HODGE, DON
21st August 2016
Aged 83 Years
Late of Port Stephens
Dearly loved and will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.
Family and Friends are invited to attend DON’s Funeral Service to be held in the Nelson Bay Baptist Church, 19 Government Road, Nelson Bay on FRIDAY 2nd September 2016 commencing at 10am.
France Family Funerals www.fff.com.au
Nelson Bay 4981 4488
FDA of NSW
Published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Aug. 27, 2016
Leigh, prior to joining NSW Police, worked at Appin Mine and later became a Senior Constable at Lake Illawarra ( Oak Flats ) Police Station for many years.
On the morning of Thursday 18 August 2016, he was found deceased at his property at Boro near Braidwood, NSW, resulting from an overdose.
Leigh had recently ‘sold up’ in the Illawarra and moved to his property to make a fresh start in life – but, sadly, the demons continued to follow him after a previous suicide attempt some years earlier.
May you forever Rest In Peace mate. You were a good bloke.
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McQUADE Leighton John (Leigh)
Passed away on 18th August, 2016.
Late of Boro formerly of Blackbutt.
Dearly beloved Dad of Taylah and Maddison.
Loving and thoughtful Son of Tom & Lyn.
Much loved Brother of Shane and Dan.
Loved Grandson of Jack & Ellie (both dec) and Arthur & Sarah (both dec).
Will be sadly missed by his many Aunties, Uncles, Cousins and Friends.
Aged 43 Years
Your Memory Is Our Greatest Treasure
To Have And To Hold In Our Hearts Forever
The relatives and friends of Leigh are invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held at the Northcliffe Chapel of Hansen & Cole, 634 Northcliffe Drive, Kembla Grange on Monday 29th August, 2016 commencing at 10am. At the conclusion of the Chapel Service the funeral will proceed to Lakeside Cemetery for burial.
In lieu of flowers donations are invited to Beyond Blue. A bowl will be provided at the Chapel door.
Illawarra sisters speak out after cop dad’s suicide
Cydonee Mardon
Sisters Maddison and Taylah McQuade with a picture of their father Leigh McQuade who recently committed suicide. Picture: Georgia Matts
Leigh McQuade had no trouble staring down the hardest of criminals and never thought twice about throwing himself in the line of fire.
His police academy training supplied him with the tools necessary to bring down the toughest of crooks and soothe the hearts of the most broken victims.
But no one taught Senior Constable McQuade how to tackle the black dog that terrorised him. The wild beast that has brought down far too many NSW cops, got him too.
Maddison and Taylah McQuade are now left wondering why no one could help their dad – the brave Illawarra cop who took his own life, aged 43.
‘’When dad began to get sick, I was quite young so I wasn’t entirely aware of what was going on but as I grew up I learnt what the basics were … his anxiety affected the daily things that he used to be able to do so carefreely,’’ Maddison said.
‘’It wasn’t until after his death that I actually researched what PTSD actually entails, and it just blew me away to believe how an individual can suffer so much.’’
Maddison said police officers entering the force should be better supported for the mental struggles they could face.
‘’They should sit them down and say ‘hey you might have to learn to fire this gun but you also need to learn how to mentally deal with seeing deceased bodies, by being able to save people and all the horrific things that are on the cards’.
‘’It’s pretty evident that there’s not much of that.’’
The McQuade girls are angry their family was ‘’kept in the dark’’ with no support or education on how to help their dad during his six year-struggle before he was medically retired in 2013.
Taylah and Maddison don’t want their dad Leigh McQuade’s death to be in vain. Picture: Georgia Matts
‘’Everyone puts so much crap on cops … but they put up with some inhumane sights, they are suffering,’’ Maddison said.
‘’There is minimal awareness, support and education about PTSD and these types of diseases.
’’If any good can come of Dad’s death it would have to be to try and help those suffering before it’s too late because I could never wish this pain on anyone.
‘’It’s too horrific to lose someone you love to a disease that they didn’t deserve. There could be so much more support.’’
As the McQuade family struggles to move on without Leigh, they still feel the support is lacklustre.
‘’Even now we haven’t been provided much help, we were assisted with NSW Police Association counselling with only three appointments and as I’ve been going through my HSC they ‘couldn’t’ help me with paperwork to explain why I need privileges,’’ Maddison said.
‘’It was horrible, all the stuffing around and telling stories to people who claimed they were there to help but never did.’’
Brave cop ill-equipped to battle his demons
Lake Illawarra Senior Constable Leigh McQuade
The death of an Illawarra police officer has again highlighted the dire need for better support for emergency service workers suffering mental health issues, Greens Justice Spokesperson David Shoebridge said.
The MP is taking their fight to Parliament on Monday.
Lake Illawarra Senior Constable Leigh McQuade took his own life in August after years of battling debilitating symptoms of PTSD. He went from a loving, happy dad with a close-knit group of friends, to an isolated, withdrawn man who drank excessively to ‘’coat the pain’’.
His daughters Maddison and Taylah remember feeling helpless and on ‘’high alert’’ for a trigger that could end in a bad episode for their dad.
‘’I understand in the job there’s tragedies of deaths with accidents, murders, drug busts … but criminals get assistance and the opportunity to rehabilitate,’’ Maddison said.
‘’No assistance is given to these police officers that suffer PTSD and other mental illnesses and diseases. Their only escape from it is to end it, usually with suicide.’’
Mr Shoebridge said the story was all too familiar. ‘’First responders, whether police, firefighters or paramedics, see things and deal with trauma that is almost unthinkable for most of us, and it happens to them on a daily basis’’.
“For police in particular the lack of organisational support while they are in the force is then magnified by the complete absence of support once a psychologically injured officer leaves the force,’’ Mr Shoebridge said. “The fact is once an injured officer leaves it is their family, their spouse and children, who take on the burden and suffer the impacts of the injury. Theirs is an often unspoken need and it is well past time it was addressed.’’
Berrick Boland, a former police officer who runs a support page for injured police officers and the families of those who have died, says the issue of suicide is hidden from public view.’’
In NSW you are better positioned if you are a dead greyhound than an injured or deceased policeman or emergency services government employee,’’ Mr Bolland, the administrator of the Forgotten 000s Facebook page says.
A NSW Police Association spokeswoman said a new Police Legacy program was available to officers and families called BACKUP for Life. The Government has committed $500,000 annually over the next four years for the program to ‘’design, implement and manage post service support strategies for former NSW police officers and immediate families’’.
The Association runs a CARE Program and promotes Beyondblue’s ‘‘Good Practice Framework for Mental Health and Wellbeing in First Responder Organisations’’.
Illawarra cops pay tribute to struggling friend
The NSW Police Force can hold themselves responsible for Leigh’s death, an unnamed colleague said.
‘’He left there with a messed-up head and not any kind of support. He had so much anger and hurt in his heart, this wouldn’t have come as no surprise to anyone who knew him. And as a police officer he managed to have care and respect for the people he was forced to arrest.
‘’More than any police officer EVER he cared for the families and genuinely wanted to see positive change in people and always done his absolute best to give people a second chance.
‘’No police officer will ever live up to his standards. R.I.P mate save that beer for us when we see you again.’’
Another colleague said: ‘’Leigh worked in the Lake Illawarra TAG Unit, now it’s called the proactive crime unit. It was very busy, non stop.
‘’Work involved drug raids, DNA hits targeting high-risk offenders … ,’’ the officer said.
‘’He was in the face of crooks, searching people, brawls … he was a great bloke with a good heart.’’
Anyone needing support can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636.
BALL died on a Thursday after being struck by a passing motor vehicle, whilst struggling with an offender on Crawford St, Cannington. BALL was born 15 March 1969 and joined the police force on the 18th of December 1995.
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Constable Peter Ball Memorial Youth Award
Constable Peter Ball was stationed at Gosnells Police Station and was on duty on 6 August 1998 when he was run down by a car while chasing a suspected car thief in Cannington. Peter died in hospital the next day, leaving behind a young wife and his 18 month old daughter.
Tributes and support from police and the public followed. Peter was given a State Funeral and memorial services are held each year to commemorate him. Memorial rose gardens were also established at the Gosnells and Cannington Police Stations, where he had worked.
Constable Peter Ball Memorial Youth Award
The award aims to recognise young people, youth groups or organisations that have:
Improved safety or promoted the prevention of crime
Enhanced the profile of young people
Increased opportunities for young people
Who is Eligible?
Youths or a group of young people aged 12 to 25, living in the City or not-for-profit organisations or groups supporting youth activities in the City.
Prize: $1000 + plaque
Nominations
Entries can be submitted any time during the year with submissions closing at the end of September. Award presentations will take place at the Australia Day Ceremony on 26 January each year.
Nominations should be no more than two A4 pages and where appropriate, include supporting material such as photos, media clippings, pamphlets etc.
Applications will only be eligible for one category per program. A separate Application Form is required for each entry. Previous winners are not eligible to nominate the same project for a period of 3 years effective 2016.
Send to:
The Safe City Constable Peter Ball Memorial Award
City of Gosnells
PO Box 662
Gosnells WA 6990
For more information please contact the Safe City Initiative 9391 6022 or Email Safe City.
Plans for new medal to recognise slain, seriously injured WA police
Nicole Cox
EXCLUSIVE
Every slain and seriously injured WA police officer would be automatically honoured with a special commendation medal to mark their selfless community sacrifice, under a new plan to be mooted at the WA Police Union conference today.
The idea, which is modelled on an award offered by Victoria Police, has been raised by outgoing union deputy vice-president Jon Groves and has won support from the state opposition and families of officers killed in the line of duty.
Opposition Leader Mark McGowan will unveil a proposal at the police union’s annual conference on Monday for a WA medal, similar to the Victoria Police Star and the US military decoration the Purple Heart, to acknowledge officers killed or seriously injured while on duty.
Under the concept, fallen officers including Constable Damien Murphy, who was run down and killed by a drunk and drugged driver in Craigie in 2007, would be posthumously awarded the medal, along with those who sustain life-changing injuries – like Senior Constable Matt Butcher, who was left partially paralysed by a “flying headbutt” during a brawl in Joondalup in February 2008.
It would apply to all work-related injuries, including psychological illnesses, regardless of whether the conditions first manifestedon or off-duty.
“The Victorian Government has struck a medal for police officers who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty and it recognises the sacrifice, valour and contribution of those police officers,” Mr McGowan told Fairfax Media.
“It’s only awarded rarely, but it is an appropriate recognition and certainly gives families of those who have died in the line of duty some additional recognition of their mother or father, husband or wife.
“It’s also for those who are seriously injured in the line of duty – so officers who put their lives on the line and get injured as a consequence…that they are appropriately recognised for that.
“It is rare recognition, but appropriate recognition and I think that should happen here in WA.”
Mr Groves said a medal that acknowledged officers killed and maimed in the line of duty – and not only acts of bravery – was needed to highlight their community sacrifice and the risks that police officers come up against every day of their working lives.
“We need a medal that recognises the police officers in this state who have paid the ultimate price – either with their lives or their health – in serving the community,” he said.
“It’s something tangible for those who have been kicked out the door of WA Police, due to work-related illness or injury, to have in their hands to remind them of the good times and the good work they did for the community.”
WA policeman Simon Bowen was five years old when his father WA Detective Sergeant Geoff Bowen was killed by a parcel bomb at the National Crime Authority in Adelaide in 1994.
Detective First Class Constable Bowen, who has served with WA Police for seven years, welcomed the idea saying a special medal would validate the ultimate sacrifice his father made.
“I think it’s a great concept in not only is it a keepsake, but it’s something else in the present that will identify the sacrifice and the memory,” he said.
“It’s a small token that you can just marvel at and look at it and say, for my situation, the memory of Dad is never going to be forgotten not only by me but by the blokes that he used to work with and generations to come.
“It’s a small bit of recognition. It would be humbling.”
Tracey Ball, who was widowed when her husband Constable Peter Ball was run down by a car and killed while chasing a suspected car thief in Cannington in August 1998, welcomed the police medal proposal.
The couple’s daughter, Brianna, now 17, was only 18 months old when her father died in the line of duty.
“Brianna was just 18 months old so she really has no memories of her dad,” Ms Ball said.
“She’s very proud of him but she never really knew him, she never got the chance. So to have something physical and tangible that links who he was as a police officer, I think would be extremely important to her.
“My granddad served in World War I and we have his medals. Having those medals, we used to do the Anzac Day parade and we were so proud and patriotic. To have chance to have that for someone in the police force, I think would be awesome.
“I know the defence forces award medals posthumously and with Legacy the kids go on camps with the armed forces kids who talk about their dads’ medals whereas the police kids don’t have that, they don’t have anything.”
A WA Police spokesman said the force already offered several Police Commissioner’s awards for bravery and conduct including the Cross for Bravery, commendations and a group citation for conduct.
In addition, there is also the WA Police Medal for diligent and ethical service, service medals, the Commissioner’s Medal for Excellence, a Certificate of Outstanding Performance and a WA Police Cadet Medal.
The spokesman said the Western Australia Police Cross for Bravery could be awarded to officers killed or seriously injured after a specific act of bravery and members killed in the line of duty were also recognised on the WA Police Memorial Honour Roll and the National Memorial Honour Roll.
He said the “existing awards and medals are quite comprehensive” but declined to comment about the proposal for a medal for officers killed or seriously injured in the line of duty.
“I am unaware of any proposals for new medals and the department does not make a habit of commenting on speculation or possible proposals,” he said.
Comments:
les bassednean,
that is all well and good, but what do those officers who put their body on the line for their state, and then get arrested, interrogated, humiliated, insulted and shamed get?
Mrs Elliott Watt (9038)
I wonder if the medal will be awarded to officers with psychological injuries who have died from these injuries like PTSD, depression and anxiety? My husband died on duty from depression after 15+ years service….surely he, and other officers like him deserve to be recognized too?
Long overdue Perth,
This issues has been raised for quite literally decades that I have been aware of, and yet the Dep’t has chosen to ignore the injured in the hope they will leave. It is only if you suddenly become high-profile media interest then they cannot ignore you.
The embarrassing fact is as things stand, all the officers who came to Matt Butcher’s aid can be recognised, but there is literally nothing that can be given in acknowledgement to Matt himself as there was no “clever act” they can use for a special commendation. And not even Toxic Tony could spin a believable one for the actions of an unconscious man. This has been raised at the highest levels in emails that were ignored and not replied to.
If they finally come to the table on this one, great! Allow retrospectivity, even better. The men and women who put their life on the line so you can be safe deserve nothing less!
We must also acknowledge that violence in the community as a whole is greater these days. That is not something for which the Government or the Police Service can take responsibility; it is a problem for society as a whole. For whatever reason, more and more people in the community are likely to display acts of extreme violence. We have seen tragic examples of that within the past few years. It is a deep-seated problem for the community. In part, it relates to the amount of violence shown on television which is resulting in much more normalisation of levels of violence in the community. We must tackle that problem from a fundamental perspective if we are to be successful in fighting it.
I touched earlier on the issue of young offenders in the community. We have seen tragic examples recently of young offenders who, in many respects, cannot be expected to take full responsibility for their actions. One example is the absolute tragedy of the death of Constable Peter Ball last week, whose funeral was held today, and who was allegedly killed as a result of the activities in part of a 13 year old offender.
BALI-BOMBING survivors are concerned some victims will miss out on travel assistance to mark the 10th anniversary.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard confirmed today that she will travel to the holiday island to attend a memorial service on October 12 and will offer victims of the attack free flights to commemorate the day.
The assistance package will include airfares, ground transport, accommodation, travel insurance and visa costs, in line with the package provided for the first anniversary.
Assistance will be granted to family members of the 88 Australians who died.
Those seriously injured are also eligible and will be able to take a partner, child or a close relative and a support person if required for medical reasons.
But, the definition of “serious injury” has sparked concerns by survivors such as Peter Hughes and Tracey Ball, as well as Kingsley Football Club president Keith Pearce.
Mr Hughes, who sustained burns to more than 50 per cent of his body, said he was worried some people may miss out on assistance because their pain will not be deemed serious enough.
“I am happy they are offering what was offered for the first anniversary,” he said. “But I don’t think they should be singling out people. I just want everyone to be able to go back and pay their respects.”
Government sources said the definition would include psychological injuries.
Mr Hughes said he had asked the Prime Minister several weeks ago about the funding package and then wrote to her this week.
Tracey Ball, widow of Constable Peter Ball who died chasing a suspected car thief in August 1998, was also injured in the bombings along with her sister Melinda Kemp.
The pair, who were on a family holiday at the time, are concerned the assistance package will not extend to their mum and dad.
Mrs Kemp said while their father was not injured, he was left scarred by the event.
She said he had the grim task of searching makeshift morgues looking for them, a task no father wanted to endure.
Last night the Kingsley Football Club, which lost seven players in the horrific attack, held a legends match to commemorate the 10th anniversary as well as help raise money for anyone who wanted to go back.
Mr Pearce, whose son Duane was one of the players who did come home, said the club had been inquiring for months about government financial assistance and in the end decided to organise their own fundraiser to help those who couldn’t afford the travel costs.
“What is meant by seriously injured?” he said. “Is that physically or mentally, what does it mean? And how serious is serious? It should be available to everyone.”
Services will be held in both Bali and Canberra on October 12, with Governor-General Quentin Bryce to lead the service in the nation’s capital.
“It was a moment of horror that had a profound effect on Australia as a nation and on the lives of survivors and the family and loved ones of those who died,” Ms Gillard said in a statement on Sunday.
“Time has healed many of the physical wounds caused by the bombings but it can never diminish the sense of wrong we feel at this act of terror.
“Forgetting would be the ultimate injustice – and we will never forget.”
The memorial service in Bali will be held at the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park and the Canberra service will be held in the Great Hall of Parliament House.
Service: From? ? ? to 20 May 2000= ? years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? 1970
Died on: Saturday 20 May 2000 @ 2.20am
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident – killed instantly
Age: 30
Funeral date: ? ? ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: Blue Ribbon Foundation Portland District Health Emergency Helipad
Mark Bateman with his children, Jack and Daisy. Source: News Limited
Jack Bateman and his grandfather, Phil Bateman, place flowers at the memorial service
Daisy Bateman (front, second from left), Jack Bateman, Tina Robinson and daughters.
Deb Bateman and Trevor Robinson
James St, Northcote – Northcote Police Stn. Front Inscription Donated by the Northcote R.S.L. in memory of Senior Constable Mark Anthony Bateman 30810 and Senior Constable Fiona Frances Robinson 30507 tragically killed in the line of duty 20 May, 2000 Lest We Forget
[alert_green]MARKIS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
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Funeral location: ?
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
At approximately 2.20am on Saturday 20th May, 2000Senior Constable Fiona Robinson and Senior Constable Mark Bateman were travelling along High Street, Northcote with emergency lights activated in response to an emergency call. At the intersection of Dennis & High Streets the divisional van they were driving collided with another vehicle before coming to rest against a traffic control signal and electricity pole. Both members were killed instantly. Fiona was 30 years of age.
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ELEVEN years ago, Debra Bateman’s police officer husband was killed on duty. She chose to be strong.
Debra Bateman is the face of Blue Ribbon Day … a wonderful choice, as I will explain, and a job well done by the organisers.
I say job, because Debra, sorry Dr Bateman, is not the sort of person who has ever sought the spotlight so I’m guessing they had to work hard to convince her.
It’s perhaps why she never aimed for the stars as a child. Dr Bateman says she begrudgingly finished high school before qualifying as a hairdresser.
Yet, she is now a senior lecturer in higher education research at Deakin University and recently has been honoured with two national teaching awards for excellence, the Pearson ATEA Australia Teacher Educator of the Year and the Australian Learning and Teaching Council award.
She has also been cited for her outstanding contribution to student learning.
“Who’d have thought!” Dr Bateman, 43, says with a laugh.
And, yet, just a little more 10 years ago, things were so different, so despairing.
At 32, Dr Bateman became a widow, but don’t call her that, especially if it makes you feel sorry for her or you are tempted to plant a consoling kiss on her cheek. Because people, Dr Bateman says, do that when you are a widow. You can see the pity work across their faces, she says. The assumptions registered.
Perhaps she is more conscious of the emotional baggage the name carries because of the sudden and shocking way Dr Bateman became a widow on a Saturday night in May 2000.
They were answering a call to attend a reported holdup at a bakery in Northcote, when their van was clipped by another vehicle, became airborne and crashed into a power pole.
Both officers were killed.
Dr Bateman was at home with children, Jack, 17 months, and Daisy, who was nine weeks old.
She has never spoken publicly about her 29-year-old husband’s death until now and only because she is the face of the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Day. So why now?
“I feel it is appropriate for me to step up,” she told me.
“I have a few runs on the board, successes in my life.”
She also spoke to children Daisy, now 11, and Jack, who is 12, about going public and said the family agreed it was a privilege to do it and a positive thing to do and they all wanted to give something back.
Dr Bateman will feature in an advertising campaign promoting the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Day on September 29. It is a day when Victorians wear blue and white ribbons as a mark of respect for the sacrifice and memory of 157 police men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty in Victoria.
Money raised – $5.5 million to date – goes to pay for new lifesaving equipment in Victoria’s public hospitals.
Mark Bateman was, his wife says, a very proud policeman who also loved his football club. He wasn’t a complicated bloke. They met when he was 16, she was 18, and they married eight years later, when Dr Bateman had completed a teaching diploma.
There were a few hurdles along the way. A kilometre from the site of the accident that would claim Mark’s life, the couple had a horrific car accident. Mark, then 19, suffered broken ribs, but Dr Bateman, 21, suffered a brain injury that would keep her in hospital and rehabilitation for a year.
She said the accident was a major transition for both of them.
Mark would emerge an incredibly committed person, Dr Bateman a young woman heading in a new direction.
She was a qualified hairdresser, but a vocational therapist told her she could not do that any more, because she wouldn’t be able to stand on her feet all day.
Dr Bateman was told she would make a great teacher. The therapist was spot on. She was a born teacher.
When Mark died, Dr Bateman became a single mother and was forced to think about what she wanted to do, “because I really had grown up”.
Juggling children, she completed a doctorate and now works in the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof Jane Den Hollander. Previously, she worked in the School of Education.
Prof Den Hollander said Dr Bateman was a shining example of what could be achieved through dogged determination, perseverance and a love of lifelong learning. She doesn’t tell anyone she is a police widow, because Dr Bateman does not want to be defined by it and she wants her children to know they are special, but not because their father died.
It was also important to her to maintain her integrity and independence.
“I’m a very self-contained unit, that’s how I describe myself,” Dr Bateman said.
A good teacher is also a good learner. Four weeks after Mark’s death, Dr Bateman was invited to a lunch attended by several police widows. She said: “I was still very raw. (But) I could see women around the tables who had made choices. Some stuck with the very moment of losing their partners. Others were amazing women who were resilient and robust. They had incredible integrity and pride in who they were.”
Dr Bateman said her parents, Alan and Joy, had taught her to never give up and she had two babies who required her to make some serious choices.
“I chose to be strident and strong,” she said.
“I’ve proven that widows can do anything they want to do and I have proven to myself that stuff I never dared dream was possible.”
Like I said, she is a wonderful role model for us all, not just widows, and her story is a lesson in how to not be burdened by a catastrophic tragedy, but rather be inspired by it. It’s a story of a woman who stayed strong and a family which helped each other through the sadness and despair.
And for those who believe that Mark Bateman is looking down on them, well, he’d be looking down with pride.
12-11-2001
Vic: Police car type did not contribute to officers’ deaths
A coroner has found the deaths of two policemen in a car accident in Melbourne were not influenced by the van in which they were travelling.
Senior Constable MARK BATEMAN, aged 30, and 31-year-old Senior Constable FIONA ROBINSON died from multiple injuries after their divisional van rolled when it side-swiped another car in suburban Northcote on May 20 last year.
Coroner PHILLIP GOLDBERG said the two police officers were en route to a burglary in progress and were trying to overtake the slower moving car.
He said a subsequent police investigation revealed that the Holden Commodore in which they were travelling had a higher potential to roll over than the previous model Ford.
The Commodore divisional vans are no longer used by police.
But Mr GOLDBERG says the Commodore’s greater risk of rolling did not aggravate the circumstances of the two police officers deaths.
Trevor Robinson stood before about 150 people and declared that for the rest of his life he would love the wife he lost in tragic circumstances 10 years earlier.
At the same time, he told of his love for Tina Robinson, whom he has since married, and the two daughters they have together.
The words were spoken at a memorial service where it was said that not only are Senior Constable Fiona Robinson, and the colleague who died with her, Senior
Constable Mark Bateman, loved and not forgotten, but also that life has moved on
in some positive ways.
The service was held 10 years to the day since the two Northcote police officers
were killed in a divisional van accident as they were heading to a reported holdup.
After being hit by another vehicle, the van partially overturned and crashed into an
electricity pole.
The deaths sparked a review of police van safety and led to the introduction of the
Crewman vehicle, which was designed to reduce the risk of rolling over. In September last year, the government announced that new vans, each featuring six airbags and an Electronic Stability Program, are being introduced in a phased rollout that will replace the Crewman vehicles.
Family, friends and representatives of the Victoria Police Force and The Police
Association attended the memorial, where Mark Bateman’s widow, Deb Bateman,
recalled the night she had “a visit from the police that a police family truly dreads”.
She had a two-year old son, Jack, and a baby daughter, Daisy. Trevor and Fiona Robinson had been married only three months.
Deb told how in 10 years, Jack has enjoyed school success, Daisy shines in basketball and she herself has completed a PhD. Life has gone on, she said, even as they continue to miss Mark.
An approach from Northcote Police, suggesting a commemoration of the 10th
anniversary of the tragedy, is an example of Deb’s assertion that the police community has never deserted her and her family.
Police Legacy organised a Perth holiday for the children last year. They have flown in a police helicopter with the Chief Commissioner thanks to the Blue Ribbon Foundation.
“Today is a very special day in the coming together of all those really important
police organisations that keep us connected,” said Deb.
“My children have a very strong sense that they belong somewhere within the police
Officers at the tightly knit Northcote police station in Melbourne’s inner north are today mourning the deaths of two of their colleagues in a road accident early yesterday. Senior Constable Mark Bateman, 30, and his 31-year-old friend and colleague Senior Constable Fiona Robinson who was married just 11 weeks ago were killed when their divisional van hit a pole after colliding with a car in High Street, Northcote, about 2.20am.
One of the- two officers was believed to have swapped a shift with a colleague and was not originally rostered to work on Friday night.
Acting Chief Commissioner Neil O’Loughlin said he was deeply saddened by the accident, which highlighted the dangers police faced. “It’s tragic that these members died whilst serving the community,” he said.
The officers were described by the officer-in-charge at Northcote, Senior Sergeant Rick McIntosh, as “happy-go-lucky characters”. “Fiona would always have a smile on her face, even when she was working under pressure,” he said. “She had only recently been married.”
Senior Constable Bateman was also married, with a two-year-old son, Jack, and a daughter, Daisy, three months. “Mark loved work and was dedicated to his family,” Senior Sergeant McIntosh said.
Police spokesman Kevin Loomes said the 40 officers stationed at Northcote were receiving counselling. He said some of them had arrived at work yesterday unaware their friends had been killed.
The assistant secretary of the Police Association, Senior Sergeant Paul Mullett, said the deaths of the two officers would be deeply felt among their colleagues and in the community. “
They certainly enjoyed a good reputation, a very good reputation,” he said. “They’re both renowned for their dedication . . . They are two respected members within their own workplace, and they had a reputation of respect among their local community.”
Yesterday, Northcote residents and police paid their respects by dropping flowers off at the police station. Bunches of flowers were also taped to a pole at the accident scene. Mr Loomes said the accident occurred while the two officers were driving north along High St.
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Opening of Emergency Helipad and Dedication of Mark Bateman Memorial
Mark Bateman Memorial helipad
Late Mark Bateman’s Children Jack & Daisy Bateman – Handprinting into Cement as part of Memorial at the Helipad.
Friday, December 11, 2015
The Portland district community celebrated the opening of the city’s new helipad on 8 December 2015.
The official opening of the Blue Ribbon FoundationPortland District Health Emergency Helipad marked the culmination of a long and dedicated campaign over the past 9 years.
PDH CEO Chris Giles said the helipad was a community facility that came about as a result of great local support. The community turned out in hundred to join in the celebrations of the opening of this potentially life-saving facility for our district.
The Chairman of the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation, Bill Noonan, OAM, the President of the Portland Branch, Peter Corbett and President of Portland District Health Board of Management Michelle Kearney lead the opening of the Emergency Helipad.
The ceremony also included the dedication of a permanent police memorial in memory of Senior Constable Mark Bateman who died with his partner Senior Constable Fiona Robinson on May 20, 2000 when their divisional van was involved in a crash while answering a priority one call at Northcote.
The dedication will also be a celebration of community spirit and determination as it acknowledges the many organisations, individuals, trades people, suppliers and sponsors who have donated their professional skills, materials and other resources for the building of the vital emergency facility.
We should acknowledge Neil Soullier – Victorian Blue Ribbon Foundation CEO for his great support throughout the project, Peter Corbett – President of the Portland Blue Ribbon Foundation Branch and loyal committee, Peter Carr – Volunteer Project Manager, the many PDH staff previous and present who have lived and breathed helipad over the past 9 years, Carolyn Malseed for pulling together the opening with the Blue Ribbon committee and the many businesses and organisations who volunteered time and/or donated towards the project to make this happen. There are many other people that could be thanked, this list goes on and on and we are grateful for their support and assistance.
National Police Remembrance Day, or Blue Ribbon Day as it is better known in Victoria, occurs every September, and this year’s Blue Ribbon Day was Thursday 29 September ( 2011 ).
This year Scotch ( Scotch College, Melbourne ) was nominated as the ambassador school for Blue Ribbon Day, and on Wednesday 14 September Mr Neil Soullier OAM, the CEO of the Blue Ribbon Foundation, attended assembly and presented a flag of remembrance to the Principal. The flag was flown at Scotch until Blue Ribbon Day, Thursday 29 September.
Principal Tom Batty, Mr Neil Soullier OAM and Jack Bateman (Year 7) with the Blue Ribbon flag of remembrance.
At the assembly, Jack Bateman (Year 7) addressed the school, speaking of his close identification with Blue Ribbon Day.‘My name is Jack Bateman. This morning I want to talk to all of you about something which is pretty close to my heart. The Blue Ribbon Foundation is a community organisation which ensures that the memories of police who have died in the line of duty live on as part of the community.
‘One of the police who have died on duty is my dad, Mark Anthony Bateman, Senior Constable, stationed at the Northcote Police Station, and this year my family have proudly agreed to represent the Blue Ribbon Foundation. The foundation was founded in 1998 and has a roll of honour which lists 157 police members who have died. My dad is part of history and the honour roll dates back to 1858.
‘The foundation is mainly run by volunteers who organise fundraising events throughout Victoria. All money goes to community projects that promote awareness, and for important projects like hospitals which are named in honour of fallen officers.
‘We can do nothing to bring them back, but as a grateful community we can take steps to honour their memory and ensure their sacrifice is acknowledged. I hope that we at Scotch College will be able to contribute to the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s mission – a good start is to wear a blue ribbon on Police Remembrance Day, 29 September.’
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 17 February 1995
Senior Constable – appointed August 1999
Stations: Mill Park ( 17 February 1995 ), Transit ( April 1977 ), Northcote ( March 1999 ) – death
Service: From? ? ?pre 17 February 1995 to 20 May 2000 = 5+ years Service
Awards: posthumous Victoria Police Star – Awarded on 19 July 2005
Born: ? ? 1969
Died on: Saturday 20 May 2000 @ 2.20am
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident – killed instantly
Age: 31
Funeral date: ? ? ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: the Fiona Robinson Treatment Room, Children’s Ward, Geelong Hospital, Victoria
James St, Northcote – Northcote Police Stn. Front Inscription Donated by the Northcote R.S.L. in memory of Senior Constable Mark Anthony Bateman 30810 and Senior Constable Fiona Frances Robinson 30507 tragically killed in the line of duty 20 May, 2000 Lest We Forget
[alert_green]FIONAIS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
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Funeral location: ?
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
At approximately 2.20am on Saturday 20th May, 2000Senior Constable Robinson and Senior Constable Mark Bateman were travelling along High Street, Northcote with emergency lights activated in response to an emergency call. At the intersection of Dennis & High Streets the divisional van they were driving collided with another vehicle before coming to rest against a traffic control signal and electricity pole. Both members were killed instantly.
Today the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation will dedicate a Police Memorial to honour Senior Constable Fiona ROBINSON at the Geelong Hospital.
The ceremony, to dedicate the Fiona Robinson Treatment Room in the Children’s Ward, is to be conducted in the presence of senior police, representatives from the hospital and the Blue Ribbon Foundation plus members of Senior Constable Robinson’s family. Many of S/C Robinson’s former colleagues, who were stationed at Northcote in May 2000, will also be attending.
The Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation has donated $250,000 for the specialised Treatment Room at Geelong Hospital with nearly half being raised in the Geelong community.
The Fiona Robinson Treatment Room forms part of the recently redeveloped children’s area of the Geelong Hospital where more than $8 million was raised to create the Cotton On Foundation Children’s Ward.
Fiona’s Treatment Room is specially equipped to give primary care and treatment to children as well as new-born babies and their mothers.
Fiona Robinson completed her training at the Police Academy and graduated as Constable Fiona De Leuuw (30507) on 17th February, 1995. Her initial posting was at Mill Park police station before transferring to Transit in April, 1997. In March 1999 she was posted to the Uniform Division at Northcote and earned her promotion to Senior Constable in August the same year.
In early 2000 Fiona married Trevor Robinson but this happy union was cut short by tragedy, just three months later.
At approximately 2.20am on Saturday 20th May, 2000Senior Constable Robinson and Senior Constable Mark Bateman were travelling along High Street, Northcote with emergency lights activated in response to an emergency call. At the intersection of Dennis & High Streets the divisional van they were driving collided with another vehicle before coming to rest against a traffic control signal and electricity pole. Both members were killed instantly. Fiona was 30 years of age.
Fiona DeLeeuw was an energetic, happy young girl that spent much of her childhood living around the Romsey area with mother Shirley, father Ernie and her two brothers Andrew & Matthew. Ernie was a member of Victoria Police for 27 years and became the first Sergeant to be stationed at Wallan.
Fiona was a keen horse rider and excellent goal shooter in netball. After leaving school Fiona started her working career as a teller with the Commonwealth Bank but after serving at Lancefield, Kilmore and the Melbourne branches she opted to follow in her father’s footsteps and join Victoria Police
A posthumous Victoria Police Star was awarded to Constable Robinson’s family on 19th July, 2005.
The Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation is a community-based organisation that perpetuates the memory of fallen police officers through the support of worthwhile community projects within Victoria.
The dedication of this latest facility will bring to 29 the number of hospital units funded by the Foundation in Victoria, mostly in the areas of emergency and trauma treatment.
Blue Ribbon Foundation CEO, Neil Soullier said;
“Senior Constable Robinson died while answering an emergency call from a member of the public and she paid the ultimate price. Our view is that members who have fallen in the line of duty shall forever remain on duty and now, through this specialised Treatment Room, Senior Constable Robinson is serving the people of Geelong”.
What: Police Memorial Dedication
Fiona Robinson Treatment Room at Geelong Hospital
Where: Geelong Clinical School – Deakin University & Barwon Health
285 Ryrie Street, Geelong – enter via Kitchener House
12-11-2001
Vic: Police car type did not contribute to officers’ deaths
A coroner has found the deaths of two policemen in a car accident in Melbourne were not influenced by the van in which they were travelling.
Senior Constable MARK BATEMAN, aged 30, and 31-year-old Senior Constable FIONA ROBINSON died from multiple injuries after their divisional van rolled when it side-swiped another car in suburban Northcote on May 20 last year.
Coroner PHILLIP GOLDBERG said the two police officers were en route to a burglary in progress and were trying to overtake the slower moving car.
He said a subsequent police investigation revealed that the Holden Commodore in which they were travelling had a higher potential to roll over than the previous model Ford.
The Commodore divisional vans are no longer used by police.
But Mr GOLDBERG says the Commodore’s greater risk of rolling did not aggravate the circumstances of the two police officers deaths.
Trevor Robinson stood before about 150 people and declared that for the rest of his life he would love the wife he lost in tragic circumstances 10 years earlier.
At the same time, he told of his love for Tina Robinson, whom he has since married, and the two daughters they have together.
The words were spoken at a memorial service where it was said that not only are Senior Constable Fiona Robinson, and the colleague who died with her, Senior
Constable Mark Bateman, loved and not forgotten, but also that life has moved on
in some positive ways.
The service was held 10 years to the day since the two Northcote police officers
were killed in a divisional van accident as they were heading to a reported holdup.
After being hit by another vehicle, the van partially overturned and crashed into an
electricity pole.
The deaths sparked a review of police van safety and led to the introduction of the
Crewman vehicle, which was designed to reduce the risk of rolling over. In September last year, the government announced that new vans, each featuring six airbags and an Electronic Stability Program, are being introduced in a phased rollout that will replace the Crewman vehicles.
Family, friends and representatives of the Victoria Police Force and The Police
Association attended the memorial, where Mark Bateman’s widow, Deb Bateman,
recalled the night she had “a visit from the police that a police family truly dreads”.
She had a two-year old son, Jack, and a baby daughter, Daisy. Trevor and Fiona Robinson had been married only three months.
Deb told how in 10 years, Jack has enjoyed school success, Daisy shines in basketball and she herself has completed a PhD. Life has gone on, she said, even as they continue to miss Mark.
An approach from Northcote Police, suggesting a commemoration of the 10th
anniversary of the tragedy, is an example of Deb’s assertion that the police community has never deserted her and her family.
Police Legacy organised a Perth holiday for the children last year. They have flown in a police helicopter with the Chief Commissioner thanks to the Blue Ribbon Foundation.
“Today is a very special day in the coming together of all those really important
police organisations that keep us connected,” said Deb.
“My children have a very strong sense that they belong somewhere within the police
Officers at the tightly knit Northcote police station in Melbourne’s inner north are today mourning the deaths of two of their colleagues in a road accident early yesterday. Senior Constable Mark Bateman, 30, and his 31-year-old friend and colleague Senior Constable Fiona Robinson who was married just 11 weeks ago were killed when their divisional van hit a pole after colliding with a car in High Street, Northcote, about 2.20am.
One of the- two officers was believed to have swapped a shift with a colleague and was not originally rostered to work on Friday night.
Acting Chief Commissioner Neil O’Loughlin said he was deeply saddened by the accident, which highlighted the dangers police faced. “It’s tragic that these members died whilst serving the community,” he said.
The officers were described by the officer-in-charge at Northcote, Senior Sergeant Rick McIntosh, as “happy-go-lucky characters”. “Fiona would always have a smile on her face, even when she was working under pressure,” he said. “She had only recently been married.”
Senior Constable Bateman was also married, with a two-year-old son, Jack, and a daughter, Daisy, three months. “Mark loved work and was dedicated to his family,” Senior Sergeant McIntosh said.
Police spokesman Kevin Loomes said the 40 officers stationed at Northcote were receiving counselling. He said some of them had arrived at work yesterday unaware their friends had been killed.
The assistant secretary of the Police Association, Senior Sergeant Paul Mullett, said the deaths of the two officers would be deeply felt among their colleagues and in the community. “
They certainly enjoyed a good reputation, a very good reputation,” he said. “They’re both renowned for their dedication . . . They are two respected members within their own workplace, and they had a reputation of respect among their local community.”
Yesterday, Northcote residents and police paid their respects by dropping flowers off at the police station. Bunches of flowers were also taped to a pole at the accident scene. Mr Loomes said the accident occurred while the two officers were driving north along High St.
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Raymond John McNISH
| 31/08/2016
Raymond John McNISH ( Jnr )
aka Ray
Original heading: Unknown MALE VicPol member – suicide 1
VicPol Academy Squad 7 of 2004
Victoria Police Force
Regd. # 34557
Rank: Commenced at Victorian Police Academy on 14 June 2004
Probationary Constable – appointed 29 October 2004
Leading Senior Constable
Stations: ?, Campaspe region, Swan Hill, Echuca – death
Service: From 14 June 2004to 8 February 2016=11 years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: 5 May 1965
Died on: 8 February 2016 @ home in Moama, NSW
Cause: Depression – Suicide – firearm to head ( non police issue )
( Ray was struggling with his Depression & had an appointment arranged for the day after his suicide )
About 1000 people attended the funeral of policeman Ray McNish in Echuca – Moama on Friday. A huge cortege started outside the Echuca police station in Dickson St, led by mounted police, a lone piper and with Victorian police chief commissioner Graham Ashton taking the salute as the hearse passed through an honour guard of uniformed and plain clothes officers. The service was held at Dungula Function Centre to accommodate the massive crowd. Full story on pages 4 and 5.
[alert_yellow]RAY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Photo: Married couple Wendy and Raymond McNish (Supplied: Wendy McNish)
A grieving Victorian widow has taken the state’s police to court in an attempt to prove her husband’s suicide was work-related.
Wendy McNish has spoken out for the first-time about the suicide of her husband Raymond McNish at Moama early last year.
The New South Wales Coroner has been examining the case but Mrs McNish has also taken legal action against Victoria Police.
Her lawyer Travis Fewster from Maurice Blackburn said his client was trying to prove Mr McNish’s psychological disturbance came about because of employment stress.
“We will be saying that at the time he took his life, he just did not know where to turn, what to do,” Mr Fewster said.
“It was absolutely work-related,” he said.
Mr Fewster said a medical report from a GP suggested Mr McNish had lost faith in society and was disenchanted.
“We have also got a suicide note that said he could no longer have any fun, he could not laugh and he was not smiling anymore,” he said.
“So we have got those things put together as well as the trauma he saw day and in day out and what we consider is a lack of support from some of the parties involved,” Mr Fewster said.
A country copper
Photo: Senior Constable Ray McNish spent almost 12 years as a police officer. (Supplied: Wendy McNish)
A great country copper was how Wendy McNish described her late husband.
“He was a very diligent, thorough worker and he found he had put his hand up for help and that was not there,” she said.
He took his own life in February last year aged 50.
He was a senior constable based at Echuca in northern Victoria.
Victoria Police rejected Mrs McNish’s initial application for compensation, denying liability in December last year. Now she has taken on the force and hopes it can make changes to better support staff and their families.
[code]“He felt alone and unsupported within his job,” Mrs McNish said.[/code]
She said she wanted the force to be more open-minded about mental health measures it could implement.
“Anything that helps them to cope with what they are seeing every-time they close their eyes has got to be a benefit and help them be more balanced,” she said.
“I’m not the only one out there that this is happening too,” she said.
“If I can help in any way I can then I will,” she said.
She said Mr McNish was affected by what he saw during his almost 12 years in the force.
Police tackle mental health issues
Victoria Police unveiled its three-year mental health strategy in August, which included a cultural leadership program.
Commissioner Graham Ashton said he wanted the force to do everything to protect, promote and preserve employees’ wellbeing.
Mr Ashton announced last month he was suffering from a fatigue-related illness and was taking sick leave.
At that time, he said he had always encouraged staff to speak up if they were struggling and to seek support as early as possible.
The Police Association, the union representing Victorian officers, said it was looking at how to encourage members facing a stigma to speak up. The secretary Wayne Gatt said he wanted to break down culture that stopped police from seeking help.
[code]”The stress that builds up over a long and challenging career makes for the perfect environment for mental health injuries to take hold,” he said.[/code]
“The Victorian Police has also been strengthening its support services that are available to our members and has the Police Association in terms of physical resources and people we can send out to assist members when they need help.
Wayne Gatt said some members had taken their own lives this year.
“I’ve been to two funerals this year of members who have lost their lives,” he said.
“It’s so critically important that we have adequate ways of providing appropriate diagnosis, delivering appropriate support services and getting help to members as soon as they put their hand up,” he said.
Mrs McNish acknowledged Victoria Police had some focus on mental health but she said she was unsure if it was on the right path.
Photo: Wendy McNish and her lawyer Travis Fewster are taking legal action. (ABC Central Victoria: Stephanie Corsetti)
“For me, I don’t think counselling and psychology is the only answer,” she said.
“I think there is more than one avenue that can be taken with regard to mental health,” Mrs McNish said.
“I look at natural therapies because that’s where I’ve got the main healing and benefits for me,” she said.
She said she just wanted acknowledgement from Victoria Police.
“I think they need to speak with widows and families who have lost and find if there are some common threads in there that we can pull together … so changes can be made in the right direction because like I said, it’s not a one-size-fits-all scenario,” she said. Mrs McNish also said treatment options could go further.
[code]”The counselling side of things and the support that is there, is really only just ticking the boxes,” she said.[/code]
She said conversations about suicide were becoming more widespread but there was still work to be done.
“I’ve seen people shy away from me,” Mrs McNish said.
“Even friends of 10 years have crossed the street who are work colleagues of Ray’s, you know that’s disappointing,” she said.
“I don’t want to normalise it, I just want to open the doors so that the conversations can flow and people can be understood,” she said.
“That’s been a real difficult thing for me to understand that people don’t want to or are not prepared to talk about it,” Mrs McNish.
“The more we get it out there, it just makes it easier for people,” she said.
“Sadly I’m not going to be the last one that goes through this,” Mrs McNish said.
“If you can’t open up to people and for them to at least hear you out, it makes it really difficult to move forward,” she said.
Victoria Police said in recent years, it had completed an organisation-wide mental health review and done significant work to improve the culture and support services around mental health.
THE widow of an Echuca policeman who took his own life a year ago is suing the Victoria Police.
In a writ lodged in the Country Court Wendy McNish is claiming her husband “sustained personal injury and death” throughout his career, which was caused or contributed to by the force’s breach of duty to him.
Leading Senior Constable McNish had always wanted to be a policeman but did not actually begin his career until he was 39.
Eleven years later he was dead after a career which saw him work in stations around the Campaspe region, in undercover and had been the key investigator in recovering more than $1 million in stolen farming machinery.
The issue of mental health among officers made headlines in February last year after three Victoria Police members committed suicide in the first six weeks of 2016, including Ray McNish.
Now his widow is seeking compensation under the Accident Compensation Act, claiming she was dependent on her husband’s earnings at the time he died.
Mrs McNish is seeking unspecified damages.
The Herald Sun reports today that since 2000 five officers have died in the line of duty – but 19 more have died at their own hand.
In 2006, while based at Swan Hill, Ray McNish was awarded for his efforts in dealing with family violence through “exceptional listening skills, an empathetic approach and thorough investigation of family violence incidents.
The paper said between July 2010 and June 2015 WorkCover accepted 482 mental injury claims from Victoria Police and rejected 500.
It might have been a late start in blue but Dissa was a born copper. He worked in uniform, he worked undercover, even got to mix police work with his other great passion – farming – in a case which saw him help recover more than $1 million worth of stolen agricultural machinery.
But in the end it was most likely the job he loved that in part had failed him — to what extent no-one will ever really know.
Ground down by a depression so dark and so insidious that in the end it would all be more than he could live with.
At the time of his death the Riverine Herald reported Ray McNish was the tangible tip of an unseen iceberg paralysing many of those on our emergency services frontline.
Police, fire fighters, ambulance crews, search and rescue – they’re all vulnerable to the horrors and tragedy to which they are so frequently exposed on our behalf.
And they are committing suicide, or attempting to, in greater numbers, frightening numbers.
Or broken by post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, or crushing variations of either/or, baling out of careers they love before they checked out of life – for good.
The ripple effect on families, friends and colleagues spans generations – from victim to their parents, their partners and their children.
These men and women give their all in careers where they are frequently all that stands between society and social chaos.
Yet are forced to haggle, sometimes for years, for the most meagre financial recognition of the load they carry.
Governments of all persuasions are prepared to see them as numbers on a spreadsheet rather than the increasingly irreplaceable assets they are; real people whose very wellbeing – mentally and physically – is being eroded on a daily basis.
And in the end Ray McNish joined a line that sadly is already too long, and threatening to become much longer.
A human tragedy, which in Ray McNish’s case, was played out in tributes and tears at Dungula Function Centre last February.
Wife of Echuca cop who died in tragic circumstances sues Victoria Police
PETER MICKELBUROUGH, Herald Sun
Ray McNish’s funeral. Picture Lana Murphy/Riverine Herald
THE wife of a well-loved country cop who died in tragic circumstances a year ago is suing Victoria Police.
Wendy McNish, whose “soulmate”, Leading Senior Constable Ray McNish, 50, died on February 8 last year, accuses the force of breaching its duty to her husband, who took his own life.
In a writ lodged in the County Court, Ms McNish claims her husband “sustained personal injury and death throughout” his career which was caused or contributed to by the force’s breach of duty to him.
Ms McNish is claiming compensation under the Accident Compensation Act, saying she was dependant on her husband’s earnings at the time of his death.
Ms McNish and her lawyer declined to comment on Tuesday. The action is the latest by grieving families of dead police, with the Herald Sun revealing last April that the fiancée of another officer ( Robert John SMITH ) was suing after her partner shot himself at Boronia Police Station with his service firearm after complaining of being bullied and harassed.
Since 2000, five Victoria Police officers have died in the line of duty, but 19 more have died by their own hand.
It is understood Leading Senior Constable McNish’s death did not occur at workor involve a police firearm.
Based at Echuca, he was a popular officer on both sides of the Murray River and was farewelled with a police guard of honour in the presence of Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton.
“No farewells were spoken. No time to say goodbye. You were gone before we knew it. And only God knows why. Forever in our hearts, love you always. Until we meet again. Your suffering is now over”, a family death notice read.
Victoria Police officers form a guard of honour at Ray McNish’s funeral. Picture Lana Murphy /Riverine Herald
In 2006, while based at Swan Hill, then-Senior Constable McNish was awarded for his efforts in dealing with the complex issue of family violence, through his “exceptional listening skills, an empathetic approach and thorough investigation of family violence incidents”.
A colleague from NSW paid tribute to “not only a fellow police officer but a mate & a true loving caring person”.
He posted: “To my very close friend Wendy my heart breaks for you, you & Ray have been true friends to me helping me with my PTSD I just wish I could have known Ray’s pain so I could have been there for Ray.”
Ms McNish is seeking unspecified damages.
A police spokeswoman said the force took the welfare of its employees seriously and had made a priority of addressing mental health issues, including adopting all 39 recommendations from a mental health review last year.
Between July, 2010 and June, 2015 WorkCover accepted 482 mental injury claims from Victoria Police and rejected 500, including 241 resulting from harassment and bullying, 252 for work pressure, 167 sparked by traumatic events and 54 due to occupational violence.
A WorkSafe spokesman said: “WorkSafe is continuing its inquiries into the death of Mr McNish. As such it would be inappropriate to comment further.”
Over the past five years, 1037 mental injury claims have been made by Victoria Police members.
A National Coronial Information System report on Intentional self-harm among emergency service personnel in 2015 found that of the of the 62 police suicides in Australia between July 1, 2000, and December 2012, 25 shot themselves — 23 with their service-issued firearm.
A 2015 Victorian Coroners Prevention Unit report into suicide rates among workers in key professions found the annual suicide rate among Victoria police was 10 per 100,000.
If this article causes you distress or if you require help or information, police employees can call Welfare Services confidentially 24 hours 7 days a week on (03) 9247 3344, and other members of the community can call Lifeline on 131 114 or Beyondblue on 1300 224 636
Ray McNish waited until he was 39 to fulfil a childhood dream – and become a policeman.
Barely 11 years later about 1000 people, many of them police and former police, alongside family and friends, gathered in Echuca – Moama to attend his funeral.
The man affectionately dubbed Dissa ( as in disarray ) had taken his own life.
He had lived the dream, and he loved the job. Everyone said so, and they all meant it.
It might have been a late start in blue but Dissa was born copper. he worked in uniform, he worked undercover, even got to mix police work with his other great passion – farming – in a case which saw him help recover more than $1 million worth of stolen agricultural machinery.
But in the end it was most likely the job he loved that in part had failed him – to what extent no-one will ever really know.
Ground down by a depression so dark and so insidious that in the end it would all be more than he could live with.
A state which, in true Dissa style, he largely kept from those who knew him best, those who loved him most.
Ray McNish is the tangible tip of an unseen iceberg paralysing many of those on our emergency service frontline.
Police, fire fighters, ambulance crews, search and rescue – they’re all vulnerable to the horrors and tragedy to which they are so frequently exposed on hour behalf.
And they are committing suicide, or attempting to, in greater numbers, frightening numbers.
Or broken by post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, or crushing variations of either / or, bailing out of careers they love before they check out of life – for good.
The ripple effect on families, friends and colleagues spans generations – from victim to their parents, their partners and their children.
These men and women give their all in careers where they are frequently all that stands between society and social chaos.
Yet are force to haggle, sometimes for years, for the most meagre financial recognition of the load they carry.
Governments of all persuasions are prepared to see them as numbers on a spreadsheet rather than the increasingly irreplaceable assets they are; real people whose very wellbeing – mentally and physically – is being eroded on a daily basis.
And in the end Ray McNish joined a line that sadly is already too long, and threatening to become much longer.
A human tragedy finally played out in tributes and tears at Dungula Function Centre on Friday – and the ripples keep on spreading.
A 55-year-old man has been charged with stealing farm machinery from properties in northern Victoria.
Detectives say they found about $500,000 worth of stolen equipment when they searched five properties in the Bamawm region, south of Echuca, on Tuesday.
Senior Constable Ray McNish says the investigation has been a focus for local police.
“It certainly has. It’s been probably well over 12 months now and it’s still an ongoing investigation at this stage,” he said.
A Bamawm man was arrested and charged with theft and handling stolen goods.
He was released on bail and is due to face the Echuca Magistrates Court in April.
Victorian police have increased their focus on farm thefts in recent months, with the establishment of rural crime taskforce.
A MELBOURNE man who police allege drove to Echuca, bound his father’s partner with duct tape, assaulted her and robbed the house, was granted bail yesterday.Mustafa Hadis, 20, of Meadow Heights, faced the Bendigo Magistrates Court on several charges, including intentionally causing serious injury and theft yesterday.
The court heard Hadis had been estranged from his father since the age of two and had recent attempts at contact rebuffed.
Detective Senior Constable Ray McNish said Hadis had attended his father’s house twice in the week leading up to the attack. The first time he was told his father wished to have no further contact with him, the second his father was not home. Detective McNish said two days later, on January 18, Hadis and two co-accused attached stolen number plates to a car and again drove to Echuca, parking some distance from the victim’s address. “The victim was home alone in bed and at about 7am was awoken to see Hadis standing outside her bedroom window,” he said. Detective McNish said when the 58-year-old victim went outside to confront Hadis, he grabbed her and tried to pull her back inside, causing her to fall to the ground. He said Hadis then called out for help from his co-accused and they dragged the victim inside where they struck her face and arms with a rubber mallet. “Once inside, the victim’s hands were bound with packing tape, she also had her mouth and head covered to quell her screaming,” Detective McNish said. He said Hadis and the two co-accused then stole a large amount of jewellery and two mobile phones. He said the victim feared for her life, especially when one of Hadis’ co-accused took a knife from the kitchen. “The victim was taken to hospital with injuries to her head requiring stitches, severe swelling to her hand and bruising to her arms and legs,” he said. Detective McNish said the attack was a “premeditated act” with the men pre-packing the tape, mallet, screwdrivers and gloves. The court heard Hadis made full admissions when later arrested and interviewed by police, saying he felt hurt by his father and “emotionally rejected”. Hadis’ bail application was opposed by police, but his defence counsel said it was important her client was released as he was the sole carer of his mother. Hadis was bailed, with strict conditions, to appear at the Bendigo Magistrates Court for a committal mention on April 4.
Police honoured for work in combatting family violence
Release date: Sat 28 October 2006
Last updated: Wed 1 November 2006
Five police members were honoured on Friday for their efforts in dealing with the complex issue of family violence.
The 2006 Excellence in Policing Family Violence Awards were presented by Assistant Commissioner (Region 3) Ken Lay.
The awards are the result of a recommendation from the Region 3 Family Violence Reference Group that police members who excel in their approach in responding to family violence should be recognised. The Family Violence Reference Group comprises police members and representatives from other government departments and family violence services.
The awards were divided into two categories: Leadership and Practise.
Leadership awards are for members displaying outstanding initiative and leadership, which have positively motivated and influenced others in response to family violence.
Winners of the 2006 Excellence in Policing Family Violence – Leadership awards are:
• Sergeant Phil Nash from Broadmeadows police station for excellence in managing Family Violence Liaison Officer portfolio in an area of high numbers of family violence incidents.
• Constable Donna Rundle from Kyneton police station for outstanding leadership in addressing Family Violence within Macedon Ranges.
Practise awards are for members exhibiting exemplary characteristics that have added significant value to the manner in which police act when responding to family violence.
Winners of the 2006 Excellence in Policing Family Violence – Practise awards are:
• Senior Constable Frank Scopelliti from Tatura police station for a consistently high level of response, outstanding victim support and negotiation skills.
• Senior Constable John Lal from Epping police station for a highly professional and ethical approach, adhering to the principles and policies of the Victoria Police Code of Practice for Investigating Family Violence and consistent referrals to NARTT.
• Senior Constable Ray McNish from Swan Hill police station for exceptional listening skills, an empathetic approach and thorough investigation of family violence incidents.
Assistant Commissioner Ken Lay told forum attendees that family violence affects all communities.
“The unfortunate and stark reality of family violence is that it affects all of our communities”, Mr Lay said.
Assistant Commissioner Ken Lay said that police attendance at incidents of family violence had decreased in Region 3 in the 2005/2006 financial year compared to the 2004/2005 financial year.
He said that in the 2005/2006 financial year police in Region 3 attended 5955 incidents of family violence, compared to the 2004/2005 financial year where police in Region 3 attended 6367 incidents.
“Reporting incidents to the police is the crucial step needed to ensure that victims of family violence are supported and the crime attached to family violence is addressed,” Mr Lay said.
“Although the figures suggest that family violence incidents have decreased, it is still possible that incidents go unreported. I hope that the example set by all police members in Region 3 nominated for the ‘Excellence in Policing Family Violence’ awards encourages more victims of family violence to seek support.”
Police response to family violence can mean the difference between life and death; about half the homicides in Victoria over recent years have been the result of family violence.
New Victims’ legislation, the ‘Victims’ Charter Act 2006’ comes into effect on Wednesday 1 November. This legislation will further ensure that all police members deliver a quality service to victims of crime, treating victims with courtesy, respect and dignity. As part of the Act, police will distribute a new booklet ‘A Victim’s Guide to Support Services and the Criminal Justice System’ to all victims of crime.
Unnamed male who suicided the week pre 11 February 2016.
This officer who died this week was from Echuca police station, but ended his life at a house in Tocumwal, a small town in NSW about 110 kilometres to the north-east.
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Two Victoria Police officers take their own lives in a week
Nino Bucci and Cameron Houston
Victoria Police is grappling with the suicides of two officers in a week, as it awaits a high-level review of mental health issues within the force that is expected to recommend an overhaul of support services.
As Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton described the challenge of mental health issues among police as “one of the most important issues” he had to face, the families of the two officers were mourning the sudden losses.
In 41 days this year, two officers and a police employee have taken their lives. It has been almost 10 years since a Victoria Police officer died on duty, according to the Police Association honour roll.
The first officer who died this week was from Echuca police station, but ended his life at a house in Tocumwal, a small town in NSW about 110 kilometres to the north-east.
The other officer( SenCon Paul Anthony BRENNAN ) was from Mordialloc station, and is understood to have taken his own life after being involved in a minor traffic incident in the bayside suburbs on Wednesday night.
Neither officer was on duty at the time of their deaths.
“The death by suicide of a police member is always cause for enormous concern at Victoria Police. Looking after our people is one of our highest priorities,” police spokeswoman Acting Sergeant Melissa Seach said.
“We are heavily committed to improving the mental health support available to all our staff.
“We know that anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress can all be triggered by the stressful situations our people can find themselves in.”
Acting Sergeant Seach said the Victoria Police Mental Health Review would be completed in late March. Mental health experts have been consulted as part of the review.
“Suicide has long been a problem for Victoria Police as it has been across the population in general.
“Victoria Police understands that with improvements in recognising and addressing mental health issues, the incidence of suicide can be reduced and we are committed to doing this.
“The organisation will continue to work … [with] partners such as the Police Association, beyondblue and independent universities to improve our services and ability to break down barriers and help those at risk.”
In October, The Age reported that an officer had taken her own life at a police station, soon after she was deemed fit to carry a service firearm, despite suffering from mental illness.
It was also reported that a senior police officer who was charged with murder suffered mental health issues for almost a decade before he allegedly shot and killed a man during a routine intercept in Windsor in 2013.
He is believed to have an extensive history of psychiatric problems, raising further concerns about Victoria Police’s handling of mental illness and its policies surrounding access to firearms.
Mr Baker took extended leave on several occasions because of his illness, and was only allowed to resume work after approval from a Victoria Police psychiatrist.
But less than a year before the shooting, it is believed Mr Baker was involved in a serious altercation with another officer that should have set off alarms, according to colleagues of the accused man.
The coroner is also set to investigate the death of a sergeant( Sergeant Martin James VEAL ) who took his own life last June.
It is believed at least five officer deaths are before the coroner. More than 40Victoria Police officers have reportedly committed suicide since 1990.
The force said they would not comment on the circumstances of the officers’ deaths while they were the subject of coronial investigations, including whether they were reviewing access to service weapons.
Dear Wendy , Matt & family, it it with the deepest sadness that we write our condolences to you on the tragic passing of a dear and wonderful person – our friend Ray. It has been some years since we have caught up, but he was always in our mind and hearts and we just picked up where we left off – true friend ! We have fond memories of our friendship and wish you and Matt the strength to carry on. Please if you are in the area, call in and see us, we will miss him dearly – Love from Rene and Roger xoxo
Sue, Dot and Ray and families, my arms are wrapped around you at this impossibly difficult time. You are in my thoughts and heart. I immediately remember Raymond’s warm, infectious smile. Hold each other tight. Love to you, Kruse xxx
Dear Ray, Dot, Susan and Karen, My sincerest condolences for the passing of Ray. A great bloke who made growing up in Gippsland all the more worthwhile. regards, Bill
Dear Ray, Dot, Susan and Karen, and your families, I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Ray’s death. What a bloody waste. My thoughts and mental hugs go out to you at a time when every thing must seem so senseless. If I can’t make it tomorrow, I will be thinking of you all with much love. Regards, Jenny
Alan Rugless on a Triumph. This would have been taken in 1964, at Ulmarra, when Alan was stationed at Grafton. On Allen’s lap is his son, Paul – who also joined the NSWPF.
Alan’s wife, Lyn, passed away on Friday 6 May 2022 from the effects of Lung Cancer ( diagnosed only two months prior ).
Alan is currently in a Nursing Home and a sufferer of Dementia and would not be aware of the death of his wife.
As of Tuesday 26 July 2016:
Update on Allen Rugless who is currently in St George Hospital. He has been moved into an Intensive Care Ward. Suffering from Influenza virus A and pneumonia. His condition at this time is the same has made no improvement so neither stepped forward or back. Is getting the right treatment so lets hope he continues to battle on.
Bunny Warren
As of Friday 29 July 2016, Ruggo is now in a Critical condition but stable.
Some good news people, just got information that Allen Rugless is on the mend he is 100% from what he was from admission to the hospital. Lyn says that the improvement from last night to today is remarkable. He has most of the machines taken off him is giving cheek to the nursing staff this morning.
Lets hope he continues to improve but it looks at this time that he is over the rough part of it. I asked if he is able to have visitors and she said he can but only two at a time. So there you go people latest update on the little bloke.
John Robert HUTCHINGS
| 31/08/2016
John Robert HUTCHINGS
father of Mark – 19731
New South Wales Police Force
[alert_yellow]Regd. # 9681[/alert_yellow]
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 30 May 1960
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 14 March 1976
Detective Chief Inspector – appointed 6 April 1988 – retirement
Stations: ?, Internal Affairs – Retirement
Service: From? ? pre 30 May 1960 to 13 December 1993 = 33+ years Service
John passed away during the afternoon of Thursday 28 July 2016 in Gosford Hospital.
May he forever Rest In Peace.
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Retired Detective Chief Inspector John Hutchings update
Geoff Talbot called into Gosford Hospital this morning ( Wednesday 27 July 2016 ) and spent some time with Johns wife Verna who has been at his bedside for just on 2 weeks. Today is day 13 since John consumed any food and is mostly in a state of unconsciousness. His family and close friends are regular visitors being support for his wife. I mentioned the comments here on FB and Verna asked me to thank those members who have John in their thoughts and prayers.
If you know John or Verna and you are in the Gosford area – you may wish to visit and offer your support.
Joseph Sylvester Vinson Thompson was born at Manilla, NSW in 1884, the third and youngest son of four children born to Henry John and Margaret Elizabeth (nee Hagan) Thompson. At the age of 31 years he enlisted in the AIF (Regimental Number 2883A) on the 9th of July 1915 at Brisbane, stating that his occupation was as a Police Constable at Bell, Queensland. He listed his mother, Margaret Elizabeth Thompson of Sandringham, Barraba, New South Wales, as his next of kin.
Initially he was posted at the rank of Private to the 25th Battalion/6th Reinforcements at Enoggera near Brisbane. On the 21st of October 1915 at Pinkenba, Brisbane he embarked on the HMAT A48 Seang Bee bound for active service, arriving at Suez on the 28th of November 1915. Upon arrival it appears that he was assigned to the 7th Training Battalion at Zeitoun.
On the 27th of February 1916 he was allotted to and proceeded to join the 9th Battalion. The next day he joined the 9th Battalion “D” Company at Gebel Habieta, about 12 miles (20 km) east of the Suez Canal. There is no record of when he received his promotion however when he transferred to the 9th Battalion he reverted to the ranks but was immediately afterwards promoted to the rank of Corporal in his new unit.
On the 27th of March 1916 he was with troops who embarked at Alexandria on the HMT Saxonia and sailed to join the British Expeditionary Force, disembarking in Marseille, France on the 3rd of April. He’d have gone by train to northern France and from there he would have been posted to active duty on the western front in the Somme.
Corporal Joseph Thompson was killed in action while fighting near Pozieres in the Somme, France on the 22nd of July 1916. He has no known grave and is commemorated at the Australian National Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux, France.
Troubled police database blamed for officer’s death
THE force’s trouble-plagued LEAP database has been blamed for the death of a senior officer in a damages claim against the state lodged on behalf of his two young sons by their mother.
After 21 years on the force Sergeant Martin “Marty” Veal, 46, took his own life on June 1, 2015, using a police gun obtained a day before against force protocols.
Good Afternoon, my name is Damian Downie ( Sen Sgt ) and today I would like to take you through the service history of Sergeant Martin Veal or as we all knew him, Marty.
Firstly I would like to say that it was an honour and a privilege to manage and work with Marty over the last 2 and half years.
In April 1994 Marty began his career as a recruit at the Victoria Police Academy.
From August 1994 through to 2002 Marty worked in the Coburg area as a Constable performing general duties. In that time the Superintendents comments on Marty’s work performance were:
“A team player who will be an asset to his next station.” and
“A professional, conscientious, effective and efficient member who is an asset to the Force and displays potential for promotion”
The reasons behind these comments were Marty’s excellent work ethic and his tenacious nature. In May 2000 while working at Coburg Police Station, Commander Peter Graham commended Marty for his good work in that:
“After an armed robbery on Pascoe Vale Road Marty used his local knowledge of the area to predict in advance the escape route of the offenders in which Marty arrested both of the offenders, recovered the knife used in the armed robbery and the victims cash.”
In July 2002, Marty transferred to Melbourne City Police Station as a Senior Constable performing general duties. In that time the Superintendents comment on Marty’s work performance was:
“A well conducted member whose work performance was above satisfactory.”
In March 2007 Marty transferred to Heidelberg Uniform performing general duties. In that time the Superintendents comment on Marty’s work performance was:
“An efficient, mature and hard working member whose work performance was above average.”
Testament to this:
In May 2007 while at Heidelberg Marty was recognised for his good work in arresting a rapist and preserving the crime scene that supported the conviction of the offender, and showing the diversity of Marty’s skills.
In that same month Marty was at the scene of an accident where one of the drivers forwarded a letter of thanks to the Officer in Charge of Heidelberg. The lady involved in the car accident wanted to thank Marty for his professionalism and support.
In June 2009 Marty was promoted to Sergeant and transferred to one of the most innovate IT projects at the time, being the Criminal Justice Enhancement Program. Marty was an asset to the project with his extensive operational knowledge and problem solving skills. Marty’s efforts helped to deliver enhancements to the way Victoria Police managed offenders and communicated with other government departments.
In December 2010 Marty transferred to the Operations Response Unit where he performed specialist duties such as assisting local police with public safety, road policing and crime reduction.
In September 2011 Marty had the opportunity and transferred to the Victoria Police Air wing. Marty was involved in a range of specialist activities including:
Aerial observation and tactical assistance for ground units.
Crime prevention and detection with regular patrols of metropolitan Melbourne.
Supporting ground units involved in pursuits
Search and Rescue missions
In March 2013 Marty transferred to what was then the LEAP Management Unit, and then on to the Business Readiness and Transition Unit. When Marty transferred we identified that he had an extensive operational, IT and specialist services knowledge. As a result of this knowledge Marty was assigned to the LEDR Mk2 Project. I met Marty when he commenced at the LEDR Mk2 Project and over the next 2 and half years it was my pleasure to work with him.
In his role on the LEDR Mk2 Project Marty was instrumental in delivering an IT system that benefits operational members and people in the Victorian Community. I was always impressed with Marty’s work ethic, his problem solving skills and dedication to supporting operational members.
Marty has been awarded the Victoria Police Service Medal with 20 year clasp, National Medal and the National Police Medal of which he will be awarded posthumously today.
Marty was a team player and he will be missed by me, people in our office and the Victoria Police community.
On behalf of Victoria Police and the Information, Systems and Security Command we’d like to express our deepest condolences and sympathy to the Veal family and their loved ones.
A Service to celebrate the life of Martin James Veal will be held in the Great Hall, The Centre Ivanhoe, 275 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe, on TUESDAY (June 9, 2015) commencing at 2.00 p. m.
VEAL. Martin. It is with heavy hearts the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Football Club family record the tragic passing of our dear friend and life member Marty. Premiership captain, coach and administration secretary.
Always there for his mates and willing to do whatever was asked of him.
Sadly missed.
All at OIGFC offer our deepest sympathy to the family.
Rest in Peace Marty. You will always be a respected and loved member of the OIGFC family.
VEAL. Marty. A much admired team mate, mentor and a loyal and treasured friend of our family. We are deeply saddened by your unexpected and tragic loss. You will be greatly missed.
Our heartfelt sympathies to the entire Veal family.
Assistant Commissioner Wendy Steendam, Officers and Employees of the Information, System and Security Command Victoria Police Force, regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
VEAL. Martin. The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Sergeant Veal and extend their deepest sympathy to his family.
VEAL. Martin. The Committee, Members and Supporters of the Banyule Cricket Club are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our friend and member, Martin Veal.
A talent unequaled on the field matched by your incredible passion and love for the club. In recent years your leadership of our 3rd X1 premiership team was inspirational and a generation of juniors call the Banyule Cricket Club home thanks to your dedication as our Junior Manager.
Our love and prayers are with Michelle, Cooper and Spencer. Deepest condolences to our Life Members John, Dorothy, David and Tim together with Chris and all families.
Rest in Peace Marty Your memory will remain always
VEAL. Martin. I wouldn’t have got through Chem without your help, Marty and I will never forget your comment “Just like toothpaste, Moz” all those years later when you were on the beat in Coburg.
The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family
VEAL. Martin. We are deeply saddened by your passing. Loving thoughts and deepest sympathy to Michelle, Cooper and Spencer, Dorothy and John, Chris, David and Tim and families.
Our love
Uncle Russell (dec. ), Lorraine, Matt, Emily and Amy and families.
Banyule Cricket Club wishes to express its condolences in the very sad passing of Marty Veal. Our thoughts are prayer’s are with Marty’s family and friends during this sad time. A valued member, friend and mentor to many. He will be sadly missed by all.
Greg RussellTo say I was shocked to hear the news this morning is an understatement. Our thoughts are with Martins immediate family, particularly his children. RIP Martin Veal. Greg, Deanna, Blake and Taylah Russell. Sadly missed.
Banyule Cricket ClubThis morning a son, brother, father, team mate, friend and colleague was lost. Marty was one of the most genuine men I’ve come to know. He was a loving, caring, passionate, hard working man who would go above and beyond to help out off his own bat. I am absolutely shattered, and wish to share my sincerest condolences with the entire Veal family whom are so heavily in our thoughts on this incredibly sad day. To Marty, I say thank you for being a mentor, a team mate whom shared my love for Banyule and for being a friend to celebrate with and confine in whenever I needed. You’ll be forever remembered and cherished.
Tim LowerJust heard of this. My condolences to the Veal family and the broader BCC community.
I’m sure I can pass on condolences on behalf of the GCC as many have played against. RIP Marty.
We regret to advise that Marty Veal died tragically in the early hours this morning.
We are opening the Chelsworth Club rooms tomorrow (Tuesday) night at 6.30pm for any past players, supporters, members who wish to have a chat and drink following this devastating news.
All are welcome.
Kevin McLean
OIGFC President
Joanne TollSuch sad, sad news. Deepest sympathy to the Veal family.
Hem PaTerrible, terrible news. Appears his last post was a call for help but alas too late. He was a good player, great captain, friend and colleague. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest in peace Vealy.
Dean CrakerVery sad news RIP Vealy a legend of the club and great gifted footballer, one of the best team mates a club could wish for. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Veal family at this very sad time…
Peter ParkerAn incredibly sad, tragic and sensitive time for all concerned. Sympathies to all and time to reflect on a wonderful contributor to the community in both his work and leisure.
Patricia WoodsIt’s never easy to lose anyone but so much harder when a life has been cut short. Deepest sympathy to the Veal family our thoughts and prayers are with you. Graeme and Tricia
Scott KentVale skipper. Marty absolute champion of OIGFC just numb at the moment. Great player but even more importantly one of the best club man RIP thinking of the whole Veal family.
Catherine JonesVealy…a lifelong friend to Dirk and family gone far too soon. No words for the shock. Sincere sympathies and prayers to the Veal family.
Matt PowerA tragic end for a man I was mates with from the age of 10. Absolutely shattered. Get down to chelsworth and toast a man who was talented beyond how he saw himself. A unique individual who will be sorely missed. Vale my friend Marty.
Zac KeaneMarty, I have fond memories of our 2005 season together. You were a leader of young men. Your legacy won’t be forgotten at OIGFC. Rest In Peace mate
Joel MathewMarty you lived and breathed OIGFC. You were a great mentor to me when I came to the club in 2005 and always gave your all for brown and white. Sad to hear the news
Paul NortheyThe class of 86 is devastated by this news and there have been many messages shared today between our crew. A few of us were lucky to catch up with him at the OIG centenary dinner a month or so ago and I was lucky enough to sit next to him, something I will always be grateful for. A freak of an athlete, fantastic teammate (1st XIII, 1st XI and OIGFC), always interested in how you were going and always with a smile on his face. We are grieving today for our mate who was blessed with incredible talent and intelligence who followed his own path in life, sometimes the road less travelled. I was able to sneak a final year of footy in 98 back at OIGFC and my only teammates left from the 1st XVIII of 86 were AP and Marty. I was blessed to play that year with the great MV, sweeping across half back like a quarterback controlling the ground as if it were his own…..and it was! He was so proud of his boys and our hearts ache for them and the rest of the Veal family who are in our thoughts. Rest peacefully MV!
George Gabriel HarosVealy, no words but plenty of premiership memories. A question though: Why mate? Please boys if anyone else is feeling shit….. TALK! Talk to me. Talk to your mates. Talk to someone. Gx
John William StevensI loved playing with you because you had a calming influence over the team. If it was a tight game I always felt safe when you were there and knew we’d win and most of the time we did. You were a fantastic player and a wonderful clubman. You bled brown and white and the brown and white community is feeling your pain tonight. My thoughts and love go out to the whole Veal family who have given so much to our great club. I will always picture you sweeping across half back and pushing forward to kick one of your legendary goals in front of the pavilion. We will honour you at our 20 year reunion, a year in which you won the B and F and dominated in the GF. Here’s a picture of 2 of our greats sharing a beer with you tonight from the other side of the world. The third beer is for you mate. RIP
Glen DouglasAbsolutely gutted hearing about this tragic loss..Vealy you had a massive heart on and off the ground..I can still hear you screaming at me to “Switch it” and watch you take off..farewell skipper. RIP #10.
Our thoughts and condolences to the Veal Family.
Chanz CrowleyMy thoughts are with his family and friends. His influence on many young men (including myself) at the club will be my lasting memory. Welcoming and caring. Gone too soon. #10
Dale HawkesMarty, you were a legend at the footy club. Such a selfless person as a player, coach and administrator over so many years. I’ll always have great memories of playing with you in your ever reliable “sweeper” role in defence, bailing us out on so many occasions. Very sad news. Thoughts are with your friends and family. RIP mate.
Ryan ColemanTotally unbelievable. Such a great man who was so great to so many of us. Vealy always cared and was so supportive. Very sad news. Thoughts are with his family.
John SmartOnly played 2 seasons of seconds footy in the late 90s for old ivanhoe. Marty used to prop up the back line when we were short on numbers. It was easy to see Marty was a class above. In my minimal dealings with him he was a lovely fellow and made me feel welcome. I bumped into him last year nearly 15 years later and he remembered me and was exactly the same. Rip marty.
Dan VanWinkelLoved my time at OIGFC and I remember Marty as a very helpful, passionate and highly respected man with a wicked sense of humour. Hope everyone at the club is holding up.
Sam PearceMarty Veal (MV), club legend, leader of men, an inspiration as a player and a great example of a true clubman! We’re thankful to have known you mate and our thoughts and prayers are with the family, close friends and all who knew you! What a great man!
Steve SmithI had the pleasure of knowing Marty and his family through Banyule football and cricket clubs. Saddened by the news. My thoughts are with the whole Veal family. R.I.P. Marty
My team mate. My committee mate. My confidant. My friend.
I can’t understand why and you, you strong stubborn headstrong bastard can’t explain it to me now.
A great man who we both know always told me there is a reason for the mad world we live in but I’m struggling to believe that right now.
You were more than a mate. More than a friend. You shed light when there was sometimes only dark.
You shook my hand on a wing one day (playing for Banyule) and told me I wouldn’t see you again. And your 35 possessions and 4 goals summed that up. I was banished to the seconds at OI almost never to return
I shared so many moments. Watched you determined to conquer what the world put before you. I am at a loss to figure this one.
I love you. I pay my respects to your family. I will always be indebted to you for how you made my life better.
I’m not religious but I trust you are at peace with yourself.
Robbie ChalkleyMarty .. That twinkle you got in your eyes .. The smile you gave when talking of your passions .. You gave your heart and hand to so many .. Steve, Jaimee and I were so fortunate to have you in our lives ..
Rest now .. Thoughts and love to all the family xxx
James M Wooster Marty. We went to the same Primary School – and played footy together all those years ago. We attended at the same Grammar School – and played footy together there as well. In 1992 I joined OIGFC and again we played footy there together and won three premierships with you patrolling the backline like a panther protecting his own. I followed you and other great mates into the same career pathway. And I’m glad I did. And we share the same first name. You were a leader and were damn good at it. You inspired many and guided others. I’m finding it hard to accept what has happened; I can’t believe the tragedy. My thoughts and prayers go out to the VEAL family and to the OIGFC family. Spiritually you are in a much more calmer and peaceful place. RIP mate. From a fellow BIG 7 member.
Belinda HillWords cannot describe how much this is effecting those touched by Marty at some point in there lives… From all the Tolley Family – Mark, Craig, Allan, Robyn and myself, we pass on our deepest sympathy’s to all the Veal‘s at this difficult time. RIP xo…
On Tuesday night I attended a gathering at Chelsworth Park, home of the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians’ Football Club.
It was an impromptu gathering called by the President Kevin McLean. At very short notice, the Club came together to honour a former Captain and leader of the club, Martin (Marty) Veal.
Married for some fourteen years, with two young sons, Martin, a Policemen, his life ended tragically on Monday morning, the first day of a very cold winter.
Upon hearing this tragic news, the Club decided to invite all associated with it to meet at Chelsworth Park; come together and try to work out how such a tragedy could occur and how best to deal with the human emotions. A committee man, Dan Bodycoat, himself a Police officer and grief/trauma counsellor addressed all present.
Why you might ask am I relating this sad event to you?
For many years whilst privileged to be part of the VAFA Board I stressed on many occasions our Association was more than a football competition. We are a mixture of clubs; men and women, who by their association are uniquely placed to embrace each other in circumstances that I have described where we can support, console, show concern, and offer our help and love to those most in need of it.
I know Management and Board are across many of the issues, such as depression, confronting people in our clubs . In your position you are able to “strengthen our arm” in dealing with such issues and showing leadership.
Last evenings’ experience whilst sad was uplifting, to see over ninety young men and women embrace each other and share a sad burden that had befallen them and their club and to find comfort in each other’s company. I urge you all Management and Board, players and supporters, as you steer the future, to even further cement links and ties with everyone in the VAFA; embrace them, hear their story and always be there for them.
If you or anyone you know need to talk, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14. The VAFA and the player led initiative Thick and Thin encourage all in the VAFA community to #StartTheConvo if you or anyone in your circle need to talk.
Two Victoria Police officers take their own lives in a week
Nino Bucci and Cameron Houston
Victoria Police is grappling with the suicides of two officers in a week, as it awaits a high-level review of mental health issues within the force that is expected to recommend an overhaul of support services.
As Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton described the challenge of mental health issues among police as “one of the most important issues” he had to face, the families of the two officers were mourning the sudden losses.
In 41 days this year, two officers and a police employee have taken their lives. It has been almost 10 years since a Victoria Police officer died on duty, according to the Police Association honour roll.
The first officer who died this week was from Echuca police station, but ended his life at a house in Tocumwal, a small town in NSW about 110 kilometres to the north-east.
The other officer( SenCon Paul Anthony BRENNAN ) was from Mordialloc station, and is understood to have taken his own life after being involved in a minor traffic incident in the bayside suburbs on Wednesday night.
Neither officer was on duty at the time of their deaths.
“The death by suicide of a police member is always cause for enormous concern at Victoria Police. Looking after our people is one of our highest priorities,” police spokeswoman Acting Sergeant Melissa Seach said.
“We are heavily committed to improving the mental health support available to all our staff.
“We know that anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress can all be triggered by the stressful situations our people can find themselves in.”
Acting Sergeant Seach said the Victoria Police Mental Health Review would be completed in late March. Mental health experts have been consulted as part of the review.
“Suicide has long been a problem for Victoria Police as it has been across the population in general.
“Victoria Police understands that with improvements in recognising and addressing mental health issues, the incidence of suicide can be reduced and we are committed to doing this.
“The organisation will continue to work … [with] partners such as the Police Association, beyondblue and independent universities to improve our services and ability to break down barriers and help those at risk.”
In October, The Age reported that an officer had taken her own life at a police station, soon after she was deemed fit to carry a service firearm, despite suffering from mental illness.
It was also reported that a senior police officer who was charged with murder suffered mental health issues for almost a decade before he allegedly shot and killed a man during a routine intercept in Windsor in 2013.
He is believed to have an extensive history of psychiatric problems, raising further concerns about Victoria Police’s handling of mental illness and its policies surrounding access to firearms.
Mr Baker took extended leave on several occasions because of his illness, and was only allowed to resume work after approval from a Victoria Police psychiatrist.
But less than a year before the shooting, it is believed Mr Baker was involved in a serious altercation with another officer that should have set off alarms, according to colleagues of the accused man.
The coroner is also set to investigate the death of a sergeant( Sergeant Martin James VEAL ) who took his own life last June.
It is believed at least five officer deaths are before the coroner. More than 40Victoria Police officers have reportedly committed suicide since 1990.
The force said they would not comment on the circumstances of the officers’ deaths while they were the subject of coronial investigations, including whether they were reviewing access to service weapons.
