Brett leaves behind his wife Debbie of 35 years and 3 children; Mel, Nathan (deceased) and Matt. He also leaves behind 6 grandchildren; Harry, Bella, Jack, Ruby, Layla and Liam.
Brett’s brother Scott is also a serving Police officer with Goulburn HWP.
Brett was also a Retained Fire Fighter with NSWF & R at 305 Station ( Goulburn ) for a while.
FERGUSON, Brett Ronald – passed away peacefully on the 6th September 2018.
Late of Dewhirst Street Goulburn.
Very much loved husband of Debbie.
Cherished & loved father & father in law of Mel & James, Nathan (dec) and Matthew.
Adored pop of Harry, Bella, Jack, Ruby, Layla, Liam.
Loved brother & brother in law of Scott & Tanya, Lesley & Tony & their families.
Loved son of Ron (dec) & Ena.
Aged 56 years.
“Forever in our hearts “
Brett’s relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral service at NSW Police Academy Chapel, McDermott Drive Goulburn commencing at 11.30am, Wednesday 12th September 2018.
Following the funeral service the cortege will proceed to the Lawn Cemetery Goulburn for Interment.
Flags at Half Mast for the funeral of Brett Ronald FERGUSON
Brett Ronald FERGUSON & his son Matt
Brett Ronald FERGUSON in Fiji
October 9, 2018
Debbie Ferguson, Goulburn, New South Wales
LIGHT A
CANDLE
October 9, 2018
Matt Ferguson
October 9, 2018
Matt Ferguson
October 9, 2018
Matt Ferguson
October 9, 2018
Matt Ferguson, Goulburn
LIGHT A
CANDLE
September 11, 2018
Shane Hunter, Queensland
LIGHT A
CANDLE
September 11, 2018
Brett your the mate that nothing is or was a problem. Your taken way to early before your time. Now you can start to humor every one that you meet in you new journey that your now taking. RIP bro until we meet again and have fun like the night at Tully Park out the front when we were awaiting Deb to pick us up. See you soon best friend. xxx
McKINNON
Harold Peter (Harry)
31.01.1947 – 26.08.2018Harry Peter McKinnon was born in Sydney 31.01.1947. An identical twin to brother Sidney who passed away at the early age of 6. He grew up in Seven Hills with brothers Paul, Danny, Terry, Anthony, and sister Ann. Harry was the eldest of 6 and went to Seven Hill’s Primary School and completed High School at Seven Hill High.
Harry left home at an early age and within a short time, took up a position within the NSW Police Department as a Public Servant at the age of 17. The Police Department was to become a major part of his life spending 43 years on the job in which he held high level positions across Sydney Metro Area. Harry also completed a Bachelor of Law Juris Doctor at Sydney University and passed the bar to become a Barrister.
Harry married Maree and soon after saw the birth of their only child Matthew in 1978, who survives Harry and cared for him for the later years of his life.
Harry received numerous accolades and awards during his time in the NSW Police Service. He also devoted 25 plus years, working in the service of the community in the positions of Director and then further along, President of the Five Dock RSL Club.
Harry was an admired and well respected member of the community who would always go out of his way to help others. He was witty, humorous, intelligent and enigmatic. Harry’s infectious character drew people to him his whole life. Even until the very end, all that encountered him, loved his unique sense of humour, his cheeky smile and witty rebuttal’s. Harry was much loved by friends and family and will be terribly missed.
Aged 71 Years
The relatives and friends of Harry are invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held in the South Chapel of Rookwood Gardens Crematorium, Memorial Avenue on FRIDAY (31st August 2018). Appointed to commence at 2.30 pm.
Published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Aug. 29, 2018
30 Division ( Gosford ) Police Touch Football team ( early 1980’s ) L to R REAR: Gary Jackson, Neil Dell, Gary Lambert ( RIP ), Garry Stillaway, Ray Chambers FRONT: Peter Flint, Keith ‘Tracker’ Bradley, Howard ‘Howie’ Fortis & Ted Albury
TED is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
Funeral location:
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
The memories this brings back, one of the many tales about the old Sandstone Police Station at Gosford was that Ted Albury was meticulous about signing the many pads that were in existence in those days.
His standard signature was “Noted E.G. Albury“.
A few fellows who shall remain nameless took it upon themselves to reproduce that signature on every piece of paper that existed in the Station.
Noted E.G.Albury was cropping up on files all around the State and was strongly rumoured to have been seen on the back of a calendar hanging in the Commissioners Office.
The camaraderie and fellowship which existed amongst the troops in those days will forever remain in my memories.
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 18 February 1996
Senior Constable
Stations: ?, Redfern – 7 Division ( 160297 – 100503 ), Wollongong – 82 Division ( 110503 to death ) was also ‘on loan’ to Lake Illawarra – 79 Division – Final Station – but still attached to Wollongong LAC
Service: From 18 February 1996 to 10 June 2018= 22+years Service
Awards: NSW Police Medal – granted 13 February 2007
Commendation for Brave Conduct – granted 25 August 2008
National Medal – granted 14 July 2014
National Police Service Medal – granted 26 October 2016
Born: 8 June 1965
Died on: Sunday 10 June 2018
Age: 53 ( he stayed to celebrate his birthday with family )
Cause: Cancer – stomach ( diagnosed in 2015 )
Event location: Home – with family
Event date: Sunday 10 June 2018
Funeral date: Friday 15 June 2018 @ 11am ( Full Police Funeral )
Funeral location: The Salvation Army Hall, 13 Burelli St, Wollongong
Funeral Parlour: Parson’s Funerals, Wollongong
Wake 1: A small Wake will happen at the Hall after the funeral
Wake 2: A Police Wake will happen at the Fraternity Hall, Princes Hwy, Fairy Meadow, from 1pm – food organised by Mr Craner, Commander, Wollongong LAC
Buried at: ?TBA
Memorial located at: ?
2014
[alert_blue]SAUSAGE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue] * NOT JOB RELATED
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Funeral location:
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
It was Rob’s wish to be at home and with his family. It was also his wish to share this prepared post:
” The problem when suddenly faced with your own mortality is timing. Initially, you think you have no time to do everything you planned to do with your life.
Then you think you have plenty of time. Time to tell people the important things. How much you love them. How much they mean to you.
Now arrived the time when the newest scare returns. It’s been a few weeks coming, but now I know it’s the real thing, the real McCoy.
It’s now not a matter of timing, I know there’s none left.
I won’t tell you not to be sad, because if it were any of you, I’d be sad. just know that I’m at ease and have come to terms with it.
You just need to know, my life has been better for having you in it. I draw great comfort from your friendship, your kindness, and your love. Simply put, my life is better for having known you. “
Rob Sasagi.
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Sausage was such a loved part of Illawarra Policing that when is plight became known, his Blue Family, blood family, his friends and businesses came out of the woodwork in March 2016 to raise much needed, and very much appreciated, funds which enabled Sausage and his family to fulfil their bucket list and spend that quality family time together in which to make life time memories for the family.
May Sausage forever Rest In eternal Peace.
Cal
2014 – Police Football
2014
2014
2015 – Sausages 50th birthday
2011 Mr. T
2008 – Joel, Sausage & Stacee
2017 – Sausage & Lawrence Drury
Feb 2018
Feb 2018
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An insight of a man fighting Cancer
9 February 2018
This is Robs latest post ????????
Okey dokey, my long delayed update and promised anniversary summary. Perusing my last update I mentioned upcoming surgery which took place near the end of November. Day surgery turned into major surgery and to say I was a little miffed when I woke up with tubes out of most orifices would be an understatement. It made for a miserable December, being for the most part bedridden. Beginning of January signalled a slow turnaround of sorts. Things still aren’t great but there is some improvement. In the immortal words of Tim Rogers, ‘I’m thinner than I should be’, tipping the scales at a whopping 70 kilos. I’m still vomiting although not on the previous scale. I’m limited on the volume of food my body will allow me to eat. The amount of muscle wastage still has me weak as a kitten but I’m better than I was. In short, I’m slowly getting stronger. It’s a very long road but I’m ALIVE, a subject I’ll address in a moment. Prior to my trip to New Zealand I had to obtain the all clear from my Oncologist which was timed with scans, being end of January. Result of scans was again positive. Big boy is still unchanged and secondaries are either the same or have shrunk a bit. In a nutshell, the Clinical trial is working a treat. What we need now is the rest of the body to play ball, but as the Oncologist said, with all that’s happened to it, it’s a wonder it functions at all. Like me, my body is too stupid to know when it’s beat. We’ll see. Alrighty!!! Funnily enough surgery time coincided with the prognosis anniversary, 2 years since the news was broken to us. I’m long since supposed to have left this mortal coil, so to say I’m pleased with myself would be another understatement. I’m not given to bouts of braggadocio but I will allow myself this one. Given what I’ve been forced to endure, especially this last 9 months a serious “Fuck you Cancer” is in order. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. If not for my family and friends, I can honestly say I would have given up the ghost a long time ago. I know you say I’m strong but there have been many many quiet moments when it’s all seemed hopeless. Sometimes it’s like I’m sending out a telepathic signal, because around that time someone wants to meet up and chat. There are a lot of you, too numerous to mention but I feel I must at least name and shame my serial pests. Shannon Arnold , Scott Nicholls , Dean Richens , you three in varying degrees have kept on me, drawing me away from all my vain attempts at self pity. I’ll have my revenge upon you, just you wait. One day you’ll want to feel sorry for yourself and I’ll be there to lift you up. Aaah, vengance be mine. Mention must be made to NSW Police Force, Wollongong Local Area Command. The amount of care and compassion I’ve received has been completely humbling. All staff at Wollongong, downstairs to upstairs have been nothing short of magnificent. The admin staff have pretty much taken care of everything for me, nothing is too hard. Life is so much easier with my blue family in my corner. Coming up. Well since I managed NZ my next target is Bali in March with serial pests Shannon Arnold , Stew Art , and Scott Nicholls. Should be a quiet one. Next is Uluru in May. My crazy wife Kathryn Bailey is doing the Larapinta track walk for ‘Chris O’Brien Lifehouse ‘ which is 5 days. We’ll meet her up there and take her poor exhausted body back to Uluru and a bit of resort living for a few days. Phew!! Still here. So, here I am, over two years down the track. Still alive and kicking despite the best efforts of this miserable disease. I’ll admit it, there’s been very hard times, times which make you question everything and whether it’s worth it and times you’re ready to give up. As they say in The Shawshank Redemption (mine and pretty much every mans favourite movie), “Get busy living or get busy dying.” I think I’m managing both quite well thank you very much. Well, if you silly buggers are still here for the ride, then I may as well stick around for a bit longer. Talk to you all later.
Rob Sasagi
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Robert SASAGI Memorial Cup. 2019
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PHOTO’s FROM THE FUNERAL
All photos, on this website, are 2meg in size. If you want any particular photo up to 32meg in size, simply contact Cal
CANDLE CREST RIP
CANDLE CREST RIP
CANDLE CREST RIP
CANDLE CREST RIP
CANDLE CREST RIP
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FUNERAL DETAILS
As you all should know, Rob passed away on Sunday and we are in the process of organising his Funeral. Below is some background admin for your information.
There will be an Official Nemeses message sent soon.
For your information Mr Craner was able to organise a Promotion for Rob and that is why he is now a Senior Constable, which is a great result. Rob will be in uniform.
This will be a full Police Funeral. Dress for Police attending is Court uniform with Leather jacket, tie and Large Medals. Commission officers are aware of their uniform.
Funeral for the Late Serving Officer – Senior Constable Robert Sasagi
11am, Friday 15th June 2018
The Salvation Army Hall,
13 Burelli St, Wollongong.
I need a minimum of 20 and no more 30 Uniform Police for Marching Escort Duties. This is the Escort that marches in front of Rob when he is leaving the Salvation Army Hall in the Hearse.
Rehearsals are 9.30am to 9.50am at the Salvation Army Hall. If you wish to do this Duty, which is a very honourable duty can you please get back to me, by email, SMS me, or call me.
Bob Minns Ph. 0439070265
TIMINGS
8.30am, Rehearsals for Pall Bearers
9.30am to 9.50am, Rehearsals for Marching Escort. (Marching Escort contingent will be given time to make it back from the Hall to the Police Station to be involved in the large march done)
10am, Police in uniform meet at Wollongong Police Station. (it would be great to have a minimum of 50 police marches please)
10.15am. March from Wollongong Police Station, leaving from Court Lane, marching to the Salvation Army Hall. I will be guiding you to the Hall (We will be asking Mr Worboys & Mr Barrie to thank the marching Police)
10.25-30am, Police marchers arrive at Hall and may be met and thanked by a Family member for attending. (Rob’s wife Kath really wants to see police marching down Burelli Street in respect of Rob)
10.30am, Rob will leave from Parsons Funeral Directors under VIP escort to the Hall
10.35-40am, Rob will arrive,
11am, all Family, friends, Police and Community inside the Hall. (500 seats available and room for 500 standing.)
11am, Police Pall Bearers will bring Rob into the Hall.
11am to 11.40-12mdService for the late Senior Constable Rob Sasagi.
12md Marching Escort move out of the Hall prior to the completion of service.
12md, Pall Bearers bring Rob out of the Hall.
12md All persons who want to be involved in the Guard of Honour are to leave the hall after Rob is taken out and set themselves up on both sides of the Road east of the Hall towards WIN Stadium.
At the completion of the Rob’s Funeral Service there will be a small ‘Wake’ at the Salvation Army Hall.
From 1pm, the Police ‘Wake’ at the Fraternity Club, Princes Hwy, Fairy Meadow. Food is being catered for by Wollongong PD and thanks to our Commander Mr Craner for organising this part.
The Pall Bearers (Carrying Rob’s Coffin) will be his good friends Scott Nicholls, Stewart Arnold, Dean Ritchie, Heath Rhind, Brett Sergeant, Martin Miller, Darren Martin and Haydon Govers.
Others roles are given to Jason Hogan, Shannon Arnold and Vicky Elliott and myself.
For your information Jason Hogan and Ben Buffett from PANSW visited Kath today and passed over the $100,000 Police Provident Fund money and the $15,000 PANSW Funeral assistance money.
Two PANSW Trust Funds have also been set up for Rob & Kath’s children, Grace and Elliott.
Firstly our Commander Mr Craner has organised Police from Lake & Far South Coast to help us with numbers so Wollongong Police who were on night work can now attend the Funeral.
Police who are working on the day (Friday day shift) and want to go to the Funeral or who are happy to stay at the Station and cover positions for those police who want to attend, please talk with Sergeant Scott Rickard who is supervising on the day shift.
We have a Traffic Plan in place and I thank Andrew Cotton and the Wollongong Council for doing this.
Due to time frames can you please pass this information on to other police who are in your group/team, send it out to police who no longer work here or who have left the “Job‘ put it on Face Book. Tell family and friends. We need to get the information out please.
Please any questions call me.
All the best
Sgt Bob Minns
Ph.0439070265
Tue 12 June 2018
via Cal
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‘True gentleman’: Much-loved Wollongong cop Robert Sasagi dies
Cydonee Mardon
Police officer Robert Sasagi knew his time had run out. He’d had ups and downs during his three-year cancer battle, but this time it was the real thing, the “Real McCoy”.
He’d known it for a few weeks. He wrote it down in a post he asked his wife Kath to share once he had gone.
The much-loved Wollongong cop died on Sunday, but not before spending one last birthday on Friday with his wife and children. And not before his NSW Police Force colleagues showed one last sign of respect.
Wollongong commander Superintendent Chris Craner paid a personal visit to Constable Sasagi’s bedside in Austinmer on Friday to deliver news he had been promoted to senior constable.
Supt Craner said Rob was considered a “senior mentor for the troops”, had worked as a senior investigator and deserved the promotion.
The boss made a special application to NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller and had it approved post-haste.
”It’s an emotional time for his family and colleagues and it’s important that he was appropriately recognised,” Supt Craner told the Mercury.
Word of the senior constable’s death spread quickly, with tributes flowing from police and members of the broader community.
A keen footy player, the Wollongong Police Falcons said the world had lost one of its greats.
“He will be remembered as the true gentleman that he was and one of the toughest blokes I know to pull on a Falcons jersey,” the club said.
A career highlight was Rob’s 2014 commendation for brave conduct. Whilst off-duty, he witnessed a man clutch a bloodied arm on a passenger train. He disarmed the offender and detained her until on-duty police arrived.
According to his wife Kath, Rob wanted to spend his last days at home and she felt lucky his wish came true. She shared on Facebook the post he had prepared.
“The problem when suddenly faced with your own mortality is timing,” he wrote.
On the job: Senior Constable Rob Sasagi during a major drug raid in December 2016. The popular police officer died on Sunday. Picture: Robert Peet
“Initially, you think you have no time to do everything you planned to do with your life. Then you think you have plenty of time. Time to tell people the important things … Now arrives the time when the newest scare returns.
“It’s not a matter of timing, I know there’s none left. I won’t tell you not to be sad, because if it were any of you, I’d be sad. Just know that I’m at ease and have come to terms with it.”
Tributes
Constable Robert Sasagi was presented with a bravery award in 2005 after he disarmed a woman with a knife who had just stabbed someone on a train.
So sad RIP you died a hero to humanity. Janet Selby, Albion Park
Dear Rob. It saddens me to hear that you are no longer with us mate, but I am releaved that you are now at peace. I will miss our morning discussions about our belovered Parramatta Eels. In those famous Pellegrini words ‘usual coffee Rob’ I will endeavour to continue this legacy in your honour mate. Always remembered. Denis & Dave, (Bar Pellegrini) Keiraville
Our lives are so much enhanced having had you on that jouney as a workmate more importantly as a bloody great friend and human being. Sincere condolences to all your family. You were so brave, may you rest in eternal peace my friend. Paul Davidson Primbee
Thank you for all that you did for our region. My thoughts are with your loved ones. Mandy Mt Warrigal
Our Thoughts are with Robert and his Family. We are all proud and grateful for Roberts service in the force. May he rest in peace and watch over us in another life ❤ Alex Breslin, Coniston
RIP MATE, AND BIG THANK U TO ALL MEN IN BLUE SAM, WARILLA
You were a terrific mentor to the junior troops. RIP Good man. Vito Gaudiosi, Dapto
I remember when he got the bravery award in 2005. Well deserved, but that was Rob. Worked GDs with him a few times. Will be sadly missed Dave M, Figtree
A true gentleman and a genuine man. It was a pleasure to know you and work alongside you. You will be missed Sausage. Fly high xx Sharon Johnson, Nichols Hunter Valley
I didn’t know you but as a retired cop, I dip my hat to you…..RIP Spike McCallum, North Avoca Beach
Sad news. prayers to all family members. John Stephenson, Tarrawanna
Blessed are Gods children go in peace.He will always protect his family from cop Heaven Susan Caruana, Ipswich Queensland.
Oh Rob! Pete Theodore, Woonona
A brave protector gone to rest !! Sleep in peace in His arms and suffer no more Vincent de Vos, Oak Flats
RIP Rob. A great shamrock lost. A pleasure to have had u as mate Adam Potter, Shamrocks
A good man Norman, Woonona
Had the pleasure of working with Rob at Redfern many years ago always a bright light whatever shade the rest of the world seemed. Thanks Rob Barry Wright, Ulladulla
Hi Kathy…..very sorry indeed to hear of your loss Dic Morgan, Camden Town, London
So sad and so proud. Loved your family and loyal to your brother and sisters in arms. Uncle Fraser, Sue and Paris Perth, Western Australia
You were a top bloke and you will be missed. Rest easy mate Aiden, Dapto
RIP Robert xx Jo. Mahssen, Shell cove
Nephew you are now at the card table in the sky with our beloved aiga who have passed. Keep an eye on their sleight of hand eh? Alofa atu Aunty Tina Aunty Tina, Melbourne
Malo le tau. Malo le toa. Manuia lau malaga Robert. Alofa atu julienne and ted. Julienne Johnston, Hillsborough
Deepest sympathy to your family. Thank you for all you did. Heather Tweedie, Coffs Harbour
I understand the feeling which is close to my heart. Lovely too get to do these things. Thinking of you and your family. Maureen Stephenson, Woonona
Fate whispers to the Warrior, ” You can not withstand the Storm” The Warrior Whispers back I am The Storm; you will be sadly missed my cousin, but never forgotten, Arohanui. Ringo Rissetto,West Auckland, New Zealand
Alofa atu Rob, e manuia lou malaga Rest in Love Michael Mau’u, Glen Eden New Zealand
Rest in Peace and Love Cuz Robert. Timu. Auvaa .Tito, Blacktown
The world will be a quieter place without your smile, heart and friendship, you were a true Argonaut in my life thank you for your freindship. Doug Ringhoff, NSW
May you rest in peace my old Redfern mate. Loved your sense of humour & everything about you. Fly high my friend. Lesley Townsend, Redfern
Family mourns dedicated Wangaratta police officer, father and ‘lovable idiot’ Gavin Frew
Shana Morgan
The death of Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew has devastated his family and Wangaratta police colleagues who always found joy in his unique ways.
He had been stationed with the Wangaratta Highway Patrol in recent years after moving to the region from Horsham, but died this week.
Daughter Kaycee Frew said her father was her best friend.
“He was a loving husband, an amazing father and a lovable idiot to all,” she said.
“His many years of service in the Victoria police brought joy to the people who worked with him – the hole left in our lives is deep and painful.”
Leading Senior Constable Frew was known for his dedication to the job and sense of humour, but also suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Ms Frew described him as her “sad clown” and wanted to make him the face of the disorder within Victoria Police. His death comes as Police Remembrance Day will be commemorated on September 29.
Superintendent Paul O’Halloran said messages of sympathy for the loss of Leading Senior Constable Frew had come from the Border region and from Horsham.
“He was always quite vocal around the building … it’s had a really significant impact,” he said.
“We’re shocked and saddened. Gavin was a well-liked and very well-respected member of the Wangaratta Highway Patrol and he’s also really well known across the force.”
Horsham-based friend Michael Ryan said Leading Senior Constable Frew was loved by all.
“He was a gorgeous young man. It was very hard to not like him, even as a copper. He was just good to people,” he said.
“There was nothing about him that was evil or mean.”
Mr Ryan knew Mr Frew through their mutual involvement with Horsham Saints Football Netball Club.
“Gavin came from a fantastic family – really good community-minded people,” he said.
“He was really good policeman. It takes a bit of skill and nous to be good at the job and still be at peace with your community, but he was both. We could do with a lot more people like him.”
A service for Leading Senior Constable Frew will be held in Wangaratta next week.
If you or anyone you know needs help, support is available by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Date of birth: 26 March, 1969 Date of passing: 23 September, 2017
FREW – Gavin John
(Late of Mt Bruno and formerly of Horsham)
Tragically taken too soon on Saturday September 23, 2017 aged 48 years.
Soulmate and best friend to Rebecca, Brendan, Jemma and Kaycee.
Beloved son of Neil and Maree and son-in-law to Gary and Diane.
Adored brother and brother-in-law of Jodie, Nicole, Fiona-Louise, Rodney and their families.
You left a space no-one can fill.
You were loved beyond life.
Funeral Details
Funeral Prayers for Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew 27893 will be offered in Our Lady’s Catholic Church, corner of Murdoch Road and White Street, Wangaratta on Thursday October 5, 2017 commencing at 10.30am.
A Private Cremation will follow this Service.
POLICE HONOURS
In lieu of flowers, a donation made to the Starlight Foundation for Rosie Carroll would be greatly appreciated. Donation envelopes will be available at the Church.
The final salute of respect for much-loved Wangaratta police officer Gavin Frew
Shana Morgan
The emotional, and at times funny, funeral for Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew was a fitting tribute to the well-loved Wangaratta police officer.
His colleagues lined White Street after the service on Thursday in a guard of honour, saluting his casket and family members as a final mark of respect.
Leading Senior Constable Frew’s death came as a shock to those around him, and wife Bec Frew thanked the hundreds of people at the funeral for their support to keep her strong.
“If everybody just took on that little bit of love and happiness, and shared it with everyone around them, what a wonderful world it would be,” she said
“You were my other half, my soulmate, my anchor in so many storms … You made our world a better place, you will be forever in our hearts.”
He was remembered as a proud father, larrikin big brother, devoted friend and although he was constantly making those around him laugh on and off the job, he was the ultimate professional as a police officer.
Daughter Kaycee Frew said the day was a chance to “celebrate the life of a very loved idiot”.
Kaycee Frew September 24, 2017 · It hurts my soul to inform you all that my best mate Gavin has left us too soon. I will miss you forever. Thanks for helping to make me the amazing person I am today. Miss you so much already Dad. Rest easy my Gangster. ❤️
“My dad had the amazing ability to make people laugh in any circumstance, especially under serious ones. His cheeky smile and quirky personality is what we’ll all miss the most,” she said.
Leading Senior Constable Frew graduated the police academy in 1989, passing the final fitness test despite a broken collarbone he suffered while trying to do a stand-up somersault after winning a football final.
He served in Broadmeadows, Ararat and Horsham, before moving to Wangaratta in 2012.
Most of the speakers at the funeral recounted Leading Senior Constable Frew’s favourite piece of trivia he would constantly ask family, friends, colleagues and even people he pulled over on the road: when was the Battle of Hastings?
Wangaratta Highway Patrol Sergeant Michael Connors confirmed the legend that the officer was always looking for a motorist who knew the right answer, 1066. “If they got that correct, there was a chance of them getting a warning,” he said.
Leading Senior Constable Frew’s call sign “Wangaratta 610” has been retired as a mark of respect.
Thursday’s service was also attended by Acting Chief Commissioner Andrew Crisp and Acting Assistant Commissioner Clive Rust.
Donations to the Starlight Children’s Foundation were being collected by the family in lieu of flowers.
Police ‘macho culture’ needs to change
Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew was a man of extraordinary light and good humour, but he was also one of many police officers who suffered post-traumatic stress disorder.
His family now want to raise awareness of the condition.
Long-time friend Anthony Hoffmann told Thursday’s service about the many good times he had with Leading Senior Constable Frew, but said things had to change when it came to dealing with PTSD.
“Over the years we’d always get together and trade some war stories – some funny, some not so funny – but we’d never talk about how these moments affected us, I guess mainly because silently we did not want to appear weak,” he said.
“This is wrong and we need to change this attitude.
“If there’s one thing we can and should take away from this tragedy, it’s that we need to change this macho culture and to learn to talk and to ask for help when we need it, otherwise we’ll needlessly lose more sons, daughters, husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters – enough is enough.
“I implore you to take this message away today: life is precious and our time here short, so we owe it to our loved ones to be the best we can, but we can’t do that alone so it’s time to man up and be honest with those around you.
“Don’t wait to be asked, just please ask for help if you need it.”
Mr Hoffmann said his friend was a very courageous man, looking out for team mates on the football field and in other parts of life.
“He never took a backwards step, even when the odds were stacked against him,” he said.
If you or anyone you know needs help, support is available by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14.
SPECIAL MAN: Leading Senior Constable Gavin Frew was remembered as an “idiot to all and loved by everyone”.
GUARD OF HONOUR: Wangaratta, Horsham and police command officers along White Street after Thursday’s funeral. Pictures: MARK JESSER
Horsham Saints Cricket Club Like This Page · September 26, 2017 · Vale Gavin Frew. This morning I learnt of the untimely passing of Gavin Frew who by his own words couldn’t bat and couldn’t bowl. Gavin played just the 20 matches for the club for 68 runs (HS 26) but he did return for our premiership reunions earlier this year as a member of the C Grade 1988/89 premiership team. Gavin was a Vicpol member here in Horsham before heading up to Wangaratta. On behalf of the Horsham Saints (formally St. Michael’s) Cricket Club we pass on our condolences to his family. – Trent King, Secretary Remember is ok to not be ok. It’s always okay to ask for help. If you notice mates acting strange it doesn’t hurt to ask if they are okay. with Mike Toone.
Darren Robert JONES
| 09/09/2018
Darren Robert JONES
Husband to Serving Member – Trish and brother of Serving Member Paul ( Tocumwal )
Sergeant Darren Jones is a serving member of the NSW Police Force based at Parramatta Local Area Command.
Darren was diagnosed with Stage 3 Bowel Cancer in June 2015 which he successfully treated with Chemotherapy. He was in remission in August of 2016 when Doctors found metastasised cells in Darren’s abdomen. He underwent further Chemotherapy and all was looking good until mid-February 2017, when he received a Stage 4 Liver Cancer diagnosis.
Darren and Trish, also a serving member of the NSW Police Force have twin 11-year olds, a boy and a girl, Ty and Charli. Ever since Darren and Trish had their children, they have dreamt of being able to take their family on a holiday to Disneyland. A goal that now seems more pressing to create special memories for the children, and to give the family some precious time away together.
With the assistance of NSW Police Legacy, Darren’s mates and colleagues are fundraising to support Darren with his medical expenses, and to give the family their dream holiday.
Paul is described as a nice bloke who was a quietly spoken gentleman.
He was a very thorough and meticulous Detective. A Registered Psychiatric Nurse before he joined. Always had a ciggie and cuppa in his hand when out the front of Newcastle Police Station with a brief in hand. Happily frequented the Grand Hotel Newcastle on many a Friday afternoon. A pleasure to work alongside and somehow always reminded us youngsters that we drove too fast! A real good cop who could tell a good yarn. He has many friends in the Newcastle area who, along with his family will miss him dearly.
PAUL’s family and friends are invited to attend his Funeral Service, to be held in the chapel of Lake Macquarie Memorial Park Crematorium, Cessnock Road Ryhope this SATURDAY morning, 17th February, 2018 commencing at 10 o’clock.
Published in The Newcastle Herald on Feb. 14, 2018
You came into my life. We laughed. We cried. We loved. And then you left. You were not forgotten. Now you have left again, but you will not be forgotten. You gave me memories so that I will have flowers in springtime. Rest in peace my Dear Friend and Love. My Prayers, Blessings and Love goes with you.
KATE LE BROCQ
February 16, 2018
I’m sorry to hear that Paul has left this world. I knew Paul well both during his nursing days and also for a time after he joined the police force. I found him to be a thorough gentleman with a beautiful soul. He had a special gift for being able to communicate with people of all types and this saw him do well in both professions. He also had a fabulous sense of humour and I shared many a funny time with him. He will be missed, but never forgotten. R.I.P Paul, and my sympathy and condolences are extended to your family and friends…Nadia Wane
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 25 February 1974
Senior Constable – appointed 25 February 1983
( as of the 1989 Stud Book – Sue had passed her Sgt 3/c exam )
Detective Sergeant
Stations: ?, National Crime Authority ( N.C.A. ), Marrickville, Newtown Detectives, Drug Special Forces Unit ( D.S.F.U. ) from 1974, Petersham – Retirement
Service: From 14 January 1974to 1 October 1997= 23+years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted28 May 1990
Born: 27 November 1949
Died on: Thursday 21 December 2017
Age: 68
Cause: Heart attack
Event location: Goulburn shopping centre, ( Centro ), Auburn St, Goulburn, NSW
Event date: Thursday 21 December 2017
Funeral date: Wednesday 10 January 2018 @ 10.15am
Funeral location: Northern Suburbs Crematorium, North Chapel, 199 Delhi Rd, North Ryde, NSW
Susan Lynette BRENNAN
aka Twiggy & Olive Oil
Class 138 of Feb 1974 – 30th Class Reunion
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial located at: ?
SUE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
Funeral location:
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
BACK ROW: ( L – R ) Steve COLEMAN # 16303, Peter RACKLEY # 16113, Peter STARLING # 16173, Peter JOHNSON # 16180, Harry BAKER # 16055, Noel RADBURN # 16167, Don COLQUHOUN # 16252 MIDDLE ROW: George MANERA # 16109, Sam NICHOLSON # 16282, Colin CROSSLAND # 16267, Paul McKAY # 16231, Steve MAWSON # 16163, Stephen DAVIES # 16137, Ross EMERSON # 15904 FRONT ROW: Robert DREW # 16134, Sue BRENNAN # P/W 190, Roger FORD # 11545 ( Instructor ), Kevin JOHNSON # 7887 ( Director ), Peter MOFFATT # 8171 ( Instructor ), Geoffrey JENKINS # 16130, Hank KIRCH # 16011
Sue – demonstrating one of her skills with the bonsai
Presentation Photo: Sue Brennan standing in for Colin Hugo at the Presentation.
