan is going to be so missed. Such an incredible man,” one said.

Another wrote of their disbelief saying, “I’m so deeply sorry . I’m having such trouble believing this. Beyond devastated.

( N.Z. Police ) Mid-South Canterbury Area Commander Inspector Dave Gaskin said it was difficult to say why the avalanche was set off but it was more than probable the group triggered it while crossing the snow field as the snow conditions were pretty unstable.

Two other people were climbing with the person who died – one had minor injuries and the other was uninjured because he had remained at the hut that day.

Gaskin said police had no details of the mountaineers but understood they were reasonably proficient and experienced.

Gaskin said the mountaineer who was uninjured had stayed behind at the Sefton Bivouac hut because they were sick.

The climber who suffered minor injuries was transported to Twizel for medical treatment.

Deutschbein‘s death had been referred to the coroner.

MetService reports Mt Cook’s weather for today was fine spells, with a chance of a shower or two with light winds and a high of 18C.

Gaskin said there was a risk for loose, wet avalanches at the time above 1200m.

“There are various types of snow pack conditions, so loose and wet is as it sounds,’ he said.

“It’s quite a slushy, icy mixture, that condition can mean that sort of avalanche can run a lot further than a typical slab avalanche which is nicely bound together.”

Skye Deutschbein and her husband Nathan, who was killed by an avalanche near Mt Cook on Thursday. Photo / Supplied
Skye Deutschbein and her husband Nathan, who was killed by an avalanche near Mt Cook on Thursday. Photo / Supplied

The Sefton Bivvy area was the scene of a death in September 2013. British man Robert Buckley, 32, was trying to reach the small hut 1660m above sea level with three friends when he suffered a fatal fall on steep ground, 80m short of the hut.

The latest tragedy comes after two mountain guides were killed last month in an avalanche on Mt Hicks that also buried adventurer and philanthropist Jo Morgan.

Morgan was lucky to escape with her life and told media at the time she was “gobsmacked” to be alive after digging herself out.

Her climbing partners Martin Hess and Wolfgang Maier – who were both originally from Germany but had become New Zealand residents – died.

Morgan had been roped to the two experienced mountain guides when the avalanche hit, but she was unable to find them after being sent tumbling up to 200m down the mountain.

“None of us had any control over it.”

Morgan was rescued after setting off a personal locator beacon.

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12169096&fbclid=IwAR2OMEr-Wii9iCE7hU1ldMb1-cpji6Ixr-ILa5t8s1j9IEfzRvL0VPtENPQ

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NSW police officer killed in New Zealand avalanche

Updated

NSW Police are mourning the loss of a second officer killed in New Zealand’s south island this year after a senior constable died when he was hit by an avalanche.

Key points:

  • NSW officer Nathan Deutschbein was trekking in New Zealand when the avalanche hit
  • Another man was injured in the incident, and a third trekker who stayed behind in a camp escaped unharmed
  • Mr Deutschbein’s wife Skye has said she was “broken” after hearing of her husband’s death

Nathan Deutschbein, 40, a member of Blue Mountains area command, was trekking in the Mount Cook area on Thursday when he and his companion triggered a small avalanche that pushed them into a crevasse.

New Zealand police said Mr Deutschbein‘s companion, who was left with minor injuries, was unable to get to the 40-year-old in time to rescue him.

Mr Deutschbein, who leaves behind a wife and two children, is the second NSW police officer to be killed in New Zealand’s south island this year after 31-year-old Joshua Paroci died while rafting near Queenstown in May.

Joshua Paroci, in suit and tie, smiles at the camera.
Photo: NSW police officer Joshua Paroci died whilst rafting on the Shotover River. (Supplied: NSW Police)

Both men were off duty and holidaying at the time.

Posting on social media, Mr Deutschbein’s wife Skye said the family is “broken”.

“[We] cannot imagine a world without him. He was our Captain Awesome,” she said in the post.

“I will be off social media for a time but will keep you informed of funeral details when we know more.

“Thank you for your prayers. They are the only thing keeping us right now.”

The pair had celebrated their 19th wedding anniversary earlier in the month.

NSW Police said he was a leading senior constable with the Blue Mountains Police Area Command and were offering support and condolences to the officers wife and family.

Speaking on the incident on Friday, New Zealand police said the hiking pair had turned back due to poor weather when the avalanche hit.

The NSW police officer’s hiking partner was winched out by a helicopter after setting off a locator beacon.

A third member of their party had been unwell in the morning and stayed behind in a hut.

He and the injured hiker were later flown off the mountain.

The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council had warned of a moderate avalanche risk above 1200m because of loose snow and poor weather in the days prior.

“[It’s] an inherently dangerous place to go,” a spokesman said.

Thursday’s event was the second deadly avalanche at the national park in recent weeks.

Last month, on nearby Mount Hicks, New Zealand adventurer Jo Morgan managed to dig her way out of the snow that killed her two companions, Martin Hess and Wolfgang Maier.

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"Nathan

Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN in green.<br /> The man obviously loved his wilderness and family<br />
Nathan DEUTSCHBEIN in green.
The man obviously loved his wilderness and family

"Nathan

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* NOTE:

Nathan, together with other interstate Police, were given NSWPF Registered numbers in the 60k area – despite the current class of Attesting Police ( as of Friday 14 March 2018 ) having NSWPF Registered numbers in the 53k area.

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Police rescue officer killed in New Zealand

Nathan Deutschbein, a Blue Mountains police rescue officer, was killed in an avalanche in New Zealand last week.

Leading Senior Constable Deutschbein, 40, had served with the rescue squad in the Mountains since 2016. He joined the NSW Police Force in 2011 after transferring from Tasmania.

He was climbing on Mt Cook in New Zealand’s south island when he was caught in an avalanche last Thursday. His climbing companion suffered minor injuries.

Fellow Police Rescue officer, Senior Constable Steve Day, said Constable Deutschbein had been a gifted worker whose experience as a mountaineer meant he could quickly figure out the best way to reach people stuck in canyons or on cliffs.

“He had the ability to assess and come up with the best possible system for accessing them,” he said.

“He was literally one of our best operators and a very experienced roper.”

He had innate skills that just can’t be taught, Constable Day said.

“He was a very good asset to the rescue squad – confident and able to exercise initiative.

“With the type of skills he had, he will be one of the biggest losses to the squad.”

Constable Day described his colleague as “one of those genuine guys that everyone liked”.

NSW Police issued a statement offering support and condolences. It said the family and colleagues had requested privacy.

NSW Police Legacy has established an appeal to raise funds for Constable Deutschbein’s wife, Skye, and their two daughters.

Its Facebook page described him as someone who earned “high praise for his work and loyalty from his friends and colleagues”.

“Nathan thrived in the outdoors and loved adventure. He could only be described as a man who lived life to the full and his passion rubbed off on everyone around him.”

Donations to the Deutschbein family can be made at http://deutschbeinfamilyappeal.gofundraise.com.au/.

Julie Burton, from the OzCanyons Facebook group, posted a link to the fundraising page: “This fella was one of us, and also a member of Blue Mountains Police Rescue and more than likely came to help when one of us was in trouble in a canyon. We knew him as Von Dutchy.”

The mayor, Cr Mark Greenhill, said the news was “devastating”.

“The love of our whole community goes out to Nathan’s family, friends and colleagues. He was such an admired and respected person.”

The New Zealand Department of Conservation Aoraki/Mt Cook operation manager, Brent Swanson, said the incident highlighted the risks involved in exploring the country’s mountains.

https://www.bluemountainsgazette.com.au/story/5790706/blue-mountains-police-rescue-officer-killed-in-avalanche/#slide=3

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Amanda STEVENSON

 Amanda STEVENSON

AKA  Mandy
Late of  Kanahooka

New South Wales Police Force – Widow of Sgt Colin STEVENSON – died 23 May 2014

Rank:  Police Wife

Final Rank = Police Widow

Stations?, Dapto, Warilla, Campbelltown, Wollongong

Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

Born:   ? ? 1960

Died on:   Sunday  18 November 2018

Age:  58

Cause:   ?

Event location:   ?TBA

Event date:   ?

Funeral date:   Friday  30 November 2018 @ 2pm

Funeral location:   Parsons Funeral Home, 4 Princes Hwy, Dapto

Wake location:  ?TBA

Funeral Parlour:  H. Parsons

Buried at:   ?TBA

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

Amanda STEVENSON

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 Funeral location TBA

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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Now at rest with Col.
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STEVENSON AMANDA “MANDY” of Kanahooka

Taken from us suddenly on November 18, 2018.

Beloved wife of the late Colin.
Dearly loved mother of Ben, and Tenielle.
Cherished Nanny of Chase and devoted mother to her ‘fur baby’ Ralf.

Mandy will be sadly missed by her loving family and many dear friends.

Aged 58 Years

We will treasure our memories of you forever

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Mandy’s funeral service to be held at Parsons Funeral Home, 4 Princes Highway Dapto on Friday November 30, 2018 at 2pm.

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November 24, 2018
R.I.P Our Beautiful Friend.
God Only Takes The Best.
Forever In Our Hearts And Thoughts.
Forever Missed Mand.
So Many Special Memories.
Corina, Mike and Family.
Published by Illawarra Mercury on Nov. 24, 2018
http://tributes.illawarramercury.com.au/obituaries/illawarramercury-au/obituary.aspx?n=amanda-stevenson-mandy&pid=190808884&fhid=40229
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Colin, Tenielle & Amanda STEVENSON
Colin, Tenielle & Amanda STEVENSON

 

Amanda & Col STEVENSON
Amanda & Col STEVENSON

Amanda & Col STEVENSON
Amanda & Col STEVENSON

 

Tenielle & Amanda STEVENSON
Tenielle & Amanda STEVENSON

Amanda & Tenielle STEVENSON

Tenielle & Amanda STEVENSON
Tenielle & Amanda STEVENSON

 

Amanda STEVENSON

Amanda presenting the Col Stevenson Trophy to ? at the 2017 Illawarra Police Memorial footy game.
Amanda presenting the Col Stevenson Trophy to ? at the 2017 Illawarra Police Memorial footy game.

September 2017
September 2017

Amanda presenting the Col Stevenson Trophy to ? at the 2017 Illawarra Police Memorial footy game. Amanda presenting the Col Stevenson Trophy to ? at the 2017 Illawarra Police Memorial footy game. Retired Commissioner of NSW Police - Ken Moroney to left. Police Widow - Kerri Donnelly to the right Amanda presenting the Col Stevenson Trophy to ? at the 2017 Illawarra Police Memorial footy game. Amanda presenting the Col Stevenson Trophy to ? at the 2017 Illawarra Police Memorial footy game. September 2017[divider_dotted]

 




Robert Samuel LAYTON

 Robert Samuel LAYTON

Eldest son of retired Sgt Bob Layton # 10692
& Marian Layton ( civilian )
Late of  ?

Born:   ? ? ?

Died on:   Wednesday  7 November 2018

Age:  62

Cause:   ?

Event location:   ?

Event date: Wednesday  7 November 2018

Funeral date:   Wednesday  14 November 2018 @ noon

Funeral location:   Chapel, Parsons Funeral Home, 10 Woolworths Ave, Warilla

Wake location:  ?

Funeral Parlour:  ?

Buried at:   ?

 Memorial located at:   ?

 


 

 Funeral location



FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal


May they forever Rest In Peace


Our condolences to Bob, Marian and family.
Bob was a Sergeant at Warilla Police Station until his retirement and Marian was a cleaner at the same station for many years.

LAYTON, ROBERT SAMUEL of Warilla

Passed away peacefully on November 7, 2018.

Beloved eldest son of Bob and Marian Layton.
Cherished brother of Christopher, Suzanne (deceased), and Sandra.
Loved Uncle, and Great Uncle.

Father to Cheri-Lee, and Grandfather to Hayden.

Aged 62 Years

Forever in our hearts

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Robert’s funeral service to be held in the chapel, Parsons Funeral Home, 10 Woolworths Avenue Warilla on Wednesday November 14, 2018 at 12 noon.

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Published by Illawarra Mercury on Nov. 10, 2018





Peter Richard IRBY

Peter Richard IRBY 

AKA  IRBS
Late of Ocean Shores, NSW

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. #  36522

Rank:  Probationary Constable – appointed 2001

Final Rank = Senior Constable

Stations?, Marrickville ( ProCst ), Transit Police, Tuggerah Lakes LAC, Mid North Coast LAC, Richmond LAC – Nimbin Police Stn

ServiceFrom  ? ? 2001 to 2 February 2012 = 11 years Service

Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

Born:  29 May 1978

Died on:   Wednesday  31 October 2018

Age:  40

Cause:   Cancer – Bowel, metastasised to the Liver, Colon,  ( diagnosed Wednesday 7 March 2018 )

Event location:   ?

Event date:  Wednesday  31 October 2018

Funeral date:   5 November 2018

Funeral location:   St John’s Catholic Church, Mullumbimby

Wake location:  ?

Funeral Parlour:  ?

Buried at:   ?

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

Peter Richard IRBY

Peter Richard IRBY
Peter Richard IRBY and his children

Peter Richard IRBY

Peter Richard IRBY

Peter Richard IRBY

Peter Richard IRBY

Peter Richard IRBY

Peter Richard IRBY

Peter Richard IRBY

Peter Richard IRBY with mate, Peter Fysh
Peter Richard IRBY with mate, Peter Fysh

Peter Richard IRBY

 

[alert_yellow]PETER is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow]  *NEED MORE INFO

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 Grave location TBA

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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Peter IRBY, was a serving member of the NSW Police Force between 03/05/2002 and the 02/02/2012 where he attained the rank of Senior Constable.  Peter performed general duties at Marrickville, Transit Police and Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Command before being stationed at Richmond Local Area Command between 09/09/2007 and the 02/02/2012 where he performed duties at Nimbin Police Station.

Peter passed away in hospital on the 31/10/2018 after a lengthy but valiant fight with cancer.  Peter was only 40 years old and had been a proud Police officer. He leaves behind his wife, Diona, their three young children, Henry, Darcy & Milah.

One of Peter’s last wishes was for Diona and the children to go to Disneyland.  This is a very small wish for a man who dedicated himself to serving the people of NSW.  It is hoped that we can raise some funds to assist Diona and their children at this difficult time.

https://thepeterirbylegacyfundraiser.gofundraise.com.au/

Today we have the melancholy honour of launching the Peter Irby Fundraiser. Senior Constable Peter Irby served in the NSW Police Force for ten years. At the age of just 40 he lost his lengthy battle with cancer, leaving behind his wife and three young children. One of his final wishes was for his family to go to Disneyland in California, and this fundraiser seeks to help with that. Please help if you can, and please help spread the word: http://bit.ly/peterirby

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Peter attended Mullumbimby High School between 1990 – 1996 to Year 12.
In September 2014 he did the Introduction to Return to Work Co-ordinator Course.
In April 2015 he did the Cert IV training and Assessment for Diploma of work, health and safety.
In March 2015 he was a Student at the Southern Cross University.
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‘PETE IRBY – WHAT A TOP BLOKE ‘– If I had a dollar for every time I heard that comment made!!  For all of us who love and adore him, Pete is that cheerful, loyal, fun loving guy who can always put a smile on your face with his wicked sense of humour!
Pete and his partner in crime Diona, have been married for over 12 years. Together they are raising the most wonderful little humans, Henry (11), Darcy (9) and Milah (7). Pete is the most amazing, devoted and loving father.
Pete has devoted his professional life to making a difference in the community and proudly served as a police officer attached to Marrickville LAC, Tuggerah Lakes LAC and Richmond LAC. It is a challenging environment and as his former Supervisor Mark said, “I was honoured to be his supervisor for several years of his service”. Pete is an outgoing and positive person with a strong desire to perform any role to the best of his ability. His perfectionist nature, empathy and willingness to help others selflessly are character traits we all admire in him. In keeping with Pete’s desire to help out his community, he is currently studying to be a nurse.
DIAGNOSIS
On Wednesday 7th of March 2018, Diona and Pete were given the heartbreaking news Pete was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer. When he was diagnosed, Pete was also informed that the cancer had spread through to his Liver. Since then a PET scan has identified that the cancer has shown up in his colon as well.  When cancer cells break away from the primary tumour in the bowel, they can travel around in the blood stream or in lymph fluid. There is a common pattern in the way that bowel cancer spreads in the body. The name given to this kind of bowel cancer is ‘metastatic’ and each new area of growth away from the primary tumour is known as a ‘metastasis’

Pete has endured numerous tests and procedures over the past week to ascertain what the best course of action is, along with his team of specialists.  Pete will start chemo next week.

PURPOSE OF THIS PAGE

This go fund me page has been created to help Pete and Dee pay the mounting Medical bills that will come their way.  After helping so many people professionally and personally it is fitting his colleagues, friends and community ‘have his back’ in this time of need.

This diagnosis has rocked all of Pete’s friends and family to our core. As Pete’s mate Fyshy said, “Last Thursday morning I woke to the news that my best mate had this hideous disease, absolutely broke my heart. Pete Irby is not my best mate he is my brother that’s how close we are, we were inseparable growing up, Pete’s family give us the nickname Fysh n Chips.

This is going to be a very long and tough journey for Pete and his beautiful family, and I hope we can help them all as much as we possibly can. There are so many things I can say about Pete, but the biggest thing is he needs each and everyone’s support in this shit time. “

Pete is determined to beat this hideous disease. Let’s get behind Pete and his family and try to ease some of the financial pressure for them.

Any contribution you can make is greatly appreciated.  Please keep Pete and his family in your thoughts as he fights this insidious disease.

#TeamPete

https://au.gofundme.com/teampete-pete039s-cancer-fund
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Harry Ian FEARNLEY

Harry Ian FEARNLEY 

AKA  Fern, Ian
Late of Carcoar, NSW

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. #  8989

Uniform # 1424

Rank:  Probationary Constable – appointed 3 March 1958

Constable 1st Class – appointed 3 March 1964

Senior Constable – appointed 1 July 1968

Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 1 March 1974

 

Final Rank = Sergeant

 

Stations?, Sydney stations, Habberfield?, North Coast District, West Wyalong, Walgett – Retirement

 

ServiceFrom  ? ? pre March 1958?  to  2 April 1988 = 30+ years Service

 

Awards:   National Medal – granted 22 August 1980  ( Sgt 3/C )

1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 3 September 1985 ( Sgt 2/C )

 

Born:   Saturday  20 July 1935

Died on:   Friday  26 October 2018

Age:  83yrs  3mths  6days

Cause:   ?

Event location:   ?

Event date:   ?

 

Funeral date:   Thursday  1 November 2018 at noon

Funeral location:   Carcoar Cemetery, Carcoar Rd, Carcoar, NSW

Wake location:  ?

 

Funeral Parlour:  ?

 

Buried at:   Carcoar Cemetery

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

 

 

FERN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance  *NEED MORE INFO


 

 Funeral location



FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace


Fern played NRL with Balmain back in the 1960’s.

* It is NOT confirmed whether the ‘Ian’ Fearnley in the below article is identical to ‘our’ Harry Ian Fearnley

Lyndhurst Shire Chronicle (NSW : 1897 – 1941; 1944 – 1954), Wednesday 24 March 1954, page 1


FOOTBALL NOTES

Ian Fearnley and Roy Simmons have secured lucrative jobs at Boorowa to play with Boorowa football club. Boorowa has the first draw in the Maher Cup. They play Temora — the holders on Saturday week. With four Carcoarians to bolster up their team they may be successful.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/144905237


 

* It is NOT confirmed whether the ‘Ian’ Fearnley in the below article is identical to ‘our’ Harry Ian Fearnley but the below would have been aged 7 when starting Second Class which ties in with the DOB of ‘our’ Harry.

Carcoar Chronicle (NSW : 1878 – 1943), Wednesday 15 December 1943, page 2


CARCOAR PUBLIC SCHOOL.

EXAMINATION RESULTS Year’s Activities Reviewed

The annual examination at Carcoar Public School reveal the following successes. —

First Class: Victor Howarth 1, Gwendolyn Furner 2.

Second Class: Ian Fearnley 1, Michael Dibbs 2.

Third Class: Trevor Scott 1, Billy Howarth 2.

Fourth Class: Gerrard Dibbs 1, Kevin Scott 2.

Fifth Class: Ken Scott 1, Beryl Burton 2.

Sixth Class. Anne Scott 1, Les Kind 2.

SCHOOL COUNCIL FORMED.

The children during the past few months have been taking an active interest in the government of the school. A school council has been formed, the members of which see that the playground is kept tidy and also that there is general neatness around the school. There is also a very energetic band of Junior Red Cross workers. Many and varied have been their activities for the past month. The results of their efforts have been most gratifying. All money raised is used to help the sick and needy children of soldiers.

Another very active body in connection with the school is the Junior Farmers’ Club. This has a membership of 2S, comprising children from both schools and those who have left, but are still under the age of 21. The children have chosen for their projects various themes, such as vegetables, bee-keeping, flower growing and pig-raising. In connection with the vegetable’s, a ¼ acre of potatoes is being worked at the school by the whole club.

P. AND C. COMMENDED.

Tributing the P. and C. Association, the headmaster commends their tireless efforts on behalf of the school. As result, considerable material has been brought while leaving a pleasing bank balance. In the near future the Association hopes to install the electric light in the school building. The children have voluntarily assisted the war effort during the past year. A war savings group has been formed, and also a penny chain, the proceeds of the latter going to the Junior Red Cross. The local branch of the Red Cross has also had numerous donations of money from the school, having been raised from the sale of vegetables grown, by the children.

A number of children also have spent quite a lot of their spare time making camouflage nets. As a result seven of the larger nets have been completed.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/112520422


 


 

 

 




Richard ROBERTS

Richard ROBERTS

AKA  RICHIE
Late of  ?

Australian Federal Police Force

Regd. #  ?????

Rank:  Superintendent

Final Rank = Superintendent

Stations?

ServiceFrom  ? ? ?  to  29 October 2018 ? years Service

Awards:   ?

Born:   ? ? ?

Died on:   Sunday  29 October 2018

Age?

Cause:   Suicide –

Event location:  AFP National Headquarters, Edmund Barton building, Canberra

Event date:  Sunday  29 October 2018

 Funeral date:   ? ? ?

Funeral location:   ?

Wake location:  ?

Funeral Parlour:  ?

Buried at:   ?

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

[alert_yellow]RICHIE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow]  *NEED MORE INFO

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 Funeral location TBA

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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Sadly, another Australian Police Officer has suicided.
That member was with the Australian Federal Police ( AFP ) in Canberra.
By all accounts, he was a good person and had only hours prior, posted on Facebook and appeared happy.
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AFP suicides: Another police officer has walked into work and not come out alive

EXCLUSIVE. The third Australian police officer in less than two years appears to have taken his own life at work. WARNING: Distressing.

WARNING: Distressing

FOR the third time in less than two years, an Australian Federal Police officer has walked into their work building, and not come out alive.

The Australian Federal Police Association has named Superintendent Richard Roberts as the man who “appears to have taken his own life” at the AFP national headquarters in the Edmund Barton Building, Canberra, yesterday.

An AFP spokesperson also confirmed that “a member of the AFP” had died, in a statement to news.com.au.

“A brief is now being prepared for the ACT Coroner,” the spokesperson said.

The AFP did not respond to further questions regarding the matter.

News.com.au understands the AFP commissioner Andrew Colvin this morning “spoke to troops” to inform them of the tragedy in an email and video to colleagues nationwide.

It’s the third incident in which an AFP officer appeared to take their own life inside one of the organisation’s buildings since the start of last year.

In November 2017, AFP member Malcolm Scott, 59, walked into the foyer of the organisation’s Melbourne building and took his own life just before 9am on a Saturday.

Mr Colvin said at the time that it was “with great sadness I can confirm one of our police officers has died in Melbourne”.

“The male officer was found by colleagues in the AFP’s Melbourne Headquarters in La Trobe Street,” he said.

READ: Second tragic death at AFP Melbourne headquarters

READ: Internal investigations into whistleblowers a ‘necessary evil’

Mr Scott’s death followed that of colleague Sue Jones, 53, a mother-of-two who died by in shockingly similar circumstances in the same building earlier that year. Mr Scott and Ms Jones had worked on the same team within the Melbourne branch, according to colleagues who spoke to news.com.au. Both deaths were later deemed to be non-suspicious.

Independent police advocacy and support group Blue Hope spokesman Mark Kelly previously told news.com.au he was concerned officers might be trying to send a message by taking their lives in the workplace.

“It’s tragic and does point to problems in the AFP,” he said.

“We’ve been contacted by a lot of members who have been struggling with PTSD.”

‘THIS JOB’S F***ED’

One AFP source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, today told news.com.au that the only thing he believed “would fix the (organisation’s) welfare system is a royal commission”.

“It needs intense scrutiny that the agencies can’t cover up,” he said.

“We have an expression in our job: TJF — this job’s f***ed.

“Morale is in the toilet. We know we have no support and no backing from most of the management.”

The source described the company’s external Employee Assistance Program as inadequate.

“If the Employee Assistance Program they always reference was adequate we wouldn’t have members falling like flies,” he said.

“(Some soft drink companies) have a more functional and workable welfare system than we do.

“It’s not just the AFP; I know of many people from state forces and other emergency services who are struggling and getting no support.”

In March this year, the high rate of suicide deaths and mental health conditions experienced by first responders — including emergency service workers and volunteers — prompted a federal Parliament committee to launch an inquiry into the role of the Commonwealth and the states to address the issues.

The inquiry is expected to release its report on the matter in February 2019.

It came after almost 100 past and present AFP agents contacted news.com.au to report widespread mental health issues among first responders within the organisation, mismanagement of the issue, and a disturbing internal bullying culture.

News.com.au exposed the issues in an investigative series, which prompted the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) to audit the AFP’s management of mental health within the organisation.

READ: AFP Commissioner’s vow

READ: AFP agent’s open letter

The report, released on March 7 this year, found that the “AFP lacks a comprehensive and consolidated organisational health and wellbeing framework to enable effective management and support of employee mental health”.

“While the AFP offers a variety of mental health support services, there is no evidence that these services are effective and they are not supported by sound governance, risk management, evaluation or an articulated business rationale,” the report read.

“The AFP does not currently have in place mechanisms or sufficient data to appropriately align resources with key mental health risks.”

READ: Traumatised agent suing the AFP for huge sum

READ: Inside the AFP

The ANAO made six recommendations, which the AFP agreed to implement as part of its “new Health and Wellbeing Strategy for the organisation” by mid-May this year.

The AFP also engaged the Phoenix Australia Centre to conduct an independent mental health review into the organisation. It released its report earlier this year and made 37 recommendations to be implemented over five years.

But for some, it’s proven too little, too late.

‘THE SHOCK AND SADNESS IS VERY REAL’

Tributes have flowed in on social media for the AFP officer who died in Canberra yesterday.

“I work with him, truly great guy and a real gentleman,” one person wrote.

“The shock and sadness is very real here today. RIP mate.”

Another wrote: “Another tragic loss, thoughts go out to family, friends and colleagues. So terribly sad, please always talk, share you concerns and fears, we need to always be there for one another.”

READ: Push for inquiry into the AFP

READ: AFP agents’ harrowing stories

The widow of NSW Police homicide detective Ashley Bryant, a father who took his own life in 2013, also weighed in on the tragedy — as well as an apparent suicide of a NSW paramedic the day before — in a public post on social media.

“I think that it’s important that we don’t assume those suffering from a psychological injury have not asked for help,” Deborah Bryant wrote.

“In many cases, they have indeed sought help and have been surrounded by family, friends and colleagues who have given all the support they can give.

“We need to acknowledge that disclosure of a psychological injury does not automatically make it better. It is a fight that is fought day by day, and all too often minute by minute.

“If we as a society truly want to stop these suicide deaths or indeed the many more ‘living deaths’ of our Service Personnel, then we need to rally our governments to provide the foundations of support unique to what our service men and women suffer.

“A good start would be dedicated mental health facilities, so that when they seek treatment they are not sitting in the same room as criminals and drug addicts.

“We also need to collectively demand our governments provide income support directly, rather than through privatised runners, so that our service men and women can continue to support their families and be given time to heal without the burden of unnecessary and emasculating demands to ‘prove’ they are worthy of this support.”

READ: ‘A whole lot of ticking time bombs’

According to Ms Bryant, suicide deaths rarely “occur without warning signs”.

“The (organisations) should proactively intervene rather than expect those suffering to cry out,” she said.

“Obviously, that’s not an easy thing to do, but if nothing changes then nothing at all will change.”

If you need help call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

For more information on how to support others who might need help and what warning signs to look for, visit: Conversations Matter.

megan.palin@news.com.au | @Megan_Palin

https://www.news.com.au/news/afp-suicides-another-police-officer-has-left-his-workplace-in-a-body-bag/news-story/64ebb82014180fcde0a6dd781dc7efae

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Roy Arthur ALLAN

Roy Arthur ALLAN

Late of Gosford

New South Wales Police Force

[alert_yellow]Regd. #  11467[/alert_yellow]

Rank:  Probationary Constable – appointed 10 May 1965

Constable – appointed 10 May 1966

Senior Constable – appointed 10 May 1974

Sergeant

Final Rank = Sergeant

Stations?, Ellenborough ( 1970’s ), Stuart Town, Yass Lock Up Keeper ( 6 years ), Gosford – Death

ServiceFrom  ? ? Pre 10 May 1965?  to  ? July 1987 = 22+ years Service

Awards:   National Medal – granted 15 April 1981 ( SenCon )

Born:   1 July 1942

Died on:   ?( late ) July 1987

Age:  45

Cause:   Suicide – poison intake – died 11 hours after ingestion

Event location:  Home, Gosford

Event date:   ?( late ) July 1987

Funeral date:   ? ? ?

Funeral location:   ?

Wake location:  ?

Funeral Parlour:  ?

Buried at:   ?

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

 

 [alert_red]ROY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_red]  * BUT SHOULD BE

 

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 Funeral location TBA

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

[divider_dotted]

May they forever Rest In Peace

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During my service, I was Stationed at the township of Gunning and on many occasions, had to ask the assistance from the Lockup Keeper at Yass, Roy Allan was his name, and he never hesitated to attend and assist, as all Cops do, we became close friends, family included, then one day after being transferred to Tweed Heads I happened to pick up a magazine, “New Idea” dated 4/2/89 and was dumbstruck with what I read,…. two pages were removed from the book, however, I can only locate one at this stage….

Roy ALLEN

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Roy Allan

Birth
Death 1987
Burial

Matraville, Randwick City, New South Wales, Australia

Plot Eastern Court Walls, Wall A, Position 24
Memorial ID 174614435 · View Source

 

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/174614435/roy-allan#source

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Donald Colin WELSH

Donald Colin WELSH

Late of Kanahooka

NSW Police Cadet # 0975

New South Wales Police Force

[alert_yellow]Regd. #  7899[/alert_yellow]

Rank:  NSW Police Cadet – commenced 14 January 1952

Probationary Constable – appointed 24 December 1954

Detective Senior Constable – appointed 24 December 1965

Detective Sergeant 3rd Class –

Detective Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 1 February 1978

Detective Inspector – appointed 30 September 1984

Detective Chief Inspector – appointed 1 July 1987

Final Rank = Detective Chief Inspector

Stations?, Tibooburra, Wilcannia?, South Coast District, Nowra ( Det Sgt early 1970’s ), Wollongong, Griffith ( Chief Inspector-In-Charge, Griffith Division ) July 1987

ServiceFrom  14 January 1952  to  ? ? ? ? years Service ( at least 35 )

Awards:   National Medal – granted 28 May 1990

Born:   24 December 1935

Died on:   Friday  19 October 2018

Age:  82

Cause:   ?

Event location:   ?

Event date:   ?

Funeral date:   ? ? ?TBA

Funeral location:   ?TBA

Wake location:  ?

Funeral Parlour:  ?TBA

Buried at:   ?TBA

 Memorial located at:   ?

PW PC SenCst Cynthia A. McCLOUGHNAN, Det Sgt 2/c Don WELSH, PW PC Cst D. V. HERRON<br /> 21 March 1979
PW PC SenCst Cynthia A. McCLOUGHNAN, Det Sgt 2/c Don WELSH, PW PC Cst D. V. HERRON
21 March 1979

 

 

[alert_yellow]DON is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow]  *NEED MORE INFO

 [divider_dotted]

 

 Funeral location TBA

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

[divider_dotted]

May they forever Rest In Peace

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Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Friday 17 July 1987 (No.121), page 4031


NEW SOUTH WALES POLICE FORCE

Commissioned Officer Appointments

HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, has approved of the undermentioned Commissioned Officer appointments, effective from the dates indicated—

Chief Inspector-in-Charge, Griffith Division Inspector Donald Colin Welsh, date of entry on duty.

 

GEORGE PACIULLO,

(9215) Minister for Police and Emergency Services.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/231662932

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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Tuesday 29 June 1965, page 7


JP gaoled for store thefts

SYDNEY. Monday. –

A Justice of the Peace was sentenced to one month’s hard labour and fined £5 for shoplifting by Wollongong Court today.

The JP, an invalid pensioner, because of a bad heart, told the court that after four years of scraping and frustration something; had got into him.

He is Lawrence Thorald Gatehouse, 54, of Werong Street, Albion Park.

Detective Constable Welsh of Wollongong, told the court that Gatehouse had taken goods from Woolworths and a Nock and Kirby store at Warrawong. Gatehouse told Mr T. J. Towns, SM, that he had “an unblemished record.”

“T do not know what came over me,” he said.

“I feel so humiliated and ashamed that I would like to fall into a corner somewhere and lie.”

Mr Towns in passing sentence said, “I have to be logical. I have given women gaol sentences for shoplifting.”

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/131830690

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Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Friday 11 April 1958 (No.38), page 1037


Constable Donald Colin Welsh to act as Assistant Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages for the district of Wilcannia, at Tibooburra, during the absence of Constable 1st Class M. L. Windley on leave, — from 1st February, 1958.
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/220273044
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John Melville GUDGEON

John Melville GUDGEON 

AKA  Jack
Late of Kiama

NSW Police Cadet # 497

New South Wales Police Force

[alert_yellow]Regd. #  5528[/alert_yellow]

Rank:  NSW Police Cadet – commenced 17 January 1945

Probationary Constable – appointed 17 March 1947

Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 16 July 1962

Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 9 October 1968

Inspector 3rd Class – appointed 30 September 1977

Inspector – appointed 14 April 1978

Detective Chief Superintendent –

Final Rank = Detective Chief Superintendent

Stations?, South Coast District, Camden ( Cst 1950 ), Kangaroo Valley, Kiama, Queanbeyan ( O.I.C. ) 1978, TRG, Dubbo District – Retirement

ServiceFrom  17 January 1945  to  ? August 1986= 41+ years Service

Awards:   National Medal – granted 29 June 1984 ( Supt )

Born:   26 March 1927

Died on:   Monday  15 October 2018

Age:  91

Cause:   ?

Event location:   ?

Event date:   ?

Funeral date:   Wednesday  17 October 2018 ( Private funeral )

Funeral location:  Kiama ?

Wake location:  ?

Funeral Parlour:  Stan Crapp, Kiama.   42322371

Buried at:   ?TBA

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

THURSDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2012<br /> THE INAUGURAL RETIRED POLICE PIN CEREMONY AT OAK FLATS ( WARILLA ) ( LAKE ILLAWARRA ) POLICE STATION.<br /> RETIRED POLICE RECEIVING THEIR PINS AS A MARK OF RESPECT FOR THE COMMITMENT TO POLICING SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY OF NSW. John Melville GUDGEON with Supt. Wayne Starling<br />
THURSDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2012
THE INAUGURAL RETIRED POLICE PIN CEREMONY AT OAK FLATS ( WARILLA ) ( LAKE ILLAWARRA ) POLICE STATION.
RETIRED POLICE RECEIVING THEIR PINS AS A MARK OF RESPECT FOR THE COMMITMENT TO POLICING SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY OF NSW. John Melville GUDGEON with Supt. Wayne Starling

THURSDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2012<br /> THE INAUGURAL RETIRED POLICE PIN CEREMONY AT OAK FLATS ( WARILLA ) ( LAKE ILLAWARRA ) POLICE STATION.<br /> RETIRED POLICE RECEIVING THEIR PINS AS A MARK OF RESPECT FOR THE COMMITMENT TO POLICING SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY OF NSW. John Melville GUDGEON with Supt. Wayne Starling<br />

THURSDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 2013<br /> LAKE ILLAWARRA POLICE STATION, OAK FLATS.<br /> RETIRED POLICE DAY ( 2nd YEAR )<br /> John Melville GUDGEON with his wife<br />
THURSDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 2013
LAKE ILLAWARRA POLICE STATION, OAK FLATS.
RETIRED POLICE DAY ( 2nd YEAR )
John Melville GUDGEON with his wife Margaret.

THURSDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 2013<br /> LAKE ILLAWARRA POLICE STATION, OAK FLATS.<br /> RETIRED POLICE DAY ( 2nd YEAR )<br /> John Melville GUDGEON with his wife<br />

THURSDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 2013<br /> LAKE ILLAWARRA POLICE STATION, OAK FLATS.<br /> RETIRED POLICE DAY ( 2nd YEAR )<br /> John Melville GUDGEON with his wife and Pat CONDON - wife of Gab ( R.I.P. )<br />
THURSDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 2013
LAKE ILLAWARRA POLICE STATION, OAK FLATS.
RETIRED POLICE DAY ( 2nd YEAR )
John Melville GUDGEON with his wife, Margaret and Pat CONDON – wife of Gab ( R.I.P. )

[alert_blue]JACK is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue] * NOT JOB RELATED

 

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 Funeral location TBA

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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Condolences to Margaret and family.
Cal
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GUDGEON,  John (Jack) Melville
of Kiama

Passed away peacefully October 15 2018. Much loved husband of Betty (dec. 1989), father and father in law of Ross and Mary, Vicki Butler (dec), and his wife Margaret.

Aged 91 Years
Will be sadly missed

A private funeral service
has been held today

logo

Published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Oct. 17, 2018

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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Monday 12 April 1982, page 1


New police policy succeeds at Bathurst race meeting

BATHURST: A deliberate policy by police of non-intervention had defused a “potentially explosive confrontation” with about 2,000 motor-cyclists at Mount Panorama, near Bathurst, police said yesterday.

Despite five hours of wild scenes in the camping site in front of the police station compound on Saturday night, there were no arrests.

Police described the situation on Saturday night as “at times potentially explosive.”

They said there could “have been a repetition of last year’s siege of the camping-site police station, which resulted in 64 policemen being injured by flying stones, bottles and cans.

But last night, as the crowd of more than 24,000 began heading home after the weekend motor-cycle race meeting, police said they had made only 40 arrests over the weekend, most for drink-driving.

Two people had been arrested on assault charges, one after a stabbing on Friday and another for throwing a spear late on Saturday night. There also were a number of minor drug offences.

Last year 179 people were taken into custody and the future of the race meetings threatened by the wild behaviour of troublemakers in the camping area.

Superintendent Jack Broomfield ( # 5219 ), the officer-in-charge of the 290 police officers on duty at the weekend, was “extremely happy” yesterday.

Superintendent Broomfield, who told his men to mingle with the crowd as things looked like getting out of hand on Saturday, praised his men for displaying “extreme patience and tolerance”.

Their patience was stretched to its limits after a member of the 86-strong tactical response group — the specially trained so-called riot squad — was knocked unconscious when a beer can filled with gravel hit him in the face.

Superintendent Ted Lloyd ( possibly # 5385 ), the officer-in-charge of the tactical response group, described the situation at times on Saturday as “volatile and explosive”.

He offered thanks to members of the NSW Motor Cycle Riders Association who had appealed to the crowd to remain calm and disperse.

“We gave what I would describe as some desperate-looking characters access to the police loud-hailer when things looked like getting rough, and they did a top job urging the crowd to stay calm using the kind of language motor-cyclists could relate to,” he said.

Senior-Inspector Jack Gudgeon, the operations commander of the tactical response group, said the police had had a plan this year of deliberately not getting involved in the “fun” of the bike groups.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/126916021
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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Sunday 24 August 1980, page 14


Policemen have a night out

It was a night of rejuvenation for most of the crowd at the sixth annual Queanbeyan Police Ball on Friday. The evening certainly proved that 50-50 music was by no means ready to bow out or take a back seat to the raucous disco sounds.

A success from the start were the Marksman who provided the lively music for the occasion which also saw a couple of birthdays being celebrated, one of which was a 21st, and a wedding anniversary.

Among the 300 people at the Queanbeyan RSL Club were Superintendent Reg Martin and his wife, Dorothy, of Goulburn, the Member for Monaro, Mr John Akister, the Member for Eden Monaro, Mr Murray Sainsbury, the officer in charge of the Queanbeyan Police Station, Inspector Jack Gudgeon, and his wife, Betty, Ron and Kerry Reuban, of Jinderbyne, Pat and Dawn Robbie, of Narrabundah, and from Queanbeyan itself there were Joe Harding, who is soon off to Sydney on posting, Steven and Margaret Hadfield, Des and Margaret Lennard, and Ralph and Carolyn Parry.

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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),   Sunday 30 July 1978, page 17


 

POLICE AND COURTHOUSE OPENING
GRAND DAY FOR QUEANBEYAN

It will be a gala occasion tomorrow when the Premier of NSW, Mr Wran, officially opens the new police station and courthouse in Queanbeyan.

The two buildings, costing $4 million, took 2½ years to complete.

The opening ceremony will be performed at 4pm in the foyer of the courthouse and about 400 people are expected to attend.

After the ceremony, the guests will move to the Queanbeyan Leagues Club for afternoon tea.

Among the dignitaries who will attend the function with their wives will be the NSW Attorney-General, Mr Walker, the NSW Police Commissioner, Mr Woods, and Deputy Commissioner, Mr Lees, a previous Queanbeyan police inspector, Mr Percy Hale, and the Superintendent in charge of country districts, Mr Alec Birnie.

In the evening, there will be a dinner at which the public will have an opportunity to meet members of the NSW Cabinet which will be in town for a meeting on Tuesday.

Forty policemen, including the policewoman, are now working in the comfort and luxury offered by the new station which is a far cry from the previous surroundings. The NSW Police Commissioner is considering an application to increase the number of general duties and traffic police.

The new station has elaborate safety measures. These include sensitive alarm systems, a closed circuit TV which keeps constant watch on the backyard and an internal public-address system.

The courthouse is another modern building and comprises a district court and a court of petty sessions.

Inspector Jack GUDGEON, the Divisional Inspector of eight sub-stations around Queanbeyan, his wife, Betty, and Sergeant Les Gorman, Officer-in-Charge of the Queanbeyan Police Station.

Inspector Jack Gudgeon, the Divisional Inspector of eight sub-stations around Queanbeyan, his wife, Betty, and Sergeant Les Gorman, Officer-in-Charge of the Queanbeyan Police Station.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/110899949
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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Monday 27 February 1978, page 1


MICHELAGO FIND

Inquiry to visit drug plantation

By PETER QUIDDINGTON

The NSW Government’s Royal Commission into Drug Trafficking is expected to arrive in Canberra this morning to visit the multi-million dollar marijuana plantation discovered by ACT Police at Michelago on Friday.

The commission, headed by Mr Justice Woodward, was set up after the disappearance of Griffith anti drug campaigner, Mr Don Mackay, last July.

On Saturday NSW detectives involved with inquiries into the plantation near Michelago travelled to Griffith and returned with a 43 year-old man whom they later charged with the possession of marijuana. Police took the man to the site of the crop and have alleged he is the owner.

He will appear in Queanbeyan Court of Petty Sessions this morning.

The officer in charge of Queanbeyan police, Inspector John Gudgeon, said yesterday that inquiries were still being carried out to find three men seen running from the plantation when a helicopter with ACT policemen aboard arrived there on Friday morning.

Police found a four-wheel drive vehicle at the site and traced its registered owner to an address in Canberra. However, he explained that he had sold the vehicle, along with a block of land near Michelago, to a man in the middle of last year.

Police also found a bulldozer on the site, extensive farming equipment, sheds and a piped irrigation system coming from a dam.

The crop, which was discovered behind steep hills and in thick bushland about 10 kilometres south-east of Michelago, is valued between $3 and $5 million on the open market.

The high value for a crop of this size results from the scarcity of the drug because of recent hauls in various parts of NSW.

The raid on the plantation took place after information had been given to ACT Police of marijuana being grown in the area, but senior officers said last night the source of this could not be revealed.

An RAAF helicopter carried out a search of a 14-kilometre radius around Michelago and came across the crop.

Members of the ACT drug squad took samples and later informed the NSW authorities.

Police and detectives from major centres surrounding Canberra converged on the plantation in four wheel-drive vehicles and, with the assistance of a resident, found the area.

The three men who apparently had been tending the crop had disappeared. Some of the raiding officers suggested this had been because of bungling by ACT Police, who are not responsible for the area.

However, ACT Police sources explained yesterday that, when the raid had been initiated it was believed that the plantation was on the ACT side of the border. A helicopter was the only practical means of finding the crop in such an extensive and rugged area.

The police conducting the investigation said they were not searching for the three men who had escaped, as it was expected they would have to come from the bush at some stage.

Tight security arrangements were being maintained yesterday around the farm, which is serviced by a dirt road that runs between Michelago and Gingera.

Newsmen were still not allowed near the site yesterday. Inspector Gudgeon said the reasons for this would become apparent early today.

Members of the Press would be able to look at the crop after 11 this morning. Plans were being made to have it destroyed.

Some of the plants are believed to be up to 2 metres high. Some had been harvested.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/131718225

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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Wednesday 14 December 1977, page 3


Queanbeyan’s illegal casino closes

Queanbeyan’s illegal gambling casino vanished last week after a crackdown on casinos by Sydney police early in the week and a sudden change of policy by the NSW Government.

The Queanbeyan casino, which had a peep-hole and a bell, was housed above a pizza parlour and next door to a butcher’s shop on Monaro Street. It used to have a clientele of 30 to 40 gamblers a night.

A nearby shopkeeper said yesterday that when he opened his premises at 8am he usually saw a dozen or more men leaving the illegal club. Last week he saw no men leave the plain-fronted club door in the alleyway next to his shop.

Inspector Jack Gudgeon, the new inspector in charge of police in Queanbeyan division, said yesterday that the club ceased operating about last Wednesday after the NSW Government policy change and a raid on Sydney’s well-known Forbes Club, which led to the arrest of 15 women and six operators.

Under the Gaming and Betting Act, patrons, casino owners and employees are liable to fines up to S200 or three months’ jail.

The Act allows the clubs to be closed by raiding them and arresting patrons and operators or by making application to the Supreme Court to have them declared illegal gaming houses.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/110882759
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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Tuesday 1 November 1977, page 3


Queanbeyan policeman retires

The officer-in-charge of the Queanbeyan police division, Detective Inspector Percy Hale, retires today after 32 years in the NSW Police Force.

Inspector Hale, who has been stationed at Queanbeyan for the past 3½ years, will be replaced by Detective-Inspector Jack Gudgeon.

A farewell for Inspector Hale, attended by the ACT Police Commissioner, Mr Reg Kennedy, was held at the Queanbeyan Leagues Club last night.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/110875652
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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Wednesday 5 March 1969, page 3


Wife on murder charge denies argument

BOMBALA, Tuesday. — A woman charged with murder had left the Bombala RSL Club hand-in hand with her husband shortly before he was axed to death, Bombala Petty Sessions was told today.

Alfred Thomas Allen, assistant manager of the club, said the couple had paused to wave to him and other friends as they left at 2am on December 1. 1968.

Elizabeth Anne Thompson, 24, was charged today before Mr D. G. Hughes, SM, with having murdered James William Thompson, 27, plant operator, at their home in Wellington Street, Bombala, on December 1.

Allen told the court that Mr and Mrs Thompson had gone to the club about 9pm on Saturday, November 30.

He had seen Mrs Thompson dancing several times with a man he knew as George Galarovic and with her husband.

“They left at 2am”, Allen said. “They were holding hands and in my opinion quite sober”.

Peter Ronald Muir, labourer, next-door neighbour of the Thompsons, said that about 5.15am on December 1 he had been awakened by Mrs Thompson standing at his bedroom window.

She had shouted, “Peter, come quickly! Someone has got Jimmy. Someone in the room”.

Muir said he had run outside and looked over the dividing fence. He had seen an axe on the lawn and some broken glass in the Thompsons‘ bedroom window. Mrs Thompson had had streaks of blood on her face and hands.

Muir said he had driven to call police and a doctor and when he returned he had led Mrs Thompson inside.

In the bedroom he had seen Thompson lying in the middle of the bed, half covered.

“There was a lot of blood on his face and all around him”, he said.

Later he had asked Mrs Thompson what had happened and she had said, “Someone came up to Jimmy, something came down and came down again”. I asked did she see who it was. She replied, “He was wearing blue, that’s all I remember”.

Cross-examined, Muir said he had lived next door to the Thompsons for 20 months and their marriage had seemed to be a “perfectly normal, happy one”.

Dr Annesley Crowe, of  Young Street, Bombala, said he had arrived at the Thompson‘s house about 5.45am and had found Thompson still breathing.

Thompson had been taken to Bombala Hospital where an operation was performed. He had died that afternoon.

Deep wounds in forehead

The Government Medical Officer for Bombala and district, Dr R. J. MacArthur, gave the cause of death as severe lacerations to the cerebrum. There were deep wounds in Thompson‘s forehead consistent with those caused by a blow with an axe, he said.

Senior Constable Horace Gant ( # 8204 ), of Bombala, told the court that Mrs Thompson had had what appeared to be bloodstains on the left sleeve of her nightdress.

She had told him, “I was in bed with Jim when I felt something brush me and heard two thumps. I woke up and saw someone running from the room”.

Detective-Sergeant George Harvey, of Cooma, told the court that bloodstains had been found on the blade and handle of the axe on the front lawn. He had inspected the Thompsons‘ house and had found no evidence of its having been ransacked or disturbed.

Detective-Sergeant John Gudgeon, of Queanbeyan, said that Mrs Thompson had been charged after an interview at the Bombala police station at which her solicitor was present. She had declined, on advice, to answer many of the questions asked.

A record of the interview was submitted to the magistrate.

In it Mrs Thompson denied that she and her husband had had an argument or disagreement.

Mrs Thompson is represented by Mr C. B. Cullen, public defender, instructed by Mr C. Werry: Sergeant D. W. Millard ( # 5969 ) is prosecuting.

The hearing will continue tomorrow.

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‘Police Heritage Story’  P 329
William Buchanan Ross, better known as Barney Ross, also made the Police Force his lifetime career, as did James Joseph Edward Black, better known as Jim Black.
Barney Ross became a police cadet on the 28th February, 1939, and a probationary constable on the 14th November, 1942. During World War 2, Barney Ross took leave from the Police Force and joined the RAAF on the 25th March, 1944, serving in the RAAF until the 26th June, 1945.
After his discharge from the RAAF, Barney resumed his police service.
In the early 1950s, Barney Ross became a detective and worked in a number of specialist areas such as homicide and ballistics.
As a detective senior constable in 1957, Barney was involved in the investigation into the bombing murder of Constable Kenneth Desmond Coussens at Bega on the 29 July, 1957.
Constable Coussens, his wife Elizabeth and their baby boy Bruce, were murdered when their house was bombed in the early hours of the morning while they were asleep.
Kenneth and Elizabeth Coussens were married in 1955.
Barney Ross had the task of identifying the type of device that was used in the bombing. The bomb was made out of dynamite stolen from a mine and a milk can which was stolen from a butter factory at Bega.

Information provided by Constable 1st Class John Perrin of Nimmitabel, provided police with clues that led police to Myron Kelly.

When Kelly was arrested, he was also found to have an unlicensed pistol in his possession.

Myron Kelly was tried for the murder of the Coussens family and on the 6th December, 1957, was sentenced to life in prison.
The following police from Sydney, Wollongong and Nowra, were recorded as the police who arrested Kelly.
Detective Sergeants Behrens, Bateman, Monaghan and Clarke, Detective Constables Barney Ross and Croker, Constable 1st Class Bob Bradbury, Detective Sergeant Devenport, Constables 1st Class Neville and Patterson, Constables 1st Class Morgan and Gudgeon, Detective Constable Hamilton, Sergeants 3rd Class Tilley, Bowd and Hourigan, Constable Avery, Detective Sergeant Kennedy and Detective Constable Smith.
The offender Myron Kelly was released from gaol in 1980 and died in 2007.
‘Police Heritage Story’  P 329
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Kiama Independent (NSW : 1947 – 1954), Saturday 16 October 1954, page 5


TENNIS NEWS (By “ACE”)

We welcome to our Club two new members Constable Jack Gudgeon, formerly of Kangaroo Valley, and Mr. Mills, formerly of Milton, who is attached to our school staff. I believe they both wield a good racquet.

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Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 – 1954), Monday 12 April 1954, page 8


….. Kangaroo Valley……

Long before the white man came aborigines inhabited the Valley in thousands because of the great numbers of kangaroos which grazed there.

In the late 1790s several exploration parties, including the Hume Brothers, skirted Barrengarry Mountain and the Fitzroy Falls (on the Moss Vale side) and discovered the Valley.

Then came the “gentlemen” pioneers, notably James Osborne, for whom the Government sliced off the richest parts of the Valley. For many years the settlement was known as “Osborne Village.”

Later came the “free” settlers who initiated the dairying industry. One character who settled on one of the Valley’s lower plateaus was so carried away by the beauty of his property that he called it “The Promised Land.”

When the first pub, the Pioneer, opened in 1875 one South Coast journal reported “fights were more frequent than prayer meetings.”

But nowadays, the Valley is so crime free that the local constable, Jack Gudgeon, finds time to help farmers harvest their corn crops.

And there’s no poverty in the Valley today. Healthy cows, rich pastures, lack of floods, and high milk prices keep even the smallest dairyman well stacked.

SOME men in the past made small fortunes out of the cedar forests which dotted the Valley. Even today one Valleyite has a complete bedroom suite …….

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/248867030
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Camden News (NSW : 1895 – 1954), Thursday 27 July 1950, page 2


CORONER’S INQUIRY.

DEATH OF THOMAS RUSSELL.

At a coroner’s Court, Court House, Camden, the District Coroner, Mr. K. S. Kelloway, found that Thomas Edward Alfred Russell died from the effect of a deadly poison known as carbon bisulphide wilfully administered by himself on the 5th June, 1950, at Camden.

THE EVIDENCE.

Dr. Crookston stated on the 6th June, 1950, at 4.15 p.m. I made a post-mortem examination of the body of Thomas Russell, aged about 36 years, at the Morgue of the Camden District Hospital.

Sergt. Marshall and Constable Slattery, of Camden Police, were present.

I was at the Hospital when this man was admitted on the night of the 5th June, 1950, and was informed that he had ”taken an overdose of something. ” I saw Dr. Jefferis washing out his stomach. There was a very strong smell of carbon bisulphide in his breath and in the stomach contents.

He died at the hospital at about 10.30 a.m. the following day, at about 12 hours after admission. The body was that of a spare young man. There was a strong smell of carbon bisulphide in the internal organs. Liver section smelt very strongly of this substance. The stomach and a section of the liver were placed in charge of the Police for poison analysis.

As there had been a statement made that the man had had a head wound and had had a plate inserted, a search of the skull was made. I found no evidence of scarring or presence of a plate. The organs appeared otherwise healthy, and no cause of death other than poisoning, as presumed from the story of the case and the smell of the tissues was found, in my opinion, death had occurred about five hours previously, and was due to poisoning by carbon bisulphide.

The fatal dose of this substance is said to be about half an ounce, and, in acute cases, death takes place in a few hours.

MISS WOOD’S EVIDENCE.

Miss Bonnie Wood; I am a single girl, 22 years of age, and I reside with my parents at 10 Edward Street, Camden. I am employed as a telephonist at the Camden Postal Exchange.

About 2 years ago I met the deceased, Thomas Edward Alfred Russell, at the Aerodrome, Camden. He was working there as a chef and I was working as a waitress. We kept company for some time and became engaged in November, 1949. He was a married man and was waiting for his divorce to become absolute. He gave me a ring.

We continued our friendship. He was working in various jobs in the country and came down to see me during his days off or his holidays. I went out with Archie Chapman on a couple of occasions and deceased got to know of it. He said he would shoot me if I did not give up my association with Chapman. I agreed to give him up and we were good friends again.

He went away again and came back about the beginning of June, 1950. I broke my promise and went out again with Chapman and Tommy got to know of it. We had a talk over that and I was going to get a transfer to the G.P.O. Sydney. I had arranged to go down to see about the job. Tommy stayed at our house overnight and in the morning of the 5th June, 1950, was cooking some breakfast for me whilst I dressed. I was putting my shoes on and Tommy grabbed me by the throat. He was upset and apologised. We left good friends, and he told me he would meet me at 10 p.m, after I had finished work. I left work at 10 p.m. on the 5th June, 1950, and went on my usual way home. Tommy was waiting just near Maloney’s store and we walked together to Elizabeth Street. He asked me how I had got on about the job and how long I had been with Chapman that day. He did not believe what I told him. He grabbed my arm and said, ”If I can’t have you no one will have you. I’ll do for you then for myself.” I tried to reason with him and he said, “I’ll take poison!” He pulled something from under his coat and struck me. I tried to defend myself, but I lost consciousness. The next thing I remembered is being in hospital.

Tommy has often said to me, ‘If anything happens to you I will go too.” Deceased was about 40 years of age. He was born in England. He told me he had left a will and left everything to me. I believe he had about £700 in the bank. He said something about cyanide.

EVIDENCE OF MRS. WOOD.

Mrs. Mabel Evelyn Wood: I am a married woman and I reside with my husband and family at No. 10 Edward Street, Camden. On the 5th June, 1950, about 7 p.m. I was at home when the deceased came in. He was in good health and spirits. He stayed there until about 9.45 p.m. He then said, ”I will go now and meet Bonnie.” He left the house. He was not carrying anything when he left. He returned about 10.10 p.m. in a state of collapse. He said, ”For God’s sake go up near the Railway. I think I have killed Bonnie. I have taken poison.” My husband and daughter left the house. I got deceased to the kitchen sink and gave him several drinks of salt and water.

I phoned Doctor Jefferis and he came and treated deceased who was then taken to the Camden District Hospital. When deceased came into the house on the second occasion that night he had a very heavy smell about him.

Gwenneth May Wood: I am a single girl and I reside with my parents at 10 Edward Street, Camden. About 7 p.m. on the 5th June, 1950, I was at home with my parents. The deceased, Thomas Russell came into the kitchen. He greeted us and appeared to be in good spirits. He was not carrying anything. He talked to us until about 9.45 p;m. and then said, ”I will go and meet Bonnie.” That is my sister. She was to cease duty at 10 p.m. She was engaged to deceased.

About 10.10 p.m. the same date, deceased almost fell in at the kitchen door and sat on a chair. He said, ”For God’s sake go to the Railway Station. I think I have killed Bonnie. I have taken poison.”

We went to Mitchell Street and found Bonnie. She was in a bad condition and bleeding from the head. Deceased was taken to hospital after being treated by Dr. Jefferis.

POLICE EVIDENCE.

Const. John Melville Gudgeon, stationed at Camden: About 10.10 p.m. on the 5th June, 1950, in response to a phone call I went to Mitchell Street, Camden, where I saw Bonnie Wood. She was bleeding freely from wounds in her head. I was informed that she had been out with Thomas Russell earlier in the night.

With Sergeant Marshall I went to Mitchell Street where I saw Gwen Wood. Sergeant Marshall said to her, ”What happened?” She said, ”Tom ran into the house and said he had done something to Bonnie up near the Railway, and Dad and I came up here looking for her.” Sergt. Marshall said, ”Where is Tom Russell now.” She said, ”I think he is round with mum lying on the settee.”

We went to No. 10 Edward Street, Camden, where I saw the deceased lying on the settee. The man appeared to be dead. Sergeant Marshall said to Mrs. Wood, who was in the kitchen there, ”What happened here?” She said, ”Tom was in here talking with us till about 9.45 p.m. and then he said he was going up to meet Bonnie. He came back about ten past ten and came into the kitchen. He looked very sick. He said, ”For God’s sake go up near the railway. I think I have killed Bonnie. I have taken poison.” He then collapsed.

I rang the doctor.

Later I searched the road in Mitchell Street and found a tomahawk.

Deceased could only say, ”I got her.”

DIVORCE’S WIFE.

Mrs. Russell; My name is Glady Emily Russell. I am the divorced wife of the deceased, Thomas Edward Alfred Russell, and I reside at 64 Lucas Road, Burwood.

Deceased was born in Walsall, England, on the 16th September, 1900. He was a chef by occupation. We were married in Walsall, England, and came to this country about 27 years ago. I obtained a divorce from him. When I last saw him he had not made a will and owned no property.

On more than one occasion whilst I was living with him he threatened to shoot the children and me and then commit suicide. He has no relatives in this country.

Mr. Haddin stated: I knew the deceased, Thomas Edward Alfred Russell. I had arranged to engage him as a gardener and he started work on my property on the morning 5th June, 1950. He worked all day and left about 5 p.m. I did not see him again after that. About ? months ago I purchased some carb? bisulphide to destroy ants on my property. I used some of the poison and portion was left in a bottle in my garage. It is not there now. The deceased had access to my garage.

Detective Sergt. Haimes, of Liverpool : After midnight on the 5th June 1950, with Constable Raines, I commenced inquiries concerning the deceased, Thomas Edward Alfred Russell, who was then in the Camden District Hospital, suffering, it is believed, from the effects of poison. I endeavoured to have a conversation with him but he could not converse with me, beyond saying that he was dying of thirst.

I made numerous inquiries and was informed by a number of people that deceased had stated his intention of taking poison in an endeavour to take his life and also to others that he had taken poison. I searched the property of the deceased at his place of employment and found a note, produced. I also found a note in the handbag of Miss Wood, produced.

I made a search of the garage at “Carnarvon,” Kirkham, but could find no bottle of poison of similar description to that from which I believed the deceased died. I can find no suggestion of foul play to cause the death of deceased, but the inquiry confirms the fact that deceased took poison, from the effect of which, he subsequently died. I have been unable to trace any banking account in the name of deceased and as far as can be ascertained he left no property.

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Commonwealth of Australia Gazette     Thursday  25 Sept 1941      page 2172
Post Master General’s Department, NSW
….. Telegraph Messenger, Fourth Division. ….. John Melville GUDGEON ……
( it has not been verified if this is “our” John GUDGEON.  This Telegraph Messenger would have been 14 at the time of this announcement.
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