WRIGHT. A Service to celebrate the life of Leonard Arthur Wright will be held at the Lilydale Memorial Park Chapel, 126 Victoria Rd, Lilydale at 10.00 a. m. on WEDNESDAY (Mar. 8, 2017). No flowers by family request. In the gentle care of OAKDALE FUNERALS 9726-8724
Date of birth: 30 October, 1932 Date of passing: 28 February, 2017
Len passed away peacefully at the Ringwood Private Hospital surrounded by his loving family.
He will always be in our hearts – sadly missed and loved forever.
From his loving wife Val, daughters Pam and Jenny and son Andy.
Funeral Notice
Funeral Details
A service to celebrate the life of Leonard Arthur WRIGHT will be held at the Lilydale Memorial Park Chapel, 126 Victoria Road, Lilydale at 10.00am on Wednesday March the 8th at 10.00am.
The funeral for Brevet Sergeant Ashley Meek, South Australia Police will be held at 10.00am on Wednesday 15 March 2017 at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 388 Montague Road Para Vista S.A. and then at Kibby Gardens, Enfield Memorial Park, Browning Street Clearview for a committal service.
Ashley was a decorated veteran, serving proudly with the Royal Australian Army in both East Timor and Iraq, as well as faithfully serving the people of South Australia.
Despite the incredible outpouring of grief following Ashley’s death, what is abundantly clear is that Ashley was dearly loved by all his family and friends. Described as a champion bloke, we intend remembering Ashley the way that he lived, as a true hero.
Rest easy blue brother… your work here is done.
MEEK, Ashley.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr Grant Stevens, on behalf of all members of the South Australia Police, extends his deepest sympathy and condolences to Ashley’s family, friends and colleagues. Brevet Sergeant Ashley Meek will be sadly missed throughout SAPOL.
This is Ashley Meek. Late last night in rural Australia Ashley took his own life. He was the 6th recorded veteran of the last wars on foreign soil to have taken their own life in 2017. Last year 75 Australian veterans took their own lives.
For the last five years, ever since I was taken under the wing of the Australian Defence Force and toured through the war in Afghanistan I have heard one veteran after another, from every tier of Defence, from every part of Australia tell me how difficult receiving help is for them. It is not new news that The Department of Veteran’s Affairs or DVA is a cumbersome and hopelessly ineffective bureaucracy. Young men and women who had served many tours of Afghanistan quietly called them the DVE to me, or Department of Veteran’s Enemies.
For too many years the DVA only counted suicides amongst enrolled Defence Force members as suicides associated with service. The young man I met who was homeless in Sydney last year after serving 5 tours of Afghanistan would not have been counted because he had been discharged in 2012 with PTSD. If Defence had discharged you for psychological illness and you suicided, then your death was not associated officially with your deployment. It was cruel, misleading and wrong.
Now the DVA is pushing for veterans to be administered as welfare recipients under the community services portfolio. I was sitting at my computer last night trying to get my head around what the changes would mean for some of my young friends who suffer from PTSD after their service in Afghanistan. At the same time I was pondering the Legislative Amendment before Parliament Ashley Meek took his own life. DVA is closing the services that they have offered veterans ever since the Vietnam War. Veterans’ Access Network (VAN) offices around Australia have been steadily closing down. Instead of those services veterans will have no option but Centrelink.
Next time a Prime Minister commits tens of thousands of young Australians to war on the other side of the planet I hope that that same Prime Minister assures those young souls that they will be respected, supported and cared for when they return, and that no expense will be spared in their recovery. Otherwise, do not commit our youth to war..
A South Australia police officer posted “F*** you SA Police” on his Facebook before walking into a local hospital and taking his life in front of medical staff last night.
The man reportedly drove to Cowell, about a 500km drive west of Adelaide, before entering the District Hospital around 9.45pm, news.com.au reported.
It is not known if the officer was on or off duty at the time of his death.
A brief statement issued by SA Police said authorities were “preparing a report for the coroner following the death of a man at Cowell on March 5”.
“No other persons are being sought at this time,” the statement read.
A South Australia Police spokesperson told news.com.au they had “nothing further to add”.
Cowell District Hospital has been contacted for comment.
One of the police officer’s colleagues, who asked to remain anonymous, said the man “posted (a) ‘f*** you‘ msg (sic) to SAPOL” on Facebook moments before he died
“The messages said F*** SAPOL and some other comments,” the source said.
The man, who news.com.au has chosen not to identify, has been described on social media as “a well respected officer, and former ADF member, who will be missed by many”.
“This bloke was and will forever remain a dead set legend,” another person wrote.
“No one saw it coming. We got the watch now brother.”
“We are all better people having known you,” another said.
The reports prompted several state police officers to also come forward and highlight that a lack of welfare support for work-related mental health issues including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder was also a problem in state policing.
“South Australia has just seen one of their officers (take her own life),” one police officer told news.com.au.
We recently lost a friend and colleague to suicide because of PTSD. She left her son and partner behind because she did not get the help she required. We owe it to her 11 year old son and for all the other partners, children and family members left behind by the officers who can see no Light at the end of the tunnel except by ending their lives. It has to STOP.
For too long, management of Australian Police Forces have silently accepted horrifically high suicide rates amongst our troops – Disproportionately higher than the Australian population.
We demand a national Coronial enquiry, seeking answers in a State by State basis. We want to learn what are the primary stressors amongst our Police, what is/can be done to minimise this, and greater support services for our Police.
“F*** You SA Police” – this was the last social media post of a SA cop who tragically took his own life just days ago.
“Suicide and bullying are rife within the police force. I’ve served as a cop in SA for 11 years now – I’ve battled first hand the toxic “suck it up princess” internal culture. It’s destroying, and costing lives.”
“I’m proud of my job, for keeping our communities safe from crime. We lock up murderers, protect domestic violence victims, and remove kids from horrific abuse. But what I’m sick of is the bureaucratic crap, intimidation and abuse of power that goes on internally.”
“Stop sweeping the fact police are killing themselves under the carpet. This is too important. My colleagues are dying around me. For too long now, management of Australian Police Forces have silently, knowingly, accepted horrifically high suicide rates amongst our troops – disproportionately higher than the Aussie population.”
I am starting this petition on behalf of myself and colleagues who are seeking an enquiry into the cause of suicides by Police in each Australian State.
We need to learn what the primary stressors are among our Police to then decide how to minimise more tragic deaths from happening.
The ‘Thin Blue Line’ is getting thinner – Please help protect those who protect our community by signing and sharing our petition.
This petition will be delivered to:
Australian State Coroners
Federal Minister for Justice
Michael Keenan MP
SA Minister for Police
Peter Malinauskas MLP
Qld Minister for Police
Mark Ryan MP
NSW Minister for Police
Troy Grant MP
Vic Minister for Police
Lisa Neville MP
ACT Minister for Police
Mick Gentleman MLA
Tas Minister for Police
Rene Hidding MP
NT Minister for Police
Michael Gunner MLA
Minister for Police; Road Safety; Training and Workforce Development; Women’s Interests Hon. Liza Harvey MLA
MARCHING in the French National Day Parade and Western Front commemorative services, Sergeant Ashley Meek honoured fourth-generation cousin – and Gawler soldier – Lance Corporal Stewart Grigg last Thursday.
Sgt Meek, who has strong family connections in the Gawler area, serves in the 10th/27th Battalion, Royal South Australia Regiment, and recently embarked on a month-long trip, joining the army contingent for the French National Day Parade.
“The experience was extra special due to having a family history and connection within my unit to the battles in France,” Sgt Meek said.
“Getting to escort the colours, which my family fought for, was the icing on the cake.”
Gawler-born L.Cpl Stewart Grigg was enlisted in the 27th Battalion on February 4, 1915, and was awarded three medals for his service – the 1914-1915 Star, the British War Medal and a Victory Medal.
He served in Egypt, Gallipoli and the Western Front, where he was killed in action during the battle of Agincourt on March 26, 1917.
“Although his remains are yet to be found, his memorial is located at Villers-Bretonneux in France and I intend to visit this site one day,” Sgt Meek said.
He said the trip was a chance to pay his last respects to the late L.Cpl Grigg.
During the Western Front commemorations, he was part of the firing party during the reburial ceremonies.
“It is a very big honour to have been selected as part of the army contingent for French National Day Parade, and, in particular, to go to the Western Front and participate in the commemorative events taking place there,” he said.
In the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Nice, France, Sgt Meek said Australian troops remained “positive”.
“We are here to do a job and pay respect to our forefathers, but France, as a whole, is quite vigilant,” he said.
“The hospitality of the French people and the army has been great.”
Sgt Meek will return home later this month.
150 at Lock Dawn Service
IN sombre silence, more than 150 people gathered in the cold pre-dawn to commemorate Anzac Day at Lock.
After an Anzac Day introduction by Neil Cummins, Noel Siviour shared three short extracts from the 2/48th Battalion records.
Noel’s father, Lindsay Siviour, was in the 2/48th Battalion.
National serviceman Richard Cummins spoke of the charge of the Light Horsemen at Beersheba. His wife’s grandfather, Cliff Cabot, was in the 3rd Light Horse Regiment that served in Palestine.
Local Lone Scout Kendall Meyers beautifully recited the poem For the Fallen.
Mark Siviour, who served in East Timor and the Solomon Islands, spoke of Thomas Currie Derrick, known as Diver Derrick, who received the Victoria Cross for his assault at Sattelburg, New Guinea in 1943.
Brevet Sergeant Ashley Meek shared Ben Roberts-Smith’s heroism in Afghanistan during 2010 for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Ashley Meek also read out the Ode of Remembrance, which was followed by the haunting bugling of Doug Monks’ Last Post.
There was one minute of silence and then as Reveille was played, Brevet Sergeant James McFarlane raised the flag.
Reverend Sue Ellis of the Lock Uniting Church led the gathering with the Lord’s Prayer.
Before she read the Soldier’s Prayer, she spoke of Martin Andrews, a former priest, who was a stretcher-bearer for the Medical Corps.
Councillor Malcolm Hancock laid a wreath on behalf of the Elliston District Council.
Lone Scouts, Australian military, CWA and family members also laid wreaths and flowers in remembrance of the fallen and the ceremony closed with prayer and the benediction by reverend Sue Ellis.
LADS (Lock and Districts Services) president Wayne Hodge thanked all for attending and then the club provided a cooked breakfast for all.
Lyn BENDEN, widow of Bill BENDEN, passed away on Wednesday 22 March 2023 at Gosford Hospital, NSW, aged 85.
There was a private funeral service, for Lyn, on Monday 3 April 2023.
Further information will be posted when known.
It is believed that Bill, upon his Retirement from NSW Police, returned to his working life as a General Support Officer ( G.S.O. ) around the Gosford area..
Cumberland Argus (Parramatta, NSW : 1950 – 1962),
Wednesday 12 July 1961, page 15
POLICE IN GOLF COMP.
Forty-five members and visitors of Burwood Police Golf Club last week competed in the Annual Presidents’ Cup golf day at Fox Hills Golf Club. Winners of the members’ and visitors’ events each received 22 carat gold coffee set.
Next golf day will be held at Concord on Thursday, July 20, – commencing at 8 a.m. All members and visitors are welcome to attend.
Results of the President’s Day are:— . POLICE — 1st, Det.-Sgt. 3/c Angus Walker, of Penrith, with a net 55; 2nd, Constable 1/c Walter Laycock, of Newtown with a net 61; 3rd,: Det. Constable 1/c Bill Benden, of Darlinghurst, with a net 63. VISITORS — 1st, Mr. Chas Linnegar, managing director of Cedray Pty. Ltd., North Auburn, with a net 62; 2nd, Mr. Austin Osborne, well known local businessman, with a net 67; 3rd, Mr. Allan Baillie. of Merrylands, with a net 68.
Passed away peacefully at home after a long illness on 11th February 2017.
Seamus is survived by his loving wife Maria, Children Cara and Cian, Stepchildren Jacinta and Alison.
Father Sean and Stepmother Trinidad.
Sister Fiona, Brothers Kieran, Andrew and Brendan.
Sister-in-Laws Libby, Janet and Marianne.
Nephews and Nieces Luke, Jennifer, Matthew, Sean, Colum, Anthony and Jay. Stepsister Marivic and family, Marvin Jade and Gillian.
Seamus was Dearly loved and will be sadly missed by all.
Published in The West Australian from Feb. 14 to Feb. 15, 2017
– See more at: http://www.westannouncements.com.au/obituaries/thewest-au/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=184118796#sthash.buZG9EtI.LIYagRdM.dpuf
Thursday, 9 March 2017
Seán, Fíona, Maria and all the family,
My deep sympathy. I will go to Mass tomorrow and pray for Séamus and for you.
May you find the strength to cope.
James
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Seán and all the Doherty family. Seamus will be missed and fondly remembered by us all. We keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Shane, Helen, Lily and Rory
~
Shane Whelehan,
Perth, Western Australia
Tuesday, 21 February 2017
So sad to hear, RIP. We will have a drink in your honour next year at the Somalia 25th Reunion. On behalf of the 1RAR Association Southern Queensland Branch, thank you for your service. Condolences to your family.
~
Simone Blakeman,
Brisbane, Queensland
Sunday, 19 February 2017
On the behalf of (YTBF) The Pilbara Regiment Association.
RIP, a soldier, a gentleman and a great mate to many.
We would like to extend our sincere condolences to Maria, and his family and friends.
The Green Family has lost a digger, gone but never forgotten.
~
Natasha Cann,
Perth, Western Australia
Saturday, 18 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Our children Cara and Cian lost their dad. He will be missed but treasured forever. RIP Seamus
Published in: The West Australian
Friday, 17 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus):
Rest in peace valued friend and colleague, sadly missed by all who knew and served with him. Deepest condolences to Maria and family. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
Members, Directors and Staff WA Police Union
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 16 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): On the behalf of Seamus’ classmates of Mazenod College 1986 and the Mazenod Old Boys Association, we would like to extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends. We are very proud to call Seamus one of our own.
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 16 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Goodbye to a good mate. You will be truly missed. Our thoughts are with your family. RIP Cobber.
From the Marino family,
Boys from 20 DIV. ESS and 2 CER.
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 16 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus Liam): The Commissioner of Police and all members of the Western Australia Police regret the passing of our colleague Seamus Doherty Registered Number 10326.
Deepest sympathy to all his loved ones.
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 16 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Seamus, A treasured workmate and friend whose knowledge and humour will be sorely missed. Our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to Maria and family from all members of the Tactical Response Group and Bomb Response Unit.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 15 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus):
Deepest sympathy to Sean and the Doherty family. RIP Seamus. You gave us all you had to stay. Loved by us all. Remembered always for sharing your music with us, almost to the end. Rita Fallon and family, Ray Deely and Bill Byrne
Tuesday, 14 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus):
Vale Seamus Doherty, a Somalia Veteran and a valued member of the Riverton RSL. Deepest sympathy to his wife Maria, family and friends. Riverton RSL President Bill Collidge, Committee, Members and Staff.
Lest We Forget
Published in: The West Australian
Saturday, 18 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Deepest Sympathy to Maria, Cian, Cara and Stepchildren Jacinta and Alison and the Doherty family. Rest in Peace Seamus, you will be sorely missed.
Your mate and brother in-law Frank.
Published in: The West Australian
Friday, 17 February 2017
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Maria, Jacinta, Alison, Cara and Cian. Father Sean and Trinidad and all extended family. Our prayers are with you during this sad time. Rest In Peace Seamus.
All our Love Francisco and Nazare Camacho and extended family.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 15 February 2017
DOHERTY
( Seamus Liam):
05.09.1969 – 11.02.2017
“Forever in our hearts”
Seamus passed over peacefully at home surrounded by his family after a long battle with cancer. He is now at peace with God and the angels. Seamus was a deeply loved and cherished husband, son, father, step-father, brother and friend to so many.Thank you to our family and friends for their support and prayers during this difficult time.In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Cancer Council of Australia (www.cancer.org.au).Rest peacefully, my heart. I will love you forever. ‘Til we are one again, your loving wife, Maria.
Published in: The West Australian
– See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/thewest-au/seamus-doherty-condolences/184118796?&page=2#sthash.SRwLES9q.dpuf
Seamus DOHERTY
Funeral notice
DOHERTY:
WA POLICE UNION Members are invited to attend the Funeral Service for our late serving member Seamus Liam Doherty 10326 at Fremantle Cemetery on Monday (20.02.2017) at 11.45am.
Published in The West Australian on Feb. 17, 2017
– See more at: http://www.westannouncements.com.au/obituaries/thewest-au/obituary.aspx?n=seamus-doherty&pid=184155091&fhid=14374#sthash.NwIMzHXm.d97krzQR.dpuf
The final farewell for serving WA Police Union Member Seamus Doherty 10326.
You have fought the good fight. Life’s race has been run.
Now peace your reward for eternity begun.
Vale Seamus Doherty
The Funeral Mass for Club Member Seamus Doherty of Canning Vale will be celebrated at 9.45am on Monday 20 February at the Sacred Heart Church on the corner of Ovens Road and Discovery Drive, Thornlie. The cortege will leave the church at the conclusion of Mass and arrive at 11.45am at Fremantle Cemetery, Carrington Street, Palmyra for the Burial service. Members and friends are asked to assemble at the Samson Pavilion the Fremantle Cemetery at 11.35am. Vigil Prayers and Rosary will be recited in Bowra & O’Dea Chapel, 1307 Albany Highway Cannington at 5.30pm on Sunday 19 February 2017. We will remember them. Lest we forget.
Interview with Sapper Seamus Doherty – Royal Australian Engineers – December 2009
Loving mother and mother-in-law of Michelle and John, Leanne and Geoff.
Cherished Nana of Paige, Shay, Kiara, Tate, Sienna, Kynan and Lainey.
Much loved sister and sister-in-law of Peter and Toni.
Aged 71 Years
Forever in Our Hearts
Relatives and friends of the late SUZANNE SMITH are invited to attend her Funeral Service on Friday, March 10, 2017 to be held within the West Chapel, Rookwood Crematorium, Memorial Avenue Rookwood at 10:00am.
In lieu of flowers donations to Cancer Council Australia.
Leppington 9606 5648
Proudly Australian Member AFDA
March 14, 2017
The staff of Cancer Council would like to send our deepest sympathies for your loss. Thank you for your kind and generous support during this sad and difficult time.
Cancer Council, New South Wales
March 9, 2017
A very kind colleague and great mate. Sadly missed.
– See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/illawarramercury-au/suzanne-may-smith-condolences/184392906?&eid=viewgb#sthash.gyT70A1x.dpuf
Published by Illawarra Mercury on Mar. 8, 2017 – See more at: http://tributes.illawarramercury.com.au/obituaries/illawarramercury-au/obituary.aspx?n=suzanne-may-smith&pid=184392906#sthash.z9rhuAZ1.dpuf
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Sue possibly worked at Police HQ for several years & also worked at South Region Command when it was based at Sutherland before becoming an Executive Officer at Lake Illawarra LAC ( Warilla ) – but not Oak Flats I believe.
She retired about 2002 and was living at Kanahooka for a number of years before moving to Queensland where her daughter is living.
Sue was diagnosed with Cancer of the lung about 2015 and passed away on the evening of 2 March 2017 in Qld.
She is to be buried alongside of her parents at Rookwood Cemetery.
You were a lovely woman Sue.
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Sue was also a proficient Ball Room dancer. Her daughter was also involved in Ball Room dancing and Sue was also a judge in that field.
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Catherine Margaret MURTAGH nee McVeigh
| 07/03/2017
Catherine Margaret MURTAGH nee McVeigh
Victorian Police Force
At retirement, McVeigh held the rank of Chief Superintendent – the first woman in Australia to hold this rank.
Regd. # 12428
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed ? ? 1956
Chief Superintendent – Retirement
Stations: ?, Airlie, Womens’ Police Department – Russell St, Melbourne. Policewomens’ Division – East Bentleigh,
Service: From? ?1955to? ? ? = ? years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? 1931
Died on: Thursday 16 February 2017
Age: 85
Cause: ?
Funeral date: Monday 27 February 2017 @ noon
Funeral location: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 7 Foote Street Dromana, Vic.
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: ?
[alert_yellow]CATHERINE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
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Funeral location: ?
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Today we celebrate the life and career of former police member, Catherine Margaret McVeigh who passed away on 17 February. Born in 1931, McVeigh joined the police force at the age of 24 after serving in the RAAF. One of the first duties she was required to perform after graduating in 1956 was crowd control at the Melbourne Olympic Games. McVeigh was known as a trailblazer for women in policing, rising meteorically through the ranks. At retirement, McVeigh held the rank of Chief Superintendent – the first woman in Australia to hold this rank. Our thoughts are with her family at this time.
Denis Frank DACK
| 07/03/2017
Denis Frank DACK OAM
late of Urraween, Qld
aka Daffy Duck
New South Wales Police Force
NSW Police Cadet
Cadet # 1019
[alert_yellow]Regd. # 7851[/alert_yellow]
Rank: NSW Police Cadet – commenced 30 July 1952
Probationary Constable – appointed 28 October 1954
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 7 November 1977
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ?
Inspector 3rd Class – appointed 11 June 1986 – as Assistant Officer, Community Policing, Community Relations Bureau
Assistant Officer – Community Policing – Community Relations Bureau from 11 June 1986, VKG Communications – Retirement
Service: From 30 July 1952to 1 July 1989= 36+years Service
Awards: Medal of the Order of Australia OAM – granted 26 January 2012 – For service to the community of the Fraser Coast through roles with a range of organisations
Bob EagletonWhat a great bloke. One of my instructors in cadets. I worked at Gunnedah PCYC in 2000 and the locals still spoke of Dacky who worked there nearly 40 years earlier. Top bloke who will always be remembered for his kindness and friendship. RIP old mate.
VALE: Former Gunnedah man Denis Dack to be remembered for his community spirit. He helped organise and returned to Gunnedah for the PCYC’s reunion
Denis Dack lived a life dedicated to his community, no matter where he was in the world.
Even from a hospital bed, Mr Dack was thinking of what he could do next to better his community.
The former Gunnedah man died aged 81 in Brisbane on February 15 and will be remembered for his community spirit.
Born on October 28, 1935 in Kurri Kurri to dairy farmers, he became a police cadet at 16 years of age after his father was a prisoner of war in World War II. He was to be the “bread winner” of the family. Mr Dack was posted in Sydney, where he met his future wife Wendy. The couple were married in 1957.
The couple moved to Gunnedah in 1967 to help boost the Gunnedah Police Boys’ Club (PCYC) after establishing one at Tweed Heads.
A community-minded man, Mr Dack organised the Gunnedah Wheat Festival to raise funds for the club, as well as a well-known sponsored river trip from the Namoi to Adelaide over 31 days with the McCoy triplets. He was also instrumental in introducing girls into the boys’ club.
While in Gunnedah, Mr Dack became a boxing coach. He continued the role when he moved to Campbelltown in 1972, which turned into the opportunity of a lifetime – coaching the Commonwealth Games team.
His son Anthony has fond memories of their time in Gunnedah.
“I have memories of travelling around in a little bus Dad bought because you couldn’t get kids to other towns for sports carnivals,” Anthony said.
“He decided that wasn’t big enough so he went and got a bigger one. He knew that putting kids into sport would keep them out of trouble.”
Anthony said his dad was “the driving force” behind a lot of projects even into his retirement and poor health.
After 40 years in the police service, he ran a 000 call centre in Sydney and drove trucks before moving to Burrum Heads in Queensland to focus on the rural fire brigade.
Most recently living in Hervey Bay in Queensland, he was awarded an OAM in 2012 for his commitment to the rural fire brigade and Meals on Wheels. His wife Wendy initiated the honour, however, she sadly passed away six months before he received his medal.
“When they first moved to Hervey Bay, they bought a fish and chip shop. Dad got sick for quite a while and mum decided to sell the shop,” Anthony said.
“He was told he needed a pacemaker and was to be flown to Brisbane. Gurney beds aren’t allowed through airports so the ambulance officers and dad had to wait out in the rain for everyone to board before they could get on the plane.
“He asked the ambulance officers if this regularly happened. When they said ‘every time it rains’, he decided to fix it.”
Mr Dack formed a committee and raised more than $400,000 to build a patient transfer facility at the airport.
Following the success of the facility, the committee went on to raise more than $450,000 to establish a state-of-the-art Meals on Wheels facility in Hervey Bay.
“That was his last legacy, he enjoyed helping people so much,” Anthony said.
Mr Dack also initiated translators to be stationed at Sydney police stations and helped establish neighbourhood and marine watch programs.
Anthony said it was evident at his father’s funeral the legacy he had left.
“People from all walks of his life came to pay their respects, his family had become pretty big,” Anthony said.
Mr Dack, a hard worker, community man, keen poet, traveller and wood worker, is survived by his four children, Anthony, Marc, Kim and Peter, and 10 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
Denis Dack devoted much of his time to supporting Meals on Wheels in Hervey Bay. Alistair Brightman
WHEN Denis Dack saw a need in his community, he was the first one to do something about it.
The 81-year-old Urraween man died on February 15, but his legacy will live on, both through the organisations for which he carried out tireless volunteer work and through his loving and devoted family.
During his life, Mr Dack worked as a police officer and ran everything from PCYCs to boxing clubs, joined the volunteer fire brigade and gave his time and raised a huge amount of money in support of Meals on Wheels.
He was the coach for the Australian boxing team that travelled to New Zealand for the Commonwealth Games.
Even when he suffered a heart attack and had to be flown to Brisbane in 2007, he was thinking of the wellbeing of his community and other people.
His beloved wife Wendy and his son were left on the other side of a wire fence with rain pouring down as he was loaded into a plane.
It was then he decided to raise funds to build a patient transfer facility in Hervey Bay to provide a comfortable place for sick people and their families to rest.
He raised $300,000 to make the idea a reality and he told the Chronicle at the time he was amazed by the generosity of the region.
In 2012, he received an Order of Australia Medal that recognised more than 50 years of service to the community.
His son Marc said even in death his dad was thinking of the organisations he loved.
Instead of flowers, he asked that donations be made to Meals on Wheels.
“That personifies who he was,” Marc said.
While his community service was a huge part of his father’s legacy, Marc said as far as Denis was concerned, family was always his number one priority.
Born on October 28, 1935, in Kurri Kurri, near Newcastle, Denis was the eldest son of Walter and Myrtle Dack.
He was a police officer for almost 40 years and later owned a business at Burrum Heads named Dack’s Diner.
He married Wendy in Sydney on July 6, 1957 and they had four children, Anthony, Marc, Kim and Peter.
They have 10 grand- children and nine great grandchildren, with one on the way.
Paul Quilter DaleyI worked on the truck way too many shift with DD. Some of the not so keen Sgts looked down on him because he was out and about causing havoc and mayhem with the Campbelltown hoodlums.
His family owned the farm across the river from where I was born in Patterson and I never crossed paths with him until I joined the Police,
He was an exceptional pugilist and was coach of the late 60’s early 70,s Australian Commonwealth Games Boxing Team.
For those who knew him, it was an oxymoron how a man who spent so much time in the boxing ring had a perfectly formed nose. His features were such that he was a part time model and did quiet well at it too I might add.
He made it to Commissioned rank after leaving 35 Div and went to VKG.
Dennis was a real,policeman policeman and deserves a front row seat in the big meal room upstairs. Vale my friend.
Bruce MoonDennis was one of The Sergeants charged with looking us Cadets who were homesick, rowdy, growing into young adults And finding out about life in general. A fantastic surrogate father to all us Cadets who passed through the Redfern Police Academy. Rest in Peace.
David MartinDennis was a Cadet Sergeant in the 70s and a very good one. He could always back up his law lectures with a story how a particular law worked in real life. He got punted when he lent his pistol to an ex cadet who was now a probationary constable to wear on the morning parade at the academy. The drill staff found out and the next thing Dennis was back in G.Ds. Very sad loss.
N.S.W. Cops: The Old, Bold & Retired FB Group
Denis ChalkerDenis Dack, affectionately known by the troops as “Daffy Duck” at the old Campbelltown Police Station in Railway Street was a great bloke and supervisor who could be relied upon for backup, support and genuine comradery to all personnel, regardless of rank. A real decent mans man who will be sadly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. R. I. P. Brother.
Wade Kill He was also an extra in one of the old cop shows on TV many years back. A real gentleman.
Greg Wilson Did a fair bit of extra work. Was in the Dismissal about Gough Whitlam
Kevin RammVery sad Geoff. RIP Denis. I believe he will be happy as he will be keeping company with his lovely wife Wendy now. True love. R.I.P Denis.
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Dundowran Rural Fire Brigade’s David Kohler, Dave Spawton, Keith Speirs, Peter O’Brien and Hervey Bay District Rural Fire Group chairman Denis Dack are losing their funding.
COMMUNITY unrest about increases to fire levies is set to ignite community meetings in Dundowran tomorrow.
Recent meetings in Toogoom and Booral between local residents and representatives of the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service have been the scene of angry exchanges.
Substantial hikes to the fire levy paid by home owners in the outlying suburbs of Hervey Bay is driving discontent along with the fear that rural fire brigades will be robbed of funding.
Ratepayers will be charged a $161 levy which will go to the urban brigades operated by the QFRS.
In areas affected by the boundary change, this will replace the old $25 rural subsidy that went to rural brigades.
A QFRS spokesman said costs increased because urban district boundaries were extended to enhance people’s safety and increased levels of service required increased funding.
Hervey Bay District Rural Fire Brigade Group chairman Denis Dack said the change could force rural brigades in Toogoom, Booral, Craignish, Nikenbah and Dundowran to close.
“The $25 levy funded those local brigades, but with the changes, rural services in those areas will receive nothing. It will go to QFRS,” Mr Dack said.
“We are not disputing that some of those areas now need urban trucks, but we think the fee should be shared to enable us to continue operating.”
He said urban trucks could not attend fires on soft ground and claimed people’s safety was at risk if rural groups were closed.
Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor Mick Kruger said the region relied on rural services.
“We are asking the QFRS to subsidise because the rural fire levy will cease and those people will have to pay an urban fire levy instead. We won’t be getting any rural levy,” he said.
The next community meeting will be held at Dundowran Hall tomorrow at 6.15pm.
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You may even find a kitchen sink at garage sale
1st Aug 2014 2:00 PM
Fraser Coast Meals on Wheels president Ray Fleming and Community Help Group fundraiser Denis Dack will be whipping up some great bargains out of the old kitchen on Gossner St in Scarness. Alistair Brightman
EVERYTHING from cooking gear to electrical goods – and maybe even the kitchen sink – will be on sale when Fraser Coast Meals On Wheels cleans out its old premises on Saturday.
After years of fundraising, the organisation recently moved to a new kitchen in Pialba and is holding a garage sale to empty out its former home.
“Besides the kitchen equipment, we also have furniture, electrical goods, books, plants and more for sale at a reasonable price,” Hervey Bay Community Help Group treasurer Barbara Watson said.
“There’s a little bit of everything for everyone and I’m sure people will go home happy.”
Mrs Watson said Meals on Wheels moved to 39A Islander Rd a couple of months ago as the old kitchen was too small.
“We were putting out thousands of meals a week and it just became too difficult to cope in the tiny little kitchen,” Mrs Watson said.
“I have made sandwiches out in their garage because there wasn’t room in the kitchen.”
Mrs Watson said the new kitchen on Islander Rd was bigger, better and clients were happier.
“It’s six times bigger which gives us so much more room,” she said.
The garage sale will be held on Saturday, August 2, at Meals on Wheels former premises at 2 Gossner St, Scarness, from 7am.
A FAMILIAR sight around the Bay will soon be no more – Denis Dack is selling his prized Royal Enfield motorbike and sidecar.
A former New South Wales police traffic motorcyclist, Mr Dack said the rare 500cc Electra was more a steady goer than a speed machine and he had only done 25,500km since he purchased the bike two years ago.
“It’s a very rare bike around here,” Mr Dack said.
“I bought the bike in Perth and the side car from Alice Springs.”
Mr Dack said he had the bike assembled locally in Hervey Bay but finding a matching sidecar for the fiery maroon bike proved tricky.
“I knew I wanted a side- car,” he said.
“They come in any colour you like – as long as it’s black. So I had it painted in Hervey Bay to match.”
Mr Dack said it wasn’t a popular decision with his extended family when he told them he was going to make the sale about the $9950 mark.
As a member of the Royal Enfield Motorcycle Club, he was unsure about new changes to the law that would affect bike enthusiasts.
“I don’t want it to just sit in the garage,” he said.
Hervey Bay Group Rural Fire Brigade chairman Denis Dack and Hervey Bay Group Rural Fire Brigade group officer Don Duffus with Dundowran rural fire brigade members (from left) David Egan, Joe Donovan, Mal Ewart and David Kohler. Alistair Brightman
RURAL fire brigades are worried any changes to fire levies could signal the beginning of their demise.
Group officer Don Duffus of the Hervey Bay Rural Fire Brigade Group said ratepayers in rural residential areas currently paid a $28 levy for fire protection in the Fraser Coast.
He said the same residents would be asked for an additional $90 from January 1, next year.
The money is part of the new Emergency Management and Fire Levy.
Mr Duffus claimed those ratepayers would see no benefit in services from that fee.
Fraser Coast Mayor Gerard O’Connell said last month he was unhappy at not being consulted about the additional charge to ratepayers.
On Wednesday, he told the Chronicle no assurance could be offered to rural fire groups until the budget was adopted.
But he said he anticipated rural services would continue to get their funding distributed to them from the council for the next 12 months – beyond that there were no committments.
“I, for one, want to have a pretty serious conversation with the State Government in the course of the next year to make sure rural fire brigades do not miss out by this double dipping,” Cr O’Connell said.
Mr Duffus said the Gold Coast City Council had recently shown its displeasure, announcing it would stop collecting the rural fire levy for the State Government, also accussing it of double-dipping.
He said he worried if the state controlled the distribution of the funds services would be worse off.
The State Government commits to provide rural fire brigades with
Minimum 80% of the full cost of appliances-trucks
Minimum 50% of the cost of equipment listed in the Rural Fire Service Equipment Catalogue
Personal protective equipment and radio equipment at no cost
Fire station construction grants of up to $10,000
Rural operations staff to assist with command, control and coordination at major incidents or those that span several brigade or group boundaries
Hervey Bay’s Australia Day Citizen of the Year Denis Dack. Nat Bromhead
Denis Dack is chuffed with his Order of Australia medal that recognised 50 years of community
HEART attack victim Denis Dack was lying on a stretcher in pouring rain after midnight when he saw first-hand the lack of medical facilities at Hervey Bay Airport.
His family looked on through the chain wire fence as he was lifted into an aircraft and rushed to Brisbane for emergency surgery.
During recovery from a triple bypass operation he decided that something should be done about the lack of infrastructure.
A year later a new patient transfer hangar was operational at Hervey Bay Airport thanks to the tireless efforts of Mr Dack and the community groups he enlisted to see the project through.
At least five Royal Flying Doctor aircraft now use the facility each day for treatment and transfer of patients.
Mr Dack’s efforts were recognised when he received the Australia Day Citizen of the Year award at a ceremony held in Maryborough’s city hall yesterday.
“I’m thrilled to receive the award,” Mr Dack said. “But a lot of others helped with this project and it’s not over yet.”
Mr Dack, not one to shy away from a challenge, is now working to expand the Hervey Bay Meals on Wheels headquarters.
He said the current kitchen provided 65,000 meals per year and fed 300 local families per week.
“We are now trying to raise $400,000 to build a kitchen 20 times the size of the current one,” he said.
Gloria and Vince Chay received the joint Maryborough Australia Day Citizen of the Year award for dedication and commitment to the community.
Ms Chay said she was honoured and overwhelmed.
“We were so thrilled to even be selected.
“To be put up here with all the people who work to make Maryborough a better place is such an honour.”
The two are district Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators and have been long-term volunteers at the Brolga Theatre.
Mr and Mrs Chay are regularly seen helping out at events in and around Maryborough.
They dedicate their lives to making the community a better place and accumulate “a phenomenal amount of volunteer hours each year”.
Other Australia day award winners included Maryborough’s RACQ Technology Challenge and Hervey Bay’s Family Easter fun day, receiving the gong for providing “residents and visitors entertainment and relaxation”.
Australia Day Sportsperson of the Year award recipients were Rebecca Darby from Hervey Bay, Barry Brunke from Maryborough, Tiaro’s Trevor Keightley and Bill Brand of Woocoo.
Mayor Mick Kruger presented a total of 28 awards to recipients from Hervey Bay and Maryborough as well as the Tiaro and Woocoo districts.
WEBSTER
Raymond Fredrick * 21.01.1943 – 22.02.2017
Aged 74 Years
Late of Camden
Devoted husband to Shirley (deceased). Loved father to Greg and Tracey, father-in-law to Catherine and Rodney. Proud grandfather to Samuel, Jonathan, Ethan, Angus, Georgia, Abbey and Grace.
“So that’s what’s happening”
Family and friends are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held within All Saints
Anglican Church, Stanmore
Road, Petersham on MONDAY (February 27th, 2017), commencing at 10:30 am.
Private Cremation
Proudly Australian Owned
Family Operated All Suburbs
9555 7551 9555 7092
Published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Feb. 25, 2017 – See more at: http://tributes.smh.com.au/obituaries/smh-au/obituary.aspx?n=raymond-fredrick-webster&pid=184239067#sthash.hsuTgDGG.dpuf
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WEBSTER
Raymond Fredrick
In respectful memory of
Raymond Fredrick Webster.
Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. You suffered so long and told so few. It didn’t seem right what you went through.
You will be remembered by Cameron, Joanne, Katherine and Kelly. Especially missed by two of your grandsons Jacob and Samuel.
Published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Feb. 25, 2017 – See more at: http://tributes.smh.com.au/obituaries/smh-au/obituary.aspx?n=raymond-webster&pid=184239075#sthash.JGr4BuIn.dpuf
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There is at least one article in the Sydney Morning Herald, dated Sunday 13 October 1991, page 37 which mentions Raymond but I am unable to access the article at this time and don’t know what the article is about.
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* The obituary has his day of birth as the 21st but the NSW Police ‘Stud Book’ has his day of birth as the 31st.
I would suggest that 31st IS correct as that is the date of his Attestation.
Cal
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Warren John CARLOFF
| 07/03/2017
Warren John CARLOFF
aka Waz & ‘ The Hammer ‘
Australian Federal Police Force
Regd. # ?
Rank: ?
Stations: ?, Specialist Response and Security and Tactical Response Team ( SRSTR )
Service: From? ? ? to? ? ? = ? years Service
Awards: No Find on It’s An Honour
Born: 25 January 1979
Died on: Friday 27 January 2017
Age: 38
Cause: Cancer – Bowel, Brain, Adrenal Gland and Lung
Funeral date: Tuesday 7 February 2017 @ 1pm
Funeral location: The Albert Hall, Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla ACT
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial at: ?
March 2016
March 2016
The Fight of “The Hammer” Like This Page · June 23, 2016 · In getting my fifth cycle of chemo. I’ve been knocked around a bit. Hopefully these next few weeks are better.
“The Hammer” in Action
“Gents – no matter how young, no matter how fit – go and get that prostrate checked by your GP” Cal
[alert_yellow]WARREN 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.
WARREN JOHN CARLOFF
25 January 1979 – 27 January 2017
Immensely loved by Kate
his wife and partner of 17 years.
Deeply adored by his daughter Sienna
and his sons Connor and Nate.
Son of Rex (dec) and Marie Carloff.
Treasured son-in-law, brother,
brother-in-law, uncle and friend;
we will all miss him.
You are invited to farewell Warren
at 1:00 pm Tuesday, 7 February 2017
The Albert Hall, Commonwealth Avenue,
Yarralumla ACT.
A private cremation will follow.
Kate would like to thank Dr Sue Morton,
Dr Yujo Chua, Dr Angela Rezo
and Catherine Trevaskis.
Forever loved,
Warren will always be remembered and
live on in the hearts of
Kate, Connor, Sienna and Nate.
Thursday, 16 February 2017
It’s hard to understand why people are taken from us, but find comfort in knowing you were a special part of a well- lived life. Our love and thoughts are with your family.
Ron and Betty Wilkins.
Cleveland. Brisbane.
Thursday, 9 February 2017
sorry I could not be there for my sister marie and kate and children.
Mum and I are thinking of you all in time of need
~
Helen Woodward,
Brisbane, Queensland
Thursday, 9 February 2017
sorry I could not be there for you aunt marie and family and kate and children
~
Helen Woodward,
Brisbane, Queensland
Thursday, 9 February 2017
my thoughts and prayer go out to aunty marie and family and to his kate and children
~
Peta-Jane Jenkin,
Brisbane, Queensland
Wednesday, 8 February 2017
~
Robbie Carloff, Khun Thein Ngwe,
Cairns, Queensland
Tuesday, 7 February 2017
Rest in peace Warren. Love and prayers to the family.
One of the brightest lights in our family has just been extinguished. Your love will help you and Kate find each other again in another life. Our bodies die, love never does. Ave Warren.
Robbie and Khun Thein Ngwe.
~
Robbie Carloff,
Cairns, Queensland
Monday, 6 February 2017
You have paid the ultimate sacrifice when protecting the community. Thank you sir. I will never forget, I will always remember.
~
Mac Plewa,
Fremantle, Western Australia
Monday, 6 February 2017
Massive loss to this life – you will be missed by many. xxx
~
Belinda Owen,
Jerrabomberra, New South Wales
Monday, 6 February 2017
Thoughts with you all on this sad day. Sorry I can’t be there to say goodbye Kate, Marie and Robbie. RIP cuz
~
Scott Jenkin,
Oxley, Queensland
Monday, 6 February 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family xoxo
~
Allison Patron,
Brisbane, Queensland
Monday, 6 February 2017
RIP Brother!
~
Robert Carloff,
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Monday, 6 February 2017
We loved Warren so much as our nephew
Thinking of you Kate and the kids at this very sad time
Lots of love forever to you all
~
Patricia & Ken Cookman,
Yamba NSW
Saturday, 4 February 2017
Our thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time
~
Valerie Mothershaw,
Brisbane, Queensland
– See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/canberratimes-au/warren-carloff-condolences/183937748?cid=full#sthash.NvLnnleA.dpuf
Published in The Canberra Times on Feb. 4, 2017
– See more at: http://tributes.canberratimes.com.au/obituaries/canberratimes-au/obituary.aspx?pid=183937748#sthash.gxy9U7t6.dpuf
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Senior Constable Warren Carloff
25 January 1979 – 27 January 2017
As a member of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) Specialist Response and Security and Tactical Response Team (SRSTR) Warren (Waz) Carloff AKA “The Hammer”* is no stranger to a fight – just to get into the elite squad is a fight.
SRSTR specialise in Counter Terrorism, riot/disturbance control and search and rescue. The selection trials are a torturous serious of physical and mental challenges so there is no mistaking that Waz was at the peak of his health; he even competed in a Natural Body Building competition for the INBA.
In May 2010 Waz was about to fight the biggest fight of all – the one for his life.
Unbeknown to Waz he was experiencing the symptoms of Bowel Cancer for almost a year but just put it down to the rigours of training and his career. After seeing a Cancer Council poster on the back of a toilet door at work, Waz realised he was showing the symptoms and booked in for a colonoscopy with his GP, the early detection saved his life.
In Waz’s words “I was living the dream, as a young healthy fit man who had a great job and a fantastic family life.”
After 5 years of re-building his strength and fitness and re-establishing his career in September 2015 Waz was dealt the blow that the fight was not over.
After experiencing dizziness and blurry vision a quick trip to the Dr’s saw him in hospital hours later talking over with surgeons the removal of 2 large tumors in his brain.
Waz has stage 4 Terminal Metastasised Bowel Cancer to the Brain, Adrenal Gland and Lung, this fight is going to be tougher than the last…in the past 6 months he has had 4 brain surgeries, Brain and is currently undergoing whole head radiation as once the tumors in his brain have cleared, then the Doctors can start on the ones in his Glands and Lung.
Waz has been fighting Cancer since 2010 (as a 31yr old), he is happily married with 3 kids, has put himself in harms way in his career and since being diagnosed with Cancer has done work with the Cancer Council to help raise awareness of Bowel Cancer and Early Detection.
As a school friend watching on the sidelines via Facebook, I have been following Waz’s journey with complete awe and respect, his treatment photo’s he (almost) always smiling and giving his trademark ‘thumbs up’, his attitude of strength and determination to fight this disease is both inspiring and humbling.
Due to the power of Facebook most of our School Year – YTHS Class of ’96 has managed to keep in touch and this being 20 years since we graduated, I felt it would be a great way to bring us all together – to help one of our own.
Waz has taken care of the practical things to ensure the future of his wife and his kids, but this hasn’t left much over for the fun things and for creating some amazing memories for his children.
This is where I would like to reach out and ask for you all for help. The ultimate memory for any family with 3 young kids is of course Disneyland so this is where we will start.
With Waz’s treatments there is of course a level of uncertainty as to whether a trip to Disneyland will be possible and when, so there is another thing on Waz’s bucket-list.
If Waz and his family had the use of a camper van they could go on a series of mini-adventures in-between treatments and start making some memories sooner.
I have created a Go Fund Me Page for Waz and any contribution is a great one and is so greatly appreciated. Please feel free to share the story with your friends, family and anyone you think can help Waz reach this goal.
*The Hammer: Waz’s Wrestling Persona (oh yes, there are photos).
” It doesn’t matter how BIG, FIT, STRONG and TOUGH you think you are; CANCER does NOT and will NOT discriminate.”
-Warren Carloff, 2010
—-
more details as soon as I can find out unless someone could please post more, especially service records, maybe academy, any recognition, deployments, etc.
About 5.40am on Friday 19 February 1971, Constable Fleming was the observer in a police divisional van travelling along the Boulevard, Kew, when the vehicle ran off the road, crashed through a fence and plunged down an embankment. Fleming received massive head injuries and died instantly.
He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Police Star on the 5 April 2007.
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Western Port News, Victoria Tuesday 17 January 2017 Page 12
The Mornington Peninsula Branch of the Blue Ribbon Foundation together with our local police, Chief Commissioner and other distinguished guests today hosted a dedication to Constable Phillip FLEMING 15731 who was killed on duty in a motor vehicle accident on 19 February 1971.
The ceremony with Police Honours dedicated a purpose built emergency operating theatre at Peninsula Health as a permanent memorial to Constable FLEMING.
The service was a moving tribute to his memory and the creation of this new state of the art facility at Peninsula Health will ensure his memory lives on.
I take this opportunity to thank the Blue Ribbon Foundation, business and community alike for enabling the creation of this important medical facility.
Brett Coloe
A/Inspector
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A committed officer takes the exit ramp
John Silvester
THE sight of the apparently unflappable senior policeman giving calm television updates as the state burnt provided just a measure of reassurance as we faced our greatest natural disaster.
On Black Saturday, and in the days and weeks that followed, Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe was the front man, running the police response, from initial evacuation to the grim process of identifying victims.
With the death toll by late Saturday standing at 16, he knew it would get ”much worse”, but no one could have imagined the count would rise to 173.
Much has been said about then chief commissioner Christine Nixon choosing to head to a North Melbourne pub for a meal on the night of February 7, 2009, as Victoria burned.
But little has been said about how Walshe ran the emergency operation, providing strong leadership for police out in the carnage and a measured tone for the community trying to come to terms with an event almost beyond imagination.
What few knew at the time was that, behind the carefully constructed professional facade, the deputy commissioner was in turmoil as – like so many – he had been touched by those fires.
The father of four daughters, he had feared early on that his son-in-law’s family had been caught in one of the blazes. The worst was confirmed the next day. ”His mother and brother were victims who were lost in the Strathewen fires,” he says.
”I was trying to provide support for my daughter and her husband, but at the same time we had a job to do. I believe that if you take on a role, then you have to step up during the testing times.”
It has been part of the philosophy that has sustained him during his 44-year career, which has seen him rise from a 16-year-old police cadet to a deputy commissioner who served under three chiefs.
Big, broad and bald, with a copper’s handshake and a friendly manner, the senior policeman, now 61, will retire at the end of next week, proud at what he has achieved and confident the force has moved on from the poisonous office politics that previously infected its top ranks. This included assistant commissioner Noel Ashby’s bugged conversations that showed him trying to damage rival Simon Overland’s chances of becoming the next chief commissioner, and then deputy commissioner Sir Ken Jones’ well-documented spat with Overland.
”I have always believed that you must remain loyal to the organisation and to your leader,” says Walshe. ”So it was particularly disappointing when certain members of the executive showed less than true loyalty to the chief commissioner.”
The manner of Simon Overland’s forced resignation last year still grates. ”He had the organisation on the right track and was totally committed to the Victoria Police. The way he left remains one of the low points of my career.”
He says he also enjoyed working with Nixon. ”Christine has a different, more relaxed, management style. She recognised people’s skills and trusted them to do a job.”
Many kids flirt with the idea of joining the police. Most grow out of it. Walshe didn’t. Ever since he was nine, growing up in Bendigo, his career path was set. His father knew many of the local coppers, who left a lasting impression on the youngster, and as soon as he was old enough he moved to Melbourne to join.
It was 1968 and Australia was just starting to feel comfortable about decimal currency; former fighter pilot John Gorton was prime minister; and Richard Nixon moved into the White House.
As a cadet, Walshe was sent to get experience at busy stations, including Northcote, where he no doubt got under the feet of the head of the crime section, a certain Detective Senior Sergeant Fred Silvester. After graduating, he went to Russell Street before transferring to Collingwood, where he experienced firsthand the dangers of his job.
On a night shift in 1971, the Ford divisional van he was driving along The Boulevard in Kew smashed through a fence and plunged 45 metres down an embankment. When he regained consciousness he tried to help his partner, Constable Phillip Fleming, who was motionless in the passenger seat. Walshe radioed for help then clambered back up the hill, his head badly gashed. What he didn’t yet know was that his partner had been killed on impact.
Walshe, now finishing up as Victoria’s traffic chief, says that having been involved in a fatal accident (”losing a mate … you carry it your whole life”) taught him the consequences of each road death.
”There is the victim, the family and the friends. The effect is devastating to so many people. I think it is one of the reasons I have been passionate about road policing.”
Walshe moved around busy inner-city stations before moving to Ascot Vale and the CIB (criminal investigation branch). ”I tried to treat each investigation as a learning experience and a chance to build your skills.”
By the 1980s, he was in charge of the air wing, which he built up from one helicopter and two fixed-wing aircraft to a service that provided emergency rescues, ambulance response, transport, traffic observation, drug crop identification and criminal surveillance. Despite not being a pilot, he was once given a million dollars and told to go out and buy a single-engine helicopter. Considering the number of lame buys senior police have made over the years, including spending a fortune on a computer system with the power of a crystal set, it is a wonder he didn’t come back with a blimp.
His career – in which he has moved through all ranks and most areas of the force – proved to be the perfect grounding for high office. This included a stint with the ethical standards department, an area that he thinks too many police avoid as they ”don’t see it as a good career move”. While there are still police (including some elite investigators) who refuse to work in ESD, dubbing it ”The Filth” or ”The Toecutters”, Walshe says a spell in the area improves leadership skills. ”You learn to recognise the early warning signs of when someone might be about to make some poor decisions.
”ESD deals with serious criminal and disciplinary matters. We accept that when someone in the community commits a crime they should be prosecuted and we should have the same attitude when it comes to police.”
From 1999, Walshe also spent two years at Seymour, where he found a new respect for country police. ”Country policing is so different to metropolitan policing. There is no sense of anonymity as you live in the same community where you work. Everyone knows you are a police officer.” He sees police in Victoria’s 99 one-person country stations as ”the last bastion of authority. The house is usually next door to the station, so you are expected to be available 24/7.”
Like many, Walshe watched the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on New York’s World Trade Centre, soon realising it would change the face of policing. In 2005, he was made assistant commissioner counter terrorism and was involved in Australia’s two biggest terrorism investigations, Pendennis and Neath. ”These were significant disruption exercises. It remains of great concern that these cells were operating not only in Australia, but specifically Melbourne.”
He says there has been a marked shift in the expectations of police recruits today. ”It is a generational thing. The vast majority are as committed to serving the community as we were back in 1968, but more of them see it as a job rather than as a career. That never entered my mind when I joined, as I fully expected to stay until I retired – although I didn’t dream I would last 44 years.”
”When Ken [Lay] was appointed Chief Commissioner, I knew the time was right for me to go. There are some things I want to do while I am still fit enough to do them.” These include travel with his wife, Denise, and spending time with his family, including his eight (soon to be nine) grandchildren.
Mate and long-time colleague Lay told us, ”Kieran has had a magnificent career. I was his subordinate and he was the sort of boss you would die for. When we were peers I always appreciated his wise counsel and as my deputy he has been rock solid and loyal.
”You always know where you are with him. He will look you in the eye and tell you what he thinks. I will miss his wise advice, and the organisation will miss his leadership.”
Victoria’s top road safety policeman, Kieran Walshe says a fatal crash he was involved in 40 years ago puts him in a better position to understand road trauma.
Constable Phillip Fleming was killed when a police van driven by Kieran Walshe crashed in Kew, in February 1971.
Deputy Commissioner Walshe has spoken publicly about the crash for the first time, ahead of the launch of the international decade of action for road safety.
He has rejected allegations he was driving inappropriately and has told ABC Local Radio, he is able to do his job well, because of his experience.
“I live with it, I deal with it. I think it makes me a better position to understand what other people endure when they experience and go through road trauma,” he said.
“I think it helps me be a little bit more passionate about the message that I need to make sure I give to the community of Victoria.”
He has spoken out because of questions from former officers about his ability to do his job.
“Obviously, for some reason, someone wants to challenge my reputation, or challenge my credibility to do my job,” he said.
“I dispute that. I think that I’ve done my job and continue to do my job very well and you never get over these things.”
MARK COLVIN: There’s been more controversy around senior figures in Victoria Police today, with revelations that the state’s top traffic cop was the driver in a fatal car crash in Melbourne 40 years ago.
The facts of the accident have resurfaced, just days after the State Government ordered an independent inquiry into the upper echelons of police.
Liz Hobday reports.
LIZ HOBDAY: Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe was driving a police wagon at a notorious accident spot on Kew Boulevard in 1971, when he lost control of his vehicle. The van ran off the road and plunged down an embankment, killing his passenger and good friend 22-year-old constable Phillip Fleming.
Kieran Walshe was 19 at the time, and says he woke up in hospital.
KIERAN WALSHE: I have no actual recollection of what took place at the time the vehicle left the road.
LIZ HOBDAY: A coronial inquest delivered an open finding.
KIERAN WALSHE: There has been a thorough investigation. There is no evidence to implicate or any impropriety in the way I drove the vehicle.
LIZ HOBDAY: The revelations emerged in the Herald Sun this morning, two days after the Victorian Government ordered an inquiry into the actions of those at the top of the force, after a string of controversies.
Kieran Walshe says he doesn’t know who told the newspaper about the crash, or why.
KIERAN WALSHE: I don’t know what their motivations are. All I can say is that I can only assume there’s some endeavour by somebody to discredit me.
LIZ HOBDAY: Kieran Walshe says he didn’t tell Chief Commissioner Simon Overland about the crash when he got the job of deputy commissioner, regional and road policing.
KIERAN WALSHE: Simon Overland has only been in Victoria Police for a little over eight years, nine years. It wasn’t something that I thought it was necessary to go and say to him. This happened 40 years ago.
LIZ HOBDAY: The Police Association’s Greg Davies says the latest story won’t affect morale; the problem is more the numerous inquiries now underway.
GREG DAVIES: Well we’ve got obviously at least three inquiries running at the moment into the police force, we’ve got turmoil at the top levels, that has to have a cascading effect to other levels of senior management, down all the way to the youngest constable.
LIZ HOBDAY: And he says retired officers could be behind the latest story.
GREG DAVIES: As far as who might be behind it, well we can only speculate. I’d be more inclined to think it would be a retired police officer than a current serving one.
LIZ HOBDAY: The latest inquiry into senior management at Victoria Police, is expected to report to Government within six months.
VICTORIA’S top traffic cop has spoken publicly for the first time about the trauma of crashing a car in which his passenger, a fellow police officer, died.
Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe lost control of the police divvy van he was driving 40 years ago as it was travelling on The Boulevard in Kew.
The Falcon van crashed through a fence and plunged 45m down a steep embankment, killing Constable Phillip Fleming, 22, about 5.40am on February 19, 1971.
Mr Walshe decided to tell his story to reject recent claims by former police officers that he was driving inappropriately on what has for decades been one of Melbourne’s most notorious street racing black spots.
“That’s not something that I ever did. It was not in my nature to drive in that manner and there is just no evidence to say that I did,” he told the Herald Sun.
Mr Walshe said Chief Commissioner Simon Overland was not aware of his involvement in the crash when he appointed him head of the traffic branch, but was now, and was happy for him to continue in the role.
Mr Walshe said: “I have been subjected to a thorough investigation. I have been subjected to a coronial inquiry and at no stage was there any evidence identified that gave any indication of any inappropriate behaviour on my part.”
Coroner Harry Pascoe recorded an open finding in 1971, saying from the evidence available it was not possible to determine if Constable Fleming’s death was “accidental or otherwise”.
The former officers this week claimed they were raising the issue only because Mr Walshe was recently put in charge of road safety policing in Victoria.
“The question arises how he, with any credibility, can criticise people in their 20s for hoon-type behaviour on Victorian roads,” one of them said.
But Mr Walshe, 60, said yesterday that having been involved in the fatal accident made him better able to do his job.
“I certainly have a greater appreciation than other people would who haven’t been involved in trauma like I have been,” he said.
“It makes me more passionate about the message I am trying to deliver out there – anybody can be involved in road trauma.”
The death of Constable Fleming continued to haunt Mr Walshe.
“When you are the driver … and you lose a close mate it has an impact … that you carry for the rest of your life. It’s just a really difficult thing that you have to live with,” he said.
Mr Walshe was quizzed by accident investigator Sen-Constable James Kenneday about why he was driving on The Boulevard.
“Did you go to The Boulevard for a burn in the van?” Sen-Constable Kenneday asked in 1971.
Mr Walshe replied: “I don’t remember.”
The issue comes as the administration of VicPol has become a major political issue. Premier Ted Baillieu this week appointed Jack Rush, QC, to examine, among other things, the effectiveness of the senior structure of police command.
On the behalf of (YTBF) The Pilbara Regiment Association.
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Our children Cara and Cian lost their dad. He will be missed but treasured forever. RIP Seamus
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Seamus, A treasured workmate and friend whose knowledge and humour will be sorely missed. Our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to Maria and family from all members of the Tactical Response Group and Bomb Response Unit.
DOHERTY (Seamus ): Deepest Sympathy to Maria, Cian, Cara and Stepchildren Jacinta and Alison and the Doherty family. Rest in Peace Seamus, you will be sorely missed.
DOHERTY
