A CRITICAL incident investigation is under way into the sudden death of decorated Albury police officer Glenn Stirton.
Sgt Stirton, a police officer for more than 30 years, died after an incident at the Albury police station on Thursday.
In August, Sgt Stirton received the highest honour for bravery that can be conferred by the NSW Police Commissioner for foiling what police suspect was destined to be a massacre.
Sgt Stirton is the husband of Albury local area commander ( Supt. ) Beth Stirton, who has gone on immediate leave.
Three ambulance crews rushed to the scene after an emergency call from the station.
Officers from the Deniliquin local area command will investigate the circumstances of Sgt Stirton’s death and prepare a report for the coroner.
Acting Southern Region commander Gary Worboys said the force extended its deepest sympathy and condolences to Sgt Stirton’s family “and the wider police family”.
“Welfare support and counselling has been offered to the officer’s family and colleagues. Police will continue to do their job in this difficult time,” acting Assistant Commissioner Worboys said.
Wagga Superintendent Dave Simmons has been brought in to assist the command.
From Monday, Detective Insp Brad Blanchard will act as Albury local area commander while Supt Stirton is on leave.
Sgt Stirton’s bravery was outlined when Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione presented the NSW Police Force Valour Award to him during a ceremony at the police force academy at Goulburn.
Sgt Stirton and a colleague had gone to get lunch at the Eastwood Shopping centre in Sydney’s north in 2008.
While on their way, they were asked to check on reports of a man acting suspiciously at the centre.
Sgt Stirton and his colleague followed the man out of the centre and asked him to stop. He ignored their directions, pulled a pistol from his waistband and fired at the officers, narrowly missing the pair, who returned fire.
The man, Christopher Benardos, turned the gun on himself, and later died in hospital without regaining consciousness.
“It was nice to be recognised, although it is under tragic circumstances,” Sgt Stirton said at the time of the award.
Sgt Stirton transferred to Albury six months ago to join his wife.
If you need help, telephone Lifeline: 13 11 14, Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800, NSW Rural Mental Health Support Line: 1800 201 123, Upper Hume Community Health Service: 1800 657 573.
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STIRTON, Glenn Howard
STIRTON, SGT VA Glenn Howard (Lenny) 10/9/1960 – 20/12/2012 Aged 52 years Late of Thurgoona (Albury). Formerly of the Central Coast Loved husband of Beth (Beryl). Loved father of Rachael & Tim. Much loved son of Mark and Maisie Stirton. Brother of Anthony and Rodney (deceased). Proud, Respected and Courageous member of the NSW Police family for 30 years. When once you have tasted flight, You will forever walk with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return. Flying above us forever The Funeral Service for GLENN will be held Friday, 28th December 2012, in the Hillside Chapel, Palmdale Lawn Cemetery and Memorial Park, Palmdale Road, Palmdale, commencing at 2.30pm. CREIGHTONS FUNERAL SERVICE Central Coast 4324-1533 ”Proudly Australian’
Sergeant Glenn Stirton has been honoured with a valour award.
A POLICE officer, who dodged bullets to protect Sydney shoppers from a shooter four years ago, has been honoured with a valour award.
Sergeant Glenn Stirton ran at an armed offender at an Eastwood shopping centre on March 10, 2008.
He and his partner narrowly missed several shots fired their way.
They returned fire but the shooter turned his gun on himself and later died from his injuries.
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione presented Sgt Stirton with the Valour Award, the highest honour an officer can receive for bravery, at last week’s attestation ceremony at the Goulburn Academy.
Belinda: Roadside memorial put up today ( Thursday 5 December 2013 ) , it’s been 68 days today beautiful, and I’ve missed you for every second of it, in the words of Pink Floyd . . . How I wish, how I wish you were here Belinda was the girlfriend of Lee Greck at the time of his untimely death on 28 September 2013. This memorial has been placed at the intersection of Old Lilypool Rd and Pacific Hwy, South Grafton. Lee Greck was nicknamed ‘Matthew Flinders’ by Belinda and her family because Lee was always off exploring on his motor bike. At the top of the monument is Lee ( Greck ), Triumph ( his motor bike ) Bel ( Belinda ). A lovely monument by a lovely person who loved the man deeply. Cal
On Saturday 28 September 2013, about 6.40pm, retired NSW Police Officer Lee George GRECK was riding his motor cycle and stopped at the ‘T’ intersection of Old Lilypool Rd and the Pacific Hwy, Grafton. He was seen to look in both directions before pulling out into the path of a north bound vehicle which was travelling upon the Pacific Hwy at an estimated 100kph.
As a result of the impact, Lee died at the scene.
Lee, being born on 5 March 1961, was 52 years of age and worked at various locations including Cabramatta, Fairfield, Wollongong and was last stationed at Batemans Bay from where he retired, after serving 22 years in “the job” on the 11 May 2000.
At the time of Lee’s death, he was living in Glenugie, a small hamlet near Grafton.
Lee joined the NSWPF as a Police Cadet, number 3350, on the 4 July 1977, and did his training at the Redfern Police Academy, Sydney, NSW.
Lee was also the victim of a common assault about 6 months earlier which recently failed at court.
A funeral service will be held to honour Lee on Tuesday 28 September 2013, from 11.30am at the Holy Family Catholic Church, at the intersection of Vincent & Green St’s, Ulladulla with Police Guard of Honour from Shoalhaven Police.
Fatal crash – South Grafton
Saturday, 28 September 2013 09:39:46 PM
An investigation is underway following a fatal crash at South Grafton.
Emergency services were called to the Pacific Highway, near the Bom Bom State Forest, about 7pm today (Saturday 28 September 2013) after a motorcycle and car collided.
Police have been told the motorcyclist was struck by the northbound car as he was turning onto the Pacific Highway from Old Lilypool Road.
The rider died at the scene. He has not yet been formally identified.
The driver of the car has been taken to hospital to undergo mandatory blood and urine testing.
Two other vehicles are believed to have struck the motorcyclist after the initial collision. Those drivers have also been taken to hospital for mandatory tests.
Officers from Coffs/Clarence Local Area Command have commenced inquiries into the incident.
They’re appealing for anyone who witnessed it, or the events leading up to it, to contact investigators.
The funeral service for the late Lee George Greck will commence at 11:30 am on Tuesday, 15 October 2013 at Ulladulla Catholic Church, to be followed by a committal service at Sandridge Cemetery. Please contact Milton Ulladulla Funeral Services for further information.
Funeral for Retired Senior Constable Lee George GRECK
Paul KENNEDY
| 09/12/2013
Senior Constable Paul KENNEDY
Registered No. 21051
NSW Police Force
Died Thursday 4 October 2001
Senior Constable Paul KENNEDY – taken in 1985
Senior Constable Paul Kennedy, aged 51, died whilst on holidays at Scotts Head, NSW, on Thursday 4 October, 2001, as a result of a heart attack & drowning in the surf.
Paul had been performing General Duties at the Wollongong ( NSW ) Local Area Command prior to his death.
His funeral Service was held at Parson’s Funeral Parlours, 278 Princes Hwy, Bulli, at 10am on Wednesday 10 October which was followed by a private cremation service at the Wollongong Crematorium.
Memorial: the “Chuck Connor” trophy for “reteam on Course Dux”
Glenn Connor
24 September 2000
Acting Sgt Glen “Chuck” Connor, 38 old, who lived at Otford, died about 11am in a hang gliding collision at Stanwell Tops.
He had a female passenger from Albion Park Rail and collided with another paraglider, being piloted by Vitali Kouznetsov from Hurstville as the second glider took off from Bald Hill they became entangled. The woman and Vitali survived the crash.
Glen was also the owner / operator of “Skybound Hang Gliding School” and had been a qualified hang gliding instructor since 21 July 1983 with approximately 1850 hours hang gliding experience.
Glen’s wife, Sue and brother Adrian were on the hill and witnessed the accident.
Glen used to work at Wollongong G.D’s, South Region Dog Squad around 1992 & his dogs name was ‘Jet’ and, from memory, Wollongong Prosecutors.
At the time of his death he was stationed at Sutherland Prosecutors.
May Glen forever Rest In Peace.
Accident location
Illawarra Mercury Page 11 Wednesday 21 March 2001
Armed hold up at service station. Illawarra Mercury page 9 Monday 10 February 1992 with police dog Jet
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Hang-gliders hurt in Stanwell Park crash landing
BRETT COX
Two hang-gliders had to be rescued by helicopter from a rock at the bottom of a cliff after they were injured during a tandem flight at Stanwell Park.
The delicate rescue operation occurred under a darkening sky after an unexpected change of wind forced the emergency landing about 4.30pm yesterday.Hang-glider operator Tony Armstrong, 55, of the Stanwell Park Hang-gliding and Paragliding School, was initially knocked unconscious while landing on the rock.
He was later taken by helicopter to St George Hospital with head injuries and is in a stable condition.
The other man, an Irishman in his 30s visiting Australia on a working holiday visa, received cuts to his leg and was driven by ambulance to Wollongong Hospital.
Mark Mitsos, secretary of the school, told the Mercury northern suburbs man Mr Armstrong had more than 25 years’ hang-gliding experience and had spent thousands of hours in the air off Bald Hill.
“There was a very sudden change in wind direction and he effectively had to make an emergency landing down at the bottom – and there’s not too many options down there,” Mr Mitsos said.
Local hang-glider Matt Radzyner said sudden wind changes at Bald Hill were almost impossible to predict. He praised Mr Armstrong.
“He would have been in control the whole time and he obviously put his passenger first because his passenger had much lesser injuries.
“He took the brunt of the crash.
“The injured Irishman used his mobile phone to call five friends waiting on Bald Hill, who walked 40 minutes down a steep track to the men’s aid.
Ambulance officers began the trek just after 5pm, but the rescue helicopter reached the injured men first and winched them back to the top of the cliff.
The friends were transported to a nearby beach.
The most high-profile hang-gliding accident in recent times at Bald Hill occurred in September 2000 and left two dead.
Police officer Sergeant Glenn Connor, of Otford, was flying tandem with an Albion Park Rail woman when their gilder became tangled in the lines of a paraglider being flown by Hurstville man Vitali Kouznetsov.
Probationary Constable – appointed 27 January 1989
Senior Constable – death
Stations: Windsor, Penrith HWP ( 9 years ), Manning Great Lakes LAC ( from April 2005 – 31 July 2007 ) Forster HWP – death
Service: From? ? 1988 to 31 July 2007 = 19+ years Service
Awards: Police Valour Award – presented on 7 August 2007 ( posthumously ),
Region Certificate of Appreciation,
State Emergency Service Medal.
No find on It’s An Honour
Born: 5 July 1967
Died on: Tuesday 31 July 2007
Cause: Died from injuries received, as a pedestrian, whilst Off Duty, saving the life of another
Event location: Manning St, Tuncurry
Age: 40
Funeral date: Monday 6 August 2007
Funeral location: Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, Taree
Buried at: Manning Great Lakes Memorial Gardens Portion: Mon Row: B129
Memorial: 1/ NSW Police Force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, D30 ( left wall )
2/ Manning Great Lakes – Manning 206 HWP vehicle bearing personalised number plates
Paul William MORRIS & Tracey Fergus
Manning Great Lakes 206 ( Manning 206 )
Manning Great Lakes 206 ( Manning 206 )
[alert_green]PAUL is mentioned on the NSW Police Force Service Memorial Wall at the SPC
D 30 Left Wall[/alert_green]
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The Daily Telegraph 31 July 2007
Pedestrian cop killed in smash
The scene… where two off-duty police officers were struck by a car on the NSW mid-north coast today.
AN off-duty policeman has died after being pinned between his car and a second vehicle which crossed to the wrong side of a road on the NSW mid-north coast, police say.
Senior Constable Paul Morris, 40, died on Wharf Street, Tuncurry about 12.55pm (AEST) today after he was struck by the car, NSW Police Commissioner Ken Moroney said.
Mr Moroney said a second off-duty officer, a 36-year-old woman, was also injured in the incident but had been treated and released from Tuncurry Hospital.
“We understand at this time that a motor vehicle approached from the opposite direction and, for reasons yet to be established, it appears to have mounted a median strip,” Mr Moroney told Southern Cross Broadcasting.
“It has travelled onto the incorrect side of the road and struck Senior Constable Morris, who was pinned beside his vehicle. He was killed by his injuries.”
The incident was witnessed by fellow officers, police said in a statement.
Mr Moroney said the policeman was a single man who was “close friends” with his female colleague.
The driver of the other vehicle had been taken to hospital in a state of shock, he said.
Mr Moroney and Deputy Commissioner Andrew Scipione were tonight on their way to Tuncurry.
Police Minister David Campbell offered sympathy to the families of the two officers.
Highway patrol officers “held back tears” as NSW Police Commissioner Ken Moroney offered them support over the death of an off-duty colleague in a freak car accident.
One witness told police Senior Constable Paul Morris died as he pushed his girlfriend, an off-duty officer who was injured in the incident, out of the way of an out-of-control car on the NSW mid-north coast on Tuesday.
Snr Const Morris, 40, died on Wharf Street, Tuncurry, about 12.55pm (AEST) after he was struck by the reversing car that pinned him to his own vehicle, police said.
A 36-year-old woman, who was in a relationship with Snr Const Morris, was also injured in the incident but had been treated at Manning Base Hospital and discharged.
Mr Moroney and Deputy Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione rushed to Tuncurry late on Tuesday to console local officers, some of whom saw the fatal collision.
Tony Ritchie, spokesman for the commissioner, said Mr Moroney and Mr Scipione also visited Snr Const Morris’ parents on Tuesday night to offer their support.
“There was a gathering of highway patrol officers in another house,” Mr Ritchie said.
“They walked through, shared the comfort, shook hands and watched as big men held back tears as they talked about friends.
“Same with the parents, they offered what comfort they could.”
Mr Ritchie described the collision near the Bellevue Hotel, a favourite haunt of off-duty police, as “freakish”.
He said it appeared the car that hit the officers, described as a silver Subaru station wagon by one witness, became locked in reverse as it tried to park.
Another witness told police the car’s tyres were smoking as it veered out of control, he said.
“(Snr Const Morris) was standing on a median strip, he was just about to walk across the road to get into his car,” Mr Ritchie said.
“He had to literally walk across one lane to get into his car and (another) car in some bizarre way somehow locked itself into reverse and comes veering across one lane … over the median strip and knocked him further across the road into his car.
“(The car) could have been one foot either way, six inches either way and (Snr Const Morris) would have said ‘Gee, what was that all about’.”
Mr Moroney’s spokesman said police were still looking for witnesses but one had told them Snr Const Morris tried to save his girlfriend.
“One of the witnesses said he’s pushed her out of the way as the car’s come across the road,” he said.
“But (the witness was) looking the other way, mind you, and it was all in a split second.”
Mr Ritchie said police were still considering whether it was appropriate to charge the driver of the Subaru, who was also injured in the incident.
THE distraught girlfriend of a policeman who died while pushing her from the path of an out-of-control car has described how the hero officer’s actions saved her life.
Tracey Fergus was yesterday suffering physical injuries and a broken heart after the death of Senior Constable Paul Morris, her boyfriend of four years.
As the couple crossed the main street of Tuncurry, on the NSW mid-North Coast, on Tuesday afternoon a car suddenly reversed towards them.
Sen-Constable Morris tried to push Ms Fergus, who is also a police officer, out of the way, but both were struck by the vehicle.
The off-duty highway patrol officer took the full force of the car and died at the scene from massive injuries.
“That was Paul, he tried to push me out of the way as best he could,” a shattered Ms Fergus told The Daily Telegraph yesterday.
“He was the best person in the world. He had a heart of gold.”
Nursing visible injuries from the incident, Ms Fergus smiled as her boyfriend’s family told of his three great loves – his girlfriend, his family and his fishing. “I sometimes wonder if fishing might have come first,” Ms Fergus said with a smile.
Just three weeks ago, Ms Fergus organised a surprise 40th birthday party for Sen-Constable Morris.
“I didn’t know whether he’d kill me for organising it or if he’d be OK about it,” Ms Fergus said.
But there was no mistaking how the policeman felt about the gesture.
The officer’s mother Marie Morris revealed: “He said to me afterwards ‘Mum, she is the best thing that has ever happened to me’.”
The investigation into the incident continued yesterday, with crash unit officers from Newcastle closing off Manning St in the town centre while they retraced the pair’s movements.
Sen-Constable Morris and Ms Fergus had been to a shop and were on a median strip waiting to get back to their car when the accident happened.
“It looks as if he’s been reversing back and somehow he’s come spearing across and hit the two officers, who were standing on the median strip,” a police spokesman said.
The 61-year-old male driver of the car was assisting police with inquiries late yesterday.
A full police funeral will be held for Sen-Constable Morris next week.
“He was a terrific policeman and he had the best group of workmates you could ever have,” his mother said.
The officer’s grieving colleagues visited his family after the accident, as did Police Commissioner Ken Moroney and Deputy Commissioner Andrew Scippione.
Workmates struggling to come to terms with the popular officer’s death have been offered counselling.
REST IN PEACE SENIOR CONSTABLE Paul MORRIS
31 July 2007
NSW POLICE FORCE
A DEVOTED partner, professional colleague and great mate is how Senior Constable Paul Morris will be remembered.
His three great loves in life were his partner Tracey, his family and his fishing, although not necessarily in that order – his brother Peter revealed at his funeral service.
Hundreds of people attended the full police funeral at Taree’s Our Lady of Rosary Catholic Church including Commissioner Ken Moroney, Deputy Commissioner Andrew Scipione and colleagues from Sydney and the Manning Great Lakes.
The Manning Great Lakes highway patrol officer was killed in a freak traffic accident in Tuncurry last Tuesday.
In an act of bravery, the off duty officer who was standing in Manning St with his partner Senior Constable Tracey Fergus, jumped in front of her, protecting her from an out of control car which had crossed the median strip.
He bore the the brunt of the impact and later died at the scene.
Senior Constable Morris joined the NSW Police Force as a trainee in 1988 and later assigned to Windsor following successful training. He moved into the highway patrol sector and this included a nine year period with the Penrith Highway Patrol. He successfully transferred to Manning Great Lakes Command in April 2005 where he continued his role in keeping the road toll down.
Commissioner Moroney said Senior Constable Morris’ death was a tragic loss.
“Senior Constable Paul Morris was the type of professional police officer the NSW Police Force could not afford to lose.”
He added he was honoured to confirm Senior Constable Morris had been appointed a posthumous commendation for bravery in recognition of his actions in Tuncurry last Tuesday when he put his own life on the line to protect his partner Senior Constable Tracey Fergus.
“I pay a special tribute to his partner Tracey and parents Bill and Marie for the dedication and support they unreservedly gave to Paul throughout his career. I offer my deepest sympathy on his tragic and untimely death.”
Peter told the congregation his brother’s death had left a huge hole in their lives.
“We have lost our best mate,” he said.
“While he may not be here in body he will be here in spirit.
“He had one of the biggest hearts. Paul you are our hero and we won’t forget you.”
A message read on behalf of Tracey gave a true picture of her life partner.
“He was a true gentleman. He was my soul mate. Not a day went by when he didn’t have a smile on his face or come out with a cheeky one-liner.
“It’s not often in a lifetime you meet a man like Paul Morris.
“Thank you for honouring him.”
Local Area Commander Superintendent Peter Thurtell said Senior Constable Morris was a true professional, working hard to keep local roads safe.
“Paul was our friend and he will always be.
“Paul was our colleague and he will always be.
“He was the essence of what is good about policing and he will always be.”
“Tomorrow and beyond the police family will now turn its attention to Tracey.
“This is, I believe, how Paul would have insisted it be.”
Senior Constable Paul Morris posthumously received the Certificate of Service, Region Certificate of Appreciation and State Emergency Service Medal.
Selfless act of a courageous man … police colleagues carry the coffin of Sen-Constable Paul Morris. Picture: Rob McKell
ON crutches and visibly injured, Tracey Fergus yesterday recalled the golden heart of her hero boyfriend who sacrificed his life to save hers.
The injured policewoman smiled bravely as she accepted a police valour award for Senior-Constable Paul Morris at his funeral service.
He was killed last Tuesday while pushing Ms Fergus out of the path of an out-of-control car. The couple had been crossing the main street in Tuncurry, on the mid-North Coast, when a car driven by an elderly man veered towards them.
Police Commissioner Ken Moroney told mourners at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Taree that it was the quick-thinking actions of Sen-Constable Morris in pushing Ms Fergus out of way that saved her life.
“He is awarded for his selflessness and courage and for the swift and evasive action to remove his partner out of harm’s way,” Mr Moroney said.
In tributes farewelling the officer, the congregation heard of Sen-Constable Morris’s love of life, his family, his friends and his job in highway patrol – a role he carried out for 19 years.
“He was a highly regarded and respected man who served the community with courage, honour and distinction,” Mr Moroney said.
Despite her injuries, Ms Fergus smiled graciously as she accepted the Police Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage medal on Sen-Constable Morris’s behalf.
In a eulogy read on her behalf, Ms Fergus said Sen-Constable Morris was a gentle, loving and caring man who had a heart of gold.
“Paul was a true gentleman not a day went by when he didn’t have a smile on his face,” Ms Fergus wrote in the eulogy.
Superintendent Peter Thurtell described Sen-Const Morris as the “consummate professional” with an love of highway patrol.
“His colleagues looked forward to working a shift with him because they could be guaranteed hard work as well as good fun and lots of laughter,” Supt Thurtell said. “He is the essence of what is good about policing and he will always be.”
At the end of the funeral service, Sen-Constable Morris’s coffin was driven through a guard-of-honour, formed by officers who gathered to to farewell their colleague.
In a tribute to the highway patrolman, the procession was lead from the church by his former police car, Manning 206.
Service: From ? ? 1996 to 22 September 1999 = 3 years Service
24 old
Suicide – shot – Service Pistol to chest
Stationed: Mt Druitt, Quaker’s Hill, Seven Hills, Penrith, Ermington Police Station – Plain clothes – Anti Theft Squad – Death
Funeral: Winston Hills on 28 September 1999
Rachael was a plain clothes constable performing proactive duties at Ermington, NSW.
Rachael suffered psychological injuries which were later declined by the insurer.
She slipped into a greater depression and subsequently died from a self inflicted gun shot wound from her own Service weapon, whilst On Duty, after she drove to Eric Primrose Reserve, Rydalmere.
A beautiful smile no longer shines, but her light lives on in the hearts of her loved ones and friends.
May Rachael forever Rest In Peace.
Nicholas Michael SKOMAROW
| 09/12/2013
Nicholas Michael SKOMAROW
aka Nick
New South Wales Police Force
from NSW Police Academy Class 195/C
Regd. # 21006
Uniform # 3854
Rank: Training – commenced Monday 14 March 1983 ( aged 23 years, 5 months, 12 days )( 2 months, 20 days at Academy )
Probationary Constable – appointed 3 June 1983 ( aged 23 years, 8 months, 4 days )
Cause: Surgical Operation complication stemming from HOD Injuries
Age: 53 years, 10 months, 25 days
Funeral date: Friday 30 August 2013 @ 10.30am
Funeral location: Wollongong Church of Christ, O’Briens Rd, Figtree
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial: NSW Police Force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, D6 ( right wall )
NICK is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *BUT SHOULD BE
An application was made for Nick to be included on the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra, and the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance, Sydney due to the fact that he died as a result of complications stemming from a medical operation in direct consequence to his Duty related Injuries. The Commissioner, Scipione, supported it but the Commander, Wollongong, at the time did NOT support the application and, to this day ( 22 March 2018. Rechecked 13 Jan 2021 – still doesn’t appear ), Nick only appears on the Police Force Service Memorial Wall at the Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills and NOT the Police Wall of Remembrance.
As an aside, his Widow IS receiving a Police Pension as the matter was considered H.O.D.
Sgt Nick Skomarow in 2003
Sgt Nick Skomarow in 2003
It is with the deepest and heartfelt sadness that I let you all know that another one of our Illawarra mates has passed on.
Nick Skomarow was a 54 year old Sergeant, currently stationed at Wollongong, who had a 14 hour operation on his neck 8 days ago ( Friday 16 August ) at Figtree Private Hospital whereby he had 3 or 4 vertebra removed due to old HOD injuries suffered whilst on operational duties with the HWP.
Around 9.30am this morning ( Saturday 24 August, 2013 ) Nick was found deceased in his hospital room.This is now a Coroners matter but it is believed that he may have suffered from a blood clot ( not confirmed ).
Nick was in “the job” for 30 years and was a bloody good bloke.
He had also been stationed at Sutherland, Broken Hill and Liverpool HWP at one stage.
On behalf of the troops still in “the job” and those of us now out of “the job”, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Nick and give our condolences to Nick’s wife, Coralie and their families.
Nick, may you forever Rest in Peace mate.
A Full Police Funeral will be held this coming Friday, 30 August, 2013, at 10.30am at Wollongong Church of Christ, O’Briens Rd, Figtree.
The family will then attend the Wollongong Crematorium for a committal service and the wake will be held at Wests Leagues Club, Unanderra.
* * *
SKOMAROW Nicholas (Nick)
of Cordeaux Heights Taken from us too early on August 24, 2013. Adored and loving husband of Coralie.
Loving son of John and the late Tammy.
Adored father and father in law of Amanda, Aaron and Cassandra.
Much loved Poppo of Jayden. Loved brother of Victor and a dearly loved brother in law.
A much loved cousin, nephew and uncle, and a great friend and colleague to many.
Aged 53 Years
We will miss you A special person, no one can replace. Our memories of you will be treasured forever.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Nick’s funeral service to be held at Newday Church (Church Of Christ), O’Briens Road, Figtree on Friday at 10:30am. Following the service his funeral will proceed to the Main Chapel, Wollongong City Memorial Gardens Crematorium, Berkeley Road, Unanderra.
* * *
Photos taken by Retired SenCon Greg Callander (contact details at base of website). No copyrights attached to photos used by friends and family of Nick.
These photos are uploaded at 1.5meg but the originals are 35 meg each if anyone needs higher quality for printing etc. There are 140 photos:
Nick worked at Pooncarrie many moons ago and was instrumental in the arrest of Darryl Suckling for several murders of young women.
Daryl Suckling’s arrest in remote NSW in the late 1980s revealed his disturbing connections with the disappearance of Jodie Larcombe from Melbourne. Charged with the murder of Jodie, then a sex worker on St Kilda’s streets, Suckling was allowed to walk free, as police investigators struggled to prove a homicide without a body. He’d previously escaped conviction more than once after brutally abducting several women.
Frustrated by legal obstacles and bad luck, one officer resigned from the force in disgust, but the case was never forgotten and investigators closed in as Suckling stalked his next victim. The grisly murder linked St Kilda with the lonely, windswept sandhills of the NSW outback near Mildura, and brought two hardened policemen close to a brave family pushed to breaking point – in the end, it was too much for Jodie’s mother, who committed suicide when Suckling appealed his eventual conviction.
Suckling is now one of 15 prisoners serving life in NSW, never to be released.
Nick also had a boat, when he was stationed out at Broken Hill, called ‘ TJF ‘. This usually means ‘ The Job’s Fu*@ed ‘.
Grave vandals smash 45 headstones
Posted
Vandals have desecrated 45 graves at Wollongong Cemetery on the New South Wales south coast.
Police say the graves in the old Wesley section of the cemetery have had their headstones smashed beyond repair. They are some of the cemetery’s oldest graves.
The damage bill is estimated at $100,000.
Acting Inspector Nick Skomarow says vandals attacked the graves on Wednesday night.
“Unknown persons have entered the Wollongong Cemetery on Kenny Street and during this time 45 marked graves located in the southern end of the cemetery had their headstones smashed beyond repair,” he said.
Acting Inspector Skomarow says police are appealing for information on those responsible for the attack.
“Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or may have information that may assist investigators in identifying those responsible for the damage to contact Wollongong Police or Crime Stoppers,” he said.
GPS of Grave: Lat: -34.4880559530445 Long: 150.81964650639043
Memorial: NSW Police Force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, A29 ( left wall )
Chief Inspector Graeme Donnelly
GRAEME is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance* NOT WORK RELATED
Death of Chief Inspector Graeme Donnelly, 52 old around 11.30am, today, Friday 16 August 2013, who was riding his push bike with a mate around Lake Illawarra ( the actual lake ) this morning and was riding up Mt. Terry when he stopped and said to his mate that he didn’t feel well.
Whilst standing next to his bike, he suffered a massive heart attack.
An Off Duty passing Paramedic commenced CPR and called for assistance. Helicopter assistance was also considered and I am informed that the Paramedics worked on Graeme for a lengthy and extended period and was conveyed to Hospital under Police escort but, unfortunately, he never regained consciousness from the time he fell.
He was aged 52 and was a Chief Inspector ( for those who don’t know him ) and a really nice bloke.
May he forever Rest in Peace and look over the rest of us.
The funeral for Graeme will take place on Monday, 26 August, at 1.00pm at St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral in Harbour Street Wollongong. Guest’s to be seated by 12.40pm.
I would expect this to be a big funeral with standing room only – out onto the street.
He was a highly respected policeman who sought relief from his demanding role as chief inspector in his passion for cycling.
Tributes have flowed for long-serving officer Graeme Donnelly, 52, who died of a heart attack while riding around Lake Illawarra last Friday.
Friend and cycling companion Wally Erven said Insp Donnelly loved cycling because it allowed him to de-stress.
“Being in the police force, it gave him a separation,” he said.
Insp Donnelly was the father of junior Australian cycling champion Aaron Donnelly – and Mr Erven said the apple hadn’t fallen far from the tree.
“Aaron’s not a professional cyclist for no reason – it’s in his genes and he got that from his father.”
Wollongong acting superintendent Tim Beattie said the policing community had been shocked to learn of Insp Donnelly’s death.
Insp Donnelly spent his career based in Wollongong until about 12 months ago when he transferred to Sydney and was attached to a specialist police unit.
“Graeme was a highly respected member of the police force who performed a significant amount of his service in the Illawarra area,” Supt Beattie said. “He is regarded by all those who knew him as being a good bloke.”
A tribute has also been posted on the Cycling NSW website.
“His loss is greatly felt by the Illawarra Cycle Club and the NSW cycling community,” the statement read.
Insp Donnelly’s funeral will be held at Wollongong Catholic Cathedral, 36 Harbour Street, at 1pm on Monday.
He was one of a kind and his death will leave a hole in the life of his family, friends and the police force.
On Monday a sea of blue police uniforms surrounded an overflowing St Francis Xavier Catholic Cathedral in Wollongong as officers paid their last respects to Chief Inspector Graeme Donnelly.
Insp Donnelly, 52, died on August 16 after having a heart attack while riding around Lake Illawarra with friends.
Yesterday his cycling companions joined police colleagues and formed a guard of honour stretching from the cathedral along Harbour St.
Insp Donnelly’s colleague Peter Lindwall and friend Neil Foster gave a joint eulogy.
They described the high-ranking officer’s passion for the police force and his love for his wife Kerri and sons Aaron and Brad.
Mr Lindwall said the sheer number of fellow officers in attendance, including NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione, was testament to how highly Insp Donnelly had been regarded in the community.
“He was a person no-one ever had a bad word to say about,” Mr Lindwall said.
He also made reference to Insp Donnelly’s previous career as a butcher and his skills behind a barbecue.
In a statement read at yesterday’s service, Aaron Donnelly said his father’s entire life had been dedicated to helping others.
“I don’t think there’s a person here who hasn’t been impacted by his kindness,” he said.
Mr Donnelly’s wife Kerri said her husband had been a “selfless” man who gave his time “to so many people”.
In a statement also read to the service, she recalled how proud he had been when his Brad announced he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a police officer.
Mr Scipione also spoke at the service and posthumously awarded Insp Donnelly the National Police Service Medal.
WEDNESDAY 6 APRIL 2016 GRAVE OF GRAEME FRANCIS DONNELLY GRAVE IS ON THE EAST SIDE OF ROAD, PAST THE NEW CRYPTS THAT ARE CURRENTLY BEING BUILT WHICH ARE ALSO ON THE EAST AND TO THE NORTH OF THE OFFICE. THE GRAVE IS ABOUT 3 – 4 ROWS BACK FROM THE ROADWAY AND FACES AWAY FROM THE ROADWAY.
Rank: Commenced training at Goulburn Police Station on Sunday 30 July 1989 ( aged 19 years, 5 months, 5 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 25 January 1990 ( aged 19 years, 11 months, 0 days )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( YES )
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Detective Sergeant
Stations: ?, Inner City ( Sydney ), Newtown Detectives, Balmain ( 8 Division ), Newcastle, Lake Macquarie L.A.C., Northern Region Professional Standards
Service: From 30 July 1989 to 3 July 2013 = 23 years, 11 months, 3 days Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours
Born: Wednesday 25 February 1970
Died on: Wednesday 3 July 2013
Cause: Depression – Suicide – hanging – ON DUTY
Previous attempt in 2012 inside Newcastle Police Stn
Age: 43 years, 4 months, 8 days
Funeral date: Thursday 11 July 2013 @ 11am
Funeral location: Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, Sandgate Rd, Shortland
GABBY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance – Canberra
* BUT SHOULD BE. Last checked 2 Aug 2019 24 Jan 2024
GABBY IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance – NSW Domain
Grave location:
Grave of Gabrielle Patricia McDONALD – nee Gabby Eggleston
Class 242C Goulburn – Attested 25 January 1990 Gabby EGGLESTON, Front row, 3rd from right
Late of Maryland
Gabrielle passed away on 03/07/2013.
Her funeral is proposed to be held at 11am on Thursday 11th Instant at Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, 262 Sandgate Road, SHORTLAND.
Dearly loved wife of ANDREW, loving mother of JESSICA and JOSH. Loved daughter and daughter-in-law of CARMEL and NORM (dec’d) EGGLESTON, FRAN and WARREN McDONALD.
Sister and sister-in-law of PETER and MAREE, MEL and JULIE, MARIA and MARK, ANDREW and AREEYA, ANGELA and MARK, SUE and STEVE, PATRICK and CAROLINE, NICOLE and NIGEL, GREG and loved aunty of their FAMILIES.
The Relatives and Friends of GABRIELLE are warmly invited to attend her Funeral to be held in Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, Sandgate Rd, Shortland on THURSDAY 11/7/13 Funeral Liturgy commencing at 11am. An interment will follow at Sandgate Lawn Cemetery.
Family of NSW policewoman who took her own life suing state for millions
Exclusive by the National Reporting Team’s Lorna Knowles
Updated
The family of a policewoman who took her own life is suing the state of New South Wales for millions of dollars, for allegedly failing to protect her from harm.
[blockquote]
Key points:
Andrew McDonald has filed three negligence claims against the state
The claim alleges his wife did not receive adequate care after attending several traumatic incidents
It also alleges police failed to investigate a previous suicide attempt
Newcastle mother-of-two Sergeant Gabrielle McDonald developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression after witnessing a string of horrific incidents on the job.
She took her own life on July 3, 2013, the day after a police medical officer had declared her as fit for duty.
Her husband Andrew McDonald has filed three negligence claims against the state of NSW on behalf of himself and his two children, Jessica and Joshua.
His statement of claim, filed to the NSW District Court, said over the course of her career, McDonald attended numerous traumatic incidents, including domestic disputes, assaults, car accidents, suicides and murders.
She was particularly distressed by the drowning of a 17-year-old boy in 2009 and a double road fatality in 2010, but did not receive any counselling, debriefing or monitoring after the incidents, the statement of claim alleges.
In late 2010, she was promoted to Detective Sergeant in the Professional Standards Unit, Northern Region. But she struggled with the heavy workload, which included two stints relieving for her supervisor.
In 2012, McDonald attempted suicide in an office at the Newcastle police station, but police never investigated the incident.
“It’s investigation 101,” Mr McDonald, who was also a police officer, told the ABC.
“That’s what police do and it’s appalling that it was never done.”
Police medical officer found suicide attempt ‘was not genuine’
The day before McDonald took her own life, she was sent to see a police medical officer, Dr Naresh Verma.
Mr McDonald told the ABC, Dr Verma determined her previous suicide attempt was not genuine and he did not believe she had PTSD.
“All the staff thought well, OK, things must be on the improve, maybe Gabrielle is not sick at all, maybe she’s pulling the wool over our eyes and that was clearly wrong,” Mr McDonald said.
Dr Verma did not respond to repeated requests for comment.
The police force determined that McDonald should be transferred to another police station the next day.
According to the statement of claim, she was summoned to a meeting without warning and without a support person to be told she was being moved.
McDonald left the meeting in a distressed state, drove to a state forest and took her life.
Mr McDonald said he had one last telephone conversation with his wife.
“She said I can’t go on any more. I’m not getting better. I’m such a burden. They keep kicking me down at work. All I’m trying to do is keep my hours up. You know, this is hopeless,” he said.
“And I said: ‘You can’t do this’. I pleaded with her and begged her not to.
“She said I love you and the kids. We talked about all the things we’d done together, but nothing I said would make sense to her, she was just that determined to do it”.
McDonald ‘did not receive proper monitoring’
Mr McDonald’s lawyers allege that the police service ought to have known the meeting would cause her distress and that she was at risk of self harm.
They allege the NSW police force was negligent because it failed to maintain a safe system of work to avoid injury to McDonald.
It had also allegedly failed to provide her with adequate training to perform her duties and to take precautions for her safety, “putting her in a position of peril”.
The service is also accused of failing to provide adequate training on how to recognise the symptoms of psychiatric injury.
“The deceased did not receive any or proper monitoring of her condition while she continued to work in a stressful environment,” the claim states.
The claim also alleges the police force had failed to devise a system for the flagging of police officers involved in numerous distressing or traumatic incidents.
As a result of its negligence, McDonald had suffered a major depressive disorder, chronic PTSD, alcohol abuse and death by suicide, it is alleged.
Mr McDonald said he now suffered from an adjustment disorder with depression and anxiety.
He was on track to become a superintendent, before he was medically retired.
He is claiming about $900,000 in future lost earnings, in addition to damages and interest. He is also seeking damages on behalf of his two children.
Damages are limited to $750,000 in the NSW District Court, but it does have the discretion to lift the cap.
In a statement to the ABC, the NSW police force said it could not comment specifically on the tragic circumstances which led to the death of a serving officer.
“NSW police continues to improve its practices and procedures, having made significant advances over many years to minimise the psychological impact of policing duties on our officers, who frequently undertake stressful and difficult work,” the statement said.
“As a major priority, NSW police encourages the reporting of these impacts and offers a range of services to support, guide and educate our staff.
“These support services are comprehensive and effective.
“It is well understood that every officer’s circumstances are unique and most often extremely complex with regard to the impacts of psychological injury.”
Gabby was my partner Newtown D’s. She was rock solid, loyal and supportive. She spoke her mind and was honest in opinion and views.
Gabby was from the Eggleston family of the Hunter & loved horses and racing. She taught riding to kids with patience & care. Gabby also helped place horses with the Mounted Section NSW Police.
Along with Gabby & Deb Hayton, we had a tough feminine perspective to our office in the 90’s.
Sad to know when she was in need, Gabby felt alone.
Gabby was loved by many and will be missed by all!
