( 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 ( January 2021 )
Police identified the 39-year-old woman as serving NSW Police officer, Senior Constable Kelly Foster. Credit: NSW Police
KELLY is mentioned on the National Police Wall of Remembrance
KELLY IS mentioned on the Sydney Police Memorial Wall
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Kelly, prior to joining the ranks of NSWPF was a Teacher.
Chifley Police District
January 2, 2022 9.03PM
Remembering one of our own – Senior Constable Kelly Ann Foster VA
At a special, private ceremony held today ( Sunday 2 January 2022 ) at Lithgow Police Station, close family and colleagues gathered as a mark of respect, to honour Senior Constable Foster VA, one year after her passing.
In memory of Kelly, Lithgow officers, Leading Senior Constable Michael Barr and Senior Constable Jim McMillan, along with members of Kelly’s family and other colleagues built a special memorial garden.
The memorial would not have been possible without the generosity of donations from the local community also.
The garden was unveiled today by Kelly’s parentsTerry and Marilyn, her brother David and sister Leigh.
Lithgow Police, Chief Inspector Chris Sammut said, ” Today’s intimate ceremony between Kelly’s family and Lithgow police staff was beneficial as it formed part of the healing process for family and work colleagues. The memorial wall and garden will be a lasting tribute to Kelly. It will ensure for decades to come that Kelly’s heroic story will never be forgotten by police and the community whom she so tirelessly served “
Senior Constable Kelly Ann Forster VA, tragically died while attempting to save the life of a fellow canyoner, Jennifer Qi, within the Wollangambe Canyon at Mt Wilson on 2 January 2021.
As a result of her brave actions, Senior Constable Foster was posthumously awarded the Commissioners Valour Award.
This morning, Senior Constable Kelly Foster‘s name was placed inside the Commissioner’s Baton, blessed, and carried to the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance.
In a normal year, the baton would be on the road by now, carried by a convoy of motorbike riders in the Wall to Wall – Ride for Remembrance, all travelling towards the National Police Memorial in Canberra with the express purpose of honouring and remembering fallen police mates.
The bikes remain silent today, but the moment loses none of its importance.
COVID has changed everything, but it will never diminish the memories of the fallen.
Kelly Foster‘s name will stay inside the baton until next year, when it will be carried by the Wall to Wall Riders to the Memorial.
From all of us at Chifley Police District, we would like to thank the community for their love and support in relation to the untimely death of Senior Constable Kelly Foster.
As you can appreciate, we are expecting a significant gathering to bid her farewell, and with the current COVID restrictions, not everyone who would like to pay their respects in person will be able to do so.
We are urging members of the public not to attend the church; instead, please demonstrate your community spirit by forming a socially distanced line along either side of Bridge Street (between Mort and Short streets) from 1:30pm tomorrow (Thursday) to view the procession as it leaves the church.
On behalf of Kelly’s family and the broader NSW Police Force family, thank you for your ongoing support.
ROAD CLOSURES FOR FUNERAL OF SENIOR CONSTABLE KELLY FOSTER-
THURSDAY 14/1/2021.
CHIFLEY PD
Police advise of a soft road closure of Bridge Street Lithgow at the intersection of Mort Street- the road will be closed all the way to the intersection of Short Street and includes closure of the Church St intersection with Bridge St. Residents will be able to enter and exit by advising Police at the traffic points. Road closed from 6 am until abut 4 pm. The funeral commences at 12.30 pm
Senior Constable Kelly Foster, aged 39, died following a canyoning incident at Mount Wilson yesterday (Saturday 2 January 2021).
Snr Cst Foster attested on 27 August 2010, after which she commenced duties as a probationary constable at Newtown Local Area Command.
She was confirmed as a constable in May 2012.
In May 2014, Snr Cst Foster joined the State Crime Command working as an intel analyst until May 2020.
She was most recently working at Chifley Police District, stationed at Lithgow Police Station.
NSW Police Acting Commissioner Mal Lanyon has extended his condolences to the Foster family on behalf of the NSW Police Force.
“It’s a very sad time for the NSW Police Force and Kelly’s death is a loss to the whole community,” Acting Commissioner Lanyon said.
“To hear reports that Kelly was trying to help another woman when she died demonstrates her commitment to the community she served and the ability to put the needs of others before her own.
“Kelly was a highly regarded and dedicated officer who will be sorely missed by colleagues across the force.
“Her policing career was put on hold when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, however, her strength to survive this and return to work is another testament to her strength and resilience.
“Above all, Kelly was a kind and loving daughter, sister and partner.”
Snr Cst Foster’s family have requested privacy at this time.
Kelly FOSTER – On top of Australia at Mt Kosciusko
An international student, 24, was among a group swimming on inflatable lilos at the popular Wollangambe Canyon (pictured) when she was sucked into the whirlpool. Her body was recovered on Sunday, along with Senior Constable Foster’s
The couple bonded over their mutual love of adventuring and regularly went camping, hiking and on mountain bike rides throughout Australia
Senior Constable Kelly Foster (left) drowned while trying to save an international student who became stuck in raging waters in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, on Saturday. Senior Constable Foster had trekked to the picturesque spot with her boyfriend Gavin Morom (right)
Mr Morom (right) had posted about his trek with Senior Constable Foster (left) on adventurers social media app Strava on Saturday. The policewoman only recently returned to the job after overcoming breast cancer
Gavin & Kelly – Cedar Creek
Emergency services rushed to the scene after the alarm was raised about 2.30pm on Saturday, but poor weather conditions meant a search had to be called off about 6pm. When it resumed on Sunday the bodies of the two women were located by NSW Police divers
Eight other members of the group who the international student was with were uninjured
It’s believed both women were canyoning in water only that can only be reached after hours of hiking through rough terrain
Missing canyoners found after sucked into whirlpool in Blue Mountains including NSW police officer
There has been a sad end in the search for two missing canyoners after they were sucked into a whirlpool in regional NSW.
The women had not been seen since disappearing beneath the water’s surface on Saturday in Wollangambe Canyon at Mount Wilson, north of the Blue Mountains.
But on Sunday, police divers joined the search and located two bodies around midday.
Police identified the 39-year-old woman as serving NSW Police officer, Senior Constable Kelly Foster, who has most recently been stationed at Lithgow Police Station.
The other woman is believed to be an international student, aged 24, from Chiswick.
She is yet to be formally identified and police are waiting for confirmation that family members are notified.
Witnesses told police the younger woman fell off her inflatable lilo and it was swept into the whirlpool.
Snr Cst Foster was also swept out when she tried to rescue her.
Port Hacking High School pays tribute to Senior Constable Kelly Foster
The Port Hacking High School community is saddened by the tragic news that former student, NSW Police Senior Constable Kelly Foster, who lost her life in a tragic canyoning accident over the weekend.
Senior Constable Foster, 39, died following a canyoning incident at Mount Wilson on Saturday.
“Kelly graduated in 1999 and according to her peers was very smart, kind, had an easy going nature and always put others before herself,” a statement on the Port Hacking High School Facebook site said today.
“We send our deepest condolences to Kelly’s family and friends at this time.”
Not all names come up in the 1968 ‘ Stud Book ‘ Inscription: Traffic cyclists L – R: Jack ” Happy Jack ” AGNEW ( NSWPF # ??? ), Col ” Smoothie ” COGLE, Joe Dainer, Max ” Slobber ” Robertson, Harry ” Bren ” BRENNAN ( NSWPF # 6424 ), John Ackroyd, Charlie Spicer ( NSWPF # 7263? ), Dino Tallon, Brian ‘ Boofa ” Skyes and Wally ” Sockeye ” Salmon. Names are from an article in an old Retired Police Journal by Harry BRENNAN, which featured the photo. I am guessing mid 60’s, leather caps have given way to black helmets and BMW’s instead of the earlier Triumphs. Looks like Centennial Park – possibly on delivery of the BMW’s??? https://www.flickr.com/photos/nswpoliceforce/5599527423/in/photostream/
Monaro Mercury, and Cooma and Bombala Advertiser (NSW : 1862 – 1931),
Monday 2 January 1922, page 2
FATALITY AT NUMERALLA.
VERDICT OF ACCIDENTAL DEATH.
On Wednesday last an inquest was held by Mr John Gale, coroner ( Queanbeyan ), touching the death of Edward Patrick Agnew, son of Mr Adam John Agnew, grazier, of Numeralla.
The enquiry took place at Kuttamurra, Numeralla, the residence of Mr A. B. Agnew, brother of the deceased, when the following evidence was adduced : —
Adam Bede Agnew, farmer, and grazier, brother of deceased, deposed that about 4.30 p.m. on Monday, 26th. December, deceased was at his residence, Kuttamurra, Numeralla, and left to go to his father’s house where he lived.
Deceased was 15 years 9 months old ; he was riding a quiet horse, and was a good horseman.
About a quarter of an hour after he left witness’ residence, he being in the company of Gordon McDonald; witness noticed the latter galloping back.
McDonald said ” Neddy has got a fall. ”
Witness went along the road and saw McDonald and Stanley Norris carrying deceased in the direction of the residence of witness, who sent for Mr Godfrey, a teacher, of Numeralla, who held a first aid certificate.
The latter advised sending for a doctor ; deceased was unconscious, and witness noticed that blood was coming from his right ear.
Dr Utber came from Cooma, arriving about 6.30, and upon examination said it was practically a hopeless case.
Constable Foster arrived before the doctor came.
Deceased lingered until 12.40 p.m. on Tuesday, 27th December, when he died without recovering consciousness ; he had no property, and his life was not insured.
Gordon McDonald, labourer, deposed that he was riding along the road with deceased to his home on 26th December; they cantered along as far as the crossing, and steadied their horses to go into the creek.
Witness got out of the creek ahead of deceased, and cantered up to open a gate about 200 yards further. On reaching the gate he pulled his horse up and was going to dismount when he saw the deceased’s horse galloping up alongside his ( witness’ ) horse.
He then saw deceased lying in the middle of the road about 50 yards from the creek, and rode back and found him lying on his right side ; blood was issuing from his right ear, and he was unconscious.
Witness lifted him up and loosened his shirt, and at that time deceased’s sister came along in a buggy.
He left and went home for assistance, and Norris and a brother of deceased came back with witness to where deceased was, and brought him along, when the last witness rendered further assistance.
In reply to the police, witness said he noticed mud on the side of the horse and saddle when the horse came up to him, and the near stirrup was hanging over the side of the saddle. The off side and hip of the horse were scratched as if it had fallen.
Stanley Norris, labourer, residing at Dangelong Station, deposed that about 5 p.m. Gordon McDonald asked him to come for a ride, and informed him that deceased had got a fall.
They went to the place and found that deceased was unconscious and bleeding from the right ear.
John Joseph Agnew, a probationary constable, residing at the Central Police Barracks, Sydney, deposed that he was on furlough, staying with his father.
Deceased was his brother. Witness came to Numeralla at 11 o’clock on 27th December. He noticed on the road that an unshod horse had slipped on the hard road, and from the marks he knew that the horse had fallen on the off side. Replying to the police, witness said he did not notice any stones where the horse had fallen ; it was about 50 yards from the creek.
Constable T. J. Foster, of Cooma, deposed that on 26th December he was on duty at Numeralla, and at about 6 p.m. heard that a boy had fallen from his horse.
He went to his house and saw that blood was coming from the deceased’s right ear, and noticed a bruise and contused wound behind that ear.
Heavy rain set in about two o’clock that afternoon, and continued up to the time the accident happened, which made the roads in a very bad and slippery condition.
Witness held a First Aid certificate.
All that was possible was done for the deceased, and the doctor was sent for.
Deceased was a bright, intelligent, youth and a good horseman.
Dr F. L. Utber, of Cooma, deposed that he was called to see the deceased at about 6 p.m. on 26th December, and found him suffering from a fracture of the base of the skull; he was unconscious, and in a critical condition.
Deceased also had a cut on the leg ; he died next day.
Witness went out to Numeralla with the intention of bringing him into Cooma, but found him too bad to be removed.
The cause of death was fracture of the skull, which could have been produced by a fall and the head striking the ground.
The Coroner found that death was due to fracture of the skull accidentally caused by a fall from a horse.
The hearing was continued at the Wagga Circuit Court yesterday before Mr. Justice Campbell, of the charge against Edwin Stanley Palmer and Ernest Victor Smith of feloniously wounding Alexander Skinner at Mirrool , on July 19, with intent to murder him.
Accused were represented by Mr. L. C. Badham, of Sydney ( instructed by Mr. Taylor, of Cootamundra ), and Mr. Norman McGhie presented for the Crown.
Corroborative evidence of the police investigation was given by Constable Bottrell, of Ariah Park, who stated also that on the day of the shoot, he saw the accused in their car at Ariah Park, and they asked him if the paymaster would be along that day. He replied that he did not think so. When he was making his investigations, later, he saw a car, in which was Mr. Harbey, and about three others. One of the party the party had a gun with him. There were also four distinct car tracks around the tree. When he was speaking to the accused at Ariah Park he did not notice what they were wearing.
Constable J. J. Agnew, stationed at Ardlethan, related a conversation that he had with Palmer, while travelling from Goulburn by train. He said that Palmer told him he had been committed for trial in connection with the Mirrool “hold-up,” and that Smith (the other accused) had forced him to make a statement, but that he wanted to alter the part in which he said that Smith did not get out of the car.
In answer to Mr. Badham the Constable denied that he started the conversation, and that be said to Palmer ” Didn’t Smith get out of the car and run? ”
Jessie McEvoy who provided accused with their meals at her home, related a conversation she had with Palmer, in which he asked her who came out in the pay car. She answered that the pay clerk usually brought the money, and she wondered why he had no police escort. She had known both accused for several years, and she had found both very decent.
A salesman in a store at Ariah Park, James A. Nicholson, stated that on the day of the shooting Smith entered the store, and asked for smokeless cartridges, but, as there where none in stock, he left the shop without making any purchase.
Under cross-examination by Mr. Badham, witness said that he had no particular reason for remembering the day, or Smith and his request, excepting that the shot he asked for was unusually large.
Henry Pringleberry, a laborer, of Ariah Park said that on July 19, he saw the accused drive along the street. Smith left the car and walked along the street. Witness and Palmer spoke together for a few minutes, and Palmer asked him if that day was pay day, to which he replied “Yes.” Later saw the accused in a billiard saloon.
Sergeant Stewart, recalled, said in connection with the finding of a muddy pair of boots in the accuseds’ tent admitted that another pair of boots was also found in the camp and were subsequently claimed by Smith, but when found, they were perfectly dry, and bore no signs mud.
THE DEFENCE
A. Player, a hairdresser at Ardlethan, told how he had taken part in the ” line up ” for identification at the local police station, and how Skinner had made the mistake of identifying him as the man that had been seen climbing through the fence after the shooting.
Both of the accused elected to give evidence.
Palmer said he was a motor mechanic and let his car for hire. On July 18, Smith paid him £1 to drive him to Mr Pearson‘s residence, 16 miles north of Mirrool, where they stopped for the night. The following morning they get out on the return trip, but ran out of benzine, so they borrowed a tin from a man named Prentice, who lives along the road, and on their arrival at Ariah Park he purchased two tins of petrol, one of which he sent back to Prentice, and the other he placed in the tonneau of his car, and at 20 minutes to 1 o’clock he left Ariah Park and drove straight to Mirrool, arriving there about 40 minutes later. He drove to Mr Moon’s office, where Smith left him. He went and saw Mr Moon, and left the car standing in the street. At about half-past 3 o’clock he drove the car to his tent, and shortly afterwards Constable Smede arrived. In the meantime, he had been told of the shooting. There was no gun in the car, although there were a number of cartridges in the back seat that he used for fox shooting. The gun had been wrapped tip in a cloth under the bed for about a week, and prior to that it has been at Mrs McEvoy’s. With reference to Constable Agnew’s account of the conversation in the train, Palmer stated that the constable began the conversation and said ” You were a d*** fool not to give Smith away, and clear yourself, by saying that Smith got out of the car. ” To this he replied, ” I’ve made a statement and I don’t want to make another. ”
Smiths statement from the witness box corroborated what Palmer, had said of their movements on the day of the shooting and a searching cross – examination from the Crown Prosecutor failed to elict any new facts.
Counsel having addressed the jury, and, the Judge, retired summed up the evidence, the jury retired shortly after 6 o’clock.
Two hours later the jury returned, and had their minds refreshed on several points of the evidence, but at 10 o’clock they had not come to any agreement, and were locked up for the night.
The Court will sit again at 10 o’clock this morning.
PAYMASTER PEPPERED WITH PELLETS ACCUSED WRAPPED IN A DAMNING LEGAL WEB, AND CONVICTED
They were as mild-mannered and nerveless a brace of bandits as ever faced any minimal tribunal when they faced his Honor Mr. Justice Ralston and a jury at the Central Criminal Court at Darlinghurst last Monday — Edwin Stanley Palmer and Ernest Victor Smith. Both were young men on the threshold of their prime. Palmer is a motor mechanic, aged 26, and Smith, a labourer, a year younger. They were charged that at Mirroul, on July 1922, they did maliciously wound Charles Alexander Skinner, with intent to do him grievous bodily harm.
The Senior Crown Prosecutor ( Mr. W. T. Coyle, K.C. ) instructed by Mr. John Gonsalves, of the Crown Law Department, conducted the Crown case. The accused were defended by Mr. Moller ( instructed by Messrs. Clayton and Utz ), counsel for the defence having been assigned by the Crown. Both the accused pleaded not guilty. Before a jury was empanelled 10 jurors had been challenged by one or other of the accused.
The accused had been tried before Mr. Justice Campbell at the Wagga sittings of the Supreme Court on October 13, but on that occasion the jury had been unable to agree upon a verdict. Hence the second trial with a change of venue.
Dr. Cecil Findlay, Government Officer at Temora deposed to having examined Charles Alexander Skinner at Temora on July 19. He found sundry gun shot near the left eye, where the shot was still imbedded. In fact none of the pellets had been extracted. Skinner’s injuries could have been caused by the pellets from the cartridge he was now shown. Skinner’s wounds were both immediately and remotely dangerous, but the vision of the eye had not been impaired.
Charles Alexander Skinner, a tall and swarthy young man, said he was Inspector of Construction Works of Government Silos. He lived at Temora, and in that district Government silos were in course of erection. He left Temora on the forenoon on July 19, with a Mr. Leifermann. They went to Ariah Park and had in the car a bag containing some £3000 in notes.
They travelled in a single-seater Ford car and the roads were in a terrible state, so that he had chains on the back wheels. At Ariah Park, Leifermann paid one man in witness’s presence. Then Leifermann and the man went to an hotel — to get the receipt signed. ( Laughter. ) The paying of this man took some five minutes. Witness stood guard by the car. When Leifermann rejoined the car they proceeded. During the wait, witness noticed a car standing near by. He noticed the number of this car — ‘ H-91 ‘ — and his attention was further attracted by the fact that the car carried no chains. Witness did not notice anyone in this car. Witness and his friend left immediately after this car and there was no other car in front of them. Considering the state of the roads, the car ahead was making fast progress. From Ariah Park to Mirrool by road was about 11 miles. Witness from time to time noticed this car ahead. On one occasion witness stopped to clean the screen. This was at a bend in the road. From the top of a slight rise witness saw this same car, stationary, about a quarter of a mile, ahead. Witness in his car proceeded down the intervening dip. Suddenly a shot was fired, apparently from behind a tree some 40 feet ahead. The windscreen of witness’s car was shattered to fragments and witness felt a terrific blow in the face. His face was freely punctured with pellets, the wounds bleeding freely. Witness’s hat and his collar were also plenteously peppered with pellets.
The hat was produced in court and its condition abundantly verified the story just told by the witness. So did the witness’s coat and macintosh which also were produced. These articles were closely and critically examined by the jury. The macintosh showed punctures through the collar.
The witness said that he felt the blow on the right side of the face. The tree stood on the left side of the main road to Mirrool. The main traffic divided at the tree, part going to the left and part to the right, the roads joining up again later on. Leifermann had a revolver and jumped out of the car, from behind the cover of the car covering the tree from which the shot had been fired. Witness also sheltered behind the car and saw a man running from behind the tree. That man was carrying a shot gun and was dressed in a military tunic, khaki trousers and a cap. The trousers and tunic those worn by this fugitive man. The man clambered on to a fence, giving witness a good view of him. As he mounted the fence the fugitive looked back, giving witness a full view of his profile. Witness had no doubt that that man was the accused Smith, now seated in the dock. The wind-screen of hie car, though it was of substantial plate-glass, was shattered to Fragments.
Witness saw Smith on the fence, but did not see him get over the fence. Witness returned to the car while Leifermann covered the tree with his revolver. Having recovered the bag of money, witness and Leifermann went across country till they struck the railway line, abandoning the car where it was. On the railway line a train picked them up and they returned to Ariah Park where witness made a complaint to Constable Smede. Witness had previously seen the accused Palmer about the works and might have seen the other accused also. On two previous witness had taken the pay out to the works. On the following Wednesday witness was called to pick the accused Smith out of a line of men. At first he made a mistake, indicating the wrong man. But the mistake was promptly rectified.
Augustus Frederick Leifermann, a young man, wearing a returned soldier’s badge, and who had been in the company of the preceding witness during that eventful motor car drive, in the main corroborated the evidence given by Skinner. He added that after the shot had been fired, and be and Skinner had left the car, he heard the distinct click of a gun hammer. He did not see any man running from behind the tree. In Quest of cartridges.
James Nicholson, grocer, at Ariah Park, said that on July 19 the accused Smith called at the general store at which witness was employed and asked for No. 1 Remington cartridges. There were none in stock. When Eley’s black powder cartridges were suggested, smith said that these were no good for duck shooting.
Jessie McEvoy, living with her husband at Mirrool, said the two accused had their meals at her place, but slept at their own camp. She remembered these men being arrested. On the morning before they both came to her place. After breakfast they told her they were going out to Mr. Pearson’s place, some distance out of Mirrool. Smith borrowed her husband’s overcoat and then took a box out of a bag that was hanging in the kitchen. It was a small cardboard box about the size of one she was now shown. The gun she was now shown had been at her place for some time. She had thought it was Stan Palmer’s gun. About a week before their arrest Smith took the gun away from her place.
Smede Finds Tracks.
Constable. G. T. Smede. stationed at Ariah Park, deposed that he had followed boot tracks from the scene of the alleged shooting. The footprints were in his opinion those of a man running.
Alleged Damning Admission.
Constable John Joseph Agnew. of Ardlethan, said that on August 10 he was on escort duty to Goulburn. He saw the accused Palmer on the railway platform there, who told him that he was under committal for trial for what he called ” the Mirrool Hold-up “. Palmer said that when he said in his statement to the police that Smith had not left the car that day, he had said what was incorrect. Smith had left the car and picked it up about a quarter of a mile further on. Witness had not known Palmer before this conversation.
The Defence — A General Denial.
Giving evidence on oath the accused, Palmer, gave a general denial of the allegations against him. There was no gun with them in the car at any time during that drive, and Smith never at any time during the journey left the car. He had not known Skinner prior to those charges. It was true that the car was driven to Moon’s office on their return and then to their camp. It was then that a man named Williams informed them of the sticking-up of Skinner along the Ariah Park-road. Witness remarked, ” I saw no one along the road, and I’ve just come back ‘. Then someone remarked, ” I suppose some of the police will be here soon, asking questions “. He could not say who said that. Just then Constable Smede arrived and inquired for the gun. Witness had obtained the gun from Mrs. McEvoy on the preceding Saturday and had cleaned it and put it away. The gun was got out of the car and handed to Smede. When he left Ariah Park he was under the impression that there would be no pay that day. Neither the boots he was now shown nor the khaki trousers were his. He had not known Leifermann till a few days before the police court hearing. After the police court proceedings witness was taken to Goulburn Gaol where he was for 22 days. The Governor of the Gaol refused him facilities for writing. That was why he was so long in getting bail. Witness denied the conversation in the train as detailed by Constable Agnew. It was Agnew who suggested that witness should amend his statement, saying that Smith had got out of the car. Witness refused to either amend his previous statement or to make another one. He had never been in trouble before and held himself forward as a man of good character. He had been married in June last.
The accused Smith also gave evidence on oath. His story, in the main, coincided with that told by Palmer.
” Guilty “
In his address to the jury, Mr. Moller asked them to find that the direct evidence brought forward by the Crown was not sufficient to justify them in convicting the two accused. Skinner was the only witness who proffered any direct evidence, and, under the circumstances, it was very probable that he was mistaken.
The conclusion of the trial was not reached till late on Tuesday. It was not till 8pm that the jury returned with a verdict. They found the accused both guilty, but strongly recommended them to mercy because of their youth.
On Thursday Mr. Justice Ralston intimated that he would hot pass sentence until tomorrow ( Monday, the 11th inst.).
A collision in Sloane-street, Goulburn, involving a motor car driven by Bert Stinson, of Roslyn, and a Sulky, in which was William Taylor, an aged man, also of Roslyn, had a sequel in the Goulburn District Court on Wednesday morning, when Judge Bevan heard a claim by Taylor for £150 damages His Honor awarded £125.
Mr. P. J. Meyer appeared for plaintiff. Stinson did not appear.
Plaintiff said he assisted his son in a dairy business at Gundary, and at 3.30 on the morning of June 26 he was proceeding to Gundary in a sulky via Sloane-street. Witness was driving in a southerly direction, and when about 20 yards from the intersection of Sloane-street and Market-street a motor car came towards the sulky from the latter street.
The car made a bee-line for the sulky, and although witness shouted a warning four times the car came towards him, gaining impetus at every yard. Despite the fact that witness drew his sulky on to the footpath to avoid the car, a collision occurred.
The car hit the sulky with considerable force, overturning it, and also the horse. Witness was pinned beneath the seat of the sulky.
Without alighting, the car driver placed his machine in reverse gear and drove out backwards, dragging with him the horse and wreckage of the sulky.
On becoming freed from the wreckage the car driver kept in reverse until Clifford-street was reached and then turned and made off.
Witness was in the act of crawling from the wreckage when Constable Agnew arrived on the scene and lent his assistance.
Plaintiff said he had been receiving medical attention since the accident, and had not been able to follow his usual employment owing to his injuries. The horse had been stone blind for two weeks following the collision and was still blind in one eye.
The damage done to the sulky and harness amounted to £23. He added that through the efforts of the police he ascertained that the driver of the car was Bert Stinson. He had seen Stinson before issuing the writ for damages and had been prepared to negotiate on reasonable terms. Stinson, however, had offered to defray the costs of the damage to the sulky only.
Constable J. J. Agnew said he was drawn to Sloan Street by the noise of a collision and on arriving on the scene saw Stinson’s car in Sloane street in reverse gear.
On that night Stinson approached witness in the street and admitted he had been involved in the collision.
WOULD SQUARE IT.
Stinson said: “If you let your part of it drop I’lI squaare it up with Taylor. ” Witness, however, reported the matter and proceedings were taken.
Dr. A. P. Gillespie gave evidence of Taylor’s injuries. He said Taylor was 62 years of age and would never be in the same state of health as he had been prior to the collision.
Counsel for plaintiff, in addressing his Honor, said the amount claimed was in no way commensurate with the injuries Taylor had sustained.
In returning a verdict for £125, Judge Bevan declared that no sum would recompense Taylor for the injury to his health.
” I would not undergo an accident like that for £1000,” his Honor added.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001),
Friday 1 October 1926
(No.129), page 4068
The undermentioned members of the Police Force to exercise, within the Licensing Districts preceding their names, the authority conferred by section 63, subsection 1 of the Liquor Act, 1912, from the dates specified,
viz.:—
Gulgong— Constable John Charles Logan, stationed at Leadville,— from 21st August, 1926.
Bombala — Constable John Joseph Agnew, stationed at Bombala,— from 26th August, 1926.
Picton— Constable John Stewart, stationed at Picton,- from 1st September, 1926.
Wyalong —Constable Allen George McCauley Prangley, stationed at Barmedman, — from 1st October, 1926.
Queanbeyan — Constable Robert Shaw, stationed at Queanbeyan, — from 23rd August 1926.
Picton — Constable John Hamilton, stationed at The Oaks, — from 13th August, 1926.
Bathurst — Constable Ernest Randall, stationed at O’Connell, — from 17th August, 1926.
Monaro Mercury, and Cooma and Bombala Advertiser (NSW : 1862 – 1931),
Monday 8 April 1929, page 2
The Bombala Car Fatality
CONCLUSION OF INQUEST.
An Inquest touching the death of Boris Auastanoff, a Greek, 23 years of age, which followed injuries received while riding on a motor car which came into collision with an electric wire police at Bombala on 28th March, was opened by the Coroner of the Cooma District, Mr. H. H. Solomon, at the Bombala Hospital on 29th ult., and adjourned till Saturday last for the production of evidence. The enquiry was held at the Bombala Court House, and was attended by numbers of residents of that centre. The driver of the car, Edward Patrick Elliott, was represented by Mr. F. C. Boys, solicitor of Bombala, and lengthy evidence was given. The decease was one of a party of men engaged on work on the Mt. Darragh road, and who were being conveyed to the Bombala railway station at the time of the accident.
Chris Doney deposed that decease was a native of Kobomnsky, Greece, and was married, his wife and one child living in that county. Witness believed that deceased had some cousins living at Cowra, one being name Bire Peters, a farm labourer.
Mr. Nicholas Condoleon acted as interpretor during the evidence of the first witness, as above, given at the hospital, Saturday’s evidence included the following:
Constable John J. Agnew deposed that about 1.50 p.m.’ on 28th ult. he visited the spot which the collision occurred and saw an electric light pole lying across the bonnet of the car. Deceased’s left leg was almost severed at the knee, the right leg being broken, in two or three places ; there were wounds on the right cheek and left eye. Elliott the driver had a wound on the cheek and jaw. The pole, which was 9 inches in diameter, was broken off. Tracks of the car indicated that it was travelling on the wrong side of the road. The driver was, very much shaken,, his breath smelt strongly of alcohol, he was not under the influence of liquor. Of two other men in the car he noticed one really, drunk and the other stupid. The driver said the tyre blew out and deceased was riding on the foot board and grasped his right arm and pulled the wheel towards the post. The tracks indicated that the car skidded out and did not indicate any sudden turning to the right. The pole was practically new and sound and was broken off about 2 feet from the ground.
Clarence Harold Dunn, labourer, deposed that he, W. Dick, C. Purves, H. and C. Gerathy were on the car. Witness heard an explosion like a blow-out and the car skidded. It was bout 25 miles from Mt. Durragh to Bombala. He did not know deceased was on the foot board. The only thing witness remembered was the tyre blowing out. The car was going about 15 miles an hours ; witness was thrown out and cut on the face.
William Dick, labourer, stated that the driver seemed to be struggling to right the car and the crash came. There was no one in the car the worse for liquor. He did not see deceased till the accident occurred. The car was going at a medium speed, about 20 miles an hour. The driver Elliott was sober.
Leonard E. Elton, farmer, of Bombala, deposed that he was riding along the street and heard a crash and saw the pole falling, and went across and saw a man lying down at the butt of the pole. He went for assistance ; the car did not seem to be travelling very fast. One of the men was under the influence of drink ; Elliott appeared to be sober.
Dr. Jefferies deposed to being called to the scene of the accident. Be saw deceased lying on the floor of the car, he was conscious and was bleeding from a cut on the right side of the mouth ; his left leg was horribly mangled, the knee was laid right open and three inches of the lower end or the hip bone was hanging. The lower leg was badly mutilated and the bone laid bare and projecting through the skin about 6 inches. The right leg was broken above and below the knee. The left leg was amputated as soon as possible. The lower jaw was broken in two places. The man died about 6 o’clock that evening. His idea was that the car must have been driven more than 15 miles an hour. What the deceased said was ” He breaka da legs. ” Witness attended to the injuries of the other men ; only one showed signs of drink. Elliott, the driver, in his opinion, was not under the influence of drink at all. Elliott told witness the deceased jumped on the running beard of the car and said ” I will hang on here Ted, ” and he tried to make the man get off as it was risky. Elliott said he was turning the corner round past the freezing works and one of the front tyres blew out and at the same time deceased grabbed his arm and prevented him from straightening up from the skid following the blow out. That conversation took place at the hospital, the details were given in quite a rational way.
Charles Edward Bruce, farmer, of Bombala, said he was in Maybe Street and saw a car going towards the Council Chambers. Just then another man was coming behind the car and called out and wanted to get in the car. The driver did not hear him and kept on travelling. Witness knew nothing further about the matter.
William Dorl, farmer of Ando, deposed that he saw the car pick up two passengers L. and C. Gerathy, and saw a man sitting on the luggage on the foot board. The car went round Vider’s corner at an ordinary pace. The occupants did not seem in any way drunk in his opinion.
Charles E. Gerathy, labourer, said he was not sober when he got in the car after getting out to go to the railway station. He remembered starting for the train. He just remembered a smash and that was all. He was not drunk at the time of the smash ; he was merry, that was all ; he was about ” half shot. ”
Patrick Edward ELLIOTT, the driver, said deceased was coming from the Imperial Hotel and asked him if he could take him to the train, and he replied ” No. “. Deceased came round and stood on the driving side of the car. When be came to the turn the car swerved to the right and deceased caught hold of witness’s right arm, which interfered with his steering. That was all he could remember till he was being taken to the Hospital. He told Constable Agnew he had a blow out. He had had two lagers, two English stouts and a Sarto that day. He was on the right hand side of the road ; the ruts were a bit bad on the left side. He had 5 passengers and deceased on the outside board ; he was not under the influence of liquor. He was driving 25 miles an hour along the street, and round the bend he eased off to 20 miles, he did not let the wheel go.
Two other witnesses, Aaron Williams, and William Henry Harrison also gave evidence. The former said Elliott was sober, and the latter that the car was not travelling at more than the ordinary pace.
The Coroner returned a verdict that deceased died from injuries through violently striking an electric wire-line post while riding on the board of a motor car.
A fire broke out soon after 8 o’clock last night at the residence of Mr. David Payne, when a large weatherboard dining-room, kitchen, laundry, and bathroom were destroyed.
The police, under Constable J. Agnew, contributed in a great measure to saving the greater
portion of the premises. The origin of the fire is unknown, as all the occupiers were at church. The premises were insured for only a small sum.
First-class Constable J. J. Agnew, who has been stationed at Bombala for more than seven years, has received notice of his transfer and promotion to Sydney.
He is succeeded by First-Class Constable Sturgess, of Harden.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001),
Thursday 6 April 1939
(No.55), page 2025
THE undermentioned members of the Police Force to exercise, within the Licensing Districts preceding their names, the authority conferred by section 63, subsection 1, of the Liquor Act, 1912, from the 1st April, 1939,
Metropolitan — Constable Arthur Edward Ward, stationed at No. 1 Police Station.
Metropolitan — Constable John Joseph Agnew, stationed at No. 1 Police Station.
Metropolitan — Constable Charles Oscar Robinson, stationed at No. 1 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Victor Raymond Woodland, stationed at No. 1 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Rex William Hamilton, stationed at No. 1 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Harold Leslie Clugston, stationed at No. 3 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Henry Percy Lewis, stationed at No. 3 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Ernest Walter Williamson, stationed at No. 3 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable William Linden Roberts, stationed- at No. 4 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Eric Richard King, stationed at No. 4 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Thomas Earl Matthew Carney, stationed at No. 4 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Joseph Andrew Reed, stationed at No. 4 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable William Charles Davies, stationed at No. 5 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable George Henry Schmidt, stationed at No. 5 Police Station.
Metropolitan-—Constable John Herbert Lanaghan, stationed at No. 5 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Thomas John Fitzgerald, stationed at No, 6 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Daniel Lynch, stationed at No. 6 Police Station.
Metropolitan—Constable Reginald James Hill, stationed at No. 6 Police Station,.
South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus (NSW : 1900 – 1954), Thursday 6 March 1952, page 30
BOOKMAKER AND BUS DRIVER
” I said, What are you going to do about the accident? and he replied, What are you going to do?. So I reported it to the police. ”
The speaker was registered bookmaker Selwyn Allan McFAWN, of 72 Market St, Wollongong, and he was telling the Wollongong Court on Tuesday the story of a collision between his car and a bus in Church Street on 5th October.
Allan Claude McDONAGH, of 39 Wallace Road, Fern Hill, had been charged with negligent driving, but he did not come to court.
McFawn said he was driving his car up Church Street when a double-decker bus approached in the opposite direction. It came from behind a car and across the road at him. Witness’ car was struck on the mudguard, the impact being about five feet from the centre line on the bus’ incorrect side of the road.
He approached the driver of the bus and the above related dialogue ensued.
Constable J. Agnew said that McDonagh told him he had swung a bit wide to avoid two parked cars, and he thought one was about to pull out from the kerb. He saw McFawn‘s car swing to the left, but he ( McDonagh ) struck it before he had a chance.
Mr. Acting Justice Myers, in the Supreme Court yesterday, granted bail in £1,000 to Arthur Thomas, who was arrested on Saturday and charged with murdering Thomas Alfred Barber, a former champion boxer, and maliciously wounding Harry Thomas at Kimberley Avenue, Lane Cove.
Mr. J. E. Cassidy, Q.C., for the accused, said that Thomas had been refused bail at Central Court of Petty Sessions and remanded to August 5.
The accused, he said, was 68 and was not in good health. He was prepared to undertake not to return to his home if granted bail. His brother, Harry Thomas, of Harbord, a man of good character and substance, was prepared to give him accommodation pending the coroner’s inquiry, and would keep him under supervision.
Barber was killed, Mr. Cassidy said, during an altercation between the two sons of the accused when the accused intervened.
Mr. Cassidy said that there had been a dispute over a partnership and a lorry.
POLICE AFFIDAVIT
Sergeant John Joseph Agnew, in an affidavit, said he knew the accused and arrested him on July 11. Harry Thomas also lived in Kimberley Avenue, Lane Cove.
Thomas was known to him as a man of violent temper which was particularly directed against his son, Harry Thomas.
When he told Thomas that Barber was dead, the accused said, “I hope the other big cur dies too.”
Sergeant Agnew said that he feared that if Thomas was allowed bail he would attempt to interfere with Crown witnesses.
Mr. Acting Justice Myers allowed bail on the murder charge and released Thomas in his own recognisance on the charge of malicious wounding.
He also ordered Thomas to report twice daily to Manly police.
Mr. J. E. Cassidy, Q.C. ( by Mr. F. R. Anderson ) for applicant; Mr. D. J. Vine Hall for the Crown.
The Premier (Mr. Cahill ) announced yesterday that the Governor-in-Council had approved of four police promotions.
Inspectors Third Class James MacKay and William Leslie Jefferson would be promoted to Inspectors Second Class, he said. Sergeants First – Class Joseph Wardley and John Joseph Agnew would be Inspectors Third Class.
Terrypassed away on 22 December 2020. His funeral being held on 30 December 2020.
His wife, Dianne, who was also a resident of the same Nursing Home and also suffering from Alzeimers, passed away on the evening of 31 December 2020. He may have died from a combination of Alzeimers and Heart Break.
Funeral details, for Dianne, are unknown at this time.
NSW Police Training Centre – Redfern – Class # 175
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 19896
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Academy on Monday 17 August 1981 ( aged 29 years, 0 months, 22 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed Friday 6 November 1981 ( Aged 29 years, 3 months, 11 days )
Service: From 17 August 1981 to15 May 2009 = 27 years, 8 months, 28 days Service
Age at Retirement: 56 years, 9 months, 19 days
Time In Retirement: 11 years, 7 months, 7 days
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours system
Born: Saturday 26 July 1952
Died on: Tuesday 22 December 2020 during the morning
Age: 68 years, 4 months, 26 days
Cause: Alzhiemers ?
Is known to have been suffering from Alzhiemers for the past few years and lately, Septicaemia. His wife, Dianne, also resides at the same Nursing Home and is also a sufferer of Alzhiemers.
Event location: ? Nursing Home
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Wednesday 30 December 2020 @ 1.30pm
Funeral location: St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 2 Bendooly St, Bowral, NSW
All friends and former colleagues are invited to attend.
NO LIVE STREAMING
All persons attending are to be mindful on the current Government restrictions on gatherings in the venue and congregations outside the venue. Guidance given by Clergy, Funeral Directors, Venue staff or other persons controlling the service should be followed.
A streaming service may be provided and will be sent as a nemesis in the future.
( 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: G. BEAVAN Funeral of Bowral, NSW
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( November 2020 )
TERENCE 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.
Deepest condolences to their son, Wayne NEWMAN and family.
It is believed that Dianne wanted to be with Terry again.
Terry is known to have attended Primary School in the north Campbelltown area.
He was a footy player and cricket player and also enjoyed ferreting as a youngster around the Campbelltown hills.
NEWMAN
Terence William (Terry)
Passed away surrounded by family
22nd December, 2020.
Aged 68 years.
Beloved husband of Dianne.
Much loved father and father-in-law of Wayne & Janice, Russell, Todd & Daryle, Megan & Michael, James & Kristy.
Adored Poppy to all his grandchildren and great grandchildren
A Funeral Service and offering of prayers for Terry will be held at St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Bendooley Street Bowral on Wednesday 30th December, 2020 commencing at 1.30pm.
Mick had just left “the job ” when offered the new superannuation scheme to get off pre 88 – his intention was to rejoin but Commander Wales knocked it back. Depression etc led to his suicide.
KEAN Michael John Death notice 21AUG2001 Death late of Lalor Park. Sydney Morning Herald
FURTHER INFORMATION NEEDED.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this man at the time of publication.
Cal
1st Published on 24 November 2014.
Updated 13 December 2020
John Andrew BYERS
| 03/01/2021
John Andrew BYERS BM
AKA JB
Late of Narooma – formerly of Balgownie, NSW
Father to Mark BYERS ( NSWPF # 31622 )
NSW Police Training Centre – Redfern – Class # 113
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 12889
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Police Academy on ? ? ?
Probationary Constable- appointed 11 December 1967 ( Aged 19 years, 1 month, 13 days )
Constable – appointed 11 January 1969 ( loss of 13 months Seniority )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 16 September 1993 ( SenCon )
Bravery Medal ( BM ) – granted 9 August 1989 – Disarmed an offender after a car chase ( SenCon )
Sergeant John A. BYERS was Awarded a Bronze Medal for actions involving a vehicle fire at Corrimal on the 22 July 1995 ( Royal Humane Society of NSW )
Senior Constable John Andrew BYERS was Awarded a Certificate of Merit for actions involving a submerged vehicle at Audley Weir on the 8 September 1983 ( Royal Humane Society of NSW )
Constable John Andrew BYERS was Awarded a Certificate of Merit for actions involving a suicide at Sydney Harbour Bridge on the 20 August 1969 ( Royal Humane Society of NSW )
Born: Thursday 28 October 1948
Died on: Sunday 6 December 2020 during the p.m.
Age: 72 years, 1 month, 8 days
Cause: “Possibly” a Heart Attack whilst sleeping.
Had previously been treated for Cancer of the Bowel and had both knees replaced in 2015 together with a hip operation.
Event location: Home
Event date: Sunday 6 December 2020 during the p.m.
( 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 )
This morning I found out of the passing of a great mate and mentor, retired Senior Sergeant John ‘JB’ Byers BM.
I first met JB when I was a teenager and he was in the Rescue Squad with my old man ( Edward ‘Ted’ Doherty ).
I later worked with him at 24 Division when I graduated from the Academy.
JB was a hard as nails ‘old school’ cop, a true legend. I could not count the hours I have stood with him a crime scenes in the middle of the night. It was a running joke, if we got called out to any crime scene during the night we would always call JB for lighting regardless of if we needed it or not. We had some fun times over the years and drank many beers together. I’ll have one for you today mate.
All of the Doherty family’s thoughts and prayers are with JB’s beautiful wife Cath, his children Mark, Elizabeth and Karina and all of his grandchildren.
RIP mate.
John had both knees replaced in early 2015 and also had a hip replacement after that, together with a bout of Cancer of the Bowel.
Once he Retired from NSWPF, he moved to Narooma where he drove a taxi for many years.
He was a great bloke for a laugh, a great bloke to catch up with, a knowledgeable bastard who always had your back.
John – may you forever Rest In Peace mate.
Greg ‘Cal’ Callander
John is mentioned, in passing, in the book by Jason Byrnes – called:
Police Rescue and Bomb Disposal: An Extraordinary History
I went to a fatal with him once. He dived into the Hacking river at night and pulled two bodies out of a submerged car.
That took some guts.
He had multiple bravery awards.
No condolences please. Just know this hero lived.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Friday 19 May 1995, page 7
Injured bushwalker finally rescued
SYDNEY: The rescue of a 61-year-old bushwalker who had fractured her ankle while walking in the Morton National Park had turned into a large-scale operation which was hampered by bad weather and flooding.
Several attempts to reach the injured woman by air had failed due to cloud and heavy rain.
Swollen creeks had prevented an attempt to carry her out before she was airlifted to Nerriga with two of her rescuers at 2pm yesterday afternoon.
She was later taken to Shoalhaven Hospital.
Ulladulla police said yesterday that a further 30 rescuers had been sent to reach the rescue party with equipment to set up flying-foxes across the rivers and creeks.
The drama began on Tuesday, when the woman fell while walking with three companions on Mt Haughton in the Budawang Ranges.
A police spokesman said a South Coast Wilderness Society member had contacted Nowra police late that afternoon after he came across the party, and six rescuers walked in to meet them.
On Tuesday, Ulladulla police said the National Parks and Wildlife Service helicopter was unable to land in the area due to low cloud.
As a result, a further 13 rescuers joined the bushwalkers and the entire party attempted to walk out of the park late Wednesday.
Ulladulla police said the ground party managed to get about 1km because of swollen rivers and creeks.
They camped overnight and the 30 new rescuers tried to reach the party. The extra rescuers were to relieve some of the earlier crew and try to set up flying-foxes across the rivers.
A naval helicopter from Nowra airlifted 18 of the rescuers stranded by rising flood waters to Nerriga yesterday afternoon.
According to the rescue co-ordinator, Sergeant John Byers, the remaining rescuers would try to make their way out on foot.
On 30 March 1986 a number of police were called to apprehend a mentally disturbed man ( Horan ) who was driving a utility around Bathurst in a dangerous manner.
At the Perthville bridge there was a collision between a police truck and the utility and they became wedged on the approach.
The offender ( Horan ) got out holding a .303 rifle covered with material in his hands.
Senior Constable Byers crawled through the window and grappled with the offender.
He then fell to the ground and the offender broke free and fired at him.
The offender began to fire at the police, at which time Constable 1st Class Paul Mitchell Quinn was shot in the neck and killed instantly and Constable Ian Borland was seriously wounded.
Seeing him go to the back of his utility, Constable Byers fired back and got to his feet as the offender ran down the embankment and turned and fired again.
Constable Byers emptied his revolver, threw himself on the ground between the truck and the utility and reloaded.
The offender, Horan, was shot several times by police before being arrested and charged.
The offender threw his rifle aside and Constable Byers went to assist three other policemen as they arrested him.
By his actions, Senior Constable Byers displayed considerable bravery.
John Byers was not stationed in the area – but was rostered there for the Easter Mt Panorama Motor Cycle races and assisted other Police when this incident was happening.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Wednesday 19 December 1973, page 9
Policeman wins bravery award
SYDNEY, Tuesday.
Constable 1st Class John Andrew Byers, of Wollongong Police, has been awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct.
The Governor of NSW, Sir Roden Cutler, announced today that the Queen had approved the award.
On February 28, this year, Constable Byers and Senior Constable E. J. ( Ted ) Beaver ( # 10097 ) went to Gladstone Avenue, Wollongong, to investigate a disturbance and the firing of rifle shots.
They saw a man seated in front of a house with a .22 calibre rifle which he pointed in their direction.
Before the weapon could be cocked, Constable Byers ran up to the man and wrested the rifle from his possession.
( 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: ? TBA
Buried at: ? TBA
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( December 2020 )
MARK 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.
Earlier in the week I learnt of the sad passing of a good mate and a former top cop – Mark Bonavia (Bananas.)
He will be remembered for his great sense of humour, and his excellent driving skills that he put to good use in his many years of serving the community as a police officer attached to the legendary former E- District Highway Patrol (Ku- Ring Gai.)
Mark was a very kind and caring person with a heart, who in his job was a great and fair cop who would always go after the reckless hoons and drunk drivers and would always be reluctant to book the “working family man”, but rather give them a good talking to.
Mark started his HWP career at H District in the GIO Building in Marsden Street Parramatta.
He came to us from Castle Hill in 1988 along with Matthew Dickinson.
There are some funny stories that can be told of his shenanigans eg a siege at Ashfield Police Station.
His nickname was Bonn-A-Via.
I often wondered where he and his crazy sense of humour landed after his retirement.
Matthew Adam THEOKLIS
| 03/01/2021
Matthew Adam THEOKLIS
Husband to Serving NSWPF Member Rebekah ?, # ?????
AKA Matt THEOKLIS, Theo
Late of ?
NSW Goulburn Police Academy – Class # “possibly” ADPP 25 – Class 298
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 41375
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on 2 May 2005 ( aged 24 years, 4 months, 10 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed 14 December 2005 ( aged 24 years, 11 months, 22 days )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Leading Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? December 2019
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Sergeant
Stations: Flemington LAC ( 2005 ), ?, South West Metro Operations, Eastern Beaches PAC – Maroubra – on loan to Major Events & Emergency Management – Covid Operation Deployments – Sydney Police Centre
Service: From 2 May 2005 to Monday 30 November 2020 = 15 years, 6 months, 28 days Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours system
Born: Monday 22 December 1980
Died on: Monday 30 November 2020 about 7.30am
Age: 39 Years, 11 months, 8 days
Cause: Suicide – Service weapon
Event location: inside Sydney Police Centre, Goulburn St, Surry Hills, NSW
( 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: ? TBA
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( December 2020 )
MAT is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * BUT SHOULD BE
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Our condolences to Brooke THEOKLIS, Sophie THEOKLIS & wife, Rebekah.
Mr Theoklis (pictured holding his twin daughters) had been promoted to a Sergeant in December last year.
In the early hours of Monday 30 November 2020 beloved Sergeant Matthew (Theo) Theoklis passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at the Sydney Police Centre. Theo joined the NSW Police Force in December 2005. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in December 2019 and was attached to Eastern Beaches Police Area Command. At the time of his death he was performing duties with Major Events and Emergency Management, State Planning Unit. His colleagues will best remember him for his dedication and commitment to Operation Support Group (OSG) operations, firstly as a valued member of South West Metropolitan Region Enforcement Squad (OSG) and more recently with Operation ODIN (Central Metropolitan Region).
Theo was a well-respected member of the NSW Police Force who took immense pride in his job. He performed his duties with the highest of professionalism and will be remembered for the fun and antics, for which he was renowned.
Above his Policing, he was first a loving son to Sam, Mary and Barry, brother to Sarah and Ed and uncle to his many nieces and nephews.
Theo leaves behind his fiancée Rebekah, who is a current serving member of the NSW Police Force, and beautiful 3-year-old twin daughters Brooke and Sophie, who adore their dad. Theo was a wonderful father who cherished his girls and would constantly talk about them.
All donations to this cause will go to the ongoing support and care of Brooke and Sophie throughout their lives.
NSW Police create fundraiser for Sergeant Matthew Theoklis’ family
December 9, 2020
A NSW police officer who took his life has been recognized as father-of-two Sergeant Matthew Theoklis.
The father of three-year-old twin women was discovered lifeless on the Sydney Police Centre in Surry Hills on November 30.
Theoklis, often called ‘Theo’, leaves behind his fiancee Rebekah, additionally a serving member of the NSW Police Force, and daughters Brooke and Sophie, who “adore their dad”.
He joined the NSW Police Force in December 2005 earlier than he was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2019.
Heartbreaking photos show hero cop doting over his twins before he shot himself dead at a police station – as community rally behind his family with final act of kindness
Sergeant Matthew Theoklis was found dead at Sydney Police Centre on Nov 30
He had been in the police force for 15 years and leaves behind twin daughters
A fundraiser has since been set up to help support his fiancee and two children
A father of three year old Twins, was stationed at the Sydney Police centre in Goulburn St, Sydney, around 7.30am when the shooting occurred.
He has been a member of NSWPF for 15 years and is married to another member of NSWPF.
NSW Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Matt was also a supporter of NSW Police Legacy, having Boxed in the Police Legacy Boxing Tournament, at Horning PCYC, on 19 April 2013.
Policeman dies in suicide at NSW Police headquarters in Sydney
A police officer has taken his own life at the central Sydney offices of NSW Police.
The apparent suicide occurred in an office at the Sydney Police Centre in Surry Hills on Monday morning.
Initial inquiries indicate the man’s death was not suspicious, a spokesperson for NSW Police said, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
A spokesperson for the Police Association of NSW said the union was aware of the death and would be providing support to those affected.
The death follows a number of suicides among police officers recently, including a senior constable in the New England region.
Police suicides in previous years have prompted discussion about the high-pressure nature of the job and whether officers are adequately supported.
A coronial inquest into the 2013 suicide of a former officer, Ashley Bryant, highlighted the psychological effects of police work, including the stress of constantly being alert to danger and coming into contact with victims of crime.
The inquest found NSW Police was working to help its members deal with the “extreme stressors” they face although more needed to be done.
If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide, you can seek help by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.
Service: From 30th May 1960 to 31st December 1992 = 32 years, 7 months, 1 day Service
Age at Retirement: 54 years, 11 months, 7 days
Time in Retirement: 27 years, 10 months, 28 days
Awards: National Medal – granted 15 September 1980 ( Sgt )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 22 September 1987 ( Sgt 1/c )
2nd Clasp to National Medal – granted 22 September 1987 ( Sgt 1/c )
Born: Monday 24 January 1938
Died on: Saturday 28 November 2020 @ 8.30pm
Age: 82 years, 10 months, 4 days
Cause: Bob had suffered from multiple myeloma for some time but his death was caused by a “rogue cell” from a previous bout of prostate cancer (2012) which had gone undetected, and spread quickly to his kidneys.
Event location: Bob died at his home at Port Macquarie.
Event date: 28th November 2020.
Funeral date: 1st December 2020.
Funeral location: A private family celebration at Innes Gardens Memorial Crematorium. At Bobs request – there will be no further Service.
( 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: N/A
Buried at: Ashes scattered in the ocean at Shelley Beach
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: N/A
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time
BOB 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.
With regret I can let all his mates know, that Bob Allgood slipped away on Saturday night (28/11) at home, surrounded by family after a long battle with the rotten cancer.
His wife, Wendy just rang to let me know. There has been a private family celebration of Bobs’ life, and at his request there will be no other service.
Bob is remembered, by some, for his VW Beetle ( that he owned ) with DOG number plates.
Sad news to hear of Swoopey’s passing. Worked with Bob from 73 -76 at NTH Syd. A few trips to Bathurst was always a great week away.
Did a wide load with Bob out in NSW, he went outside from the motel and came back with a rock. “ What’s the rock for Swoopey?” He told me he always took a rock from wherever he went and took it home for his wife. Little things that we do. RIP Bob, thanks for your service and training you gave me.
RIP Bobby. It was a pleasure to have you as my boss at 16 Division. Remember the nights you would come & find Chris Berry & myself with our tea set up on the bonnet whilst performing radar duty on Mona Vale Road. You always found us Swoopey. Gone but not forgotten. Say hello to grumpy. Two of the best bosses you could ever hope to have. Thank you for your service.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this man at the time of publication.
RIP Bobby. Worked with him at the Daceyville section in the 70’s. Remember his number plate was DOG ??? And he often came out to find a picture of a dog stuck over his number plate. A great Sergeant to work under.
Back in my early days Constables no class, usually only drove an unmarked car when in company with a senior man.
I went down to 29 Div thinking just that. 2 marked cars and 2 unmarked..1 was radar car, the other a patrol car.
Bob Allgood was the Sgt..I started working 5am to 1p shifts..to catch the speeders in the early mornings.
Going up Pittwater road heading for work…Warriewood straight was the place to nail em if not before..within 2 weeks Allgood promoted me to unmarked car status..his thinking if I could nail that many in a marked car. I would be deadly in an unmarked one.
NSW Police Cyclists Sgt Harry Brennan ( # 6424 ) with John Birt ( # 9372 ) , Bob Allgood ( #9686 ) , Col Nicholson ( # 11422 ) photo taken 26 June 1967. Redfern Police Academy. Monday 26 June 1967. The date that Class 111 were ” Sworn In ” at Redfern Police Academy – where this photo was obviously taken.
NSWPF Triumph motor cycle – NSW Rego CE-003 ridden by SenCon Bob ALLGOOD. Photo taken at Redfern Academy – Monday 26 June 1967.
NSWPF – Ford Falcon XE 351 HWP vehicle – Rego MCL-065 Classic Pursuit Vehicles Frenchs Forest HWP around 1982 with our XE 351 Falcon. Left to Right: The best boss known to man, Bob Allgood, Me ( Darryl PITT # 19054 ), Porky Levy ( possibly Levey )( # ????? ) & Dave ‘catsbum’ Minarik ( # 19216 ).
Dave Morris Going through some old shots, how is this for a group of legends? Around ’75 and Harry Brennan ( # 6424 ) is giving the Maroubra HWP people a stir up, Bob ALLGOOD ( # 9686 ) is behind him, Stevo Bill White and Jerry Ambrose ( #12831 ). Four out of the six have gone.
Rear ( L – R ) ?, ?, Bob ALLGOOD ( # 9686 ), ?, ?, ? Front – Seated ( L – R ) ?, Dave MORRIS ( # 12746 ) In the Group are: Bob ALLGOOD, Keith BLACKET ( # 11078 ), Russell FRASER, Jimmy PROBST ( # 23929 ), Greg AQUALINA ( RIP )
Outside of Collaroy Police Station: ( L – R ) Bob ALLGOOD ( # 9686 ), ?, ?, ?
Mick Youll (# 12708 )( left ) and I ( Dave Morris )( # 12746 ) caught up with Bob Allgood ( # 9686 )( Right ) and his lovely wife, Wendy, at Port Macquarie today. I grabbed a few of Bobs’ old photos – these two are from Collaroy, must be late 70’s early 80’s – if anyone knows any of the other heads let me know.
Donald Lester AVERY
| 03/01/2021
Donald Lester AVERY
AKA Dagwood, Bird Cage
Late of Chatswood, Avalon, Dee Why, Avalon, Kariong – NSW, & Proserpine and finally Surfers Paradise, Qld
Father-in-law to Fiona Elizabeth Izon Avery, NSWPF # 33380
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Academy on 25 October 1954 ( aged 23 years, 2 months, 19 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed 6 December 1954 ( aged 23 years, 4 months, 1 day )
Constable – appointed 6 December 1955
Constable 1st Class – appointed 6 December 1960
Senior Constable – appointed 6 December 1965
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 30 May 1972
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 28 May 1979
Final Rank = Sergeant 2nd Class
Stations: Redfern Police Academy, 25 October 1954 – 6 December 1954,
Clarence St GDs – ( 1 Division, A District ), 7 December 1954 – 4 January 1955,
Clarence St Pedestrian Traffic – ( working the intersection of Park & Pitt St, Sydney )( 1 Division ), 5 January 1955 – 23 July 1956,
Central Traffic ( Probation ) – ( 1 Division ), 24 July 1956 – 23 August 1956,
Central Traffic ( Permanent ) – ( 1 Division ), 24 August 1956 – 3 July 1957,
North Sydney ( Traffic Duties – STP )( 6 Division ), 4 July 1957 – 10 October 1965,
North Sydney ( GDs )( 6 Division ), 11 October 1965 – 16 March 196?,
North Sydney ( Traffic Duties )( 6 Division ) 17 March 196? – 15 September 1967,
North Sydney ( GDs ), 16 September – 21 September 1969,
Mona Vale ( GDs )( 14 Division ), 22 September 1969 – 9 December 1971,
Avalon ( GDs )( 14 Division ), 10 December 1971 – 19 October 1972,
Dee Why ( GDs )( 14 Division ), 20 October 1972 – 27 October 1979,
Frenchs Forest ( GDs )( 14 Division ), 28 October 1979 – 19 July 1980,
Manly ( GDs )( 14 Division ), 20 July 1980 – 14 March 1981,
Darlinghurst ( GDs )( 3 Division ), 15 March 1981 7 November 1981,
Dee Why ( GDs )( 14 Division ), 8 November 1981 – 19 December 1981,
Frenchs Forest ( GDs )( 14 Division ), 20 December 1981 – 12 July 1985 ( Retirement )
Service: From 25 October 1954 to12 July 1985 ( H.O.D. ) = 30 years, 8 months, 17 days Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours system, although:
National Medal – granted ? ? ?
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted ? ? ?
NSW Police Medal – granted ? ? ?
4th Clasp to NSW Police Medal – granted ? ? ?
Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal – granted 1 June 1977
Certificate of Merit by the Royal Human Society – granted 2 May 1979 ( Sgt 3/c Donald Lester AVERY was awarded a Certificate of Merit for actions involving a building fire at Manly on the 10 June 1978 )
Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage – awarded 5 January 1979
” Commended for courage and devotion to duty at Manly on 10 June 1978 when he entered a burning boarding house and succeeded in warning the sleeping residents of their danger. Driven out by the intense smoke on one occasion while evacuating the premises, he returned to check that all persons had escaped until finally ordered out of the blazing building by firemen. ”
Born: Thursday 6 August 1931 on the kitchen table, at home in Chatswood, NSW 4 of 5 children to Francis Avery & May ( nee Barnes )
Died on: Monday 28 September 2020
Age: 89 years, 1 month & 22 days old
Cause: Congestive heart failure exacerbated by long-term asbestosis
Event location: Hopewell Hospice, Arundel on the Gold Coast, Qld
( 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: White Lady Funerals, 2140 Gold Coast Hwy, Miama, Qld ph: 07 5526 6960
Born 6th August 1931 at Chatswood, NSW (on the kitchen table at home), 4th of 5 children to Francis Avery and May (nee Barnes)
Attended Chatswood Primary School and Crows Nest High School, joining School Cadet Corps.
Left school at 15, worked as a cane cutter, painter/carpenter and followed his Father to work on the waterfront, loading and unloading ships.
He applied to join NSW Police as a cadet but was told he was too thin and to go away and bulk up a bit, eating bananas.
His younger brother, John Edward Avery, also a serving NSWPF member, was working at Police Recruitment and Don was appointed as Probationary Constable on 6 December 1954 aged 23.
Police Service attached.
Most notably, Don received the Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage, in 1979, following rescuing 2 people from a burning hostel in Manly.
Newspaper report and photo attached.
Don also received the National Police Service Medal at a later date.
Don lived in Chatswood, Avalon, Dee Why, Avalon, Kariong, Proserpine and finally Surfers Paradise.
He was medically discharged from NSWPF on 12 July 1985.
His health was adversely affected by the work on the docks and later the burning building where he suffered smoke inhalation.
Don died on 28 September 2020 at Hopewell Hospice, Arundel on the Gold Coast, Qld from congestive heart failure exacerbated by long-term asbestosis.
His wife, Margot, passed away in Proserpine in 2003, and younger brother John died in 2015.
Don is survived by his son, Scott Avery whose wife, Fiona Izon was also a serving member on the Northern Beaches 1999-2002; and his daughter Debra Stephens, who cared for Don in the last years, supported by her husband, Justin Lindon.
Don had 3 grandchildren, Christopher, Sophie and Jordon, and 3 great-grandchildren, Porshia, Halliana and Tyson, with a 4th expected.
Premiere Neville WRAN and Don AVERY
Sgt 2/c Don AVERY on far left, Sgt 2/c ?, SenCon ?, ?, Sgt 3/c ?, ?, Sgt 2/c ?, Constable ?. This most probably was the Award Ceremony by the Royal Human Society on 2 May 1979. Summer and winter uniforms. Old Diamond NSW Police patch ( so pre early 1980’s ) NOT in Order, but those who received Awards on this date are: SenCon Lloyd M. DEVER – Cert of Merit re vehicle fire at Coffs Harbour on 20 Jan 1979. Sgt 3/c Keith GABB – Cert of Merit re electrocution at Coffs Harbour on 20 Jan 1979. SenCon Eric Bruce IDDLES – Bronze Medal re vehicle fire at Coffs Harbour on 20 Jan 1979. ProCst Ian J. YOUNG – Bronze Medal re suicide rescue on Sydney Harbour Bridge on 30 Jan 1979. Sgt 3/c Donald Lester AVERY – Cert. of Merit for building fire at Manly on 10 June 1978. Sgt 3/c Donald CAMPBELL – Bronze Medal re suicide rescue at The Gap, Watsons Bay on 12 Sept 1978. Sgt 2/c Henry Derold George KUPKE – Bronze Medal ( Bar ) re suicide rescue at The Gap, Watsons Bay on 12 Sept 1978. Sgt 3/c John KELLY – Cert. of Merit at Narrabri Ck on 12 Aug 1978. That is eight of the eight in photo.
David Leslie JOACHIM
| 03/01/2021
David Leslie JOACHIM
AKA Jocho
Late of ?, Qld
NSW Police Training Centre – Redfern – Class # 158C
New South Wales Police Force
ProCst # 92095
Regd. # 17936
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Academy on 23 January 1978 ( aged 19 years, 8 months, 14 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed 3 April 1978 ( aged 19 years, 9 months, 19 days )
Constable – appointed 3 April 1979
Constable 1st Class – appointed 3 April 1983
Detective – appointed 9 July 1987
Senior Constable – appointed 3 April 1987
Does NOT appear in the 1989 Stud Book
Final Rank = Senior Constable
Stations: Phillip St ( 4 Division )(ProCst )( 1978 – 1979 )( 2 yrs ), Burwood GDs ( 1980 ), Drummoyne GDs ( 1981 ), Burwood GDs ( March 1985 ), Five Dock ( 14 July 1985 ), Burwood Dets ( 9 Division )( 27 July 1987 – 25 November 1988 ) – Resignation
Service: From 23 January 1978 to 25 November 1988 = 10 years, 9 months, 2 days Service
* * *
After leaving NSWPF, moving to Sunshine Coast, Qld, Dave drove a truck until he joined the Queensland Police Force & Served until his retirement as a Senior Sergeant at Surfers Paradise, Qld.
Qld Police Academy – Class # ? ? ?
Queensland Police Force
Regd. # 11127
Rank: Commenced Training at Qld Police Academy on 6 October 1997
Probationary Constable- appointed ? ? 1998
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? 2001
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? 2006
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? ? 2011
Final Rank = Senior Sergeant
Stations: 16 years at Surfers Paradise ( Team 2 ) – Retirement
Service: From 6 October 1997 to13 December 2013 = 16 years, 2 months, 7 days Service
* * *
TOTAL POLICE SERVICE = 26 years, 11 months, 9 days Service
* * *
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours system – however:
( 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: ?TBA
Buried at: ?TBA
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( September 2020 )
DAVE 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.
Class 158C – Redfern Police Academy Back Row: R.S. HANSEN, T. HAYWARD, P.A. HARRIS, D.W. HODSON, ALLAN R. GROGAN, P.F.J. HERRING, K.R. HAIGH, MARTIN P. KILLEN # 17965 ( son of FRANK ), M.W. KEENE, P.J. HAYNE Middle Row: W.E. ( WAYNE ) JOHNSON, G.L. GRUMLEY, OWEN I. JENNINGS ( RIP ), T.R. HILL, S.S. HORDEN, B.J. HAYLOCK, P.M. HOPPER, C.R. GREENTREE, J. JOBSON Front Row: P.R.( DUTCHY ) HOLLAND, D.L. JOACHIM, R.C. HOWARD, T.R. HANSON, L.J. DAVEY, M. HUMPHRIES, L.I. JONES, A.J. HAMILTON, P.A. KENNEDY, Bruce J. GRIMALDI.
R.I.P. David Leslie Joachim
15.06.1958 – 17.09.2020
Brother in Blue NSWPOL. 1978 – 1988
QLD Police. 1997 – 2013
On Thursday 24th September we said our farewell to the love of my life, my husband David – Dave, Jocho, loving father to Lauren and Yvette, with our immediate family and friends.
Unfortunately, due to Covid restrictions we could only have 50 people attend David’s service.
Our family and I would like to thank you all for the most beautiful and respectful messages we have received. We are overwhelmed by the love and support hundreds of friends and work colleagues have shown David and our family.
David had been very ill for many years. The early signs that David was unwell commenced in 2012 and in August 2015, David was diagnosed with Early Onset Frontal Temporal Dementia.
David’s health deteriorated where he was losing his motor skills, unable to see properly and kept having numerous falls.
Among many other symptoms, his ability to speak, eat, swallow and to walk deteriorated.
David had 167 consultations and follow up consultations over a 3 year period.
I took him to many different medical specialists and he also attended the Frontier Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney in order to properly diagnose him.
David had the most tenacious neurologist on the Gold Coast, Dr Arman Sabet who completed his studies in the U.S.
Dr Sabet kept stating David has a more specific disease because David was still very cognitive and still had an amazing long term memory which he did up until he passed. He did have difficulty with his short term memory. He knew what he wanted to say but his brain wouldn’t allow his thoughts to be transmitted through his speech.
After many tests and bloods sent overseas by Dr Sabet, David was fully diagnosed with PSP, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy which is somewhat similar to MND Motor Neuron Disease. PSP is also like a Parkinsonian disease.
David suffered a horrible and cruel 5 years and on the 17th September, David passed into God’s eternal care. No more torment. No more pain.
I know that you will all miss David as much as we miss him. We all have wonderful and funny stories to tell but that would take forever and I’m sure you will all share those stories and memories.
You all know David was a good, loyal, caring man, always had everyone’s back and you all hold him dearly to your hearts. Our lives will never be the same again.
There are too many people for our family to thank individually. We thank you all very much.
The last thing I would like to say is: If anyone becomes ill from Dementia, PSP, MND, Cancer or whatever terminal disease, please don’t be frightened to keep in contact or visit that person as that person is still the same person you all knew and loved.
That person also remembers you all and also loves you.
Keep safe and healthy our very dear friends, previous work colleagues and families.
