Husband to Carolyn ROMELINGH ( nee STEWART ) NSWPF # 21112
AKA Pete
Late of Corrimal, formerly of Newcastle & Sydney, NSW
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class # 226
New South Wales Police Force
ProCst # 98283
Regd. # 23629
Uniform # 1?998?
Rank: Commenced Training on ? March 1987?
Probationary Constable- appointed 15 May 1987 ( Aged 27 years, 6 months & 19 days )
Constable – appointed 15 May 1988
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( Yes )
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Detective Senior Constable
Stations: ?, Crime Squad secondment, Corrimal Dets, State Operations Group ( SOGs ) – ( 1990s ), Wollongong Dets, Wollongong Anti Theft Squad, ?, Hurstville – Retirement
Service: From? ? pre May 1987? to 25 March 2006 = 19 years Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours
Constable 1/c Peter B. ROMELINGH# 23629 – on left, Constable ?, Senior Constable Les HOCKING# 19053 – on right – 1992
Currently serving with
NSW AMBULANCE SERVICE
Regd # 60082338
Commenced 22 August 2016
Stations: Kogarah Super Station
Currently serving with
NSW FIRE BRIGADES
Regd # 269024
Stations: formerly of 269 Station, Corrimal
Retained Fire Fighter
Awards: NSW Fire Brigades Long Service & Good Conduct Medal –granted22 April 2005
Corrimal Fire & Rescue 269 15 June 2017 Peter ROMELINGH – 1st on left in rear.
Corrimal Fire & Rescue 269 June 15, 2017 at 1:37 PM Peter ROMELINGH – 1st on right – hands on hip.
Born: Friday 13 November 1959
Died on: Thursday 4 June 2020 at home
Age: 60 years, 6 months & 22 days
Cause: Heart attack
Event location: Home
Event date: Thursday 4 June 2020
Funeral date: ? June 2020
Funeral location: H. Parsons Funerals, Wollongong, NSW
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ?TBA ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 10 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ??? ( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: H. Parsons, Wollongong, NSW
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( May 2020 )
PETER is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Loved son-in-law, brother-in-law, and uncle to the Stewart and Henderson families.
Aged 60 Years
Always loved and sadly missed
A private service will be held.
Donations to NSW Police Legacy and Surf Life Saving Australia in Peter’s name would be appreciated.
June 11, 2020
Such sad news.
Pete, such a lovely gentle man.
Gone too soon.
Sending our love and prayers.
Condolences to you Carolyn, Caitlin, Mikaela, and Piper.
Matthew and Leanne x
Leanne Hunt, Miranda, New South Wales
June 11, 2020
Not fair.
Taken too soon.
Deepest condolences to Carolyn and family.
John Crowley, Adelaide, South Australia
Contact Me
June 11, 2020
Pete, such a lovely gentle man.
Gone too soon.
Sending our love and prayers now and always.
Condolences to you Carolyn, Caitlin, Mikaela, and Piper.
Matthew and Leanne x
June 11, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, Peter was a caring person always helping the community, his love of his family was immense, he was very proud of his girls.
Rest in Peace
Nina & Brianna
Nina Cauduro, Corrimal, New South Wales
June 10, 2020
A pleasure to have worked with – a lovely, gentle man and I am sure Pete will be sadly missed.
So very sorry for your loss Carolyn and family.
Vikki Gorman, Austinmer, New South Wales
June 10, 2020
A true gentleman in every sense of the word.
Donna, Corrimal
June 10, 2020
May Peter ROMELINGH ( NSWPF ), ( AMBULANCE NSW ), ( NSW FIRE BRIGADES ) Forever Rest In Peace.
https://police.freom.com/peter-romelingh/
Greg Callander, Goulburn, New South Wales
June 9, 2020
Dear Caitlin, please accept my deepest condolences for your family’s loss.
Christiana
Published by Illawarra Mercury from June 9 to June 11, 2020
Carolyn stood before us and spoke of the good man we all know. So strong.
A Guard of Honour filled with uniformed firefighters, ambos and retired cops 250 m long gave our salute to a man who gave his life to serve and care for others.
He gave his life to his 4 girls, the police, the fire brigade and recently the ambulance service.
The world could use a few more like Peter Romelingh.
Condolences to Carolyn & 4 girls.
The Commissioner ( NSW Fire Brigades ) regrets to advise of the passing of current serving Firefighter Peter ROMELINGH (269024), formerly of 269 Station Corrimal, on Thursday 4th June 2020.
Peter was also a current serving officer with NSW Ambulance.
Funeral details will be distributed once advised.
Anyone wishing to submit a message of condolence may do so utilising the online condolence form
Peter also played with the Police football team – Illawarra Falcons.
Ramon William BRADBURY
| 05/06/2020
Ramon William BRADBURY
AKA Ray
formerly of Newcastle & Mt Kuring-gai
Son of former NSWPF Member: Sgt 3/c Lacey BRADBURY ( 1929 – 1965 ) ( Father ) who is also the brother of:
Det C/Supt Robson “Bob” Lacey Bradbury # 6494 ?, Born 22 July 1930 * Cadet # 665 – Deceased 2010 ( 40 years Service. Homicide Squad, OIC – CIB – Retired 1987 )
( Bob’s sons – George BRADBURY # ????? ( Det Insp & D.O. – Brisbane Waters ) & Bill BRADBURY # ????? )
Det Sgt 2/c Ken H. Bradbury # 7865 ?, Born May 1935
( Ken’s son – Peter BRADBURY # ????? )
Det Sgt 1/c Ron G. Bradbury # 8984 ?, Born May 1937 &
John W. Bradbury 9706 ?, Born May 1941 Ramon being a nephew to them all.
Ramon being the Grandfather of NSWPF Member Christopher BRADBURY # 30208 ( Newcastle City )
and Chris being the partner of – Angela DALTON # 42870 ( Maitland )
Ramon being the Great Grandfather ( George being the father ) of NSWPF Member Ben BRADBURY # ????? – Redfern PAC ( 4th Generation & 10th member of the Bradbury family to join NSWPF )
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # ‘Possibly’ 008
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 6036
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Academy “possibly” on 23 February 1948 ( aged 20 years, 5 mths & 2 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed 12 April 1948 ( aged 20 years, 6 mths, 22 days )
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 30 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ?TBA ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 10 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: Pettigrew Family Funerals, Wallsend, NSW, 02 4951 1166
Buried at: Cremated. Ashes to be scattered
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( May 2020 )
RAMON is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 – 1954), Sunday 30 April 1939, page 2
CROSSWORD PRIZES of 2s 6d each for the Hen and Chicken Crossword Puzzle of April 9 have been won by the following :— Mary Angwin, “Dalkey” (9) Addison-avenue, Roseville; Wilga Duckworth (13), 1 Rose-street, Petersham: Enid Sherwood (12), 74 Colin-street, North Sydney; Ramon Bradbury (11), Blackned’s Bay, Swansea, via Newcastle; Owen Wiltshire (11), 10 Augusta-street, Five Dock.
The District Inspectors of Schools. Messrs. J. W. Mann and A. H. Dyce, released to-day the following allotments to the undermentioned schools for candidates in the High School Entrance and Bursary Examination held on November 1. Announcements regarding Hamilton and Wickham Domestic Science Schools and Central Junior Technical School (Broadmeadow) will be made later. The names of pupils who gained bursaries will be released by the head office of the Education Department, Sydney.
Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate (NSW : 1876 – 1954), Saturday 25 April 1953, page 11
NEWCASTLE COURT BEFORE MR. R. A. HARDWICKE, S.M. REMANDED.– Sidney Keith Perry, 80, taxi-driver, was remanded to May 22 on charges of having driven negligently in King-street, Newcastle, and having used Insulting words to Constable Ramon William Bradbury on December 17.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Friday 22 July 1988 (No.119), page 3835
NEW SOUTH WALES POLICE FORCE
Commissioned Officer Appointment
HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, has approved of the undermentioned Commissioned Officer appointment, effective from the date indicated:
Inspector, Patrol Commander, Parkes
Senior Sergeant Maurice John Alchin, date of entry on duty.
TED PICKERING,
(6027) Minister for Police and Emergency Services.
Joc – the repairer of lawn mowers in his spare time.
Senior Sergeant NSW Police
O’CONNOR, John
“Joc”
Friday March 13th 2020
Formerly of North Ryde.
Loving husband to Susan,
father to Peter & Jennifer and
father in law to Kirsty.
Brother to Denis.
Adored Pa to Angus and Ruby.
Aged 71 years
Loved by all.
Prayers for the repose of John’s soul will be held at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church 3a Mary Street Hunters Hill on Monday March 23rd 2020 commencing at 11.00am.
On conclusion the cortege will proceed to Macquarie Park Crematorium.
In John’s memory in lieu of flowers please donate to Police Legacy. A donation box will be available at the Church.
Proudly Australian Owned
Family Operated All Suburbs
9555 7551 9555 7092
Barry, whilst still living in England, joined the Royal Air Force before emigrating to Australia with his wife, Linda, aboard the ship TV Fairstar from Southhampton.
At the time of arriving in Australia, on the 14 December 1969, he was employed in the Catering field as a Cook & Waiter.
They moved to a unit at 131 John St, Cabramatta, NSW
Barry Served in the RAF with Units: RAF White Waltham ( 1964 – 1969 ) & RAF Hereford ( 1964 – 1969 ) sub unit 114.
He held the Rank of SAC & Service # F4276992
His Australian Army Regimental # 2147621 – Commissioned on 24 August 1974 as 2nd Lieutenant. Baz left the Army Reserve holding the Rank of Captain.
Baz and Linda met as 15 year olds and have been together every since.
Barry was a member of the Royal Australian Corps of Military Police prior to joining the NSWPF.
During his career with NSWPF, Baz was a member of the TRG ( Tactical Response Group ) and trained many Police in the use of the ( then ) new long batons ( which replaced the small rubber ‘trungens’ that we used to be issued.
He was instrumental on the inception of ‘simunition’ training, the change over from the Smith & Wesson .38 to the Glock Pistol, Mandatory OS ( Officer Survival ) tactics and training and the full time Weapons Unit.
He was also called, many times, to give ‘expert’ evidence in relation to various ‘shooting’ incidents in relation to Police related shooting incidents.
After his Policing career he joined Corrective Services in the Court system for a short time before finally giving up work to enjoy a more ‘relaxing’ life.
Prior to the invention of Facebook, Barry was an on-line member of the Policing Forum, the TBL ( or the Thin Blue Line ) – which is still an active Policing Forum which hangs off my main site – www.AustralianPolice.com.au
Barry, or ‘Barry7’, as he was known on TBL, joined TBL on 26 April 2005 – a few years before FB was ‘a thing’.
He posted over 5,760 posts on that Forum and his knowledge and expertise shone through with the way he helped other former, serving and ‘wannabe’ Police.
Barry, and others like him, put himself forward to bring vast improvements to Policing and Police safety – for the benefit of us all, and the benefit of Police who will come well and truly after we ( the old guard ) have all left this earth.
His comments and insights, on TBL, are still part of the enduring legacy that he leaves behind – for others to read and be guided & learn by.
There are, no doubt, Police who possibly owe their life to Baz – for the training he provided those people over many years.
It can never be said that Baz did not stand before an angry man – for he was always the one to ‘lead’ from the Front and By Example when the battles began and the ‘shit’ hit the fan.
The 1985 Bathurst Bikie Riots are just one example of this Bullmastiff standing up to the Rotweiler.
Eventually, when Facebook came along, communications were becoming more instantaneous and, eventually, Barry moved from the Forum style of on-line communications to the FB style, and thus – hadn’t made a Post on the TBL Forum since 23 October 2016 – but his 5,760 Posts remain.
Lots have met Barry, many more haven’t. He was always up for a chat and always up for a coffee crunch at Campbelltown when it was arranged.
Baz was always boasting about his visits to NZ to visit family ‘over the ditch’ and how extremely proud he was of his kids and grandkids. That deep love and affection is quite obvious in all the photos he has shared with us over the years.
He and Linda recently moved up the coast, from Camden, to be closer to their daughter.
Barely time for any of them to settle down in their new digs, when the old boy went into the Hospital system for a relatively minor heart operation on Tuesday but was met with complications from which he was not to recover and, sadly, passed away with Linda and family by his side on Wednesday – never to have regained consciousness again.
Baz, you contributed to this world. You did not leave empty handed but holding the love and affection of a great tribe of people who loved and put their trust in you.
My friend, our friend – may you Forever Rest In Peace.
Cal
Kirstie Jolly
( from a FB Group )
Hi everyone. I would like to introduce myself before I continue. I am Barry Lewis’s 3rd daughter, the gorgeous one and the one who was of course the apple of her daddies eye ( I also got his tongue in cheek wit as you can by now probably tell).
On behalf of my family I would like to say thank you. Your condolences and lovely words have carried our family through this very tough time. My dad would have been so proud that you have all stepped up to support us.
We are so totally overwhelmed with the outpouring of grief that has been displayed and want to reach out to each and every one of you and offer comfort.
My dad was my hero, he is the example that I have held every man I have ever met up to and most have failed. He was my dad my friend, my inspiration and my strength and through this page I have been able to see that he was also these things to so many more people.
To all of you I offer my condolences for your loss, I never realised the hole that he would be leaving in your lives.
Thank you for being a part of his life. He valued every one of you and was so proud of his work here on this page.
December 6, 2016 ·
With Barry Lewis, Peter Nellies, Sharon Aylward, Paul Quilter Daley, Jan Wilson, Esther Mckay and Jeff Rey at Wests League Club.
July 11, 2016 ·
With Craig Campbell and Barry Lewis.
Evi Messer
March 8, 2016 ·
With Barry Lewis at Wests League Club.
July 11, 2016 ·
With Jeff Rey, Barry Lewis and Peter Nellies.
October 1, 2015 · Sultan Barry Lewis & his harem. Lucky bugger. with Barry Lewis and Gail Brooks.
March 19, 2018 ·
‘MEATHEAD’ Lewis. Operations Officer, 2 MP Company (ARA).
Lisa Ride
March 5, 2015 ·
Memories! My first day in the Army as a commissioned officer. I arrived at 2MP for my very first Dining In Night at the Ingleburn Area Officers Mess. I was pooping myself! The formality of it alll went out the window when Mr Vice stood up to toast the Queen. He raised a very unsteady glass and declared “God save the Queen and all those who sail in Her!” Major Hoban sat down and there was an unnerving silence in the room. I didn’t know what to do. Then the sound of hobnail boots clearly marching towards the entrance and in burst two immaculately presented MP Corporals who quietly and ever so efficiently whisked away Mr Vice. I never saw him again…… Ever. with Barry Lewis.
Working the Courts with Corrective Services NSW
Anger management
Donation to Greg & Bud Callander for a drought Hay run
Barry Lewis August 7 · Well, today is the 54th Wedding Anniversary of Linda and myself.We have been together since we were 15 and she has stuck by me through thick and thin. Always supportive, we have always been a Team.When I look back I realise now that I was a mere callow youth in the formative years of our relationship, but with her help and guidance I gradually matured into Manhood and Fatherhood.She may only be 4 foot 11 inches tall, but she is a force to be reckoned with when roused. I couldn’t imagine life without her. My Rock, my life, my love. I would do it all over again and never change a thing. XXX
For the love of family.
Barry Lewis September 23, 2013 · Me and my three Grandsons, Nick (17), Chris (14) and Jack (6).
Barry Lewis November 28, 2014 · Happy, carefree days painting with my beautiful Granddaughter Sam Jolly
18 December 2018 With Shaune Edwards, Udo Starkis, Barry Lewis and Greg Callander.
July 9, 2014 · Games time with Holly Beth in New Zealand. with Charlotte Grace Lewis-Surch and Barry Lewis.
Barry Lewis January 21, 2016 · Lovely surprise this afternoon, Eldest Grandson Nick called in on his way home from work to see his Gran and Pops.
August 7, 2015 · With Linda Lewis and Barry Lewis.
Awards
CANDLE CREST RIP
FUNERAL SERVICE
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Keith David BRADLEY
| 05/06/2020
Keith David BRADLEY
AKA TRACKA
Late of ?
NSW Police Cadet # 1946
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # “possibly” 106
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 11926
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Police Academy on Monday 11 May 1964 ( aged 16 years, 11 months, 15 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 15 May 1966 ( aged 19 years )
Constable – appointed 16 May 1967
Senior Constable – appointed 16 may 1975
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 9 March 1982
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Sergeant
Stations: Cadet: Traffic Office Mail Room, Darlinghurst Police Stn, Phillip St Police Stn,
Police Officer: Maroubra, Police Traffic Branch – Daceyville ( 15 Division ), Gosford ( 30 Division ), Chatswood ( 1983 / 84 ), Pymble, Woy Woy, Gosford ( again ) – most of his career, Wyong – Retirement
Service: From 11 May 1964to6 April 1995 = 30 years, 10 months, 26 days Service
Age at Retirement: 47 years, 10 months, 21 days
Years in Retirement: 24 years, 5 months, 3 days
Awards: National Medal – granted15 November 1982 ( SenCon )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 28 May 1992 ( Sgt )
NSW Police Medal with 4th Clasp – awarded in 2012
National Police Service Medal – awarded in 2016
the Certificate of Merit from the Royal Humane Society of NSW for Bravery as a result of his actions in the Rescue, on 10 January 1974, of a man from a cliff at North Avoca
Born: Friday 16 May 1947
Died on: Monday 9 September 2019
Age: 72 yrs 3 mths 24 days
Cause: Cancer
Event location: Wyong Hospital, NSW
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Wednesday 18 September 2019 @ 10.30am
Funeral location: Hillside Chapel, Palmdale Lawn Cemetery & Memorial Park, Palmdale Rd, Palmdale, NSW
Wake location: Ourimbah RSL
Funeral Parlour: Creightons – 02 4324 1533
Buried at: Buried next to Pauline – his 2nd wife
Memorial located at: ?
September 1992 – SenCon Larry Cook on left, ?, ?, ?, Kas Jankowski # 13283, ?, ?, Tracker Bradley on far right. ( Sgt 2/c ). Wild Cattle Creek State Forest Logging Demo west of Dorrigo. RIP Tracker.
KEITH is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Col ColmanThank you Noel Golledge for your fine and dedicated Service to your Community, and to the New a South Wales Police Force. You really did make a difference.
Special thank you for your assistance in assisting the Police Academy in supporting the production of the Police training film In the early 1980’s ” Fatal Accident Investigation” within the Penrith District. and also arranging a training week at Penrith Police Station for Academy Trainees during a week long train strike, with the assistance of Sergeant Tom Tilbrook.
Thank you Sir for your interest in the Training of young Police. Rest in Peace.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Friday 24 January 1958 (No.11), page 145
THE undermentioned member of the Police Force to exercise, within the Licensing District preceding his name, the authority conferred by section 63, subsection 1, of the Liquor Act, 1912 1954, from the date specified, viz.:—
Young.— Constable 1st Class Noel Godfrey Golledge, stationed at Harden, vice Senior Constable John Richard Cavanagh,— from 18th December, 1957.
There is mention that Noel wore an Army Combat Badge above his ribbons on his Police Uniform. The only possible reference I can find, at this time, is: On the WWII Roll – there is a Godfrey Noel GOLLEDGE, born 2 April 1924, who enlisted in the Army ( NX190850 (N440328)) on 7 May 1942 at Walcha, NSW and was Discharged on 7 March 1947. He nominated his NOK as Edward GOLLEDGE.
Did Noel lie about his age to join the Army? If so, he would of only have been 14 at the time.
The above Family Tree link shows that Noel Godfrey GOLLEDGE was one of 9 children to Edwin GOLLEDGE, Born & Died in Walcha, NSW. B: 1886 D: 1960 and wife Mary Isobel KEIGHTLEY Born & Died in Walcha, NSW. B: 1893 D: 1959.
GOLLEDGE, Noel Godfrey
Passed away 23rd July 2019
Husband of Teresa (dec) and Jo (dec).
Loved father and father-in-law of Ian & Aldene, Bruce & Lyn, Ross & Audrey, Janet & Glen.
Devoted Grandfather and Great grandfather.
Aged 93 years.
SMITH & RINKIN (FDA of NSW)
Accredited Funeral Directors (Bruce Smith JP Manager)
57 Murray Street Cootamundra Ph: 02 6942 1028
July 31, 2019
Treasure of a man to our society. Treasured by all who encountered him. A leader beyond his time; Noel was a gentleman and a gentle man whose kindness, devotion and love could never be surpassed. We all love you Uncle Noel and always will.
Carmel redrup (Garry), DALBY, Queensland
Published in The Northern Daily Leader on July 26, 2019
Brenton Holt ERKENS-GOSS
| 05/06/2020
Brenton Holt ERKENS-GOSS
AKA GOSSY
Late of ?
Victoria Police Academy Squad Class # 15/2016-17
Victoria Police Force
Regd. # 42447
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 12 May 2017
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Senior Constable
Stations: Williamstown, Hamilton, Portland Police Station – Drug Investigation – Death
Service: From12 May 2017?to28 June 2019 = 2+ years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: Sunday 12 April 1992 in Alice Springs, N.T.
Died on: Friday 28 June 2019 during the afternoon
Age: 27
Cause: Depression – Suicide – (method ?)
Event location: ?, Victoria
Event date: Friday 28 June 2019
Funeral date: Monday 8 July 2019 @ 1pm
Funeral location: Hamilton Performing Arts Centre, Victoria
Wake location: Hamilton Performing Arts Centre, Victoria
Funeral Parlour:
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial located at:
2009
Pete Erkens-Goss & Brenton ERKENS-GOSS
RIP Brenton Erkens-Goss, park runner A5840248, we will miss you ????????
15 February 2019
BRENTON is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Yesterday the #fightingptsdvicpol campaign was informed that one of our VicPol members had taken his own life in the afternoon.
Senior Constable Brenton Erkens-Goss, # 42447, of Hamilton Police Station ( Victoria ) hopefully you can now rest in peace.
Brenton represented Victoria Police and attended the inaugural World LGBT Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals in Amsterdam in 2017 .
Constable Brenton Erkens-Goss was one of more than 100 Victoria Police LGBTI Liaison Officers working to build rapport and trust with the LGBTI community and help tackle prejudice-motivated crimes and family violence.
Brenton was supportive in raising awareness for mental health issues, and he recently represented the Fighting PTSD VicPol campaign during the surf to surf running event in Warrnambool with his colleagues.
To his family and work mates, my sincere condolences. Please look after each other during this sad time.
I urge all members and retired veterans to please reach out to family, friends or any of your work colleagues before making that final decision.
Please everyone check in on each other and if anyone needs assistance please utilise the contact number on our website www.protectingtheprotectors.com
Brenton was born in Alice Springs 12 April 1992.
He always had a passion to join the police force after high school but was told he was to young and needed more experiences.
Soon, in 2009, he joined the SES in Rockhampton, Qld, before the family moved down south in 2010 and, there Brenton started with the SES in Mount Gambier, South Australia.
In 2013 while he was still waiting to join the Victoria Police Force, he applied for Protective Services Officer and graduated in squad 15 on September 2013 .
As a PSO, he worked in a few different places – such as Milton, Sunshine and out of the Victoria Police Centre training new PSO‘s.
Finally he joined VicPol and enlisted at the Victoria Police Academy in Squad 15 2016/17 of which he was a Deputy Guard Leader for the Squad’s Graduation day – that being on Friday 12 May 2017.
Brenton worked in Williamstown and then Hamilton before finally going to the drug investigation unit in Portland, Victoria until his death.
Brenton remained with the SES right up until he died, aged 27.
Brenton will be sorely missed by his family and many, many friends.
Police praise officer’s work in forging relationships with LGBTIQ community
30 Jun 2019
Senior Victorian police have praised the work local officer Brenton Erkens-Goss made to forging relationships between the police and the LGBTIQ+ communities following the officer’s unexpected death.
Constable Erkens-Goss passed away on Friday, he took his own life. Prior to joining the Victorian Police, Erkens-Goss had worked as a Protective Service Officer.
Assistant Commissioner Neil Paterson, who is also the executive champion of Victorian Police Pride, praised the contribution First Constable Erkens-Goss made to building relationships between the police and LGBTIQ+ community.
“Brenton was a member of VP Pride and was a proud and out gay man who was truly valued by his work colleagues and the community he served.
“Prior to graduating as a sworn member on 12 May 2017, Brenton spent a number of years as a PSO where his enthusiasm for policing shone through. Brenton was part of the Victoria Police contingent that attended the first World LGBT+ Criminal Justice Professionals Conference in Amsterdam in August 2016.” Assistant Commissioner Neil Paterson said.
“As a member of the local Hamilton community, Brenton made many friends both at the station and in the community.”
Western Region Superintendent Glenn Owen echoed the praise for the officer.
“Brenton worked at Hamilton uniform and was recognised for his investigative talents, recently being selected to work at the Portland Tasking Team. His supervisors and work friends describe him as a highly competent, intelligent and enthusiastic member who was destined to become a detective. Brenton was also well respected in the local community and volunteered as a member of the SES.” Superintendent Owen said.
As one of 100 officers in the Victorian Police trained as a Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer Constable Erkens-Goss had previously shared his thoughts on the program with east-coast LGBTIQ publication Star Observer.
It has been stated, by family, that Brenton was at his grandmothers 90th birthday party on the previous Sunday and there was simply “no hint” of what was to happen on the proceeding Friday.
It simply leaves you wondering, for the rest of your life, what you could have possibly done to prevent this suicide if there were no, apparent, obvious signs.
Suicidal thoughts are very silent so if you know someone who suffers with depression, tread carefully with how you treat them.
Andrew Goss
20 hrs ·
Over recent times, I didn’t see much of my nephew, Brenton Holt… life gets away from us all.
The older we get – the busier we are.
Life changes and there are more things that take up our time, more layers to our lives.
Just because you don’t see each other as often as you’d like, doesn’t mean you love them any less.
The last time I saw Brenton was last weekend for his Grandma’s 90th Birthday lunch and I am most grateful for that.
He was happy.
Talkative.
He looked well.
We spoke a lot of our roles in the operational field and ‘compared notes’ on “cells procedures” and the strange things we’d both seen.
We laughed????
A lot!!
He told me how much he was enjoying the job and the people he worked with.
I’d never seen Brenton so settled.
I simply did not realise, mate.
I just didn’t see it – at all.
However, I am now reminded again that every day is not a given.
It’s not guaranteed.
If anything, we all need to learn from this.
Check in on your loved ones.
Often.
Then…. they know.
They’re not alone.
To Jessy, Tony, Monica, Steve, Mel, Cathy , Wayne & Daniel, Michael & Pete…. my love and thoughts. No one is ever prepared for this so, look out for each other always.
R.I.P. Brenton ????
You will be missed by so many.????
Victoria Police LGBTI Liaison Officer Senior Constable Brenton Erkens-Goss took his own life on Friday.
One of over 100 Victoria Police LGBTI Liaison Officers, Brenton worked diligently to tackle prejudice-motivated crimes and family violence.
Further, he worked to build rapport and trust with the LGBTI community.
The loss of the officer came about because he ‘tragically succumbed to his inner demons,’ according to a Facebook post.
Last night, Senior Constable Ben Bjarnesen posted on Facebook about the loss.
Ben is Coordinator of the Queensland Police Service LGBTI Support Network.
Absolutely devastated to learn tonight that one of our friends and colleagues from Victoria Police, Brenton Erkens-Goss took his own life yesterday.
He was such a great guy and will be dearly missed by many. Rest In Peace brother.
Fellow Police pay tribute to Senior Constable Brenton Erkens-Goss
Also, in a touching tribute to their colleague, Cop Humour Australia spoke on the loss of Brenton.
“We have received heartbreaking news that Senior Constable Brenton Erkens-Goss of Hamilton Police Station in Victoria tragically succumbed to his inner demons and took his own life yesterday afternoon.
“Brenton was a long time follower and supporter of Cop Humour Australia, which makes this even harder for us. We wish we could have done more for him, or done more to raise mental health awareness and encourage Brenton to seek help.
“Nevertheless, we hope that Brenton is now at peace.”
The page also praised Brenton’s support in raising awareness for mental health issues.
“He recently represented the Fighting PTSD Vicpol campaign during a surf to surf running event in Warrnambool with his colleagues.
“As one of the Victoria Police LGBTI Liaison Officers, Brenton worked hard to build rapport and trust with the LGBTI community, and helped tackle prejudice-motivated crimes.
“Brenton also represented Victoria Police and attended the inaugural World LGBT Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals in Amsterdam in 2017.
“From what we’ve heard and been told — Brenton was a great copper and an even greater friend, and will be missed terribly by many.
“Our sincere condolences go out to Brenton’s family, colleagues, and friends.”
The post then spoke of the importance of seeking assistance.
“Please look after one another during this devastating time.
“If you’re feeling down, please speak to someone — reach out to family, a friend, a colleague, anyone.
“When it comes to the #ThinBlueLine you never fight any fight alone, your blue family will always be there to support you.
“Rest In Peace friend and colleague, for the sun has now set. We will remember.”
Police Liaison Officers
Despite continual progress the relationship between our communities and the police is at times difficult.
However, we must remain mindful of the valuable service provided by LGBTIQ Liaison officers across the country.
If you need someone to talk to, help is available from QLife on 1800 184 527 or online at QLife.org.au, Lifeline on 13 11 14, or beyondblue on 1300 22 4636.
CONSTABLE Brenton Erkens-Goss is hoping to do himself out of a job.
As one of more than 100 Victoria Police LGBTI Liaison Officers (GLLOs), Const Erkens-Goss imagines a future without the need for specialised support – where there is no difference and everyone is treated equally “as a person”.
“We’re not quite there yet but we’re definitely gaining ground,” he says.
After dreaming of becoming a police officer from a young age, Const Erkens-Goss now works to ensure LGBTI interactions with Victoria Police are always fair and respectful.
“Everyone deserves to be treated equally and be able to live in their own skin without having to hide who they truly are,” he says.
The force’s relationship with LGBTI communities hit rock bottom in the Tasty nightclub in 1994. Officers detained 463 patrons for seven hours, subjecting them to strip and cavity searches.
In 2014 then-Acting Chief Commissioner Lucinda Nolan formally apologised; ushering in a new era of policing to rebuild and regain trust.
Const Erkens-Goss says it was hard to hear about the disturbing raid as part of the Academy’s training, but ultimately it was indicative of a different time and a different Victoria Police.
“Originally when I was training as a Protective Services Officer, I hid it (being gay) but now the Academy is very, very supportive,” he says.
The Academy has an LGBTI Student Network and Const Erkens-Goss’ endeavours to implement his learnings from the inaugural World LGBT Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals in Amsterdam to increase inclusiveness among members.
“Victoria Police has definitely changed in the past two years,” he says, ahead of his graduation from the Constable Qualifying Program.
“Some people have never been friends with someone who is LGBTI and (they can have an attitude that comes from) ignorance or fear. It’s hard but if you have a conversation with them they become much more understanding.”
Out in the community, that understanding is also making a real difference to people’s lives.
“In one case recently I helped a trans teenager who was experiencing family violence from her father who was withholding her medication,” Const Erkens-Goss explains.
“I mediated with her dad and helped them get counselling. Her father simply misunderstood how his daughter was feeling and didn’t understand what she was experiencing, through specialised counselling this has educated him.”
But under-reporting of prejudice-motivated crimes and family violence, especially from older LGBTI victims, still concerns Const Erkens-Goss and the LGBTI liaison officers, who can informally discuss concerns, assist through the reporting process or help advise other police colleagues.
Const Erkens-Goss says Victoria Police’s involvement in events like Pride and Midsumma is far from tokenism, and shows the organisation celebrates diversity and is respectful and there to help.
“If someone asked me about joining Victoria Police I’d say ‘go for it!’ Victoria Police is an inclusive organisation with a lot of career progression.”
Hopefully, for Const Erkens-Goss that progression includes a spot in the ranks of the sought-after Dog Squad and the eventual retirement of his LGBTI liaison badge as the blue line becomes just another part of the rainbow.
Portland pair remanded in custody charged with drug trafficking
Jessica Howard
Police have seized quantities of ice, cannabis and heroin during a raid at a Portland property where a child was present.
Portland police Sergeant Martin Flannery said specialist units and uniform members executed search warrants at properties in Portland’s Wellington Road and Patrick Street in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Police allegedly forced their way into the Wellington Road house after the occupants failed to open the door.
A search of the premises revealed three syringes loaded with methylamphetamine and blood, three green lasers, quantities of a white crystal substance believed to be ice and two white iPhones containing significant drug trafficking conversations.
Police also located inside a vehicle several ziplock bags containing ice, 16 grams of cannabis on top of a child’s baby seat, three digital scales, 6.5 grams of heroin, used needles and $350 cash believed to be the proceeds of crime.
A total of 6.96 grams of ice was found inside the house and vehicle.
Sergeant Flannery said a young child was present at the time of the raid. He said the child’s mother and a man were arrested at the scene.
“This is a real concern for us, the exposure of young children to that sort of lifestyle is very alarming,” he said.
Andrew Ryan, 31, and Bronwyn Noku, 35, of Wellington Road, appeared in Warrnambool Magistrates Court on Thursday.
Mr Ryan made no application for bail and was remanded in custody until June 17.
Court documents obtained by The Standard revealed Ms Noku had admitted to buying 3.5 grams of ice to sell weekly. She told police she sold one point of ice for $50.
Magistrate Franz Holzer said Ms Noku had failed to show compelling reasons why she should be released and remanded her in custody. She will appear in court the same day as Mr Ryan.
Sergeant Flannery said the Wellington Street property had been an address of interest for some time.
“Action was taken on Wednesday as a result of information received from the community, which added to our significant amount of intelligence suggesting there was a high level of drug trafficking occurring at that house,” he said.
“This is an example of the public’s good work in assisting us to remove this sort of offending from our town. Getting these drugs off the streets reduced the harm on the community.
“This has been an ongoing investigation conducted by the Southern Grampians divisional tasking team, with the warrants executed with the assistance of Portland and Hamilton crime investigation units and Portland uniform members. It has been a really positive, team effort.
“The Southern Grampians divisional tasking team has a strong focus on minimising the harm of drugs in the community. We will act on any information and use the full extent of the law deal with it.
“Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers or myself, Brenton Erkens-Goss and Victoria Hudson at Portland police station.”
Twenty-three years after the Tasty nightclub storm, the rainbow which emerged is only getting more vivid at Victoria Police.
On paper, Constable Brenton Erkens-Goss has the perfect background to serve the community. He’s volunteered with the State Emergency Service as a road crash rescuer and has spent countless hours talking to and helping commuters as a Protective Services Officer (PSO).
But policing is about more than just what appears on paper.
“I came out to my family when I was 21 when I had my first relationship,” he said.
“They’ve always been supportive and there was a bit of ‘yeah, we know’ when I told people.”
As one of more than 100 Victoria Police Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and gender diverse and Intersex (LGBTI) Liaison Officers (also known as GLLOs), Const Erkens-Goss uses his personal experience to provide specialised support to a community which still struggles with a high level of under-reporting crime.
“In one case recently I helped a transgender teenager who was experiencing family violence from her father who was withholding her medication,” he explained.
“I mediated with her dad and helped them get counselling.
“Her father simply misunderstood how his daughter was feeling and didn’t understand what she was experiencing, through specialised counselling this has educated him.
“I strongly believe that everyone deserves to be treated equally and be able to live in their own skin without having to hide who they are.”
Victoria Police’s relationship with LGBTI communities hit rock bottom at the Tasty nightclub in 1994, when officers detained 463 patrons for seven hours and subjected them to strip and cavity searches.
In 2014, then-Acting Chief Commissioner Lucinda Nolan formally apologised; ushering in a new era of policing to rebuild and regain trust.
Const Erkens-Goss said it was hard to hear about the disturbing raid as part of the Victoria Police Academy’s training, but ultimately it was indicative of a different time and a different Victoria Police.
“Victoria Police has definitely changed,” he said.
“After the Tasty nightclub, the LGBTI Liaison Officer program was implemented to help build rapport and also to have trained and experienced liaison officers to be there to support victims of crime who may identify as LGBTI (to either sit in an interview, take a statement or investigate hate crime) but also as a knowledge bank to other members who may need some assistance.”
Const Erkens-Goss said Victoria Police’s involvement in events like Pride and Midsumma was far from tokenism, and shows the organisation celebrates diversity and is respectful and there to help.
The Academy also has an LGBTI Student Network and Const Erkens-Goss is working to implement his learnings from the inaugural World LGBT Conference for Criminal Justice Professionals in Amsterdam to increase inclusiveness among members.
“I always wanted to be a police officer,” he said.
“To get some practical experience of the realities of the job I worked as a road crash rescuer, which was very challenging but rewarding.”
Const Erkens-Goss also paced the train platforms as a PSO, which he said was great for gathering intel and helping people, before graduating from the Constable Qualifying Program.
And while it’s still early days, he hopes the next stage in his career is retirement – of his GLLO badge, when the need for specialised support is no longer required.
“We’re not quite there yet,” he said. “But we’re definitely gaining ground.”
Image: Const Erkens-Goss at the Police Academy.
Editorial: Anthea Cannon
Photography: John Pallot
GLLO/LGBTI Liaison Officers
Victoria Police has a network of liaison officers (GLLOs) who provide advice to other police and the community.
The group has more than 100 GLLOs who also attend community events and build relationships with youth and LGBTI networks.
