( 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: as above
Buried at: Cremated
A plaque will be placed at the Crematorium Gardens and also at Seal Rocks, NSW, in due course.
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: A plaque will be placed at the Crematorium Gardens and also at Seal Rocks, NSW, in due course.
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( May 2021 )
KEVIN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO as of 2022
KEVIN MIGHT BE ENTITLED TO BE mentioned on the Sydney Police Centre Memorial Wall, Surry Hills
Family currently awaiting results of request for the Police Centre Memorial Wall, Surry Hills ( June 2021 )
KEVIN IS mentioned on the Sydney Police Centre Memorial Wall, Surry Hills as of 25 October 2022
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
This afternoon, in a quiet and deeply-felt ceremony at the Sydney Police Centre, another thirteen names were added, and the memories of another thirteen dedicated NSW Police Force employees were honoured, at the NSW Police Force Service Memorial:
MacLeay Valley Way, Clybucca, NSW GPS: 30.9475S,152.9494E
Kev hard at work.
Son & Father: Probationary Constable Samuel SMITH # 50666 & Kevin SMITH # 20135 11 December 2014 Possibly Class 323
11/12/2014 – Darwin
Kevin’s Dew fish – 1989
Darwin 2011
the Family – 24 December 2019
Cal
16 May 2021
Anne Christine LABONE
| 16/05/2021
Anne Christine LABONE
AKA ANNIE
Late of Oak Flats, NSW
New South Wales Police Force Administration Officer
Regd. # 8120633
Rank: Administration Officer
Commenced work on Monday 16 March 1981 ( aged 24 years, 3 months, 15 days )
Final Rank = Administration Officer
Retired from work on 30 November 2016
Stations: Warilla Police Station & Port Kembla Police Station
Service: From 16 March 1981 to 30 November 2016 = 35 years, 8 months, 14 days Service
Age at Retirement: 60 years, 1 day
Time in Retirement: 3 years, 3 months, 25 days
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours system
Administration Officer Award – granted 2013: Anne Labone (30 years).
Born: Thursday 29 November 1956
Died on: Thursday 26 March 2020
Age: 63 yrs 3 mths 26 days
Cause: ‘possibly’ a blood infection?
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Monday 6 April 2020
Funeral location: ? ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 10 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ?TBA ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 2 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on March 26, 2020. Cherished sister and sister-in-law of Ken & Christine, Phil & Heather, Don, Graham & Jennifer.
Aged 63 Years
She Loved And Cared For All Animals
Relatives and friends of Anne are invited to attend her Memorial Service to be held at the Northcliffe Chapel of Hansen & Cole, 634 Northcliffe Drive, Kembla Grange on Saturday March 27, 2021 commencing at 11am.
Ann Labone passed away on 26 March after being in hospital for a few weeks.
The cause of her death was ‘possibly’ from some blood disorder which may or may not have been contracted when she was in Peru last November, 2019.
Annie, You were a bloody good sport with all the lads at Warilla over the years and a great Admin Officer.
You worked in various rolls at the old Warilla Police Station from HWP and Detectives.
You were a great worker at Port Kembla in Court Processing.
I have video of you participating in a Cricket match between Warilla GD’s and HWP when we played in 1987 – but, unfortunately, the quality isn’t worth displaying.
Annie, may you forever Rest In Peace.
Cal
Stephen Glenn McCLURE
| 16/05/2021
Stephen Glenn McCLURE
AKA Steve / Stinky
Late of Illawarra
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class # 206
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 21701
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on Monday 24 September 1984 ( aged 24 years, 7 months, 0 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 7 December 1984 ( aged 24 years, 9 months, 13 days )
Constable – appointed 7 December 1985
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Sergeant 2nd Class
Stations: ?, Warilla GD’s, Albion Park GD’s, Pt Kembla GD’s, Police Dog Squad, VKG Warilla – Radio Technician, Radar Engineering, Workforce Safety – Retirement
Service: From 24 September 1984 to17 July 2014 = 29 years, 9 months, 23 days Service
Age at Retirement: 54 years, 4 months, 23 days
Time in Retirement: 4 years, 7 months, 20 days
Awards: National Medal – granted 30 August 2000 ( SenCon )
Weapons Instructors Course 1/1989 ( January 1989 ) NSW Police Academy, Goulburn Back Row ( L-R ) Phil CHARLIER, Jim FRIDAY, David WRIGHT, Gavin NICHOLSON, Peter WATSON, Peter GALLACHER, Alan PITT, Wayne HOFFMAN, Chris STONE, Peter CHAMINGS, Ray BLACKBURN, Scott IDE, Garry POWER, John LEE, Bill WHALLEY Centre Row Peter BERGERSEN, Greg SUTTON, Steve MARTIN, Peter STONE, Lindsay REGENTS, Ian LAUDER, Greg PALMER, Sonia McKELL, John ROGERS, Steve McCLURE, David MAGUIRE, Barry METZ, Dave TESTER, Paul BLOOD, Andrew NEW Front Row Tony PARSONS, Toni McMAHON, Michelle LANGERIES, Peter STARLING, Tom LUPTON, Ray JAMES, James BUNFIELD, Kerry SIMMONS, Andrew FISHER
Steve McClure – front and centre
‘Stinky’, you were a great bloke who always thought of others before yourself and were always ready to put your hand up for a great cause.
On behalf of all of us old Warilla Police, we wish you a safe journey and may you Forever, Rest In Peace.
Our deepest heartfelt condolences to Trish, Hugh and family.
POLICE SEND OFF FOR SERGEANT STEVE McCLURE AT THE BURDEKIN HOTEL, OXFORD ST, SYDNEY, FROM 5PM.
A VERY INFORMAL FUNCTION WITH ABOUT 40 PEOPLE THERE.
6″ SUBWAY SANDWICHES, CHIPS AND PIZZA WAS THE MEAL.
BUY YOUR OWN DRINKS & IT WAS A GREAT NIGHT.
Presentation at Steve’s Send Off
Mates: June 2018 Steve ‘Stinky’ McCLure & Harry ‘The Wasp’ Wawszkowicz – together again. May they both forever Rest In Peace.
Harry Wawszkowicz June 18, 2018 · Friends for life. How tome flies Hugh has grown into a fine young. with Stephen McClure and Tricia McClure.
Leigh Stewart Follow · June 17, 2018 · With Greg Costello, Vic Thestick, Stephen McClure, Brett Sergeant and David De Santi at City Diggers Wollongong.
Sunday 17 June 2018
City Diggers Club, cnr Church and Burelli St’s, Wollongong, for Cancer fundraiser for Wollongong Hospital which was Hosted by Retired Sgt Steve ‘Stinky’ McClure.
Steve is the frontman for his band, ‘The Humphreys’
Steve McClure – giving thanks at the Cancer fundraiser – Sunday 17 June 2018
The Humphreys ride again… with Stephen McClure, John Nichols and Greg Costello at Slacky Flat Bar.
Various other family and friends photos with Stinky McClure over the years.
Brian Robert MURPHY
| 16/05/2021
Brian Robert MURPHY
aka Murph
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class 224
New South Wales Police Force
Uniform # 6644
Regd. # 23279
Rank: Commence Training at Goulburn Police Academy on 10 November 1986 ( aged 31 years, 10 months, 5 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 6 February 1987 ( aged 32 years, 1 month, 1 day )
Constable – appointed 6 February 1988
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Senior Constable
Stations: Only stationed at Albury – Intelligence Office – death
Service: From 10 November 1986to 7 November 2016=19+years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: Wednesday 5 January 1955
Died on: Monday 7 November 2016
Age: 61 years, 10 months, 2 days
Cause: Short illness
Event location: Albury Base Hospital, NSW
Funeral date: Thursday 10 November 2016 @ 2pm
Funeral location: the Chapel, John Hossack Funeral Services, 435 Wilson St, Albury, NSW
Buried at: Cremated – Ashes with family
Memorial at: ?
Murray River RFPA and Murray River Police District have been working together for some time to establish a memorial to commemorate officers who passed whilst serving. Today ( Police Remembrance Day – 29 September 2021 ) the Virtual Dedication Ceremony was held and the plaque unveiled in Albury Police Station Conference Room in the Church. Many thanks to Supt Paul Smith APM MRPD, Commander & Paul Cole, Assistant Secretary, MR RFPA for their work together to bring about this outcome. We will remember them. Lest we forget.
BRIAN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
Funeral location:
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Condolences to his wife Jennifer Murphy, daughters Nissa Davis and Teigan Murphy, son-in-law Adam Davis, grandson Logan Brian Davis dob 29/08/2017.
David John MANSFIELD
| 16/05/2021
David John MANSFIELD
aka Dave
( late of Edgeworth )
New South Wales Police Force
Commenced with Goulburn Police Academy Class ???
Regd. # 43664
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on Sunday 1 February 2007 ( aged 31 years, 4 months, 27 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 28 August 2007 ( aged 31 years, 11 months, 23 days )
Constable – appointed ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ?
Senior Constable – appointed ?
Final Rank: Senior Constable
Stations: ?, City Central, ?, Tuggerah Lakes
Service: From 1 February 2007 to 7 September 2016 = 9 years, 7 months, 6 days Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: Friday 5 September 1975
Died on: Wednesday 7 September 2016
Cause: Bowel Cancer – diagnosed early 2015
Age: 41 years, 0 months, 2 days
Funeral date: Tuesday 13 September 2016 @ 2pm
Funeral location: Macquarie Memorial Park Cemetery & Crematorium, 405 Cessnock Rd, Ryhope
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: Dave IS MENTIONED on the Sydney Police Centre memorial Wall of Remembrance. Right Wall, Plaque E16
DAVE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra *NEED MORE INFO
Dave IS MENTIONED on the Sydney Police Centre memorial Wall of Remembrance. Right Wall, Plaque E16
Funeral location:
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal
Dave has lost his battle with Bowel Cancer and passed away on Wednesday 7 August 2016.
We pass on our deepest condolences to Dave’s wife and three children.
May you forever Rest In Peace Dave.
[blockquote]
The Funeral is at 2pm with the Service commencing at 2.30pm by Reverend Mark Watt, Police Chaplain, and the Service will be a full Police Funeral.
Those wishing to march in the Marching Escort Party are to be at the Memorial Park at 1.30pm for rehearsal in full uniform.
The family have invited all, after the service, to Central Leagues Club, Bula St, Charlestown to celebrate Dave’s life and it was on of Dave’s last wishes that those attending the funeral ( not in uniform ) wear a Hawaiian Shirt and bright colours to ‘celebrate his life’ and not mourn it.
[/blockquote]
MANSFIELD, David John ‘DAVE’
Late of Edgeworth
Passed away peacefully surrounded by His loving friends & family
7th September, 2016
Aged 41 Years
Dearly loved Husband of KY-LEE.
Much loved Dad of SARAH, KYAN, & LILA.
Adored Son of BRIAN MANSFIELD, SONJA & EDWARD HERIVEL,
Son-in-law of DAVID & MARGARET STODDART,
Brother of DEBRA, GLEN, & IAN,
Brother-in-law & Uncle to His Family.
A good friend to many.
At DAVE’S request, bright colours & Hawaiian shirts to be worn.
The Family & Friends of DAVE are warmly invited to attend a Celebration Of His Life to be held in The Chapel of Lake Macquarie Memorial Park, Cessnock Rd, Ryhope this TUESDAY 13th September, 2016 service commencing at 2pm.
In lieu of flowers & In Memory of DAVE donations to the ‘Starlight Foundation at JHH‘ may be made at the service.
Message dated: Thursday 8 September 2016 May you rest in peace Dave Mansfield. You fought the entire battle with more courage than anyone known. We would break any world record to still have you here. Sincerest of condolences to the Mansfield family.
22 Apr 2015
Central Coast Express Advocate Wyong
Emma Herd
Police leap to challenge of helping stricken mate
WHEN Senior Constable Dave Mansfield was diagnosed with bowel cancer at the start of the year, he had many colleagues willing to literally jump to his aid.
Senior Constable Jay Stewart and colleagues Graham Smith, Mick Errickson, Karen Bertram and Steve Bancroft warming up for their Guinness Book of World Records attempt for continuous jumping on a jumping castle.
As a fundraiser for the father of three, officers from Tuggerah Lakes police are preparing to set a new Guinness Book of World Records mark for continuous jumping on a jumping castle .
The record stands at 37 hours and 14 seconds, and the group is determined to blow that time out of the water at Mingara Recreation Club, Tumbi Umbi, on May 29-31.
Such was the interest in assisting the Mansfield family, organiser Senior Constable Jay Stewart had to knock back some prospective jumpers as only eight are required.
While there is no strict training schedule planned, Sen-Constable Stewart said they had a plan of attack for their record attempt.
“We’re going to try half an hour stints,” he said.
“We were going to try an hour at a time but I don’t know if you could do it for that long.”
The group have set up a Facebook page and are seeking support from businesses in the lead-up to the event.
Sen-Constable Mansfield was speechless when his colleagues told him of their plans, although he confessed to having a laugh when he was told about the jumping castle.
“I thought it was hilarious to begin with,” he said.
“But I’ve been speechless at how much support has been generated.”
Hunter Valley Amusement Hire has donated the use of a jumping castle.
Details: Search Jumpfor Dave Tuggerah Lakes on Facebook.
Eight officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police will begin a world record attempt for the longest marathon bouncing on a jumping castle at Mingara Recreation Club on Friday, May 29.
The attempt is to raise funds for their Tuggerah Local Area Command colleague, senior constable Dave Mansfield, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer at the start of the year.
SC Mansfield is a married man and a father of a young family, so, according to the Police Association of NSW, his “police family” is banding together to raise funds to assist the Mansfield family.
The current marathon on a jumping castle world record stands at 37 hours and 14 seconds.
“We believe we can blow that record out of the water by jumping well into Sunday,” said Ms Alison McLaughlin, spokesperson for the Police Association.
A family fun day will be held on Saturday, May 30 as part of the world record attempt including raffles, barbecue, NSW Police Dog Unit, POLAIR landing and “Dunk a Cop”.
Email, 27 May 2015 Alison McLaughlin, Police Association of NSW
‘Jump for Dave’ fundraiser day at Mingara Rec Centre, Tuggerah, in support of Sen Cst Dave Mansfield & his family during his medical treatment. Come by for a Sausage sandwich & see the great displays of NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, Fire & Rescue NSW, SES, VRA, Marine Rescue, PCYC. Till 2pm.
Finally tonight, a group of Central Coast police officers has set a new world record for the longest team marathon on a jumping castle, by bouncing for 43 hours and 25 minutes.
They smashed the previous mark by more than six hours.
It was all about raising money to support fellow Tuggerah Lakes officer, David Mansfield, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer in February.
“I… I truly am speechless. How do you thank so many people? I guess you keep fighting. This is the most humbling experience I think you could ever have.”
The longest marathon on a bouncy castle by a team is 43 hr 25 min 1 sec and was achieved by Tuggerah Lakes Police (Australia) in Tumbi Umbi, New South Wales, Australia, on 29-31 May 2015.
The team consisted of Jay Stewart, Graham Smith, Steve Bancroft, Mick Erickson, Nicole Bird, Jon Paul Dinsdale, Karen Bertram, and Dave Brown. They attempted this record to raise money for a New South Wales Police officer who was diagnosed with cancer.
A quick-thinking driver and two alert off-duty police officers saved 32 foreign tourists from the smoke, flames and explosions of a burning tour bus in Sydney.
The group were travelling on the Gore Hill freeway at Artarmon about 6.30pm yesterday when the driver noticed an engine fire, prompting him to stop in a breakdown lane and quickly start evacuating his passengers.
Two off-duty police officers, Constable David Mansfield and Senior Constable Bryon Williams, happened to be travelling in a car nearby and decided to follow the bus after noticing smoke coming from its rear.
“As the bus pulled over we got out of the car,” Senior Constable Williams told reporters yesterday.
“The back of the bus was engulfed in flames and smoke.”
By the time the officers got to the front of the bus, passengers were scrambling to get off.
“Obviously there was a lot of chaos,” Senior Constable Williams said.
“Within minutes the whole bus was alight.
“There were numerous explosions … the windows on either side were blowing out with the heat.
“I thought, if we don’t get these people off there’s going to be a big fatality.”
None of the passengers were injured. The officers and the bus driver suffered smoke inhalation.
All that remains of the bus is a burnt shell.
The freeway at Artarmon was closed between Willoughby Road and Reserve Road for nearly an hour while firefighters fought the blaze, causing traffic problems.
Two off-duty police officers who had just seconds to save passengers from a burning bus on Sydney’s North Shore last night say they feared the bus would explode.
Senior Constable Bryon Williams and Constable David Mansfield were travelling behind the bus when it caught on fire while carrying 32 tourists on the Gore Hill Freeway in Artarmon about 6:00pm.
The driver pulled over and the officers only had seconds to get the passengers off before flames engulfed the bus.
Senior Constable Williams says the officers’ first concern was the passengers.
“It was out of control. Within a minute, the whole bus was nearly alight. The windows on either side of the bus were blowing out with the heat and the amount of fire and that coming from the bus,” he said.
“It was close… I actually thought this thing’s going to blow up and if we don’t get these people off, there’s going to be a big fatality.
“It was very scary from my point of view, from the point of view of the people on the bus and the poor bus driver himself.”
The fire started in the engine bay of the bus.
The southbound lanes of the freeway were closed for more than an hour, causing traffic problems.
Rank: Assistant management accountant – NSW Police Public Service
Stations: MA & R management accounting Corporate, Finance & Business services, Parramatta – H.Q.
Service: From ? ? 1997to 2 October 2015 = 17 years Service to NSW Police
Awards: ?
Born: 28 November 1956
Died on: Friday 2 October 2015
Cause: Shot – Murdered – Terrorist related
Event location: Outside of NSW Police HQ, Parramatta
Age: 58
Funeral date: Saturday 17 October 2015 @ 10am
Funeral location: St Mary’s Cathedral, College St, 2 St Marys Rd, Sydney City – opposite Hyde Park.
Buried at: Cremated
is NOT mentioned on the Wall of Remembrance* BUT SHOULD BE
CURTIS IS mentioned on the Wall of Remembrance as of 2016
Curtis CHENG with wife and adult children.
Funeral location:
Parramatta shooting: gunman a 15-year-old boy
Date Saturday
Eryk Bagshaw and Nick Ralston
NSW Police have confirmed that a 15-year-old boy was the lone gunman who shot dead a police employee outside the state’s headquarters in Sydney’s west.
The teenager shouted religious slogans before firing one shot in the back of the head of a police finance worker as the employee was heading home on Friday afternoon.
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione (right) and NSW Premier Mike Baird front the media after shooting at Parramatta. Photo: AAP
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione (right) and NSW Premier Mike Baird front the media after shooting at Parramatta. Photo: AAP
The police employee has been named as Curtis Cheng, a 17-year veteran of the police force. Police say the shooter is of Iraqi-Kurdish background and was born in Iran.
“We believe that his actions were politically motivated and therefore linked to terrorism,” NSW police Commissioner, Andrew Scipione told reporters in Sydney.
Mr Scipione said police had no information to suggest the gunman posed “this type of threat”.
A police employee was shot dead outside the headquarters in Parramatta.
A police employee was shot dead outside the headquarters in Parramatta. Photo: James Brickwood
“We’re a long way from establishing a full picture of this man, his exact motivations still remain a mystery to us,” he said
“We are exploring every avenue with regard to why he did what he did.”
Premier Mike Baird described the events as “chilling”.
Paramedics at the scene of the Parramatta shooting attending to one of the two bodies. Photo: Seven News
“The shock of this event will be felt everywhere,” he told reporters.
Mr Cheng was shot as he left work at the State Crime Command in Parramatta on Friday afternoon.
His killer was shot dead as officers returned fire.
A strike force has been established to investigate.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull described the terror-related shooting as a “cold-blooded murder”.
Mr Turnbull has urged Australians to go about their day normally despite the incident in Parramatta on Friday.
“This appears to have been an act of politically motivated violence so at this stage it appears to have been an act of terrorism. It is a shocking crime. It was a cold-blooded murder,” he told reporters in Melbourne.
Published: 17:29 EST, 4 October 2015 | Updated: 02:20 EST, 5 October 2015
The heartbroken family of the accountant gunned down by a ‘radicalised’ Muslim 15-year-old have paid tribute to the ‘kind, gentle, and loving’ father-of-two.
Curtis Cheng, 58, was shot in the back of the head by lone gunman Farhad Jabar Khalil Mohammad after the teenager stormed the police headquarters in Parramatta, Sydney.
His wife Selina and two children Alpha and Zilvia, both in their 20s, said their father was ‘generous of heart’ and ‘always put family first’.
They said: ‘We would like to thank all those who have expressed their well wishes and blessings upon us following the tragic passing of our most loved husband and father, Curtis Cheng.
Father-of-two Curtis Cheng, 58, (far left) was shot dead at point-blank range by a ‘radicalised’ 15-year-old, pictured with his wife Selina (second left) and two children Zilvia and Alpha (right)
Father-of-two Curtis Cheng, 58, (far left) was shot dead at point-blank range by a ‘radicalised’ 15-year-old, pictured with his wife Selina (second left) and two children Zilvia and Alpha (right)
Police are now probing why Farhad Jabar Khalil Mohammad (pictured) targeted the accountant
The two bodies were found just metres apart on the pavement outside the police station and children’s day care centre
Chilling footage has emerged showing the final moments of ‘radicalised’ 15-year-old Farhad Jabar Khalil Mohammad after he stormed a police headquarters, pictured in a shoot-out with police constables
Multiple shots can be heard and the video then shows Farhad lying on the ground in a pool of his own blood surrounded by officers
The gunman was killed after an exchange of gunfire with special constables who guard the entrance of the main station in Parramatta
Witnesses reported seeing two bodies lying on the ground covered in white sheets (pictured)
An ambulance NSW spokeswoman said paramedics were on the scene at Charles St, in the city’s CBD
An investigation is believed to be underway into whether the shooter had been recently charged by a detective from one of the State Crime Command squads
Detectives have not yet established the identity of the deceased, according to a spokesman
witness
bystander
Detectives launched a ‘critical incident investigation’ and confirmed two people were killed after a number of shots were fired
A civilian IT expert working for police was shot dead after a lone gunman opened fire outside a police headquarters in Sydney, pictured officers gather around a white sheet covering a body
The black-clad assailant fired a number of shots at special constables guarding the NSW Police station in Parramatta on Friday before he was gunned down and killed by one of the officers
Officers in body armour were seen patrolling the Parramatta CBD and guarding train stations, pictured is Charles Street
Several roads in Parramatta were blocked after the shooting and helicopters were seen circling overhead, pictured is Charles Street
On Friday night, Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione (pictured) refused to be drawn on whether the double shooting was terror-related and said detectives did not yet know the motive
Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione said the gunman, who was wearing dark trousers and a flowing top, shot the employee on his way home from work
When asked whether police were warned about a possible attack at the station, Commissioner Scipione revealed there had been a number of alerts in 2014 and 2015, pictured officers on the scene
Detectives believe the civilian worker was ‘deliberately targeted’ and said he was shot at almost point-blank range
Dozens of officers were seen searching the area where the double shooting took place
Both bodies (circled in red) were still on the scene at 11pm, draped in white sheets and just metres apart
Dozens of people were seen waiting outside their homes tonight after several buildings near the scene were evacuated
Floral tributes have been left to Mr Cheng outside the police headquarters in Parramatta, Sydney
His family have paid tribute to the ‘kind, gentle, and loving’ father-of-two, saying he was ‘generous of heart’
‘My father was a kind, gentle, and loving person. He was humourous, generous of heart and always put the family first. He has set a tremendous example for us as a family.
‘We are deeply saddened and heartbroken that he has been taken from us, but we are truly grateful for the fruitful and happy life he has shared with us.’
Mr Cheng, who worked in the Finance and Business Services department for 17 years, was shot dead as he was leaving work on Friday afternoon in an ‘act of terrorism’.
The ‘radicalised’ youth, who is reported to be a Sunni Muslim, was then killed in a shoot-out with three special constables guarding the station.
Mr Cheng’s family said they were ‘touched’ by a personal visit from NSW Premier Mike Baird and the Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione.
Police are now probing why Farhad Jabar Khalil Mohammad (pictured) targeted the accountant
‘This was a comforting reminder of the warm regard that was held for him, especially by the New South Wales police community,’ they said.
‘He will be missed by all of us. We will cherish our memory of him forever.’
Police are now probing why Mr Cheng, 58, who had never worn a uniform, was targeted by the lone gunman in a ‘brutal’ and ‘callous murder’ on Friday.
Detectives have described the shooting as a ‘targeted attack’, but they are unsure why Farhad chose the civilian officer ‘who never had a badge’.
Commissioner Scipione said: ‘We are not sure whether he was targeted because he came from a police facility — we may never know. But he was certainly targeted in terms of the shooting.
‘It was a direct shooting. Certainly it wasn’t a ricochet, it was a targeted shot that took his life.’
He confirmed the teenager’s actions were ‘politically motivated and therefore linked to terrorism’.
But he admitted they were still unsure of the schoolboy’s ‘exact motivations’.
‘We’re a long way from establishing a full picture of this man, his exact motivations still remain a mystery to us,’ he said.
‘There is nothing to suggest that he was doing anything but acting alone.’
Floral tributes and messages of support have been left at the site where Mr Cheng was gunned down just metres away from a children’s day care centre.
‘He was a much-loved man, [he had] been with us a long time. I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone have a bad word about Curtis and he will be missed,’ Commissioner Scipione said.
‘Curtis was admired and respected by his colleagues. He was a gentle man in every sense.
‘What has occurred is shocking and it is a very sad time for those who worked closely with him and all our employees.’
Farhad visited Parramatta Mosque where he changed into a black robe in the hours before the killing, according to reports.
The ‘radicalised’ youth, who is reported to be a Sunni Muslim, was allegedly able to walk unchallenged into the police headquarters and choose his victim.
The 15-year-old first came across a plain clothes female detective who was not carrying a gun, according to reports.
But he then shot Mr Cheng in the back on the head as the veteran of the police finance department was leaving work.
Witnesses have described seeing the teenagers dancing joyously after shooting the ‘gentle’ public servant while shouting Allah Allah.
Chilling footage has show the teenager running down the street brandishing his gun in the air just seconds after killing the father-of-two Curtis Cheng, 58.
He could be heard screaming at officers before having a shoot-out with three special constables guarding the station.
The 15-year-old continued to fire his handgun outside the police building until he was killed.
Police said the teenager was not on their radar, but revealed that his relative was known to law enforcement or intelligence agencies.
‘[The relative] was a bit of a problem, he did come to the attention of police and counter-terrorism [authorities],’ a source told ABC .
It has also emerged that his sister Shadi may have been attempting to reach Iraq or Syria the day before the shooting as she flew out of Australia on a flight bound for Istanbul on Thursday.
She reportedly took all her belongings with her, according to the ABC.
Farhad, who is of Iraqi-Kurdish background, is understood to have been living with his family in an apartment block in North Parramatta.
Officers searched the teenager’s North Parramatta family home on Friday and took his computer equipment.
But they revealed they had not yet discovered any messages, religious writings or notes left by Farhad.
Police are also looking into whether Farhad may have been on the fringe of an extremist group that had already come to the notice of police.
Farhad was previously active on social media, voicing his support for Team Ricky on reality singing contest The Voice in April 2013.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the Australian Muslim community would be appalled and shocked by the attack.
‘We must not vilify or blame the entire Muslim community with the actions of what is in truth a very small percentage of violent extremist individuals.
‘The Muslim community are our absolutely necessary partners in combating this type of violent extremism.’
He said the issue of radicalisation – particularly in young people – was complex and it was hard to understand the speed at which it was occurring.
NSW premiere Mike Baird said it was an ‘unthinkable act’ that ended his life.
‘I want the family of Curtis and the members of his Police community to know that you don’t face this loss alone. We mourn with you and we are here for you.’
A strike force, Fellows, has been set up to investigate and police are working with Islamic communities, who have offered their support.
NSW Police Association president Pat Gooley said he has spoken to Commissioner Scipione directly about increasing security at stations since Friday’s shooting.
‘Our message is we’ll keep Police Association members safe and the police commissioner is helping us do that,’ Mr Gooley said.
‘What changed on Friday night is that this is the first time in NSW that the NSW Police have been directly targeted as part of a terror incident.’
The commissioner revealed a number of warnings had been sent round to police in the past two years reminding them to be ‘vigilant’ about attacks, but assured that the people of NSW were ‘safe’.
‘I have viewed a number of pieces of footage, I can tell you that this was a brutal crime. It was a terrible crime.
‘We’re attempting to identify a man who was seen to approach the victim and discharge one single shot. Subsequently the assailant remained in the street here in Charles Street before he fired several further shots at a special constable.
‘A number of special constables came out of the building and as they’ve emerged they’ve come under fire.
‘In the exchange that followed the gunman was shot and killed. An employee of the NSW police force has been callously murdered here today. This is a very sobering time for us.’
Commissioner Scipione said it was likely the gunman waited around after the murder in order to ‘commit suicide by cop’.
It was previously reported that there had been increased ‘chatter’ in the past week about a possible attack on the Parramatta headquarters.
Sources said the building had been ‘cased’ and that every officer had been ordered to wear their guns on them at all times this week, even while at their desks.
When questioned about whether police were aware on a possible attack at the station, Commissioner Scipione revealed there had been a number of alerts in 2014 and 2015.
‘There has been activity around a number of locations in NSW, they’re the things we communicate to our officers,’ Commissioner Scipione said.
‘We have drawn officers back to the special warnings which are contained within alert 2015.
‘We’ve refreshed that alert and yet again highlighted the importance of remaining vigilant and being ready to respond should they have to at any location but particularly around police stations. I want to ensure that we don’t jump to conclusions, as I’ve said.
‘I’ve indicated that but we’re keeping an open mind. At this stage we’ve got nothing to link this event to any terrorist-related activity but we could not say that that wasn’t the case. So clearly you would understand we have officers from within the counter-terrorism command.’
The NSW Police Force building is home to the State Crime Command, which includes the homicide, drug, Middle Eastern organised crime and gangs squads.
An investigation was believed to be underway into whether the shooter had been recently charged by a detective from one of the State Crime Command squads.
He was also quizzed about whether staff had allegedly been sent a number of emails warning about men who had been taking photographs of the building’s entrance.
This man was simply leaving work this afternoon and he was gunned down. He was murdered on this street, this very street,’ he said.
Detectives launched a level one critical incident, the highest order they can give, after the attack.
Witnesses reported seeing two bodies lying on the ground covered in white sheets just metres apart.
Dozens of police officers were seen combing the area where the shooting took place from around 10pm on Friday, searching for clues.
Investigators also aimed huge spotlights at neighbouring apartments during the operation.
Residents were evacuated from their homes in buildings nearby the police station and most were allowed to return just after 11pm.
Real estate agent Edwin Almeida said he saw a man with a gun screaming and pacing up and down outside the building on Charles Street.
He said he then saw the man lying on the ground with a police officer pointing a gun at him.
‘We looked out the window, saw security guards and what appeared to be a plain clothes police officer with gun drawn pointing at the person that was now lying on the floor surrounded by a pool of blood,’ he said.
He wrote on his Facebook page: ‘Four five shots fired by man outside our office and in front of NSW police head quarters. Man shot down by guards and detectives.’
A man called Nathan told 2GB Radio that he saw a man lying on the street surrounded by blood.
‘I saw the guy dressed in black on the pavement with blood everywhere,’ he said.
Shopkeeper Sammy Shak told The Daily Telegraph he saw two bodies on the ground after hearing ‘six shots at least’.
‘WE’RE KEEPING AN OPEN MIND’: COMMISSIONER’S COMMENTS ON MOTIVE
Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione refused to be drawn on whether the double shooting was terror-related and said detectives do not yet know the motive.
In his media briefing on Friday night, he said: ‘We don’t know the motive and we don’t yet know who the gunman is but he has committed an appalling act of brutality.
‘I want to ensure that we don’t jump to conclusions, as I’ve said, we’re keeping an open mind but there is an investigation that’s on foot.
‘At this stage we’ve got nothing to link this event to any terrorist-related activity but we could not say that that wasn’t the case.
‘So clearly you would understand we have officers from within the counter-terrorism command working alongside homicide but this is a homicide investigation led by homicide.’
‘My message to the people of NSW is that they are safe. There is no threat that we’re dealing with that at this stage we haven’t resolved here.
‘We will get to the bottom of this matter, the investigation will be conducted, it will be very thorough and we’ll do that as soon as we possibly can.’
‘When I went out there was two bodies on the floor and there was cops everywhere all around the area and they told me to go inside the shop straight away,’ he said.
Channel Seven helicopter pilot Andrew Millett said two bodies were visible about 200m from the police station.
Finance worker Rizwan Shaikh, who lives opposite the police headquarters, said he heard the shooting.
‘I finished work and was in the shower and I heard the gunshots,’ Mr Shaikh told The Daily Telegraph.
‘I heard six or seven gunshots and it was pretty loud. In two to three minutes there were cops everywhere.’
Miffy Hong, 33, said her mother called her just after 5pm to tell her she could see a body covered by a sheer near police headquarters.
‘She told me come back I don’t know what’s happening, she doesn’t speak English,’ she said.
The attack occurred outside a daycare centre used by police force families and the children were locked inside for four hours after the shooting with a dead body at their doorstep.
Parents of the children locked inside Goodstart Early Learning voiced fears about their welfare.
Dennis Entriken, whose three-year-old daughter was not allowed to leave for four hours, told Daily Mail Australia: ‘It’s very frustrating. One of the dead bodies is right out of the front of the chilcare centre.
‘What did they see, what did they hear? Is she scared? Is she OK?
‘They’ve told us she’s safe which is good… it’s the unknown which is the issue.
‘If she saw nothing and she’s blissfully unaware then that’s good,’ he said.
In his press conference on Friday night, Commissioner Scipione confirmed that all the children were safe.
‘Everyone’s safe, that’s the good news. There was certainly no suggestion of anyone being injured there. That’s certainly very pleasing to us.
NSW Police reveal shooter was a 15-year-old boy of an Iraqi-Kurdish background, urging anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Vision courtesy ABC News.
The man shot by a 15-year-old gunman outside NSW police headquarters, accountant Curtis Cheng, was simply on his way home for the weekend when he died, NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione says.
Mr Cheng, 58, worked for the NSW Police finance and business services division and had been employed by the force for 17 years. He was married with two adult children.
Curtis Cheng, left, and his family.
“He was a much loved man, been with us a long time,” Mr Scipione said. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone have a bad word about Curtis.”
Mr Scipione was to meet Mr Cheng’s family on Saturday. He said the entire NSW Police Force family was in mourning.
“Curtis was admired and respected by his colleagues. He was a gentle man in every sense,” he said. “What has occurred is shocking and it is a very sad time for those who worked closely with him and all our employees.”
NSW Premier Mike Baird paid tribute to Mr Cheng and gave his condolences to his family.
“He sounds a wonderful man, very much loved by family and friends and indeed the police community,” Mr Baird said.
“We can’t forget that the police community are deeply impacted by this.
“A colleague and friend – it is going to hurt and hurt very deeply.”
The boy then continued to fire his handgun before he was shot dead by one of three special constables who responded to the shooting.
Mr Scipione said that police had no warning of the attack and that the 15-year-old, of Iraqi-Kurdish background and born in Iran, had not been on the police radar, nor had he any criminal history.
TERROR experts are worried the recent fatal shooting in Sydney’s Parramatta that a civilian police force employee dead, may not be the last.
Investigations are continuing into what motivated 15-year-old Farhad Jabar Khali Mohammad to shoot police force veteran Curtis Cheng at close range outside the Parramatta police headquarters on Friday.
Police believe was politically motivated and linked to terrorism.
His grieving family, including wife Selina and children Zilvia and Alpha, said they were heartbroken by the loss of the loving, generous and gentle father who always put the family first.
“We are deeply saddened and heartbroken that he has been taken from us, but we are truly grateful for the fruitful and happy life he has shared with us,” they said in a statement.
“My father was a kind, gentle, and loving person. He was humorous, generous of heart and always put the family first. He has set a tremendous example for us as a family.
“To the many people who have offered their condolences and kind words about him, we are extremely moved by your thoughts and sympathies.,” they added.
Streets surrounding Parramatta headquarters were placed into lock-down after Mohammad fired shots into the building before he was killed by special constables.
Police have no information to tie the boy to a specific group.
The federal government, police and agencies are working with the Muslim community to combat extremism and prevent young people from being radicalised.
Beloved husband of Selina.
The love in my heart is everlasting.
Loving father of Alpha and Zilvia.
Relatives, friends of the family, colleagues and members of the community are warmly invited to attend the funeral service for Mr CURTIS CHENG, to be held in St Mary’s Cathedral, College Street Sydney, on Saturday, October 17, 2015 commencing at 10.00am.
Private cremation.
In lieu of floral tributes, we ask that you consider a donation to NSW Police Legacy Appeal.
Saturday, 10 October 2015
We will never forget you.
~
Gail Abbott
Saturday, 10 October 2015
Our deepest condolences and prayers for your comfort in your time of unspeakable loss. The whole of decentAustralia sends you love and support at this difficult time. May your love and strength as a family help you to regain your hapipiness and harmony.
UPDATE: POLICE have confirmed that they have arrested a second man in relation to the death of New South Wales police employee Curtis Cheng.
Police are in the process of charging an 18-year-old, believed to be the one responsible for obtaining the firearm from a Middle Eastern crime gang and passing it on to 15-year-old Farhad Jabar.
A 22-year-old man has now also been arrested.
EARLIER: A MAN taken into custody in last week’s counter terrorism raids in Sydney, is expected to be charged in relation to the death of police employee Curtis Cheng.
Reports suggest the 18-year-old was the one responsible for obtaining the firearm from a Middle Eastern crime gang and passing it on to 15-year-old Farhad Jabar.
Jabar shot dead Mr Cheng outside Parramatta police headquarters on October 2.
The man is expected to be charged this afternoon and will appear in court tomorrow.
VALEDICTORY
Mr Curtis Shu Kei Cheng (28 November 1956 to 2 October 2015)
A member of the New South Wales Police Force from 11 November 1997 to 2 October 2015
The 2nd of October 2015 was the Friday before a long weekend. Many people were getting away early, extending the time that they would have to spend with family and friends. And on most Fridays, Curtis Cheng would have done the same.
However, there had been the demands of preparing the current year’s budget, an enormous task, the last of it completed just a few weeks ago. And there was more to do for the Annual Report. So Curtis stayed back a little longer than usual.
Eventually satisfied he had done all that he could, Curtis left. In his customary, friendly way he said goodbye to his colleagues, wishing them well, and made his way towards the lifts to head home.
Improbable and unjust things happen. We read about them in newspapers and see them on television. We are shocked, often outraged, when they do. But when they happen, they invariably happen to someone else, somewhere else.
But Curtis was one of our own, one of our friends. His circumstances are our circumstances. And the pain and disorientation we feel at Curtis’s death is all the more acute as a result.
Curtis Shu Kei Cheng commenced with the NSW Police Force on the 11th of November 1997, Remembrance Day. And we will always remember Curtis.
His resume was impressive. A lecturer of Accounting at the Hang Seng School of Commerce in Hong Kong. And thereafter at the Open University of Hong Kong. A Management Accountant at the Bank of Bermuda. And later an Administration and Finance Consultant in Hong Kong private enterprise.
He studied in Hong Kong and his postgraduate qualifications, including a Master of Science in Business Administration, were mostly completed in England. He amassed an impressive list of research and publications in accounting, management and education, and on arriving in Australia put his education and skills to good effect in running his own business facilitating trade for companies in China.
Curtis worked in our Financial and Business Services Directorate and his earliest work was introducing business planning to the Force. Systematically measuring what worked well, and what worked less well, to ensure we achieved the best results for the people of New South Wales. At that time this type of work was new, but is now acknowledged as being vitally important to operational policing.
In that first role and in the promotions that deservedly followed Curtis took great pride in his performance, developing a reputation for producing work that could be trusted. In an accountant’s world he was gold.
Curtis continued to work in Financial and Business Services: in Corporate Performance, Finance Budget and Planning, Management Accounting, and as a Systems Accountant.
In recognition of his service with the NSW Police Force, Curtis received NSW Police Medallions recognising the milestones of 10 and 15 years service, the Commissioner’s Long Service Award for 15 years service, as well as the Commissioner’s Olympic and Sesquicentenary Citations.
And in between times, in 1998, the Australian Government recognised Curtis with Australian citizenship, an event he proudly announced to work mates.
Curtis was admired and respected by his colleagues, a gentle man in every sense. Hard working, measured, but unfailingly positive. As you would expect there has been a lot of reflecting over these past couple of weeks. Members of his team recounted Curtis’s familiar greeting, his hand on your shoulder as he asked you how your were. Genuinely interested in the answer.
He valued relationships and nurtured them over a coffee, or a shared meal. And if the topic turned to his beloved football, or his family, you knew you were in for a long chat.
One of his closest co-workers said:
“You know, we all get angry at things from time to time. There must have been things that made Curtis angry. But if there were, I never saw them. Not once. Not in all the years I knew him – he was nothing but positive.”
This year the NSW Police Force has been celebrating the centenary of women in policing. Just last month I attended a gala dinner – a highlight of those celebrations – close to a thousand people in attendance. And Curtis was there, showing his support. Resplendent in black tie, his NSW Police Force citations proudly pinned to his lapels. So proud to be part of the Force. So proud to help recognise a century of outstanding achievements by the women of the Force. It was a wonderful evening.
And more than a few of us were surprised, and we smiled, when Curtis hit the dance floor. This quiet, unassuming man from Finance, this man of numbers and spread-sheets, well he certainly knew how to move. He was a revelation. And he was soon surrounded by many others, up, relaxing, enjoying themselves. It was a night of celebration, a night to be positive, and Curtis led the way.
It is never easy to say goodbye to someone who meant so much to so many. The NSW Police Force has lost a respected and much loved member of its family, Selina, a devoted husband, Alpha and Zilvia, a loving and devoted father.
I can’t describe the devastation inside Police Headquarters and right across the NSW Police Force. The gentlest of friends lost to an act of terror. A man, the manner of whose death, stands in the starkest contrast to the gentle, honourable way he led his life.
But in the aftermath of this tragedy, my officers and I have been struck by the strength and unity of the Cheng family. Not an ounce of hate despite this senseless crime. At a time when they deserved our shoulders for support, they have shown a strength and grace of their own, an example to the rest of us, showing the way.
There cannot be any one of us, least of all Selina, Zilvia and Alpha, for whom Curtis’s death is not painful and incomprehensible. We meet it with grief and tears, shock and despair, hurt and anger. It makes no sense. Perhaps time will provide some answers. Perhaps it will dull the pain. But what cannot be allowed to be dulled is the contribution Curtis made.
I was leafing through Curtis’s Personnel File late one evening last week, reflecting on the man and his contribution. His most recent successful application for a promotion was there, and a couple of statements in particular struck me.
Discussing his data and information technology skills he said:
“One of my hobbies is to create forms and templates to make things organized no matter at work or at home”. And I smiled at the thought of Alpha, Zilvia, and Selina being gently organised on weekends or some other routine task by way of an Excel spread-sheet.
But Curtis also said this:
“Over the past years, I have enjoyed every minute working in the NSW Police Force. And if I am given the honour of becoming a system accountant, I have the confidence to maintain and enhance a harmonious and constructive team spirit.”
That was Curtis.
A man who loved his family, relished his work and held dear the opportunities and pleasures life in Australia afforded him. A man who didn’t take his good fortune for granted or keep it to himself, but who shared it with others through his positive spirit and generosity. At least while it lasted.
Curtis’s fate reminds us that life is fragile. It also reminds us that we are together responsible for the type of community we create. If a positive is to be taken from recent events, it is our collective realisation that our way of life, the freedoms and protections we enjoy, are not unassailable. They need to built, maintained and defended.
We owe it to Curtis to do that.
It is my honour today to posthumously confer a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service on Mr Curtis Cheng. In part the commendation reads:
For outstanding and meritorious performance of duty as a member of the New South Wales Police Force between 1997 and 2015.
Mr Cheng was a long serving member of Financial and Business Services, where he served with diligence and distinction, providing exemplary financial services to the New South Wales Police Force.
Mr Cheng was killed in a callous act of violence outside Police Headquarters in Parramatta on Friday 2 October 2015.
Mr Cheng displayed integrity, loyalty, commitment, professionalism and devotion to duty as a member of the New South Wales Police Force, and thus is highly commended for his service.
– – –
I am deeply honoured and, indeed, privileged to be able to represent every member of the New South Wales Police Force here today to farewell Curtis Cheng.
A man who served the people of New South Wales with honour, and with a caring and gentle heart.
A loving husband and father.
A cherished colleague.
Our friend.
We are grateful to have known you Curtis and to have worked alongside you.
Our prayers travel with you. May your loved ones be comforted. May you rest in peace.
A P Scipione APM
Commissioner of Police
17 October 2015
Richard Charles WHITTAKER
| 16/05/2021
Richard Charles WHITTAKER
aka Dick
NSW Redfern Police Academy # 162
“possible” relation in “the job”: A.R. WHITTAKER, NSWPF # 8649
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 18588
Joined NSW Police Force via NSW Police Cadet system on 1 February 1977
Cadet # 3334
Rank: NSW Police Cadet – commenced 1 February 1977 ( aged 16 years, 9 months, 16 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 17 April 1979 ( 19 years, 0 months, 1 day )
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( YES )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st class – appointed 16 April 1984
Senior Constable – appointed 16 April 1988
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 27 September 1991
Final Rank: Detective Sergeant – Death
Stations: ?, Gosford Drug Unit ( Brisbane Waters LAC ) – Death
Service: From 1 February 1977 to 28 September 1991 = 14 years, 7 months, 27 Service
Time in Retirement: 0
Age at Retirement: n/a
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: Saturday 16 April 1960
Died on: Saturday 28 September 1991 @ Royal North Shore Hospital, NSW
Cause: Cerebral Haemorrhage
Age: 31 years, 5 months, 12 days
Funeral date: ? October 1991
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: CREMATED:
Ashes Interred in the Palmdale Lawn Cemetery & Memorial Park, Palmdale Rd, Palmdale, NSW
Rose Garden, 26A, Site 58
Memorial Plaque: Point Frederick Pioneer Park, 1 Albany St, Pt Frederick, NSW
-33.449594151.341945
Memorial Plaque location:
RICHARD WHITTAKER
Touch plate for Richard Charles WHITTAKER at the National Police Wall of Remembrance
DICKIS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
Memorial plaque: This plaque was laid in memory of RICHARD CHARLES WHITTAKER, a Detective Sgt of Police attached to the Gosford Drug Unit, who died of a work related illness on the 28th of September, 1991, whilst in the service of the people of New South Wales & the Central Coast area. Richard was born in the Point Frederick area and spent many of his childhood days in this park. Dedicated by his family & many friends on the 16. 4. 1992.
Richard Charles WHITTAKER – Memorial Plaque – Pt Frederick, ( Central Coast ), NSW, as of April 2022. Credit: Kevin Banister.
Memorial Plaque – Pt Frederick, ( Central Coast ), NSW, as of April 2022. Credit: Kevin Banister.
Richard Charles WHITTAKER – Grave location. Palmdale Cemetery, Palmdale, NSW
Richard Charles WHITTAKER – Grave location. Palmdale Cemetery, Palmdale, NSW
Before his death Detective Sergeant Whittaker and other Police had been involved in a major drug investigation which had resulted in the arrest of eighteen offenders. Corruption allegations were made by a number of the offenders resulting in a Police Internal Security Unit investigation.
During the protracted internal investigation the Sergeant was under enormous pressure and as a result suffered a cerebral haemorrhage.
He passed away at the Royal North Shore Hospital on 28 September 1991.
He was posthumously cleared of all allegations by Judge Allen at the Sydney District Court on 30 September 1991.
The Sergeant was born in 1960 and joined the New South Wales Police Service, via the NSW Police Cadet system on 1 February 1977 and was Attested, as a Probationary Constable on 17 April 1979.
At the time of his death he was attached to the Gosford Drug Unit.
‘Our boys haven’t been forgotten’: Policemen honoured in Brisbane Water row
September 15, 2015 3:16pm
Geraldine Cardozo Central Coast Gosford Express Advocate
(L-R) Sarah Matthews, Kylie Kerr and Tracey Holt remember their police officer partners at Gosford waterfront. Brisbane Water LAC officers will be taking to the water in honour of the policemen.
When Sarah Matthews returned home after her shift at Gosford Hospital on the evening of April 13, 2002 and spotted a row of waiting police cars she thought the neighbours were having a noisy party.
“It never struck me what was coming next,” remembers the emergency nurse who was told the worst — her fiancée Senior-Constable Chris Thornton had been killed on duty hours earlier.
“It didn’t hit me. Even when I was told. I don’t think that’s something that ever leaves you.”
This week Miss Matthews, Kylie Kerr and Tracey Holt will get together to remember their partners, Sen-Constable Thornton, Sen-Constable Peter Gordon Wilson and Sergeant Richard Whittaker, who all died on duty while with the Brisbane Water Local Area Command.
(L-R) Brisbane Water Inspector Paul Nicholls, Tracey Holt, Brisbane Water Commander Daniel Sullivan, Sarah Matthews and Kylie Kerr at Gosford Waterfront ahead of the NSW Police Legacy row. Picture: Mark Scott
On Thursday officers from Brisbane Water LAC will take part in a paddle to raise money for NSW Police Legacy to support the families of fallen officers.
“You never want to be a part of Legacy but now we are part of this unique group and without Legacy we wouldn’t have each other,” Miss Matthews said.
But for two of the women, the close bond was forged by their shared loss and haunting similarities in how their partners lost their lives.
Sen-Constable Thornton, 35, died in a motor vehicle accident while on patrol in Woy Woy in 2002, while Mrs Kerr’s long-term partner Sen-Constable Wilson, 41, was killed when he was hit by a car while carrying out speed checks on the M1 at Somersby in 2006.
Both men were based at Brisbane Water LAC, both died in car accidents on a Saturday night, and both had the same patrol car number — 202.
Senior Constable Peter Gordon Wilson with fiancée Kylie Kerr.
“This special event means our boys haven’t been forgotten,” Miss Matthews said, adding that the support of Legacy has enabled her to move on. “You have to take that step forward. You can’t be angry, because that just eats away at you.”
Senior Constable Chris Thornton was killed on duty during a high-speed pursuit at Woy Woy in 2002.
“This special event means our boys haven’t been forgotten,” Miss Matthews said, adding that the support of Legacy has enabled her to move on. “You have to take that step forward. You can’t be angry, because that just eats away at you.”
“This special event means our boys haven’t been forgotten,” Miss Matthews said, adding that the support of Legacy has enabled her to move on. “You have to take that step forward. You can’t be angry, because that just eats away at you.”
Mrs Holt, whose husband Sgt Whittaker was stationed at the Gosford drug unit and was involved in drug investigations at the time of his death when he died from a brain haemorrhage in 1991, said the annual paddle is a “beautiful day”. “It is amazing the effort Daniel Sullivan and the team put in to keep the memory going of old work mates and have a good time doing it,” she said.
Sergeant Richard Whittaker who died on duty with Brisbane Water Local Area Command in 1991. Picture: Supplied
SYDNEY: The stress of unfounded corruption allegations killed a policeman who suffered a stroke at the weekend, according to the Police Association.
The association’s president, Tony Day, said yesterday that Gosford-based Detective Senior Constable Richard Whittaker, who was promoted to detective sergeant last Friday, had been implicated in a bribery conspiracy by a drug dealer.
Yesterday, the dealer, an industrial chemist, was sentenced to a minimum of 11 years jail after pleading guilty to manufacturing and supplying amphetamines with a street value of more than $4 million.
Handing down the sentence in Darlinghurst Supreme Court, Justice Allen said John Oldfield, 52, of Winston Hills in Sydney’s west, had stated he had tried to bribe a police officer through a contact known as “M” in November, 1990.
After the alleged bribe attempt had failed, Oldfield had gone to the Police Internal Security division and made a detailed statement, implicating the officer. The judge said he was satisfied the detective knew nothing about the alleged bribe.
Mr. Day said the Police Internal Security division investigation into Oldfield’s allegations had been “dubious”.
“Every crim in NSW knows that if they want their case adjourned they just have to implicate the police, and there will have to be an investigation,” he said.
“Eighty per cent of corruption and bribery charges are disproved.”
Detective Whittaker, 31, was married with two-year-old twin daughters.
Mr Day said the Oldfield affair had played a major role in causing Detective Whittaker stress, resulting in his death.
The Brisbane Water LAC has tragically lost three staff members in the execution of their duty: Sergeant Dick Whittaker and Senior Constables Gordy Wilson and Chris Thornton. The 12 September is the annual sports charity day to remember these officers.
Paddling from Ocean Beach Surf Club to Bluetongue Stadium along the Brisbane Water on the NSW Central Coast (approximately 15km).
SYDNEY: The stress of unfounded corruption allegations killed a policeman who suffered a stroke at the weekend, according to the Police Association.
The association’s president, Tony Day, said yesterday that Gosford-based Detective Senior Constable Richard Whittaker, who was promoted to detective sergeant last Friday, had been implicated in a bribery conspiracy by a drug dealer.
Yesterday, the dealer, an industrial chemist, was sentenced to a minimum of 11 years jail after pleading guilty to manufacturing and supplying amphetamines with a street value of more than $4 million.
Handing down the sentence in Darlinghurst Supreme Court, Justice Allen said John Oldfield, 52, of Winston Hills in Sydney’s west, had stated he had tried to bribe a police officer through a contact known as “M” in November, 1990.
After the alleged bribe attempt had failed, Oldfield had gone to the Police Internal Security division and made a detailed statement, implicating the officer. The judge said he was satisfied the detective knew nothing about the alleged bribe.
Mr. Day said the Police Internal Security division investigation into Oldfield’s allegations had been “dubious”.
“Every crim in NSW knows that if they want their case adjourned they just have to implicate the police, and there will have to be an investigation,” he said.
“Eighty per cent of corruption and bribery charges are disproved.”
Detective Whittaker, 31, was married with two-year-old twin daughters.
Mr Day said the Oldfield affair had played a major role in causing Detective Whittaker stress, resulting in his death.
Stations: Wagga Wagga G.D’s & HWP in 1995, Tarcutta HWP ( paper transfer only ),
Batemans Bay HWP, Bodalla LUK & Jugiong LUK & HWP
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours system
Service: From ? – To 4 March 2007
Born: 1968
Illness: viral Myocarditis, this illness led to major organ failure.
Hospitalised ( St Vincent’s ) 11 September 2006
Heart bypass: 3 March 2007
Died: Sunday 4 March 2007 @ 6.15am
39 old
Funeral: 9 March 2007 at
Wagga Wagga St Johns Anglican Church ( Full Police Funeral )
Evan was Cremated and remains with the family
Memorial: NSW Police force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, F31 ( left wall )
Evan contracted an illness – viral myocarditis, this illness led to major organ failure. Evan was airlifted to to Sydney St Vincent’s hospital on 11/9/2006, and was placed in a coma for several weeks until a special total heart bypass machine was bought from England.
This Machine kept Evan alive and awake until a donor heart became available.
This machine bought many months of family time that the family will be forever grateful for.
The transplant surgery was a success on the 3/3/2007 but the effects of the prolonged use of blood thinners was unable to be reversed and Evan passed away 6.15am on 4/3/2007.
Evan is survived by his wife Helen, children Hannah, Olivia and Theo Heinjus.
Evan was a much adored country cop, he always said his mouth was his best weapon and he could talk people around with his manner. Evan loved his work as a NSW Police Officer and received many Superintendent and Commissioners commendation’s and awards.
May you forever Rest In Peace Evan.
The Commissioner’s Police Remembrance Day Scholarship
On the 29th day of each September, police officers, fellow officers, wives, husbands, parents, partners, and children gather at sites across the state to remember those police officers who have lost their lives in the course of serving their community.
A commemoration is held at the NSW Police Force Wall of Remembrance in the Domain, Sydney which includes a service and prayers for those fallen officers.
As the dignitaries laid wreaths they were accompanied by some of our young Legatees. We’d like to thank Theo, Olivia and Hannah Heinjus and Brendon Speechley who laid wreaths in honour of their lost parents and all fallen officers.
Each year at the Remembrance Day Ceremony, the Commissioner’s Scholarship is presented to a young Legatee to assist with furthering their education. Congratulations to Theo Heinjus, 11, who was the 2011 recipient of this $5,000 scholarship.
Theo was only six years old when his father, Senior Constable Evan Heinjus, died from complications after a heart transplant, aged 38.
Theo received the award from NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione. “Theo is a popular and enthusiastic boy, who has exhibited a great deal of courage in dealing with the grief of his father’s death,” Commissioner Scipione said.
“He has enormous potential to reach his dreams and I hope this scholarship will assist him to reach his potential.”
The $5000 scholarship will be put into a trust fund for Theo and will be managed by NSW Police Legacy.
“I am immensely proud that he has been able to achieve this award, it will certainly make a difference to his schooling in the upcoming years,” Theo’s mother Helen Foley said.
Legatee, Olivia Heinjus aged 12 records her experience of the 2011 October Camp
below.
This year we went to the Gold Coast, staying for the week at the Christian Youth Camp (CYC). I was in a room with Maddie, Jasmine, Margaret, Eleano and the new girls, Catlin & Katie.
On the first day we went to Dreamworld and I’m sure everyone loved it. I personally had a thrilling time because I went on the CLAW. Lara and Amy dragged me on to it!
On Monday we did stand up paddle boarding and surfing. The weather wasn’t great and some of us were being blown away by the wind but standing up paddle boarding was so much fun!
On Tuesday we did canoeing and tubing and it was great. While we were tubing Iveta and James did a switch and swapped sides and Callum and Mitch tried to flip it.
On Wednesday we went to Wet ‘n Wild and had lots of fun on all the rides. On Thursday we went to the movies at this giant shopping centre and after our movie we went shopping.
Friday was goodbye. When we landed Theo and I were back in our mothers arms. We had a great time and can’t wait to go on our next camp.
Interred 1 August 2014 – HENRY KENDALL GARDENS – ROSE GARDEN 40 – Position 0056
Henry BRENNAN
Harry (Henry) BRENNAN GM, 86 old, former Regd. No. 6424, an Unattached member of Caringbah.
Henry passed away on 01/06/2014 and his funeral is proposed to be held at 9am on Friday 6th Instant at Southern Chapel, Woronora Crematorium, SUTHERLAND
Funeral location: Dress is winter uniform (leather jacket) plus full size medals. For plain clothes Police it is suitable day dress with medals.
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/
Constable Harry Brennan – 14 October 1954
The Sydney Morning Herald Thursday 14 October 1954 page 1 of 32
Two Policemen Shot In Wild 80-m.p.h. Chase Across City:
Dragnet Out For Gunman
In Sydney’s biggest manhunt hundreds of police last night and early this morning were searching for a gunman who had shot and wounded two police, during an 80-mile-an-hour chase through eastern and southern suburbs.
The gunman wounded Sergeant Neville Townsend and Constable John Melton ( both of Bondi ).
Sergeant Townsend was shot in the ring finger of the right hand, which was later amputated.
Constable Melton was shot under the left arm.
Police have been told that earlier the gunman fired five shots over the head of a woman at Manly and threatened to shoot her dead.
He then made off in a grey sedan car with a Victorian number-plate.
Constable Harry Brennan, a motor cyclist of the Safety Bureau, heard the description of the car over the police radio.
He was patrolling Bondi Promenade five minutes later when he saw the wanted car being driven slowly past him.
The driver saw that he was being followed but he still did not hurry.
SOUNDED SIREN
Constable Brennan sounded his siren as they passed Bondi Police Station.
The crew of the Bondi police truck – Sergeant Townsend, Constable Melton and Constable Len Ryan – heard the siren and ran out.
They jumped in the truck and joined in the chase.
The truck drew level with the car at the end of Blair Street. The car driver leant out and the shooting started.
Police said that Sergeant Townsend’s handcuffs saved his life. A bullet fired by the gunman passed through Sergeant Townsend’s clothing and struck his handcuffs, hanging from his belt.
The handcuffs deflected the bullet, which only grazed the skin around Sergeant Townsend’s ribs.
A second bullet hit him on the hand.
A shot passed through Constable Ryan’s cap just above the badge.
Another shot broke a glass wind deflector.
Police in the truck, Constable Brennan, and the driver were firing together at one stage.
One bullet whistled past Constable Brennan’s face. Constable Melton, who was driving the van, had his revolver ready but did not fire any shots. He received a bullet under the left arm, but continued to drive the van while Constable Ryan called other police cars to the scene.
When the other cars arrived the Bondi police van pulled out of the chase and took the injured officers to St. Vincent’s Hospital.
The man fired about seven shots. Constable Brennan did not know that the police in the truck had been hit. He chased the car when the driver, apparently having emptied his magazine, stopped firing and increased his speed.
Police think that the man must have reloaded while driving.
The car entered Birriga Road, slewed round at a bend and nearly overturned.
Constable Brennan, who was following close behind, nearly crashed into the side of the car.
The driver leant out and fired a shot point blank at Constable Brennan but it missed.
The chase continued through Bondi Junction, along Oxford Street, down Lang Road into Robb Road and into Anzac Parade.
CYCLE HIT
In Robb Road, approaching Centennial Park, Constable Brennan drew close to the racing car. The man slowed down suddenly and swerved across the road.
The car struck Constable Brennan’s motor cycle and sent it careering sideways, but he managed to keep it from crashing.
The man leaned out of the window and fired a shot at Constable Brennan.
The car then entered Anzac Parade at Moore Park and headed south and the man fired two more shots both of which missed.
A car in Anzac Parade near Cleveland Street was struck and hurled on to the footpath.
Soon after the fugitive car crashed into another car and then almost immediately scraped past the front of another car.
The driver braked just in time to stop a serious crash.
The fugitive swerved repeatedly in attempts to wreck Constable Brennan’s motor cycle.
Constable Brennan fired five shots during the chase and he thinks several of them hit the car.
The car was travelling at about 80 m.p.h. when it approached Prince Henry Hospital.
Constable Brennan raised his pistol to fire the last shot in the magazine, but the bullet jammed in the barrel.
The car then swerved hard to the right past St. Michael’s Golf Course. Constable Brennan had to stop when his pistol became useless.
He ran into the hospital and called for reinforcements.
A man who resembled the fugitive was seen at Yarra Bay about 10.30 p.m. and shortly afterwards near Bunnerong Power-house.
Practically every available police car in Sydney was sent to the La Perouse and Bunnerong area.
Hundreds of police, armed with pistols and “shot guns,” began to search St. Michael’s golf course and the surrounding area.
It was thought the gunman might have taken cover on the golf course.
“FROGMAN”
About midnight police began to think that the fugitive had slipped through their cordon.
The man is believed to know the area very well and in the few minutes he had after escaping from Constable Brennan he might have had time to double back possibly by the road running between Bunnerong power station and Botany Bay.
This would have enabled him to reach Botany Road and reach the southern suburbs while he was still thought to be at La Perouse.
The man is said to be an accomplished “frogman” and a strong swimmer. Police think he could have swum out to a ship or yacht anchored in Botany Bay.
Early to-day police were searching a tanker anchored in Botany Bay.
A police launch from Blakehurst was speeding to Botany Bay to assist in the search.
POLICE PUZZLED
Police are puzzled by the fact that they have not been able to find the grey car, which is believed to be bullet scarred.
Detectives have considered the possibility that the man realised he could not escape unobserved in the car and drove it over the cliffs before trying to escape on foot.
Using searchlights they began a yard by yard search last night of the cliff edges for tyre marks.
Squads of police made an intensive search of caravans, humpies, sheds, backyards, and other buildings at Yarra Bay and nearby.
Other police searched among the tombstones of the Botany cemetery.
Aborigines from the settlement assisted police in the search.
Police, outside Prince Henry Hospital confer on moves in the search for the gunman. On the left is Constable Harry Brennan who exchanged shots with the gunman.
Sunday Mail ( Brisbane, Qld ) Sunday 17 October 1954 page 1 of 36
‘DON’T SHOOT’ : GUNMAN’S PLEA TO POLICE AT CAPTURE HUNT ENDS ON THIRD DAY
Offender – Robert Brown
SYDNEY— After the grimmest manhunt New South Wales has known Robert Michael Brown, 20, surrendered to two young police officers on Bushrangers’ Hill, in the Sydney suburb, Newport, at 11.25 a.m. yesterday. Brown, who was dirty arid dishevelled, was hiding in a crevice under a clump of bushes when the police arrested him.
With their guns drawn, the two policemen, Constables Clive Curtayne and George Spowart, stood over Brown as he crouched in the bushes and ordered him to surrender.
“Throw up your hands and submit quietly or we will shoot,” Constable Curtayne ordered. Rising slowly to his feet and with both hands’ in the air, Brown said: “I’ve had it. Don’t shoot. You’re too good. I’m all in. Give me a break. I’ve thrown my gun away. I’ll go quietly.” Brown’s capture was the climax to the biggest search on land, sea, and air in the history of New South Wales. He had been at liberty for 62½ hours. The police search for Brown began on Wednesday night after two police men had been shot in a running gun battle between Bondi and La Perouse.
Ate meal
Brown threw back his head and stared defiantly at police and Press while his picture was taken from all angles. He made no attempt to conceal his face and made a couple of half-hearted wise cracks to photographers as the bulbs flashed. With the Commissioner of Police ( Mr. C. J. Delaney ) in the front seat, Brown was driven to the Collaroy Police Station where he dictated a long statement.
[blockquote]While making the statement Brown ate ravenously and gulped down several cups of water. Later he smoked cigarettes and drank tea. [/blockquote]
It is understood that Brown commandeered the trawler Aklavic from The Spit about 9 p.m. on Friday and sailed it out of Sydney Harbour. The trawler struck heavy seas late on Friday night and about 1 a.m. yesterday it is believed that Brown dived overboard. Brown told police that the trawler was running against a strong wind and a high tide. The vessel was found firmly aground on the sand on Newport Beach. It showed no signs of serious damage.
‘The swim knocked it out of me.” Brown told police. “I didn’t think I would make the shore. I’ve had practically no sleep since last Wednesday. It’s been a terrible business.”
After receiving countless false alarms, police finally pinpointed Brown soon after 9.15 a.m. yesterday, when residents sighted him on Bushrangers’ Hill.
No shoes
An anonymous phone caller told police: “Brown is at Newport on Bushrangers’ Hill. He has just gone into a house. I think the house is unoccupied.”
About 20 police cars, police trucks, and motor cycle police gathered at the foot of the hill, and the hunt began. A shout went up when Brown was sighted by police about 300 yards from a house.
Brown, who was wearing a light sweatshirt, shorts, and gaberdine overcoat, was barefooted when police caught him.
He showed only one visible sign of injury — a deep scratch on the left side of the face.
He looked a picture of misery when police handcuffed him and marched him back to the main road, where scores of police had been posted.
His shoulders sagged, and he was limping. His eyes were bloodshot, and he had a stubble of beard on his chin.
Had limp
At times police had to hold him up as he staggered through the dense bush back to the road. Placed in a police car between the two arresting officers. Brown said wearily: “There’s no doubt about you boys, you’re too hot.” “For God’s sake, give me a cigarette, and I want a drink of water. I’m thirsty and I’m hungry.” ‘There was no need to worry about a gun. I threw it away. It went into the water. I had to throw it away.”
Brown’s grandmother, Mrs. Florence Brown, said to-day: “My grandson, Bobbie, is ill . . . mentally very ill … I am sure of it.”
Last Tuesday he had told her : “I’ve got women-trouble Nan. Bad women-trouble.” Mrs. Brown said Brown’s wife had a maintenance order out against him. His parents had divorced when he was about 16, and his father, a dog trainer; now lived at Southport, Queensland.
After Brown had been questioned he was charged with the following: —
Shooting with intent to murder Constable Harry Brennan, Detective Sergeant N Townsend, and Constable Len Ryan.
Stealing a diesel trawler, valued at £5000, the property of Dr. T. J. Cottee, sen., dentist, of Military Road, Mosman.
Disobeying a maintenance order. Having in his possession a motor car stolen from another State.
Police refused bail and Brown will appear before the Central Court of Petty Sessions tomorrow.
Find car
Police late yesterday found a stolen Victorian car, in dense bush on St. Michael’s golf course near Malabar with seven bullet holes in it. The car was reported stolen from Victoria at the beginning of the week.
On Wednesday night about 25 shots were exchanged by police and a man in the car during a chase.
DETECTIVES escort fugitive gunman Robert Michael Brown, 20, to a waiting police car after his capture yesterday. — RADIOPHOTO.
The Sun-Herald ( Sydney ) Sunday 24 October 1954 page 40 of 64
FEATURES
A Worried Young Man Has –
ONE LESS FEAR
By A Staff Correspondent
ROBERT MICHAEL BROWN, the 20-year-old ex-skin diver who sits today in Long Bay Gaol on remand, has at least one thing less to worry him at the moment. He has not got T.B.
AS 300 police, armed with sub-machine guns, turned Sydney into what seemed like Chicago on-Sea the week before last, word spread that Brown was worried about a spot on his lung.
Pleas to surrender went out from his girl friend. Relatives said he needed medical treatment.
He was reported to be extremely worried about the condition of his lungs. This amounted, it was said, almost to a phobia with him.
But last week that fear ended. Under a heavily armed escort of prison officers, Brown was taken from behind the big walls of Long Bay Gaol to the Prince Henry Hospital for an X-ray examination.
This showed that his lungs were clear.
Back in Long Bay the young man spends much of his time in a padded cell under constant observation.
Glass panels give prison officers a view of him, even as he sleeps.
However, he is not isolated in the observation block. Every day about 35 other detained men are his companions, and with them Brown plays handball, cards, and chess.
The only member of his family to see him in the gaol so far has been his father.
Last week, only a few minutes walk from Long Bay’s grim walls, a “Sun Herald” reporter visited Brown’s grandmother. Mrs. Florence Brown.
Her well-kept, modern, little brick home in Anzac Parade, Maroubra, was shuttered against inquisitive eyes.
A doctor’s car stood outside. Mrs. Brown peered through the half-open door and nervously said that her grandson’s alleged escapade had no effect on her apart from the worry and strain.
People had left her alone.
She had not been bothered by the curious.
She obviously intends to stay that way, for she shut the door very firmly as she said: “I don’t think I had better say anything at all now.”
Brown will appear in court on November 1.
He is charged with wounding two policemen with intent to murder them; shooting at two other policemen with intent to murder them; having an unlicensed pistol and a stolen car in his possession; and stealing the trawler Aklavic from The Spit on October 14.
Queensland Times ( Ipswich ) Wednesday 3 November 1954 page 3 of 8
Policeman’s Claim:
“FIRED AT FROM 10ft., BUT MISSED”
SYDNEY, Nov. 2. – A motor cycle policeman said today that Robert Michael Brown (20) had fired at him from a distance of 10ft., but missed. The policeman, Constable Harry Brennan, was giving evidence in the Central Court in the hearing of seven charges against Brown.
Brown was charged with having attempted to murder four policemen, having carried an unlicensed revolver, possessed a stolen car, and stolen a £5000 trawler.
Police have alleged that Brown tried to murder the police officers when he fired at them during an 80 mile an-hour car chase through Sydney streets on October 13.
Constable Brennan described how he questioned Brown on October 13, at Bondi, about the Holden car he was driving. The car had been reported stolen from Victoria. Brennan said he asked Brown to follow him to the police station.
Brown had agreed, but instead accelerated the car and drove at the police motor cycle. The car collided with the cycle and then drove off.
Brennan said he followed the car, and saw Brown lean out the window and fire a shot in his direction. The chase sped past Bondi Police Station, and a police van carrying three policemen joined in.
[blockquote]Brennan said at one stage during the chase Brown aimed at him from 10ft. away, but the bullet struck the ground between the motor cycle’s wheels. Brennan said his gun jammed, and Brown eluded the police pursuers. [/blockquote]
Constable Clive Curtayne said he and another officer arrested Brown on October 16 near the beach at Newport, 11 miles north of Sydney. Brown told them he had jumped overboard to swim to shore from the trawler Aklavic.
Curtayne said Brown told the police he would have shot them if he had not lost his gun in the swim for the shore. The hearing was adjourned until tomorrow.
Barrier Daily Truth ( Broken Hill, NSW ) Thursday 4 November 1954 page 2 of 8
GUNMAN FOR TRIAL
Sydney, November 3. — In Central Court today Robert Michael Brown, 20, was committed for trial on seven charges, including four of having attempted to murder policemen.
Mr. Beavers, S.M. refused bail and directed that Brown should stand trial at Central Criminal Court next Monday.
When he was asked if he had anything to say, Brown replied: “I have nothing to say, Your Worship.” During the proceedings Brown stood stiffly erect, with his fists clenched, and stared sternly ahead.
Illawarra Daily Mercury ( Wollongong, NSW ) Wednesday 8 December 1954 PAGE 1 of 12
Date Fixed For Hearing
SYDNEY, Tues. — Robert Michael Brown will stand trial in Central Criminal Court next March.
Brown, 20, of Darley Rd., Manly, is charged with having in October, wounded a police officer and shot at another with intent to prevent arrest, with possessing an unlicensed pistol and with larceny.
Brown is at present in custody in Long Bay gaol.
Mr. Justice Dovey, in Central Criminal Court today, adjourned the trial till the first week in March on the application of solicitor, Mr. P. Roach, who made no application for bail.
The Sydney Morning Herald Wednesday 8 December 1954 page 11 of 36
TRIAL OF BROWN
IN MARCH
Mr. Justice Dovey yesterday adjourned the trial of Robert Michael Brown until the March sittings of the Central Criminal Court.
Brown, 20, labourer, of Darley Road, Manly, was committed for trial at Central Court of Petty Sessions on November 3, on seven charges.
Indictments for Brown’s trial have not yet been laid, but he was committed on charges of having wounded a sergeant and a constable with intent to murder, having shot at two constables with intent
to murder, having used an unlicensed pistol, having been in possession of a car stolen from Melbourne, and larceny.
Brown’s solicitor. Mr. P. N. Roach, asked Mr. Justice Dovey yesterday to postpone the trial to enable him to interview a number of witnesses and obtain evidence.
Brown was in gaol, and no application would be made for bail, he said. Brown, therefore, would have to remain in gaol until the trial.
CAR REPAIRS
The Senior Crown Prosecutor, Mr. W. J. Knight, said the Crown did not object to the trial being stood over, but said the owner of the car, which would be an exhibit in the case, would like to have the car repaired.
Mr. Roach said he had no objection to photographs of the car being used in evidence.
The North Western Courier ( Narrabri, NSW ) Monday 28 March 1955 page 1 of 10
Manhunt Ends IN COURT
SYDNEY, Monday,
The central figure in a dramatic police search last October, Robert Michael Brown, (20) of Darley Rd., Manly, pleaded guilty to seven charges in the Central Criminal Court today.
Two of the charges alleged Brown maliciously wounded two police officers with intent to prevent his lawful apprehension, and two others alleged he shot at two other policemen to prevent lawful apprehension.
Brown also pleaded guilty to having in his possession a stolen car, without lawful excuse, having used a pistol, without a license, and, having stolen a trawler from Mosman.
The Canberra Times Tuesday 29 March 1955 page 1 of 6
GUNMAN PLEADS GUILTY TO FIRING AT POLICE
SYDNEY. Monday,
Robert Michael Brown, 21, of Darley Road, Manly, pleaded guilty in Central Criminal Court today to four charges of shooting at police.
Detective Inspector Aldridge described the manhunt in Sydney last october in which Brown was alleged to have exchanged a number of shots with police.
The four charges were malicious shooting at Bondi of Sgt. Neville Bernard Townsend and Constables Henry Brennan, Leonard Ryand and Charles Melton, with intent to prevent arrest.
Brown also pleaded guilty to three other charge, relating to the possession of a stolen car, use of a pistol without a licence and the stealing of a trawler.
Inspector Aldridge said that last October a message was received from the Melbourne C.I.B. stating that Brown had left Melbourne in a stolen car with the intention of shooting his wife in Sydney.
After threatening his wife with a gun, she agreed to withdraw the warrant if he did not shoot her, Aldridge said.
Brown was detained at Bondi by Constable Brennan.
Brown swerved his car at Brennan’s motor cycle and drove off.
Brown fired a shot at Constable Brennan and later fired four more shots, all of which struck a police truck.
More shots were fired during the chase, and one struck Sgt. Townsend on a finger, which was later amputated.
The next day Brown boarded the trawler Aklavic and headed out to sea.
Inspector Aldridge said Brown swam ashore at Newport and was arrested.
Aldridge said Brown had told him he intended to shoot himself at Melbourne but he did not have the nerve.
Brown had said that he had never intended to injure the police, but had fired so that “they would get serious and shoot me.”
Mr. Justice MacGuire remanded Brown for medical observation before passing sentence.
The Argus ( Melbourne ) Friday 22 April 1955 page 5 of 26
Crown appeal on sentence
SYDNEY, Thursday : The Crown will appeal against a five years’ gaol sentence imposed on Robert Michael Brown, 21, frogman, for a number of offences, including maliciously shooting at police.
Mr. Sheahan, Attorney General, said today he had directed that an appeal be lodged.
On March 31 Judge Maguire imposed two sentences of five years, one of three years, two years, and one of six months’ gaol, , on Brown.
The Canberra Times Tuesday 22 November 1955 page 5 of 8
Cooma Police In Bravery Awards
SYDNEY, Monday.
Six policemen who took part in gun battles have been awarded bravery medals by the Queen, the Governor, Sir John Northcoft, announced to-day.
They are:
Constable Henry Brennan (George Medal), Sergeant Neville Townsend, Constable Leonard Eyan and Charles John Melton (British Empire Medals) for their part in the capture of Robert Michael Brown in October, 1954.
Sergeant Alfred Edmund Frederick Chapman and Constable William Alexander Graham (British Empire Medals), who shot dead Canadian migrant Harry Edgar Rymal, in a gun duel at Cooma in May this year.
In the Cooma gun battle, Rymal was shot by Constable Graham, as he was about to shoot Sergeant Chapman at almost point blank range.
Rymal and the police exchanged 10 shots at a range of less than 20ft. during the fight.
Earlier Rymal had dragged a woman acquaintance from a Cooma hotel and shot her in the thigh as she lay in a shop doorway.
The George Medal was granted to Henry Brennan on the 22 November 1955 as a result of apprehending an armed man during a shootout whilst pursuing the offender(s) on his motor cycle.
On the 8 June 1988, Henry was granted the National Medal.
May Henry forever Rest In Peace
Cal
Jason Guilbert BAKER
| 16/05/2021
Jason Guilbert BAKER
Late of ?
AKA Jase, Packa, Paka, Packaroon,
NSW Police Academy – Goulburn – Class 234
New South Wales Police Force
ProCst # 99740
Regd. # 25194
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on 15 February 1988 ( aged 18 years, 9 months, 16 days )( spent 2 months, 21 days at Academy )( Start of a new, and worthless, Superannuation scheme for Police as of 1 April 1988 )
Probationary Constable – appointed 6 May 1988 ( aged 19 years & 6 days )
Sergeant –
Final Rank = Sergeant
Stations: ?, Maroubra ( 1980s ), Paddington ( 1990s ), Barrier, Broken Hill, Walgett, Castlereagh and Darling River LAC’s
Service: From 15 February 1988 to 13 January 2014= 25years, 10 months, 2 days Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: Wednesday 30 April 1969
Died on: Monday 13 January 2014
Age: 44 years, 8 months, 14 days
Cause: Illness – Depression – Suicide
Event location: Walgett, NSW
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Friday 24 January 2014, 11am
Funeral location: Holy Family Catholic Church, 214 Maroubra Rd, Maroubra
Wake location: Maroubra Seals Club
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial located at: NSW Police force Service Memorial Wall, Sydney Police Centre, Surry Hills, D21 ( right wall )
Memorials: Jason Baker Memorial Cup
JASON IS mentioned on the Sydney Police Centre Memorial Wall
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Sergeant Jason Baker sadly passed away on Monday 13 January 2014. He leaves behind a young family.
His funeral will be held on Friday 24 January at the Holy Family Church in Maroubra followed by a private cremation.
The wake will then be at the Maroubra Seals Club. I am not sure of times etc. at this early stage.
Do NOT listen to rumour about the circumstances surrounding this terrible tragedy. Jason was a great man and a great cop and this is time to celebrate his life and pass on condolences to his family.
Deepest condolences to his wife, Alison, and daughters McKenzie & ?.
On Wednesday 18th June, 2014, Police from the Barrier, Castlereagh and Darling River LAC’s met at Cobar to compete for the inaugural “Jason Baker Memorial Cup”.
The event was in remembrance for Sergeant Baker who worked at each of the three Commands.
With Police Bank as a major sponsor the event raised over $5,000 for Jason’s wife and 3 daughters. A huge congratulations and well done to all the teams who participated.
Today in Port Macquarie we had the privilege of attending the annual Jason Baker Memorial Cup, held each year in memory of Sergeant Jason Baker. It was a huge day of touch footy, with teams from around the district competing in a round-robin tournament. After a fiercely fought contest, the Meerkats emerged victorious, with the Hogs coming in a very credible second place. Thanks to all competitors and organisers, and a huge thank you for the money raised for Police Legacy in support of our Police Family.
At the end of October in Port Macquarie, we had the privilege of attending the annual Jason Baker Memorial Cup, held each year in memory of Sergeant Jason Baker. It was a huge day of touch footy, with teams from around the district competing in a round-robin tournament. After a fiercely fought contest, the Meerkats emerged victorious, with the Hogs coming in a very credible second place. Thanks to all competitors and organisers, and a huge thank you for the money raised for Police Legacy in support of our Police Family.
Curtis Cheng, left, and his family.
The George Medal
