I knew John Allen Garth during the period between 1982 to 1993. When I met him he worked at CIG as the National Security Manager. He had already left the force for some time. He mentioned he was in charge of Wollarah. His close friend and one time partner was Allen Whittaker. Allen passed away 2 yrs later than John. John was a very interesting character with a sharp intellect and a hawk eye for detail. I’m richer by far for having known him.
Anne Sparks via email to AusPol on 11 Oct 2021.
Richard John BEHAN
| 29/12/2015
Richard John BEHAN
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 6033
Rank: ? – Couldn’t find him in the 1979 ‘ Stud Book ‘ from Sgt 3/C & higher. May have left ‘the job’ prior to May 1972 when the rest of his Class appeared to obtain Sgt 2/c
Stations: ?, Liverpool ( District Court Processing )( 22 Division ) as Sgt 2/Class,
Service: From? to?
Awards: ? – nil
Born: ?
Died on: Thursday 24 December 2015
Cause: ?
Age: 93
Funeral date: Thursday 31 December 2014 @ 11.30am
Funeral location: Forest Lawn Crematorium, Camden Valley Way, LEPPINGTON
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: ?
[alert_yellow]RICHARD is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
[divider_dotted]
Funeral location:
[divider_dotted]
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
In memory of Russell Sheehan – a truly amazing man.
To honour and celebrate the gift of friendship, family and community.
Kathy Poole 2016
Daughter speaks out to honour suicide police officers
LATE Coast detective Russell Sheehan had a deep respect for the officers whose names adorned the National Police Memorial.
By Stuart Cumming
less than 2 min read
September 16, 2017 – 5:00AM
LATE Coast detective Russell Sheehan had a deep respect for the officers whose names adorned the National Police Memorial.
He visited the Canberra monument while on a family trip away in 2014, a year before he tragically took his own life.
His daughter Kaitlyn Pobar believes her dad and all other officers who died like him deserve to be up there.
Late Sunshine Coast police officer Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan visits the National Police Memorial in Canberra in 2014. Picture: Contributed
Mrs Pobar has added her voice to those Coast residents who have spoken out for the names of officers lost to suicide to be added to state and national memorials.
“It is important to recognise mental illness is an injury,” Mrs Pobar said.
“I think it needs to be recognised just like any other physical injury.”
She said she supported a national campaign driven by North Queensland man Steven Isles for the names of suicide officers to be added to memorials.
A coroners inquest into the 2009 disappearance of Mr Isles’ police officer father, Senior Sergeant Mick Isles, found he had likely committed suicide.
“I know how much dad honoured the people on the wall,” Mrs Pobar said.”I just know his general view was it meant a lot for him to go and be there (national memorial).”
Mrs Pobar said she recognised her father’s dedication to his career whether or not his name was added to the memorial.
She said the value of it would come in breaking down stigmas around mental illness as well as being a huge honour for his family.
“I think anyone who puts the (police) uniform on deserves that honour.”
Mr Isles has been busy since October last year advocating for the cause.
“We are here to achieve change,” Mr Isles said.
Sunshine Coast police district officer Superintendent Darryl Johnson said Commissioner Ian Stewart was considering a number of options in regards to the addition of those officers’ names to the state memorial.
“It is important that we as an organisation remember our colleagues who pass away while serving members,” Supt Johnson said.
He said a decision on the issue would be made “in due course”.
AMY Williams will gather with her sisters at their mum’s Sunshine Coast home today to celebrate what would have been her dad’s 54th birthday.
Russell and Kathy celebrate a friend’s wedding in Theodore last year.
They will share a beach-themed cake she is sure her police officer father, Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan, would have loved.
She hopes they will be able to joke about the countless good times they had with their dad but knows the treasured sound of his raucous laugh will be sadly missing.
Det Snr Const Sheehan’s suicide on December 23 last year shocked his family, colleagues and the wider community.
He had been based on the Coast for the past 12 years of his 33-year police career, predominantly with the Maroochydore Child Protection Investigation Unit and the Criminal Investigation Branch.
Mrs Williams, the eldest of Det Snr Const Sheehan and his wife Kathy’s four daughters, said her family was still trying to adjust without their “rock”.
“We never thought he would see that as his only option,” Mrs Williams said.
“I THINK he got very good at the end at hiding exactly how he felt.”
They knew he had been struggling in the past year and that he had sought help for depression through the Queensland Police Service and a psychologist.
Mrs Williams said she had frequently been asked whether her dad’s experiences, such as being a first responder to the tragic Childers backpacker fire in 2000, had contributed to his mental health difficulties.
But she did not know.
“I know that Dad could not pinpoint one particular incident,” she said.
“There were a lot of things that were distressing about the work and cases he did.”
She described her dad as a very proud person.
SEVERAL POSTINGS: Det Snr Const Russell Sheehan during his time at Childers between 1998 and 2000. Contributed
“To admit he was struggling and not performing how he would like to be was hard for him,” she said.
“He was trying so hard to be his old self but it wasn’t happening as quickly as he wanted.”
Mrs Williams said her father had always been happy at home during her childhood.
“His job was a stressful job, but he never brought it home,” she said.
“But last year it became evident that was getting harder for him to do.”
His career took his family to postings in Theodore, Childers and the Coast.
Mrs Williams said her dad was known for having a raucous laugh that would instantly make other people laugh.
She said some people would go to the old cinema in Theodore just to hear his laugh when he was there watching a movie.
“We really miss that.”
She recalled how her dad had been able to find the humour in being bitten on the backside by an over-excited police dog during an arrest.
“Dad would always find the funny side of anything,” she said.
“He had a very good wit and a very quick wit.”
Police support since Det Snr Const Sheehan’s death
has been “tremendous”.
Mrs Williams said an assistant commissioner flew from Rockhampton on Christmas Eve to be with her family.
There has been a steady flow of support since then.
She has welcomed a charity bike ride being organised by her dad’s former colleagues to raise money for Blue Hope, a police-run organisation dedicated to helping other police.
Ride for Russ, a 300km journey from Woodgate to Maroochydore, will be held on May 21.
“It’s a wonderful way to honour Dad while raising awareness of suicide and depression in police officers,” Mrs Williams said.
“I think it shows how much Dad’s work colleagues loved and respected him, to go to those lengths.”
More immediately, Mrs Williams said today’s birthday celebrations were important to her family.
“We just don’t ever want to stop remembering him. He is in our thoughts every day.
“As sad as these milestones are, they are bringing us together as a family.”
Anyone with issues arising from this story can phone Lifeline on 131 114 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
The grieving family of a Queensland policeman who took his life say the police psychologist did not have time to treat him.
Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan ended his life two months ago after 33 years as a policeman.
His daughter Amy Williams said he was widely seen as a happy, optimistic person.
“He was such a genuinely wonderful person, a gentle soul, a caring soul.
“I used to tell people I don’t know how he was a police officer because he just wasn’t this tough, rough person, he was so gentle and caring but I think that is what people admired about him in his line of work.”
But Ms Williams, the eldest of Constable Sheehan’s four daughters, said that was not the only trauma he experienced.
“As tragic as that was, there were other things that Dad saw in his line of work that I know stuck with him perhaps more so than that one particular event.”
Constable Sheehan had suffered anxiety over a long period.
[blockquote]
Suicides within the general population are about 12 per 100,000. In the police, it’s north of 18 per 100,000.
Bruce Graydon, Blue Hope.
[/blockquote]
“Some days it would be difficult for him to even leave the house, but he did,” Ms Williams said.
“He was battling it very privately, he didn’t want people to know that he was suffering.
“He felt I guess like he was a bit of a failure, that he couldn’t cope with it, so he just wanted to try to maintain a normal life.”
Last May the anxiety became so bad that the 53-year-old found himself unable to get out of his car to go to work at Maroochydore.
He went on stress leave and contacted the police psychologist for the Sunshine Coast.
“She was wonderful, Dad felt an instant connection with her,” Ms Williams said.
“However she sort of made it clear early on that she was very very busy, her books were quite full, she wasn’t going to be able to take Dad on as another client.”
So Constable Sheehan was referred to a private psychologist.
Russell Sheehan and family
“But he always felt that the QPS psychologist really understood what he was going through a bit more so than the private psychologist he was seeing.
“I’m not laying any blame on the QPS for what happened to Dad, because in the end we don’t know whether having that consultation with the Queensland Police psychologist would have changed the outcome for him.
“He may still have gone down this path.
“However, we want to make sure that for future and current serving police that there are adequate resources in place to help them when they need help.”
Ms Williams has written to the Queensland Police Commissioner, Police Minister and Opposition Police spokesman expressing concern about the lack of resources.
The Commissioner Ian Stewart is yet to respond to the ABC’s interview request.
Police suicide rate higher than general population
Former Queensland Police Detective Inspector Bruce Graydon said at least a dozen of his close colleagues had taken their lives over his 30-year career.
Inspector Graydon co-founded a support service called Blue Hope.
“Suicides within the general population are about 12 per 100,000,” he said.
“In the police, it’s north of 18 per 100,000.”
The real number is expected to be far worse.
“The moment that they leave the police or they’re retired medically unfit, their death isn’t recorded by the Coroner as a police-related suicide.”
Inspector Graydon said police need help to retrain and find new jobs, rather than feel cast aside.
The not-for-profit group Blue Hope has made links with education and recruitment organisations to assist officers that seek its help.
And he agrees with Ms Williams more support is needed earlier.
“We’re all for internal supports, we’re for any support, but some police officers just will not turn to internal supports so there needs to be additional options.
“There is a perception, be it true or untrue, that there’s no confidentiality.”
Blue Hope has case managed more than 130 people since it formed two years ago, and assisted hundreds of others around the country.
Meanwhile, in Victoria, police suicides have prompted the Commissioner Graham Ashton to order a mental health review which he hopes will lead to greater support for officers.
Detective Sergeant Andrew Ayers, the co-founder of Blue Hope, said the organisation had just helped its 177th client.
“[Suicide] is a massive problem. It’s endemic to police everywhere,” Mr Ayers said.
“We identified a shortfall in support services available, and that is that each law enforcement agency around the country has their own internal strategy in terms of dealing with mental health and stress in general amongst police officers.
“[But] there is a bit of a reluctance for members to use those services.”
The organisation is a relatively new service that was formed in 2014 to support police officers and their families to cope with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicide and other mental health issues.
“Blue Hope basically caters for those people who aren’t for any reason, or don’t for any reason, utilise internal support strategies. We provide mental health first aid for them on a national basis,” Detective Sergeant Ayers said.
The organisation’s aim is to raise awareness of police suicide and to provide a 24 hour hotline service for officers, both current and former.
Raising awareness of police suicide in the Wide Bay ( Qld )
Detective Sergeant Ayers recently visited Bundaberg to attend and support a fundraiser organised to celebrate the life of Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan, who took his life in December.
[blockquote]
The more people we can get talking about suicide the more likely it is that we can prevent it
Detective Sergeant Andrew Ayers
[/blockquote]
In 2000 the senior constable was the first on the scene of the Palace Backpackers Hostel fire in Childers where 15 people lost their lives.
Detective Sergeant Ayers said it was clear Detective Senior Constable Sheehan had had a positive influence on the Bundaberg, Childers and Woodgate areas.
“We’ve had some extensive dealings with his family in the wake of his tragic death,” he said.
“The focus really was to have people talking about the fact that such a highly regarded police officer felt that his only option was to take his own life, and that’s the real sad aspect of it.
“The more people we can get talking about [suicide], the more likely it is that we can prevent it.”
He said the tragedy of Detective Senior Constable Sheehan’s death highlighted the need to support all emergency service workers, who were usually the first on the scene of traumatic incidents.
Big toll on first responders
Figures released last year revealed it was estimated one emergency service worker took their own life every six weeks.
The figure, based on coronial cases, has support organisations concerned that the figure could actually be higher.
In response, Beyond Blue is preparing to undertake a national mental health study on first responders to investigate the prevalence of mental health conditions, suicide and stigma in Australia.
The findings of the study will be released at the end of 2017.
Beyond Blue’s spotlight on mental health issues facing emergency service workers is also set to intensify next month, as the first national conference on the mental health of Australian first responders is held in Sydney.
A personal response
While organisations such as Blue Hope and Beyond Blue are raising awareness, so too are individuals.
[blockquote]
If I can stress anything out there to the people, to anyone with post-traumatic stress, or even if they are feeling a little bit off — talk to people, communicate.
Graham Forlonge
[/blockquote]
Singer songwriter Brendan Smoother, from Lismore in NSW, was horrified by the number of paramedics taking their own lives.
This prompted him to write and release an EP entitled Paramedic Suicide.
Mr Smoother, a paramedic himself for 21 years, won an award at this year’s Tamworth Country Music Festival for the EP.
Mr Smoother said he had been inspired to write the songs when he read about the alarming statistics of paramedics committing suicide, and realised he himself had known a number of paramedics who had taken their own lives.
“Personally I’ve never really had an issue with post-traumatic stress disorder, but I have certainly seen it in other people, ” he said.
The importance of seeking help
Former police officer, surf lifesaver and search and rescue diver Graham Forlonge, from Baffle Creek in Queensland, is one of many emergency services personnel whose life has been negatively impacted by PTSD.
Mr Forlonge said he struggled to get the right help for years, due to the number and type of traumatic incidents he had experienced.
“The best thing I could say to the people out there suffering from post-traumatic stress, and there are thousands of them — police, ambulance, fire brigade, rescue squad, military — is if you’re having issues, keep looking. There are people out there who do understand PTSD,” Mr Forlonge said.
He said talking to people and telling his stories had helped him, and he urged others to do the same.
“You’ve got to find someone to talk to,” he said.
“If I can stress anything out there to the people, to anyone with post-traumatic stress, or even if they are feeling a little bit off — talk to people, communicate,” he said.
SHEEHAN, Russell David
28.02.1962 – 23.12.2015
Beloved husband of Katharyn. The protector, mentor and adored father to Amy, Kaitlyn, Lara and Eden. Cherished eldest Son of Brian and Pamela Sheehan. Admired and selfless brother to Anthony, Angela, Gabrielle and Chris. Adored grandfather and uncle.
Never forgotten as he is forever in the hearts of those who loved him and met him.
Of the Sunshine Coast Criminal Investigation Branch and formerly stationed at Bundaberg, Maroochydore, Theodore and Childers.
A well respected Police Officer and Friend to many.
Dearly loved Husband of Katharyn.
Much loved Father of Amy, Kaitlyn, Lara, Eden and their Families.
Family, Friends and Colleagues are invited to attend a Funeral Service for Russell, which will commence at 1.00 p. m. , Thursday, 31st December, 2015, at Gregson and Weight Chapel, 5 Gregson Place, Caloundra.
Private Cortege.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Queensland Police Legacy and/or Blue Hope Services Ltd would be appreciated.
Russell was the much loved soul mate and husband to his wife Katharyn. The protector, mentor and adored father to Amy, Kaitlyn, Lara and Eden. Cherished eldest son of Brian and Pamela Sheehan. Admired and selfless brother to Anthony, Angela, Gabrielle and Chris.
He was also a much loved son in law to Kevin & Doreen Brewer and brother in law to Pete, Sue and Amanda and uncle to their children. So devastated and heartbroken
Russell was also an exceptional detective with three decades of service. Our thoughts are with the Sunshine Coast police community, especially his colleagues at the Criminal Investigation Branch.
The broader policing community also mourn the death of an exceptional man who will be missed by all who knew him.
Rest easy Detective, your work here is done.
Please Note: You can help Russell’s family celebrate his life.
The Sheehan family would love to hear any stories QPS members might have of Russell. You can share your memories or messages by emailing the family at: sheehan_memorybox@outlook.com
Deb BryantI’m so very saddened to hear of the tragic death of your precious husband, father, son, brother, friend, colleague. I hope in the days & months ahead that you gain comfort from the loving words and precious stories that you will receive about him & how his life & work touched so many. May these new memories sustain you as you learn to live with his loss.
Craig BellchambersAgreed, and hope your doing ok One step at a time Deb.
Kimberley GalvinHeartbreaking.We send our love from one lost family to another.xx
Troy CavellOne of the nicest sincere people, police or civilian, that you would meet. There are very few of Russ’s quality left in the QPS and he will be surely missed by many colleagues. Such a loss.
Kathy KucksI would second those comments. A shock to see this on FB this morning.
Michele PeverillIt is an awsome poem beautiful words thoughts with you all at this time
Leonie BrewerRuss was the epidemy of how a policeman conducts himself, he treated people with respect and in turn was respected, he was incredibly kind, selfless, and loved and adored his family.
He was also a much loved son in law to Kevin & Doreen Brewer and brother in law to Pete, Sue and Amanda and uncle to their children. So devastated and heartbroken
Darryl RuleMy sincere deepest condolences to the Sheehan family and friends for your loss of Russell and to all members of the thin blue line.
I lost my best friend 5 months ago to suicide who was a Detective Sergeant in the WA Police.
It is without a doubt the h…See More
Joey AngelDarryl i pray your best mate found peace ox im truly sorry for your loss . Here if you need a chat.
Christine TroyRIP Russ. You will be truely missed mate. Top bloke, a true gentleman, never too busy to stop and say hello. My heart breaks for your family. Deepest condolences to you all.
Julie BuckleyThoughts and prayers go out to the Sheehan family through this time. Russ touched so many people in so many ways in his role as a father and police officer. A true gentleman who will be sadly missed. RIP Russ
Kath FrahmSuch a loss. My love and condolences to Kath and the family. I knew both Russell and Kathy from school and they were both amazing people. Life on the force seems to take such a toll. Such a loss. RIP Russell. Thank you for your service. ?
Em JayWe’ve lost the most genuine, beautiful person. I still can’t believe you’re not here with us. Rest in peace Russ.
Pennie MartinStrength to you and your colleagues Em. Thinking of you xx
Carl ChristensenRIP brother, a beautiful man who now sits on the right hand of God watching over his family and friends.
Karina RichardsUncle Russ – what a legend! You always made me feel soo welcome & loved when I could make it up for a visit. Little words like Chum or kiddo I will always remember as words from you. I loved listening to that distinctive loud belly laugh too!! Soo many fond memories. Thoughts and prayers at this sad time. RIP Xx
Tammie WalterI am so sorry to see this tonight, my love, prayers and condolences to you Kath and to all the family. Yes Russell is a true gentleman, may the many memories and years you have shared together sustain you and give you strength as you journey through this sad time, RIP Russell. Tammy (McKenzie)
Neale StephensSquad 108 (Retreads) salute you mate. You were the Queenslander glue that held the rest of us together for those three months at Oxley. You’ll never be forgotten…
Krystal RalphOur deepest condolences to the beautiful Sheehan family. Have lots of fond memories from when they lived in Childers and our pony club days. Russell is a lovely man who will be missed by so many. Love and hugs to the family from Josh and Krystal Ralph xox
Amanda FinlayRIP Russell. Nearly 14 years ago I met you as a first year on rotation. The conversation centred mainly around the love you had of all your girls..wife and daughters. Such a sweet sincere knowledgable helpful gentleman in the coming years on every occa…See More
Melissa CraigOur sincere and deepest sympathy to Kathy, Amy, Kaitlin, Lara & Eden at this very difficult time. You are all in our thoughts. Russell was one of a kind, such a great bloke. Our thoughts are also with his other family, the Queensland Police Service. He will never be forgotten.
Kevin OngheenMy sincerest condolences to Kathy and kids; Russell was without doubt the most decent and sincere of police officers whom I’ve had the pleasure to work with. I will always remember him from Theodore as an absolute gentleman.
Daniel GaskinRIP Russ. You were a family friend, great loving dad to the 4 girls and a great genuine bloke people like you and the positive impacts you had on others lifes will never be forgotten.
Dan CollinsNo words can express the sadness and loss for a true gentleman. It was an honor to know you Russ. Rest in peace mate.
Megan ClarkRest easy Russ, not only my colleague but my family in blue. Words cannot express the loss we all feel. You were an amazing man, always smiling and willing to stop for a chat in the hallway. Sadly missed but never forgotten mate. RIP
Janelle AndersonRest easy mate. You may be gone from our site…but you will never be gone from our hearts. You have touched more lives than you will ever know I am sure and you will be missed by many. And to Kath and her lovely family our hearts and thoughts are with you all.
Tanya LuiseAbsolutely one of the nicest guys always had time for every member of the QPS…whether generals or plain clothes did not matter….and he always smiled will be sadly missed
Garrick StupplesReally hard to believe, What a good looking young fellow & an exceptional man in so many ways. Goodbye mate, Rest in peace
PM CarloWe love you Russ. Your kind heart, peaceful manner and ability to treat people with respect with a voice of ease and reason. A true gentleman from childhood and man who loved his family beyond this earth…..Rest easy xxx
Mel CampbellRest now Russell. My love to his family and friends from a sister in blue
Stephen PataDeepest sympathies to Russ’ family and Sunshine Coast CIB.
Siobhan MitchellVery shocked to hear this. RIP Russell. Deepest sympathy and all our prayers go out to the whole family.
Law ZeeRIP Russ…. A genuine gentleman and outstanding officer. Gone, but will never be forgotten!
Suzanne WarnerDeepest condolences to all who knew and loved Russell.
Milinda Marshall
RIP Detective Sheehan. Thank you for your service to our country. Thoughts go to your friends, family and colleagues. Thankyou
Kirrily HendersMy thoughts go to Kathy and her family, big hugs xxx
Ian HargraveThis is so sad. I knew Russell when he worked at Childers. Such a nice guy. My sympathy to his wife and family. RIP Russell.
Sue UebergangI knew Russell from school, one of the loveliest guys out there. So very sad xx
Janelle AndrewsRest in Peace – you served well and your shift is over. Thoughts to all Russell’s family, friends, colleagues, community…such a loss…
Evets KramStrength and compassion to both his family and workmates.
Sheree MitchellThe saddest news imaginable, I can’t believe it. Just the loveliest family man. My thoughts are with you Kath, Amy, Kaitlin, Lara & Eden. I cannot imagine the pain you are all in, words can’t express how sorry I am for your loss. Sending all my strength to you at this time. Russ, I pray you have found peace. Xx
Helen WelfareLove and Prayers to his family friends and colleagues ?
Martin LambertOur sincerest condolences and heartfelt thoughts to the Sheehan family, friends, and colleagues. RIP Russell
Jock GardnerMuch love to Russell Family we have fond memories from the Childers days .Stay strong we are all thinking of you xx
Craig BellchambersRIP brother in blue. You have done the hard yards and can now rest easy. Thoughts and condolences to family in this difficult time.
Rusty JHRest in peace brother. A true gentleman who will be sorely missed.
Mark Stephen PhtevenRIP… Words can not express the loss. Our Thoughts and condolences to ur wonderful family and ur
brothers and sisters in blue.
Jen LouiseRest in Peace Russell. You were one of the world’s true gentlemen. What a sad loss.
Beth JoyOur thoughts go out to Kath and the Sheehan family.
Shaz LGThoughts are with the family and also the QPS family.
Michelle FowlerOne of the kindest, respectful police officer I have had the pleasure of working with. RIP Rus. My love and condolences to your family and QPS family
Annie RoseVale Russell. So much love being sent to your family right now.
Ian WellsStill cant believe it Rusty. You were one of life’s true gentleman. At phase you always laughed at my jokes no matter how pathetic they were. Vale.
Elaine PatersonOur thoughts and prayers to Kath and the girls.
Micheal JeffsRIP Russell our deepest condolences to the Sheehan Families .
Dean AndersonOur sincere and heartfelt thoughts go out to the Sheehan families, and friends, and colleagues. Such devastating news. RIP Russell x
Glenda BrassingtonOur condolences to Kath & family. Our thoughts are with you. The Brassington from Childers
Iris May Vanden BergSo very sad.
Sincere condolences to all who knew and loved him. He will be sorely missed..RIP
Brooke StirtonRIP Russ; I will miss walking into the office, seeing your smile and hearing you say “hey kiddo”
Leonie BrewerRuss will always be remembered for calling people kiddo!!
Peter HillSo sorry to hear this sad news. Russell was a lovely man and freind
Brett CarterMy thoughts and prayers are with Russell’s family and friends.
Kris ZwartThinking of you Kath & family.
(Kristine Slatter)
Sue CannonDeepest sympathy for a wonderful family.
Danny HughesSo so sorry to see this, he was just a really nice bloke RIP
Eloise JaneA beautiful man. Kind to everyone regardless of age, gender, rank, uniform/plain clothes. If only we had realised the extent of his struggle.
Joey AngelI just pray he found peace & that his family find comfort in those cherished memories ox
William DrabditzDoesn’t matter where you are in this world,we are all blue,we grieve wherever you are
Bec BaileyThoughts and prayers to the Officers family, friends and work colleagues. May his spirit fly free and peace be with him ?
Yvonne HorneRIP Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan
Russell GarrardThe officers I wish they introduced me to while I was on the coast…
Elizabeth Jenarah Anne, words just don’t cut at times like this. Thank you fir your service to humanity and your love for your beautiful family .
Robert MurphyTotally agree with previous comments. Just a good guy who never had a bad word about any person. Russell you will be missed. RIP mate.
Krusty EvansMay you find comfort from friends and family surrounding you. I am terribly sorry for the loss of this man. We are working hard to recognize officers’ deaths and the circumstances they may find themselves in through www.Code9Project.org
In faith and service, your family is in our prayers from Canada.
Kirsti Haaka
A TWO-week police hunt for a 30-year-old man ended when he was found enjoying a beer in Maroochydore.
The Maroochydore man has been charged with 37 offences, including 10 counts of stealing, six counts of break and enter and three counts of resisting arrest.
Police found him drinking a beer at a hotel yesterday.
Police allege the man committed offences which date back to November.
The 30-year-old man has also been charged with fraud, evading police and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.
Police say the alleged offender stole a black Nissan utility and drove it around various locations on the Sunshine Coast where he committed offences.
Sunshine Coast property crime squad Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan said the arrest ended a two-week police hunt.
Snr Const Sheehan urged residents to contact police if they witness any suspicious activity.
The accused man was held in custody.
He will appear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court today.
If pelicans could cry – the passing of the pelican man
By Justine Frazier and Jonathan Atkins
Sixty year old Lance Ferris died on Sunday the 14th of October, 2007 at Lismore base Hospital after suffering a stroke on Saturday.
Lance Ferris from Australian Seabird Rescue collects dead birds from the beach areas of Evans Head. It is thought the birds died from botulism after eating dead fish.
The man many of us fondly knew as the “Pelican Man” has passed away leaving a massive whole in the community. Sixty year old Lance Ferris died on Sunday the 14th of October, 2007 at Lismore base Hospital after suffering a stroke on Saturday.
Lance dedicated his life to the rescue, rehabilitation and preservation of seabirds, turtles, and in particular the magnificent pelican and it was through his many years as a dedicated volunteer, using his own money and whatever donations he could find that Australian Seabird Rescue (ASR) came into existence in Ballina, New South Wales in 1992.
Close friend Marny Bonner said, “We’re receiving emails and phone calls from all over Australia from people who are so deeply saddened and shocked.”
Marny Bonner says, “Lance has always had huge compassion for Australia wildlife, his entire life has been rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife. It wasn’t until he noticed not one but two pelicans with hooks in their legs, on the same day, that he realised that there was a problem out there. So he borrowed a boat and had a look around the Richmond River and found that 37 out of 100 pelicans were injured.”
After surveying other estuaries, Lance Ferris realised that what was needed was a huge education program campaign and the passion began.
“We got good support from the North Coast community and some important sponsorship. Over the last 15 years we’ve managed to reach 20,000 children, so there will be a lot of children upset about losing the Pelican man.”
Since that time, ASR volunteers have been involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of seabirds and shorebirds, marine turtles and to date, have rescued over 1000 Australian Pelicans.
Lance Ferris never lost his passion the rescuing injured seabirds.
Marny Bonner believes, “Ultimately that’s what claimed him, his passion for wildlife led to him not looking after himself as well as he might have. It led to many, many hours in loss of sleep trying to save those little lives.”
“I would like to absolutely commend the staff at Lismore base Hospital who worked so hard with Lance. It was a very upsetting time for everybody because everybody knew who he was and knew how hard he’d worked to save so many lives and yet there was nothing we could do to save this most important life,” says Marney Bonner.
In 2004 as president of Australian Seabird Rescue, Lance led the volunteer organisation to win the inaugural National Coastcare Community award.
In an earlier life Lance worked a police officer based in Casino and was a member of APEX. He also worked as a teachers aid for children with disabilities, was a well respected musician and a member of the Sonset Orchestra and could be found at any given weekend at the Lismore Car Boot Markets. Ballina Mayor, Phillip Silver says the death of Lance Ferris is a huge loss for the community.
“I guess in many ways he was ahead of his time in terms of the recognition of that vulnerability of the environment and the water animals. Because he was doing it 20 years ago when it was certainly happening but people weren’t thinking about it,” said mayor Silver.
ASR is always looking for more volunteers and as Marny Booner says “the pelicans have lost their best friend, if pelicans could cry, there would be a wailing around the nation that could not be ignored. It will take an army of volunteers to replace Lance Ferris”.
Jason Ferris believes his Dad would never really let on if he was feeling unwell.
Jason recalls, “At 3am on Saturday morning he sent out a bunch of emails with instructions regarding seabird rescue, so we suspect over the last week or so, he was aware something was going on.”
“My Dad’s always run pretty close to the edge. Dad lived and breathed seabird rescue 24/7. I would often find him sleeping in all sorts of places in the back cars, on seats… his focus was never on his own health, more on the animals in care,” said Jason.
A passion that Jason and Lance shared was music.
“I developed an interest in music as a result of Dad. Dad was really an amazing musician and beautiful singer. In my 20’s he and I started playing music together around the North Coast. Definitely some of my most treasured memories of Dad,” said Jason.
As much as it can be…it will be business as usual for Australian Seabird Rescue.
According to Jason, “Dad’s put 13 or 14 years into this organisation, you can’t just pull the plug. He would be most unhappy with me if that happened.”
In 2003, ABC TV’s Australian Story took a look at a Ballina based former police officer called Lance Ferris, who’s dedicated his life to fixing the plight of the pelicans… read more
ABC North Coast reported when Lance Ferris and his team of seabird rescuers headed to Victoria for a series of training sessions with wildlife carers… read more
A public memorial service will be held for Lance Ferris.
“Thank you to the ABC crew for your lovely, sincere tribute to Lance, and thanks to all who phoned to share the ways in which Lance touched their lives. Lance’s life and work will be commemorated at the WildlifeLink Sanctuary in Ballina this Friday 19/10 at 11am. All are welcome to join us. The centre will be open from 10am. It is located at the end of North Creek Rd, which runs off the Pacific H’way as it heads out of Ballina towards Bangalow. On behalf of Jason’s family and Australian Seabird Rescue volunteers, thank you for your condolences and support… Marny.”
LANCE FERRIS WHARF: Ballina’s mayor, Cr Phillip Silver, (right) with acting general manager of Australian Seabird Rescue, Keith Williams, announcing the naming of the wharf at Fawcett Park as the Lance Ferris Wharf.
IT’S official.
The wharf at Fawcett Park is now the Lance Ferris Wharf, named after the late Lance Ferris – the Pelican Man – who founded Ballina-based organisation Australian Seabird Rescue.
And work is currently being undertaken on the design for a statue of a bronze pelican to be perched on the jetty in Ballina’s CBD.
Ballina’s mayor, Cr Phillip Silver, was due to make the official announcement on the naming of the wharf at the inaugural Lance Ferris Memorial Dinner scheduled for December 12.
But with last week’s decision by Australian Seabird Rescue to postpone the dinner, the announcement was made early.
He said council wanted to recognise the work of Mr Ferris, who died in October 2007, aged 60.
After Mr Ferris’ death, council resolved to rename Fawcett Park as Lance Ferris Park. But that move was knocked back by the NSW Geographical Names Board following objections.
There won’t be any problem with the naming of the wharf, Cr Silver said, as it is a piece of council-owned infrastructure.
Keith Williams, acting general manager of ASR and partner of Mr Ferris’ daughter, Rochelle Ferris, welcomed the decision to name the wharf after Lance.
He said the move not only acknowledged the work of Mr Ferris but also the Richmond River which Mr Ferris was so passionate about.
“This is a fantastic,” he said on behalf of the family and the broader family of ASR volunteers.
He is the father of Finn, Lance’s grandson, who was born just over a month ago.
Mr Williams said he enjoys taking Finn to the wharf.
“This (naming the wharf) is to say ‘your granddad was someone really special’. And much of the respect (for Lance) comes from the community – you can’t manufacture that,” he said.
A local artist has been commissioned to create the life-size bronze statue of a pelican which will be installed on the wharf early next year.
Cr Silver said the council had budgeted $10,000 for the statue, which had come from the staff operational budget.
He said he hoped the pelican would become an icon for Ballina now that nothing stood in the way of the demolition of the Big Prawn at the southern entrance to the town.
“Whether it (the pelican statute) evolves to be an icon of the town is a function of the community,” he said.
Cr Silver has already suggested Ballina could rebrand itself, replacing the seahorse, so the shire can be Ballina bypass-ready. Work on the new highway route is expected to be finished by 2012.
He said a rebranding of the shire wouldn’t be expensive, as things like stationery stocks would be used up in time.
Meanwhile, the Lance Ferris Memorial Dinner will be held on June 5 next year, World Environment Day.
Mr Williams said anybody who had purchased a ticket would receive a full refund.
This Friday, 24 September, 2010, Mayor Phillip Silver will unveil a sculpture at Fawcett Park, Ballina, to commemorate and acknowledge the work of the late Lance Ferris.
The sculpture is dedicated to the coastal conservation work carried out by Mr Ferris, affectionately known as ‘the Pelican Man’.
“In fostering and supporting local art, council commissioned a local artist to create a unique bronze sculpture that is befitting of the animal conservation work carried out by Lance. The artist behind the sculpture is Wollongbar-based sculptor Frank Miles,” Cr Silver said.
As part of the commemoration Cr Silver will also be officially name the wharf in Fawcett Park ‘Lance Ferris Wharf’.
“It is an appropriate place to acknowledge Lance’s work which started in earnest in 1992 on the sand spit opposite the Fawcett Park wharf after he noticed pelicans were injured by fishing line and hooks,” Cr Silver said.
“The pelicans were rescued, rehabilitated and released. The work soon extended from pelicans to other coastal birds as well as marine turtles.
“Lance was passionate about educating the community in preserving and protecting the coastal environment and all marine wildlife, and it’s fitting that we not only acknowledge his work but also raise awareness for the continued operation of the organisation he founded, the Australian Seabird Rescue.
“Based in Ballina, the volunteer organisation continues to operate around Australia to protect and rescue seabirds and shorebirds.
“This is also largely due to the continued dedication of the Ferris family and the support they receive from volunteers and the community in enduring Lance’s legacy.”
Lance Ferris family members representing the Australian Seabird Rescue service will be present at the unveiling ceremony which will take place at 11am at the wharf in Fawcett Park.
A recent unveiling on 24th September of Frank Miles life-size bronze pelican “Steptoe”, (pictured left) commissioned by the Ballina Shire Council, at the Fawcett Park Wharf. This wharf was renamed on the day to the “Lance Ferris Wharf” in honour of the late Lance Ferris the towns’ famed ‘Pelican Man’. This was a very exciting moment for Frank as well the Australian Seabird Rescue Service and Lance’s family members.
If there’s one Australian bird that we’ve all watched with awe it’s the pelican.
But as we’ve admired this bird we are mostly oblivious to the tragedy that the nation’s most popular hobby, fishing, is visiting upon our feathered friends.
Accidental hooking by recreational fishing, discarded hooks and fishing line have become the birds’ most lethal enemy. Bills, legs and wings are being hooked or entangled. The result, all too often, is a painful death.
Tonight’s Australian Story is about one man, a Ballina based former police officer called Lance Ferris, who’s dedicated his life to fixing the plight of the pelicans.
With spectacular physical agility, he “bribes” the pelicans with fish and then dives to catch injured animals so they can be treated and saved.
Over the past 12 years, often living well below the poverty line, he has rescued and rehabilitated hundreds of birds and conducted educational workshops in schools and fishing clubs up and down Australia’s east coast.
Featuring stunning wildlife images, Australian Story retraces the rough, tough and exciting life of Lance Ferris.
We see first hand his unconventional but effective pelican catching methods and the extent of this problem along with the solutions he has employed.
REX HUNT: Hello. I’m Rex Hunt. Tonight’s Australian Story is about a man who has dedicated his life to solving the problems sometimes unwittingly created by us anglers. He is Lance Ferris – known as ‘The Pelican Man’ for his incredible work in saving these magnificent birds from terrible injuries. And his efforts are changing attitudes on the water. This is Lance’s story.
EVAN KOSACK – VET:Lance and the fishermen in the area started out being at loggerheads a little bit.
LANCE FERRIS: I don’t think they believed that the problem was as bad as it was. Pelicans torn to pieces, basically, by fishing tackle.
EVAN KOSACK – VET: Lance was telling people, basically, that their beloved hobby was causing a lot of damage and that they were acting irresponsibly. Lance is not the norm.
ANTHONY MUYT: He’s very independent, he’s very focused, he thinks outside of the square. He’s a bit of a mad scientist. He was just some joker who rolled up and was jumping off boats into pelicans. They thought he was nuts at first – thought he was a madman. He is extremely professional. He likes perfection. He’ll work at something until he has it.
DEBBI DEVINE – SAM’S MUM :I look at him sometimes and I think, “Wow. This grown man – the way he is with these animals.” It’s amazing. It’s like they’re his children.
LANCE FERRIS: We were on an excursion with the children from the special school. I noticed a pelican in a park that had a hook buried in its leg. So, I grabbed some fish from a bait shop and the bird came up to me and I grabbed it, held it and looked down at it, and I thought, “The hook’s in the left leg. “I’m sure the bird that I saw “before I got the bait had a hook in the right leg.” I was absolutely positive of it. I made up some posters to hang in shop windows – “Wanted, a pelican with a hook in its leg.” I thought, “There’s another bird out there. I know there’s another one.”
MARNY BONNER: There are many, many people that would go, “Oh, gee. “Gee, fancy seeing two pelicans in one day, you know, “both with hook injuries,” and continue about their business. But the interesting thing is that it engaged Lance’s curiosity such that he went out and searched to see if there was an even bigger problem.
LANCE FERRIS: That led us into going out on the island to see if there were other pelicans out there. 108 birds on the island, there were, with 37 tangled up in fishing line on our first visit.
MARNY BONNER: For Lance, standing there with binoculars in hand observing bird after bird after bird coming into his vision with crippling, cruel injuries would be very overwhelming.
LANCE FERRIS: I was in shock and horror. I couldn’t believe how bad the situation was. I went back to the boat and cried for half an hour. I just couldn’t believe… I’m no bronze Anzac hero. I might have been in the police force, but that doesn’t mean to say you don’t get cut up when you see so much damage. There were some with amputated wings and gangrene in their legs. It was a horrible thing. Being a wildlife carer for some years, at that stage, I was just amazed that I wasn’t aware of it and nor had it been brought to our attention by any member of the public or any other wildlife people.
ROCHELLE FERRIS: He was so devastated by that, but he was also looking at the bigger picture, and he sat back and thought, “You know, how many estuaries are there in Australia “that are so populated by humans? “And I’m only looking at this one.” And the problem just blew out in his head.
LANCE FERRIS: I knew we had a major problem on our hands. I had caught a couple and I’d caught them, I suppose, relatively easily, but when I saw so many I just got back to the boat and thought, “How do I cope with so many injured? “How can I catch that many? “They’re everywhere.”
MARNY BONNER: Lance fell asleep that night surrounded by crippled and injured birds and woke up and he was still surrounded by crippled and injured birds, and was compelled to do something – to start action right there and then.
LANCE FERRIS: It was three months and I had that 37, but as I was getting that 37, more became entangled as I went.
ROCHELLE FERRIS: The focus on getting out there and attending to all these sick pelicans really did take over his life.
MARNY BONNER: That was the dawning of the obsession and the birth of Australian Seabird Rescue.
LANCE FERRIS: I didn’t really think about it changing my life at that time.
MARNY: In the early days, some of these injuries were quite old. They had had longstanding chronic injuries and they did require a lot of treatment. And to his amazement, the local vets were extremely interested and extremely supportive.
LANCE FERRIS: I had to look closely at the pelicans to see a line trailing under a wing, or a hook somewhere.
MARNY BONNER: Because it’s difficult to see injuries on pelicans, people don’t notice. I believe pelicans don’t look sick when they are injured. Pelicans can’t cry.
LANCE FERRIS: Everybody believed that the hook would rust away in two or three days. We’ve done some tests on all different sorts of hooks and it’s at least six months before the hooks rusted away. So there were lots of things that make people not sort of bother.
ROCHELLE FERRIS: He was so concerned and frustrated by the lack of interest from the community that these birds were just all being tangled and no-one seemed to care.
LANCE FERRIS: But it’s not all bad out there. There are some people who really have the right concept. If the bird’s quiet and fairly well under control, we give everyone that opportunity to, say, pat a pelican or to have a close contact with it.
MARNY BONNER: Lance experienced quite a lot of loneliness in his childhood. He didn’t have a lot of affection in it. He is essentially a shy person and a bit of a loner.
LANCE FERRIS: I can remember vividly as a boy, after I’d found a little frog with a broken leg, I think we taped it up with a matchstick, and for the life of me I can’t remember whether it survived or not.
MARNY BONNER: That’s what I saw in Lance when I first met him, was this uncanny ability to really spend a lot of time thinking about how he could improve life generally for a particularly severely disabled child. Lance had his fairly demanding job of teacher’s aide with disabled children. The realisation of the enormity of the problem on Pelican Island did change Lance’s life, but I don’t think he was conscious of that at that time. He was merely solving the problem on the day.
LANCE FERRIS: But then there were cutbacks with the school and then came the word that said, There’s no more work. I’m sorry, we have to put you off. There’s no more funding. We don’t have enough children. And I had to drive away from the place. And I…I won’t forget that day.
I wept all the way home. I was at a little cattle dairy, a converted place. The very next day the landlord drove down the paddock and I went up and I said, “About the rent…” He said, Oh, yeah. He said, I was gonna tell you about that. He said, I really like what you’re doing with the pelicans and things. That’s fantastic, that’s a really good thing. And he said, And you’ve rescued my cattle out of the bogs here from time to time, “and I’ve decided not to charge rent anymore. Oh. You know, sort of looking around waiting for lightning to strike and pinching myself to see if I was awake. I was just ecstatic.
MARNY BONNER: Days rolled into weeks, and weeks rolled into months, and he was spending more and more time doing everything he possibly could to catch all the birds. And so it just became increasingly consuming of his time and his resources – all his resources. So it became a situation for Lance where if there was a choice of providing food for himself or getting fish to catch an injured pelican, the fish for catching the injured pelican always came first.
LANCE FERRIS: And I thought, “Oh, no, what am I doing?” And I thought, This is absolutely crazy. No-one would ever believe this, for starters, and this is just madness. I looked at the pelicans in the cage and they were eating, you know, the best fish at 10 a box and I just thought, I don’t think I can do this anymore. But then I took my shoes off and plodded round in the grass under the tree and found a bowl of bush nuts, macadamia nuts. I pigged out till I just couldn’t eat another macadamia and I’m sitting there going, Yes. Yes, I’m right. I looked at the pelicans. It’s alright, fellas. Everything’s under control.
MARNY BONNER: When I first met Lance he was living very, very frugally. And if he was unable to pay his electricity bill or his gas bill he would simply accept that and go scrummage around the tip or something and come out with some ingenious way of getting hot water for himself. Or he would just not eat cooked food.
LANCE FERRIS: And I thought, Well, I’ve got no power. And the answering machine – it was the biggest problem, because it was the mainstay of Seabird Rescue when I wasn’t there. I had some electronic knowledge and I had a little solar panel. And I had an old battery. It worked like a dream. Nobody knew my predicament. Nobody knew how we were running the show. It still looked OK on the surface. You know, if we sort of still had some credibility – I had an answering service – Oh, well, they must be alright. You know, so it gave me a feeling of, I suppose, wellbeing.
That first one, as I held it in my arms, I was awe-struck by the majesty of it. I think the immense size of the bird, no-one would realise that a pelican is as gentle as it is.
MARNY BONNER: A beautiful, benign creature that doesn’t deserve the treatment that it gets. If pelicans could cry, there would be a wailing across the nation that could not be ignored. We could open a tackle shop on the hooks and line and sinkers and traces and lures that we have extracted from the pelicans we’ve caught to date, easily.
LANCE FERRIS: Everyone loves Percy Pelican, and they don’t want to see anything injured irrespective of what species it is.
ROCHELLE FERRIS: And pelicans were dying and, you know, no-one really counted and knew how vast the problem was. The people from one estuary don’t really communicate with the people from the next estuary what they’ve seen.
In a small percentage of cases, there are people who deliberately hook pelicans. But again, it’s never an approach of accusing or retribution – always a case of education. And for him to do something about that, he needed money to do it. You know, it’s not… He was broke as it was. So he needed to get that information out there to make them aware.
MARNY BONNER: Lance’s move from the dairy to the house on the same property was quite timely in a way because Seabird Rescue really required a bit more space to accommodate volunteers. But clearly there’s no point continuing to rescue birds if you don’t do something about the cause of it. How do you start re-educating millions of fisherfolk and hundreds and hundreds of waterside residents in such a way that they stay on your side, that they will work with you and not be offended? There is no room for blame or guilt or anything else.
LANCE FERRIS: I had to get volunteers and I had to get public support to address the whole of the coastline, and I knew that media was the way to go. So I hammered every media outlet – television, newspaper – everything that I could get my hands into. A lot of it was rejected. Then one of the local papers said, Would you like to do a column? So I got the column going and things just took off from there. Quite often we were getting phone calls from the TV stations locally, and saying, Can we do a story on this?
ROCHELLE FERRIS: After Dad’s first media exposure and the call backs he got from that, and people recognising him in the street and patting him on the back and saying, Good job, he twigged. He said, I’m onto something here, and this is going to make the difference. From that day on, every time there was a really badly injured pelican, he would be on the phone to them so quick. So this media coverage that went to all those communities was priceless in being part of the solution and making them open their eyes and, yeah, pick up their tackle.
LANCE FERRIS: I could see that educating the children was really important.
MARNY BONNER: Kids these days are growing up with the environmental message. Getting to the kids and educating the kids is one of the most important activities that we do. They’re the ones that will carry that message. On many an occasion we see them run off and tug on Dad’s shirt or Mum’s shirt and say, You mustn’t drop that, Mum. Mustn’t drop that, Dad. Have to pick this up now. And….the parents are kind of shamed into being more environmentally responsible than they might otherwise have been.
ROCHELLE FERRIS: I guess when Dad started to realise that the problem was so national, he knew he needed volunteers. He couldn’t pay them – he can’t pay himself. Once word got out, it definitely made a difference. There was some real dedicated people.
LANCE FERRIS: The volunteers come from all walks of life. They all have their own areas of expertise, if you like. We’ve got Jenny, who’s just absolutely marvellous. She’s got a lovely, lovely rapport with the birds.
MARNY BONNER: Young Sam in particular was a fairly troubled child when Lance first met him – so much so that Lance thought that he was even beyond his ability to rescue him, if you like.
SAM DEVINE: I was just playing up in class, then he just started doing talks at the school about Seabird Rescue. I could talk to him and he would help me with my work… ..when I was having trouble.
MARNY BONNER: He’s turned around from a child who did not want to cooperate or be involved in school work or achieve anything.
SAM DEVINE: If it wasn’t for Lance I probably would be in a behavioural class.
LANCE FERRIS: Anthony was a person that came up here to study science with a background of being a member of the police SWAT team.
MARNY BONNER: He was a very quick learner, but more importantly, he was most definitely an action man. He’s almost a younger, more energetic Lance, if you like.
It’s very important to have volunteers that won’t be too offended if we’re not always as socially adept as we ought to be. We both suffer from burnout, from exhaustion, and in so doing, Lance in particular might sometimes forget to pay attention to his manners or be as thoughtful of that person or as considerate of that person as he…as he might be.
He is consumed by this calling. The unfortunate consequence of that kind of dedication is that Lance can neglect important relationships in his life.
ROCHELLE FERRIS: Having Marny in Dad’s life has been his Rock of Gibraltar. And, you know, they’ve had their quarrels, and people do. If Marny wasn’t in his life – God, I would have so much on my hands.
MARNY BONNER: It’s been very difficult for everyone that’s close to Lance. Even acquaintances frequently become offended, um, by his lack of presence.
ROCHELLE FERRIS: I wanted to throw a tantrum and get so angry because he’d missed my birthday or he’d forgotten Mother’s Day or, you know, just everything else in his life seemed to fade out.
MARNY BONNER: Those of us that are close to Lance can really joke that, you know, maybe if we pierced our ears and hung a jag hook in one and a lure in the other, he might look at us intensely and say, How are you?
LANCE FERRIS: We started recording all the problems that happened to the pelicans. It was very difficult for us to convince National Parks or Fisheries or anyone in the first few years that there was a problem.
ROCHELLE FERRIS: He gathered so much information over time about pelican behaviour, but he needed that notoriety from the scientific community to understand what he was talking about and for him to be able to approach them on their terms, academically.
LANCE FERRIS: Marny’s got the letters after her name, so too has my daughter, being a marine biologist, and that was a blessing to me. I had the information. They basically put it together and shaped it.
ROCHELLE FERRIS: It was really good for our relationship, writing that paper together, to get a bit of recognition from him from what I’d studied and learnt. And I wasn’t this little girl anymore who was wide-eyed and looking at everything he did, and I…I had something to give him.
LANCE FERRIS: When the report on the impact of fishing was accepted, or when they called for more copies at NSW Fisheries, I was just overjoyed. I thought, Finally! We’re gonna have to start working fairly quickly. As fast as we catch ’em, they’re getting entangled now. RecFish Australia included some of our concepts in their code of conduct for fishermen, and NSW Fisheries handed us one of their ex-service boats. Petrol companies offered fuel for the vehicle. A telephone company offered us a mobile phone. The council offered us free ferry journey. And the Coastcare, under the Natural Heritage Trust, gave us two grants so far of 26,000, which has enabled me to get to the schools and teach the children. I look back at the road we’ve travelled and people are taking more care. Well, I mean, some fishermen who used to say, Shoot the bastards… ..come up to me in the pub and say, You owe me a beer, mate. I caught one of your bloody pelicans. And don’t tell anybody about it either. I gave him a fish too after I took the hook out.
MARNY BONNER: People began to call us when they noticed other things on the beach. Well done. And so the turtles were added to the repertoire of pelicans, seabirds.
LANCE FERRIS: To see trained personnel at strategic locations all around the coast of Australia – that would be the ultimate goal. In July we have to vacate the premises we’re in at the moment. We were in big trouble. It was very, very heart-warming to realise the strength of the support we got from the council. The council has offered us some land for free and also a second-hand house. It’s been a fairly hard road. I guess Marny and I will have to start really getting on really, really well together, and not fighting on occasions.
MARNY BONNER: I do have grave concerns about his emotional and physical health because there is so little balance in his life. He does not take the time to rescue himself, I suppose. But I can’t live that life for him. The best thing that I can do is be his best friend.
LANCE FERRIS: I couldn’t have done this without her – there’s no doubt about that – irrespective of the rocky road that we’ve been along.
MARNY BONNER: He’s extremely important to me. He sets a fine example constantly of what can be achieved with patience, sheer determination, a great deal of tolerance and, above all, extraordinary compassion for creatures that can do nothing to alleviate their own suffering.
CAPTION: Lance and SeaBird Rescue are currently homeless while they wait for clearance of the council owned land and rebuilding. The latest injured pelican tally is 595.
DWYER, Colonel Brian Michael (Michael).
(Ret’d) AM RFD ED MB BS
251888
14th April 1929 ~ 19th November 2015
Aged 86 years
Passed away peacefully at Longueville Private Hospital
Late of Hunters Hill, formerly of Gosford
Beloved husband of Carlin, much loved father of Anthony, Justin, Megan, Casey and Fabian
Son of Sydney Keith and Alice, brother of Allan and Jean (all dec’d), stepbrother of Phillip
Loving Grandfather and Father-in-Law
Medical Practitioner, Army Officer,
Police Medical Officer.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life at a Requiem Mass at
St Peter Chanel, Futuna Street, Hunters Hill
10am on Wednesday
25th November 2015
And afterwards at the Hunter’s Hill Club, 12 Madeline Street, Hunters Hill for refreshments.
A private cremation will take place following the service.
In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Vanuatu Earthquake Appeal
In the loving care of
All Suburbs
1300 74 00 74
[divider_dotted]
Tuesday, 24 November 2015
So sad to hear of Doc’s passing. He was a great man and a mentor of mine both in Canberra and Sydney. His family can be proud of his life and the influence he had on us all. I can’t be there on Wednesday but I will be there in spirit. RIP
~
Gary Tuckwood,
Mardi, New South Wales
[divider_dotted]
Tuesday, 24 November 2015
As a young Constable in Canberra there were many occasions when a wise Doc Dwyer provided a voice of common sense in tense investigations. His laconic sense of humour was legend as was his ability to cut down some pretentious pumped up crook many times without them realising the same. A man of class and integrity, they sure as heck don’t make them like him any more. RIP Doc
~
Phil Spence BM,
CANBERRA, Australian Capital Territory
[divider_dotted]
Saturday, 21 November 2015
Happy memories of many years ago.RIP.
~
Margaret & Arthur Fogarty
[divider_dotted]
Published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Nov. 21, 2015
Funeral Prayers for the repose of the soul of Mr Syd Gallagher will be held in St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Station St, Chelsea on WEDNESDAY (Nov. 18, 2015) at 11 a. m.
Private Cremation
No flowers by request, donations in lieu to the Alfred Hospital would be appreciated. Envelopes available at the Church.
Syd was also a Retired Ambulance Attendant at Paramedic Services, Victoria.
VALE
Syd Gallagher
It is with sadness that we advise the passing of retired member Syd Gallagher following an illness.
The Executive of the AEA-V, on behalf of its members, wish to
friends and colleagues.
Syd was a member in the Private Sector and worked for PSV. He was also the OH&S Rep at PSV and worked tirelessly to improve working conditions.
Syd mentioned in his resignation letter to the Union upon his retirement that he had been a union member for his entire working life and strongly believed in the protection and improvement of workers welfare, conditions and industrial rights.
GALLAGHER. Syd. Passed away peacefully on Nov. 10, 2015, aged 65 years. Darling husband and mate of Chris, loving and devoted father of Beth and Bridget. Love Forever The most perfectly perfect Dad. We love you to bits and we miss you so much. Neddy and Chicken.
GALLAGHER. Syd. The Executive and staff of the AEA are deeply saddened by the passing of their highly esteemed retired member and offer their most sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. Rest In Peace
GALLAGHER. Syd. A Life Member of the Triumph Car Club of Victoria. Your friendship and knowledge will be missed by all. Heartfelt condolences to Chris, Beth and Bridget.
GALLAGHER. Syd. It’s with sadness we learned of Syd’s passing. He will long be remembered as the former Officer in Charge at Moorabbin whose sense of humour and wit amused so many. Condolences to Chris, Beth and Bridget.
GALLAGHER. Senior Sergeant Sydney vp16140 (Retired) On behalf of all Victoria Police Southern Metro Region staff and what was formerly Region 5 South East, express heartfelt condolences to Chris, Beth, Bridgette and family with Syd’s passing. A life devoted to commitment and service by a much respected work colleague and valued friend.
GALLAGHER. Syd. Friend and confidant of our family for 30 years. Will be sadly missed both on and off the golf course. A true gentleman The Bushby family.
It is believed that John also played with the Cronulla Sharks at some stage.
[divider_dotted]
HANCOCK, John William ”Hank”
20.1.1954 – 12.11.2015
Much loved partner of Cathy.
Loving father of Anthony, David, Angela and Thomas.
Adored Poppy of Jackson, Will, Sophie and Oscar.
A Voice We Loved Will Be Dearly Missed
Friends and family of JOHN are warmly invited to attend a Celebration of his Life to be held in the South Chapel of Woronora Crematorium, Linden Street, Sutherland on Monday, November 23, 2015 at 12.00pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Children’s Cancer Foundation would be appreciated.
Loved husband to Diana. Adored father to William, Sharryn and Leanne, Anita and Paul. Treasured Pop to Michael, Will, Daniel, Ella, Liam, Hannah, Emma and their partners and special great granddaughter, Charlotte. Will be sadly missed by all his family, extended family and many friends.
Relatives and friends of Frank are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service in the West Chapel, Pinegrove Crematorium, Kington Street (off the Great Western Highway), Minchinbury on Monday 9th November, 2015 commencing at 1:30pm.
The Canberra Times Wednesday 25 May 1966 p14 of 34
Policemen, citizen cited for bravery
SYDNEY, Tuesday. — Four policemen from country areas in NSW and one citizen from Robertson have been awarded the Queen’s commendation for brave conduct.
The awards were announced today by the Governor of NSW, Sir Roden Cutler.
Sergeant John Francis Stanley, Bathurst, was awarded the commendation for dealing with an emotionally disturbed man in possession of two loaded pistols and a .303 rifle.
He went to the man’s home and was forced to stand up against a hallway with the weapons pointed at him.
Sergeant Stanley struggled with the man and managed to disarm him.
Train crash
Sergeant Leonard George Valentine Jenkins and Mr Henry Edward John Donovan, of Robertson, risked their lives to save the crew of a locomotive which had crashed while hauling a number of petrol tankers.
Hundreds of gallons of petrol had escaped from the fuel tankers, creating extreme danger of explosion and fire.
Both men extinguished a fire burning adjacent to the locomotive, directly under a large fuel tanker.
Senior Constable Frank Thomas Byers and Constable Robert Reginald Lidden, both of Brewarrina, posing as kangaroo shooters, overcame a man who was armed with a shotgun and a .22 repeater rifle.
The man was later sentenced to twelve years hard labour on a charge of wounding another man with intent to murder.
‘ A Fuss about Russ ‘September 2018
