Wake location: Sawtell Golf Club, Bayldon Rd, Sawtell, NSW
Wake date: Thursday 29 September 2022 @ 2.30pm
( 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: Keith Logue & Sons, 42 Park Ave, Coffs Harbour, NSW 02 6652 1999
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( September 2022 )
ROBERT 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.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( 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 )
Steve was diagnosed with a lung disease, years earlier, and was on the transplant list, although he deteriorated prior to a suitable lung being found.
Steve was a good hearted and very funny bastard when I worked with him at Fairfield Police Station.
In his early days, at Fairfield, we were on Night Shift driving around the CBD when we were given the details of a vehicle which had recently been stolen in the area.
We were in a Holden sedan with a single roof bar which only had a blue revolving light in the centre and the old pull / push button ‘Were’ siren ( manually pulling and pushing the toggle switch produced the siren sound as the mechanic component spun around ).
A short time later we driving towards the Horsley Dve when we spotted the stolen vehicle turn in front of us with ‘4 heads on board’.
In those days we only had 4 working police radio channels and all Warrant and Vehicle enquiries were made on the ‘back channel’. Steve went to the ‘back channel’ and did a transport check ( just to confirm we had the correct vehicle – which we did ).
He sat there dumb founded ( this was his first stolen car ). I told him that he had better go back to the ‘working’ channel and tell VKG – which he did.
I wasn’t in a hurry to stop the stolen vehicle and it wasn’t being driven in an unusual manner. We followed it out to Smithfield whilst awaiting other Police vehicles to come to the area.
It was now time to make the Stop. The stolen vehicle casually approached a Stop sign and complied with it. I then drove up alongside the drivers door to indicate to the driver to pull over. At this time, Steve leant out of the passenger door of the Police car, with his small rubber baton in hand and attempted to hit the driver as he commenced to drive off. One of the funniest bloody things I have ever seen.
We pursued the stolen vehicle down into the Merrylands patrol where the offenders abandoned the vehicle alongside of the old Wool Shed and decamped on foot.
The offenders were run to ground ( we were hell of a lot fitter back in those days ), arrested and taken to Fairfield Police Station where they were charged.
Greg ‘Cal’ Callander # 17463
Class 164 F
Constable Steve ‘Fat Attack’ Webster ( from Fairfield Police ) asleep in a cell of Bourke Police Station, N.S.W., on a shooting holiday. March 1980
Constable Steve ‘Fat Attack’ Webster (Fairfield Police) near Bourke, N.S.W. – 1980. March 1980
Constable Steve ‘Fat Attack’ Webster (Fairfield Police) with a goat near Bourke, N.S.W. – 1980. March 1980
Constable Steve ‘Fat Attack’ Webster (Fairfield) on the side of the Great Western Hwy, east of Bathurst, ‘looking towards home’. “Is Sydney really that way?” March 1980
Constable Steve ‘Fat Attack’ Webster (centre), Constable Greg Callander (right) & Steve’s brother-in-law, Kevin, on the Great Western Hwy, east of Bathurst, N.S.W. – 1980. March 1980
PARTY AT 1 MAREE AVE, CABRAMATTA. HOME OF GREG CALLANDER, LINDY BOYKO (BALDWIN) & STEVE HALL. WENDY AND STEVE WEBSTER. 23 AUGUST 1980
PARTY AT 1 MAREE AVE, CABRAMATTA. STEVE WEBSTER. 23 AUGUST 1980
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( 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: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( September 2022 )
Gavin James MURRAY # 19859
GAVIN 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.
Prior to joining the NSWPF at the age of 22, it is “possible” that Gavin was employed in the Magistrates Courts Administration as a Clerk having Resigned on the 4 March 1977.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001),
Friday 7 October 1977 (No.118 (SUPPLEMENT)), page 4496
RESIGNATIONS
HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, has accepted the following resignations from the Public Service, the last day of service being indicated within brackets:
Armed Hold Up Squad – c1987 ( Rear L – R ) ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ? Middle Row: ?, ?, ?, Ray LAMBIE # 17875, ?, ?, ?, ?, ? Front Row: ?, Lou HASLAM # 15350, ?, ?, ?, ?, Gavin MURRAY # 19859
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( 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 Funerals, Princes Hwy, Dapto, NSW
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( September 2022 )
FRANK 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.
Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, 31st August 2022.
Beloved husband of Linda.
Adored father and father-in-law of Hayley and Warren.
Loving father of Jason and much loved Poppy.
Much loved brother of May (dec) and
Uncle of Grant, Guy (dec), and Max.
Frank will be sadly missed by his loving family and many dear friends.
Aged 86 Years You were our sunshine and always will be. A Special Man
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Frank’s funeral service to be held at H.Parsons Funeral Home, 4 Princes Highway Dapto on Wednesday, 7th September 2022 at 10am.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( 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 )
Tragic scenes at funeral of Sydney cop Tanzeel Iftikhar Bashir found dead at the Royal National Park
EXCLUSIVE: ‘He wouldn’t hurt a fly. But he hurt himself’: Tragic scenes at Islamic funeral of constable, 23, who took his own life – as cops break down in tears and form a final guard of honour
Tanzeel Iftikhar Bashir, 23, was found dead in Royal National Park south of Sydney early on Saturday morning
Concerns had been raised for the 23-year-old Bankstown police area command cop’s welfare last Friday night
Tributes have flowed for the cricket, football and animal-loving officer with an Islamic funeral held on Tuesday
Hundreds of mourners including scores of uniformed officers attended the mosque and Narellan Cemetery
Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 if you need support
There were no formal eulogies for Constable Tanzeel Bashir but everyone who gathered for his funeral on Tuesday knew what the community had lost.
Constable Bashir, who took his own life last weekend, was farewelled with Islamic rites at Lakemba Mosque in Sydney‘s south-west in a service attended by family, friends and colleagues.
The 23-year-old was remembered as a loving son and brother and widely respected police officer.
Constable Berkay Tustas graduated from the New South Wales Police Academy with Constable Bashir in 2019 and could not fathom his friend was gone.
‘He wouldn’t hurt a fly,’ Constable Tustas said outside the mosque. ‘But he hurt himself.’
Constable Bashir, 23, was found dead in the Royal National Park, south of Sydney, about 12.40am on Saturday.
Police had commenced a search about 10.30pm on Friday after concerns were raised for the off-duty Bankstown Police Area Command officer’s welfare.
Constable Berkay Tustas (above) was inconsolable at the service. He had graduated from the NSW Police Academy with Constable Bashir in 2019.
There were no formal eulogies for Constable Tanzeel Bashir but everyone who gathered for his funeral on Tuesday knew what the community had lost. Constable Berkay Tustas (above) was inconsolable at the service. He had graduated from the NSW Police Academy with Constable Bashir in 2019
Constables are pictured saluting as the coffin was carried out.
Constable Bashir, who took his own life last weekend, was farewelled with Islamic rites at Lakemba Mosque in Sydney’s south-west in a service attended by family, friends and colleagues. Constables are pictured saluting as the coffin was carried out
Constable Tanzeel Bashir’s mother Rani (left and right) was comforted by her son’s grief-stricken colleagues at the funeral and burial.
Constable Tanzeel Bashir’s mother Rani (left and right) was comforted by her son’s grief-stricken colleagues at the funeral and burial.
A large contingent of shocked police officers gathered at Narellan Cemetery to salute their late colleague.
Constable Bashir’s body was washed, covered in a shroud and placed in a coffin before being carried up the steep steps of the mosque.
Police officers consoled and comforted each other and mourners at the funeral of Constable Tanzeel Bashir.
Constable Charlene Challita was among those hardest hit by her colleague’s death. ‘He was my best mate,’ she said after the service.
One friend who preferred not to be named said he had grown up with Constable Bashir in the Belmore-Lakemba area and had last seen him three weeks ago.
‘I’m simply shocked,’ he said. ‘We never saw it coming.
‘He was kind-hearted, down-to-earth and just a charming personality.’
Canterbury Bankstown deputy mayor Bilal El-Hayek said the local community was mourning a fine young policeman and his family was trying to understand why he was gone.
‘He was a loving son and brother and proud officer, gone too soon,’ Mr El-Hayek said.
‘It’s a timely reminder of the human face of the men and women who serve our community.’
Cousin Momin Ali said his cousin had loved being a police officer from the start. ‘Tanzeel was very dedicated to his job,’ he said. ‘He wore his uniform with a lot of pride.’
Iftikhar Bashir (right) was consoled by his son’s police colleagues who formed a line to offer their condolences at Narellan Cemetery.
The 23-year-old was remembered as widely respected police officer by shattered colleagues.
Constable Tustas, who was rostered on duty, waited outside while prayers were said for his dead friend. He was inconsolable but workmates tried to offer comfort.
‘I had to make my way here,’ he said. ‘I came to pay my respects to him because I owe him that much.
‘Tanzeel had the purest heart of all. Purer than crystal. There’s no words. I can’t register anything. I just can’t believe it.’
Constable Tustas spoke of a young man who loved his cricket, football and animals – often sending him unsolicited pictures of his cats.
‘The way Tanzeel was if you needed anything done at the academy or in general he wouldn’t even ask why,’ he’d just do it,’ Constable Tustas said. ‘He was always there for me.’
‘I feel so sorry for the family. If I’m feeling like this, how do they cope? May he rest in peace. I loved the kid.’
Colleagues unable to attend the funeral later paid their respects at Narellan Cemetery, where they watched his burial.
A line of mourners formed to greet Constable Bashir’s father Iftikhar to express their condolences with hugs and handshakes.
Momin Ali said the suicide of a friend’s girlfriend several years ago had been part of the reason his cousin had chosen to join the police force.
‘He just felt he wanted to help people,’ Mr Ali said. ‘To reassure people that there is help out there for those who need it. It was his dream to help people.’
Mr Ali said his cousin had loved being a police officer from the start.
‘Tanzeel was very dedicated to his job,’ he said. ‘He wore his uniform with a lot of pride.
‘He never hurt anyone. All he wanted to do was to put smiles on people’s faces. It was just the type of person he was.’
As for what had driven his cousin to despair, Mr Ali had no idea.
‘I guess everyone goes through their own battles,’ he said. ‘He seemed really happy.
‘He’d seen some things but every time when I asked him how he was going he’d say “I love the job”.’
Constable Berkay Tustas (above) said his friend and fellow 2019 graduate loved his cricket, football and animals. ‘Tanzeel had the purest heart of all. Purer than crystal. There’s no words. I can’t register anything. I just can’t believe it’
Momin Ali (pictured being hugged by an officer) said his cousin loved being in the police force. ‘He just felt he wanted to help people,’ Mr Ali said. ‘To reassure people that there is help out there for those who need it. It was his dream to help people’
One of Constable Bashir’s relatives had appealed on Facebook for family and friends to attend his funeral and hundreds came to the service.
‘It is with a heavy heart I announce our beloved Tanzeel Iftikhar Bashir, 23 years old, a loving son, brother and friend has returned to his Lord,’ the relative wrote.
‘Please spread the word so that we can have as many people attend my cousin’s janazah as possible.’
Loved ones used social media to remember Constable Bashir, who had two younger sisters, as a ‘loving son, brother and friend’.
‘Rest in peace to an absolute legend,’ one said. Others remembered a ‘fun guy’ and ‘great man’.
A funeral notice asked Allah to bestow comfort upon Constable Bashir’s family and loved ones.
‘O Allah, forgive him and have mercy on him and grant him peace and pardon him,’ the notice stated.
‘Receive him with honour and make his place of entry spacious. Admit him into Paradise and protect him from the torment of the grave and the torment of the Fire.’
Constable Tustas (right, near red car) stood alone on the road and raised one last salute as Constable Tanzeel Bashir’s hearse passed by
One of Constable Bashir’s relatives had appealed on Facebook for family and friends to attend his funeral and hundreds came to the service
Constable Tustas was one of four constables and a dozen commissioned officers to form a guard of honour as his friend’s casket was carried back down the mosque’s steps to a waiting hearse.
Three police motorcyclists led the 45km cortege to Narellan Cemetery for the burial.
As the hearse passed Constable Tustas he stood alone on the road and raised one last salute.
Further prayers were held at the cemetery where scores of uniformed police who had not been at the mosque paid their last respects.
A line of mourners formed to greet Constable Bashir’s father Iftikhar and Mr Ali and pay their condolences with hugs and handshakes.
Support services have been offered to Constable Bashir’s family, colleagues and the entire NSW Police force.
Constable Charlene Challita (centre) was among those hardest hit by her colleague’s death. ‘He was my best mate,’ she said
Constable Charlene Challita (centre) was among those hardest hit by her colleague’s death. ‘He was my best mate,’ she said
A critical incident investigation was launched by detectives from the Homicide Squad who will prepare a report for the Coroner.
The investigation will be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command with independent oversight by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).
Last month police gathered to farewell Detective Sergeant Adam Child, a 46-year-old father-of-two and long-serving member of the Homicide Squad.
Detective Sergeant Child was found dead from a gunshot wound at Ermington police station on August 1. He was remembered as ‘one of the finest humans and detectives.
If you or anyone you know needs help or confidential support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
It is with heavy heart I announce Our beloved Tanzeel Iftikhar Bashir, 23 years old, a loving son, brother, and friend has returned to his Lord. May Allah SWT have mercy on him and grant him the highest level of Jannah.
O Allah, forgive him and have mercy on him and grant him peace and pardon him. Receive him with honour and make his place of entry (in grave) spacious. Admit him into Paradise and protect him from the torment of the grave and the torment of the Fire.
May Allah give strength and patience to his family Ameen
Janazah ( Prayers ) will be at Lakemba Mosque 65-67 Wangee Road Lakemba, NSW
Please spread the word so that we can have as many people attend my cousins janazah as possible inshallah.
*** Time 11am (Janazah will be after Dhuhr Prayer) on the 06/09/22 ***
Lakemba Mosque (65-67 Wangee Road Lakemba)
RIP Constable Tanzeel Iftikhar Bashir
Thank you for your service
A young Sydney policeman who died at a national park over the weekend has been described as a “loving son, brother and friend”.
The body of 23-year-old Tanzeel Iftikhar Bashir was discovered about 12.40am on Saturday at Royal National Park.
The off-duty constable from Bankstown Police Area Command was found by his colleagues, who had been searching for him since concerns for his welfare were first raised a night earlier.
“There appears to be no suspicious circumstances,” police said at the time.
He will be farewelled at Lakemba Mosque on Tuesday.
“It is with a heavy heart I announce our beloved Tanzeel Iftikhar Bashir, 23 years old, a loving son, brother and friend has returned to his Lord,” the officer’s cousin posted on social media.
“Please spread the word so that we can have as many people attend my cousin’s janazah (funeral) as possible.”
Tributes have described the constable as a “good man” and “an absolute legend”.
“You were a fun guy and a great man,” one person wrote.
A critical incident investigation was launched by detectives from the homicide squad, who will prepare a report for the coroner.
The investigation will also be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command and independently oversighted by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.
Support services have been made available to his family, colleagues and to all NSW Police Force staff.
The death comes just weeks after that of homicide squad detective Adam Child.
Critical incident declared following death of police officer
Saturday, 03 September 2022 11:45:37 AM
A critical incident investigation has been launched to investigate the death of a police officer in Sydney’s south.
Police commenced inquiries about 10.30pm yesterday (Friday 2 September 2022), after concerns were raised for the welfare of an off-duty police officer.
Following inquiries, the officer’s body was located in the Royal National Park about 12.40am today (Saturday 3 September 2022).
There appears to be no suspicious circumstances.
A critical incident investigation has been launched by detectives from the Homicide Squad, who will prepare a report for the Coroner.
The investigation will also be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command and independently oversighted by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).
The 23-year-old constable was serving the community from Bankstown Police Area Command.
Support services have been made available to his family, colleagues and to all NSW Police Force staff.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( 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 )
William FREEMAN on 7 August 2022 at the Mercantile Hotel, the Rocks, NSW.
David UPSTON, William FREEMAN, Brian FRIEND on 7 August 2022 at the Mercantile Hotel, the Rocks, NSW.
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( August 2022 )
BILL is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Former Sergeant Bill Freeman, 74 years of age has succumbed to injuries received last week. He was the driver of a State Transit bus which was hit by a semi trailer. Bill was trapped, suffering critical injuries.
The driver of the semi was charged and now will no doubt have those charges upgraded.
Bill formerly worked at Bass Hill police.
Thinking of his family and many friends at this awful time. May he Rest In Peace
Bill also raced speedway cars and is reputed with having a small ‘cannon’ at Bass Hill Police Stn in years gone by.
He is also reported to have run in a number of City to Surf foot races over the years.
Worked with bill fir many years at bass hill plus he was the oldest police footy player to come out of retirement and play when we needed him
A wonderful man who was a character and a great old school cop
Bus driver dies in hospital following crash – Wetherill Park
Wednesday, 24 August 2022 07:16:42 AM
A man has died in hospital following a crash in Sydney’s west last week.
About 11.45pm on Thursday (18 August 2022), emergency services were called to the intersection of Davis Road and the Liverpool-Parramatta Transitway, Wetherill Park, following reports a Kenworth semi-trailer and a state transit bus had collided.
The bus driver – a 74-year-old man – was trapped in the vehicle, before being freed by Fire and Rescue NSW.
He suffered serious injuries and was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Liverpool Hospital in a critical condition.
Four male passengers on the bus were treated for minor injuries.
Officers attached to Fairfield City Police Area Command established a crime scene, and specialist officers attached to the Metropolitan Crash Investigation Unit commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The truck driver – a 26-year-old man – was charged and remains before the courts.
Police have now been told the 74-year-old man died in hospital about 10am yesterday (Tuesday 23 August 2022).
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
Additional charges laid after fatal crash – Wetherill Park
Monday, 29 August 2022 03:55:37 AM
Police have laid additional charges following a fatal crash in Sydney’s west earlier this month.
About 11.45pm on Thursday (18 August 2022), emergency services were called to the intersection of Davis Road and the Liverpool-Parramatta Transitway, Wetherill Park, following reports a Kenworth semi-trailer and a state transit bus had collided.
The bus driver – a 74-year-old man – was trapped in the vehicle, before being freed by Fire and Rescue NSW.
He suffered serious injuries and was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics then taken to Liverpool Hospital in a critical condition.
Police were advised the man subsequently died in hospital on Tuesday 23 August 2022.
Four male passengers on the bus were treated for minor injuries and have since recovered.
Officers attached to Fairfield City Police Area Command and specialist officers attached to the Metropolitan Crash Investigation Unit commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
As part of ongoing inquiries, police charged a 26-year-old man over his alleged involvement in the crash earlier this month. He remains before the courts.
Following further inquiries, the Woolgoolga man’s charges have been upgraded to dangerous driving occasioning death and negligent driving occasioning death.
Additionally, he’s been charged with three counts of not stop at stop line at red light, two counts of not stop at stop line at yellow light, and five counts of driver use mobile phone when not permitted.
He remains on conditional bail and will appear at Fairfield Local Court today (Monday 29 August 2022).
Bus driver fighting for life after horror crash in Sydney
William Robert FREEMAN, ( Bill FREEMAN ) with St Joseph’s – Sefton 1981 L Grade Rugby Team.
William Robert FREEMAN, ( Bill FREEMAN ) with ?
William Robert FREEMAN, ( Bill FREEMAN ) with ?
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( 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 )
McDonald Jones Stadium to host funeral for fallen Port Stephens police officer and rugby league veteran Tony Townsend
Updated August 29 2022 – 4:47pm, first published 3:30pm
Foundation Newcastle Knights player and highly respected Hunter policeman Tony Townsend will be farewelled on Thursday.
The full police funeral at McDonald Jones Stadium will celebrate the life of Chief Inspector Townsend, affectionately known by fellow officers as TT, who died at his home on August 22.
The funeral, which is open to the public, will start at 10am.
NSW Deputy Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon and other members of the police executive will attend.
TOWNSEND, Chief Inspector Anthony John ”Tony”
Late of Duns Creek
Passed away 23rd August, 2022
Aged 61 Years
Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Kaitlin and Declan, Lauren and Jackson.
Loving Pa of Charlotte.
Loved son of William (Bill) and Ella, Margaret and Thomas.
Brother of Mark, Susan, Michael, Michelle, and Jason.
Brother-in-law and uncle of their families.
The family and friends of Tony are warmly invited to attend a Celebration of his life, to be held at McDonald Jones Stadium, 294 Turton Rd, Broadmeadow, NSW this Thursday 1st September, 2022. Service commencing at 10am.
Interment will follow at Dungog Cemetery, Cemetery Rd, Dungog, NSW.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be forwarded to The Leukemia Foundation or Men of League in Tony’s memory.
In his short 61 years with us, Tony made such an enormous impact, as a foundation player for the Newcastle Knights, he also played for St George Illawarra Dragons, was a soldier, worked in the timber industry and later worked with NSW Police Force as prosecutor and finished his career as Officer in Charge at Maitland.
Tony was self effacing and humble, intelligent, dedicated to keeping our community safe and always took time to engage with everyone.
This photo was taken just few months ago in May, at a community event to provide positive play spaces in one of our local neighbourhoods.
This little girl came up to Tony and they had a very in depth conversation where he demonstrated the very best example of community policing.
We have lost a great one.
Rest In Peace.
Helen Ping: Such sad news. He was a wonderful man. He gave my husband an award for his volunteer work he did with Raymond Terrace Police with cell watch. And also escorted my husbands hearse to the church and organised police cars to block the traffic for him to get through. He was a very nice man , my family and I will never forget him for what he did for my husband My thoughts go to his family , friends and work Colleagues.
Mayor Philip Penfold: Vale Chief Inspector Tony Townsend. Tony was most recently officer in charge at Maitland Police Station and passed in recent days after long battling cancer. I had the opportunity to spend time with Tony twice this year as he reached out to engage with our community. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and workmates. Rest In Peace.
Inspector Tony Townsend with Worimi elder Uncle John Ridgeway at a NAIDOC Week flag raising ceremony in Raymond Terrace in July 2022. Picture: Ellie-Marie Watts Sonia Hornery MP: · I was shocked to hear of the passing of Chief Inspector Tony Townsend. Tony was one of the first players for the Newcastle Knights, a great police officer for nearly 40 years, and a beloved community figure. My thoughts go our to his family, friends and colleagues who are so deeply affected by his loss. Rest in peace Tony. Photo credit: Newcastle Herald
1 Across: Bloody Great Bloke
Melissa Henshaw: He presented my son with his Community PBL award. Was able to have a chat with him afterwards and he was such a lovely man. Condolences & prayers of healing to his family, colleagues & friends
Kate Washington MP: · Devastating news today, with the passing of Port Stephens Hunter Police District Chief Inspector Tony Townsend. Tony was respected by all. Gone far too soon. Tony was dedicated to our community. In his own humble and genuine way, he made a difference to the lives of many. My sincerest condolences to his family, friends, loved ones and colleagues – I can only imagine how deeply this loss is being felt by all. We’ve lost a good man. Rest In Peace.
The Newcastle News: · Stoic, courageous and one of nature’s gentlemen. Tributes have begun pouring in for one of the Newcastle Knights foundation players – highly respected police officer Tony Townsend – after he died on Tuesday night.
Lloyd Stanimirovic: Shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Tony Townsend. I first met Tony when I worked at Newcastle Court and he was a police prosecutor. At that time (about 30 years ago) I found Tony to be such a humble man. Even when I spoke to Tony about his rugby league career, he passed it off with modesty and integrity. Last year I met Tony again after many years at the Maitland Anzac Day service. He was still humble. Earlier this year, I was helping youth at a Police operation, when some officers spoke so well of Tony. They described him as someone they could speak to about anything and trust. At this year’s Anzac Day service, Tony spent time speaking to my daughter about her interest in the Police Force. Not surprisingly, when I thanked him for speaking to Gracie and how much he was appreciated by others, Tony just smiled and passed off with humility. From what I saw, heard and experienced, Tony had a positive impact on others, something we all need. Thoughts and prayer with Tony’s family and friends.????
https://police.freom.com/vira-helen-dew/ Vira Helen DEW nee JENKINS Widow of Retired Superintendent Eric DEW # *** Local Caption *** NSW Police Legacy 7 April 2021 Congratulations to NSW Police Legatee Vira Dew, who last week turned 103! Vira was one of the first policewomen to work in the Newcastle area. After retiring at the age of 56, she lived on a farm in Maitland with her husband, retired Superintendent Eric Dew, for several years. Vira is pictured here with Chief Inspector Tony Townsend, Snr St Alyssa Willetts, and Det Snr Sgt Maree Maynard, who all visited to wish her well. Happy birthday Vira!
Pat JARVIS # 18416, Tony TOWNSEND # 20978 & Craig YOUNG # 17746. The Front Row of Police of Illawarra Dragons
The nib Newcastle Knights extend our sincere condolences to friends and family of the late Tony Townsend, who passed away overnight.
Townsend, Knights Old Boy No.11, played hooker in the first ever team in 1988 and continued a strong association with the club through the Once a Knight Old Boys and his work in the NSW Police Force where he rose through the ranks to Chief Inspector.
Tough, resilient and one of the nicest blokes you could meet. Tony epitomised the Knights early culture, which set a standard for unparalleled later success.
He didn’t complain, despite his various health battles over many years, he just smiled and got on with life.
Rest In Peace TT, Once A Knights Old Boy. Always a Knights Old Boy.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( 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: ?
Buried at: Rookwood Cemetery, Lidcombe, NSW
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( August 2022 )
DOB should read: 3 February 1978
WESLEY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Wes had resigned from the employ of NSWPF in 2011 and pursued a career in Plumbing – making a family business from it.
Wes is described as a larakin and life of the party.
Culburra – 2020
May Wes, and his father – Ray, Forever Rest In Peace.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( 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: ?
Buried at: Rookwood Cemetery, Lidcombe, NSW
Plot: St Martha Section, ( cemented number unknown ) ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( August 2022 )
RAY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
( 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: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( AUGUST 2022 )
ADAM is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * BUT SHOULD BE
ADAM 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.
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Police officer found dead at Sydney’s Ermington Police Station
An investigation has been launched after a police officer was found dead at a Sydney police station on Monday.
less than 2 min read
August 1, 2022 – 8:12PM
A detective has been found dead at a Sydney police station.
The body of a male police officer was found at Ermington Police Station in the city’s southwest at around 12.30pm on Monday, NSW Police said.
He is believed to have been shot with his police issue gun, the Daily Telegraph reported.
The 46-year-old detective sergeant from a specialist command was on-duty at the time and initial inquiries suggest there are no suspicious circumstances. A critical incident investigation has been launched by detectives from South West Metropolitan Region, who will prepare a report for the Coroner.
NSW Police says support services have been made available to the man’s colleagues and the officers at the station.
The death of a detective sergeant in Sydney’s northwest exposes a sad reality gripping some of the police force’s most vulnerable victims.
On Monday, the body of a 46-year-old Detective Sergeant was found at Ermington Police Station at around 12.30pm.
It’s understood he was on-duty at the time. Authorities are not investigating his death as suspicious and support services have been offered to his colleagues, and other staff and officers at the station.
Police are not investigating the death as suspicious. Supplied
A critical incident has since been declared, as is standard procedure after the death of an officer. The investigation will be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command and independently oversighted by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC), a statement from NSW Police said.
A report is also currently being prepared for the Coroner.
The death comes two years after the suicide of Sergeant Matthew Theoklis in November 2020. The father-of-two took his own life at the Sydney Police Centre building in Surry Hills.
He had joined the NSW Police in 2005 and was promoted to the rank of sergeant in December 2019.
Sergeant Matthew Theoklis was found dead in an office at the Sydney Police Centre in Surry Hills. Picture: NSW Police.
Mr Theoklis was survived by his two twin daughters, Brooke and Sophie, as well as his fiancee Rebekah, who was also a member of the NSW Police Force.
At the time Police Legacy chairperson Detective Superintendent Gary Merryweather said the pandemic and recurring natural disasters had added extra pressures to the job.
“It can become very taxing emotionally and physically being a police officer and this year has been particularly hard,” he told 2GB’s Drive host Jim Wilson.
“As we know policing can be so difficult. You can go from tragedy to a job where you’ve helped someone and feel very satisfying.
“In circumstances where it’s not foreseen by anyone, it just makes it a little bit harder, and I’m sure the family just think it’s all very surreal at the moment.
“There’s just no other way to explain it.”
The father-of-two was survived by his two twin daughters. Picture: NSW Police
According to an ABC report from January 2019, four Australian Federal Police officers died by suicide at their workplace between 2017 to 2019.
The deaths prompted the introduction of stricter firearm rules, which required officers to provide sufficient reason before drawing their weapons.
At the time, AFP Commissioner Andrew Colvin described the organisation’s former measures of addressing mental health as a “culture issue” within the force. However, he hoped that “through tragedy comes opportunities for us to learn,” adding that he hoped officers would feel better equipped to talk about and share their experiences.
“The old adage that police run towards the problem when everyone else runs away, that’s in our DNA, that’s what we do,” he said.
“So the idea that we should stop and take a break because we’re tired, because we’re fatigued, because we’re having trouble, is so foreign to police.”
In 2004, high-profile officer Steve Leach, 51, took his own life in a soundproof weapons storage room at Parramatta police station. As reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, he was on sick leave when he entered the building and was discovered by another officer.
Detective Senior Sergeant Steve Leach died in 2004. Picture: Jeff Herbert
Detective Senior Sergeant Leach was celebrated as the prominent homicide detective who arrested serial killer Ivan Milat in 1994. He was also involved in the investigation into the 1986 disappearance of Bondi schoolgirl Samantha Knight.
Prior to his death, he had applied for his pension after he was hurt on duty while seconded to the European War Crimes Tribunal in The Hague.
According to his colleagues, his death was not expected, The Age reports.
The then NSW Police Commissioner Ken Moroney described his death as a “terrible tragedy”.
“Detective Sergeant Leach was a highly respected officer with 35 years experience and had been involved in some of the state’s most high-profile homicide investigations,” he said.
Detective Steve Leach pictured here with Shirley Soire, the sister of Ivan Milat. Picture: Troy Bendeich
More than a decade onwards, the suicide of former police officer Ashley Bryant triggered a coronial inquest in 2017 which found that a post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and alcoholism brought on by the extreme stresses of his work were key factors in his death.
In December 2013, the 44-year-old drove to a national park in the Byron Bay hinterlands where he ultimately died. Prior to his death, the father-of-three had made a triple-zero call where told the operator that he was “about to take my own life”.
“I suffer post traumatic stress disorder … I can no longer live with the pain. I want this to go to the coroner,” he said in the record call that was played a this inquest,” he said.
“There needs to be more done, more things put in place for what happens.”
Ashley Bryant made a triple-zero call in the moments before his death. Picture: Supplied
His death came a year after he was discharged from the police on medical grounds. Attempts to apply for a ‘hurt on duty pension’ also forced Mr Bryant to relive his traumas, before he was denied a full pension.
This was after two psychiatrists under the Police Superannuation Scheme determined that he could still work again, if he retrained for less stressful work, The Daily Telegraph reported.
During the inquest, his widow Deborah Bryant said the pressure of trying to apply for the pension exacerbated his PTSD, that led him to drink.
“It was the pressure of all the assessments that he had to undergo that made it too stressful for him that, unfortunately, led him back to alcohol. He never recovered from it,” she told reporters.
Ashley Bryant’s wife Deborah Bryant said the stress of reliving his traumas while attempting to apply for a pension drove him to excessive drinking. Picture: Richard Dobson
Startling research from Beyond Blue in 2018 also found that a first responder dies by suicide every six weeks. The mental health and wellbeing support organisation found that police and emergency services workers are more than twice as likely to experience high or very high rates of psychological distress compared to the general population.
Those who had spent more than 10 years in their jobs were also more than twice as likely to experience psychological distress and were six times more likely to experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Hardened detective who was shot dead inside a police station is from a highly respected cop family and he cracked one of Australia’s biggest murder cases: ‘A steely determination for justice’
Colleagues found Detective Sergeant Adam Child dead at Ermington station
The accomplished cop has been remembered for his kindness in the role
He was part of the Homicide Squad and had a hand in solving tough murders
For confidential crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14
A top detective found dead inside his police station is from a highly regarded law enforcement family and solved some of Sydney‘s toughest cases in a two-decade career with the homicide squad.
Shocked colleagues discovered Detective Sergeant Adam Child dead from a gunshot wound inside a room at Ermington police station, in Sydney’s west, about 12.30pm on Monday.
The 46-year-old father, who worked in the force alongside his wife, has been remembered as ‘one of the finest humans and detectives’ by relatives of murder victims whose cases he helped solve.
Police do not believe Mr Child’s death was suspicious. He was on duty at the time and a police-issued firearm was used in the incident.
Friends and former colleagues have expressed horror at learning of the father-of-two’s untimely death and questioned what support services were in place.
‘I am just heartbroken. [Adam] was one of the finest humans and detectives,’ said one woman, who met Mr Child when he was assigned to the case of her loved one.
She added Mr Child would be remembered for his ‘compassion and steely determination for justice’.
He was publicly involved in the investigation into murdered mother Jody Galante, and was praised by her relatives for his kindness and dogged search for the truth.
The case was the subject of an Australian Story episode in 2008 which featured Mr Child, as he explained the steps he took to solve the murder and put Mrs Galante’s husband, Mark, behind bars for 27 years.
‘Adam Child and Anthony Agnew were so caring, they knew they were asking us to do hard things,’ Mrs Galante’s mother Julie-Anne Hand said at the time.
Mr Child had suspicions Mrs Galante’s husband was responsible for her death but did not have enough evidence to make an arrest.
He asked her family to continue publicly supporting him while the investigation was ongoing to lull him into a false sense of security.
Almost two months later, he asked them to help clear out Mrs Galante’s daughter’s belongings from the house, noting ‘she wouldn’t be going back there’.
Following Galante’s arrest, the 27-year-old pleaded guilty to his wife’s murder and was sentenced to 27 years imprisonment, with a non-parole period of 20 years.
Mrs Galante’s family could not praise Mr Child enough for his work on the case.
The homicide squad in NSW leads the response to major criminal investigations, including murders, suspicious deaths, critical incidents and coronial inquiries.
Mr Child has been commended for his role in countless investigations over his 20-year career.
‘I’m so sick at heart right now, the ripple affect of the loss of Adam will be felt by many families today, his own family and the his family in Blue,’ one friend said.
‘It’s a very sad day. Adam was a good man and detective… Rest well brother.’
Mr Child was usually based at the Parramatta head office but was stationed at Ermington while working on an active investigation in the region.
A critical incident has been declared as part of standard procedures within NSW Police when an employee dies in the vicinity of other officers.
NSW Police said in a statement Mr Child’s colleagues and all officers at Ermington station will be offered support to deal with the grief and shock.
Mr Child’s death is the latest in a string of tragic police deaths in recent years.
Just two years ago in November 2020, Sergeant Matthew Theoklis died by suicide at the Sydney Police Centre in Surry Hills.
Between 2017 and 2019, a further five Australian Federal Police officers took their own lives on the job.
A 24-hour trauma response hotline was established in NSW and 1,200 officers were trained as part of a state-wide peer support program.
RIP, sorry you couldn’t stick around mate! Sounds like you did a lot of good in your life! Thanks for being a good man, copper and Aussie! Thoughts are with family and friends in this extremely sad time!
It reads to me Adam was there to help many people but unfortunate no one was able to help Adam. May Adam Rest In Peace and Adam’s family find comfort and understanding within. My thoughts are with you
Why do we always lose the good people too early ? I wish he had spoken to someone because he clearly is a man of ethics and hard work and a champion of the victims. He is the kind of policeman we always want to have in the force. So sad for his family of police, wife and children. We need to honour police more than we do, in a public way.
Spate of deaths in police forces across Australia
Steps have been taken within police forces across the nation to improve mental health support services for serving officers following a spate of suicides among serving and former cops.
In the span of two years, five Australian Federal Police officers tragically died by suicide in the workplace, prompting overhauls to firearm rules.
Previously, officers were able to check out their guns even while they were off duty, but the new restrictions meant they would need a reason to take their weapons.
Last year, two serving West Australian police officers died in the span of a fortnight.
Just two years ago in November 2020, Sergeant Matthew Theoklis died by suicide at the Sydney Police Centre in Surry Hills.
A 24-hour trauma response hotline was established in NSW and 1,200 officers were trained as part of a state-wide peer support program.
‘It’s not uncommon, and that’s the scary thing,’ a serving police officer told Daily Mail Australia.
‘At the end of the day, it’s a high pressure job and when you combine that with stresses that aren’t work related, it can really add up.’
A detective has been found dead inside a police station in Sydney’s north-west.
The 46-year-old detective sergeant was on duty when he was found dead by colleagues inside a room at Ermington Police Station about 12:30pm on Monday.
NSW Police revealed initial inquiries suggest there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.
The Daily Telegraph has reported the man died after a “shooting incident” and early investigations suggest the officer was shot with a police-issued firearm.
Detectives have launched a critical incident investigation into the man’s death.
“The 46-year-old detective sergeant from a specialist command was on-duty at the time and initial inquiries suggest there are no suspicious circumstances,” a statement from NSW Police read.
“A critical incident investigation has been launched by detectives from South West Metropolitan Region, who will prepare a report for the Coroner.
“The investigation will also be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command and independently oversighted by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).”
Support services have been made available to the man’s colleagues, the officers who found him and those who were in the station at the time.
The death comes less than two years after another police officer took his own life at the Sydney Police Centre in Surry Hills.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
