Stations: pre mva: Force Reserve, Melbourne District Traffic and Patrol Division, Cranbourne Police Station, the Metro Traffic Operations Group and Echo District Traffic Operations Group.
post mva: recruiting, Youth Advisory Unit and as a Youth Affairs / Project Officer.
Service: From 29th January 1980 to 2005
Awards: National Medal – granted 31 July 1999
Born: 1963
Event date: 1990
Died on: 24 December 2011
Cause: injuries sustained from 1990 mva
Age: 47
Funeral date: Wednesday 4 January 2012
Funeral location: Victoria Police Academy Chapel, 1 View Mount Rd, Glen Waverley
Buried at: ?
[alert_green]David IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
David John HOBDEN
The touchstone of Victoria Police Senior Constable David John Hobden left the manufacturer in Melbourne this morning. Under AFP Federal Agent escort, the touchstone has just been handed over to NSW Police – Monaro LAC Commander, where it will be blessed at their dawn service at Queanbeyan Police Station tomorrow morning. The touchstone will then be installed into the National Police Memorial ahead of the national service tomorrow evening. We will remember.
On 30th October 1990, Senior Constable David HOBDEN was travelling on his police motor bike with the lights and siren operating in response to a call from D24 of ‘offenders on’ in a house in Endeavour Hills.
At the intersection of Heatherton Road and James Cook Drive, Endeavour Hills he was involved in an accident with another vehicle.
He was conveyed to the Dandenong Hospital where he was diagnosed with a broken leg and two broken ribs. As a result of the injuries he was off duty for 12 months.
During the following years the injuries continued to trouble him and he required ongoing medical treatment and a further thirty operations.
Eventually the discomfort he suffered from the injuries forced him to retire from Victoria Police in 2005.
David Hobden joined Victoria Police as a Cadet on 29th January 1980 and after graduating in 1982 he performed general duties at Force Reserve, Melbourne District Traffic and Patrol Division, Cranbourne Police Station, the Metro Traffic Operations Group and Echo District Traffic Operations Group.
Upon his return to Victoria Police after the accident he performed duty in a variety of non-operational roles including recruiting, Youth Advisory Unit and as a Youth Affairs / Project Officer.
The injuries he sustained in 1990 subsequently led to David Hobden’s premature death on 24th December 2011.
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Location of collision:
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Location of funeral service:
Australian Pensioner Funerals, Ph (03) 9428 1600
Murray Linden POWELL
| 12/01/2015
Murray Linden POWELL
aka ” Muzza ” & ” the Bangalow Bull “
New South Wales Police Force
Joined NSW Police via the NSW Police Cadet system on 6 December 1971
Cadet # 2727
[alert_yellow]Regd. # 15783[/alert_yellow]
Rank: NSW Police Cadet – Commenced 6 December 1971
Probationary Constable – appointed 23 April 1973
Constable 1st Class – appointed 23 April 1978
Senior Constable – appointed 23 April 1982
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 21 May 1988
Sergeant – Retired in October 2011 due to illness
Stations: Redfern, Byron Bay
Service: From 6 December 1971to? October 2011 = 40+ years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted on 21 August 1989
1st Clasp to the National Medal – granted on 25 June 1999
Born: 23 April 1954
Died on: 28 December 2011
Cause: pancreatic cancer
Age: 57
Funeral date: 4 January 2012
Funeral location: St Kevin’s Catholic Church, Bangalow, NSW
Buried at: Eureka Cemetery, Bangalow, NSW
[alert_blue]MURRAY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue] * NOT JOB RELATED
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Murray POWELL
Friends and family attended the funeral of retired police sergeant Murray Powell at St Kevin’s Catholic Church in Bangalow yesterday where he received full police honours in a moving ceremony.[/caption]
Policeman devoted to family
Dominic Feain | 5th Jan 2012 4:00 AM
HUNDREDS gathered at St Kevin’s Catholic Church in Bangalow to farewell long-serving Byron Bay police officer Murray Powell yesterday.
A sergeant at Byron Bay for 25 years, Mr Powell received full police honours in a moving ceremony commemorating his life and 40 years of service to the NSW Police Force.
The widely respected officer died this week after losing his battle with pancreatic cancer. He worked for five months following his diagnosis despite being told not to, reluctantly retiring in October.
Former Richmond Local Area Commander, now New England Local Area Commander, Superintendent Bruce ‘Bluey’ Lyons remembered his mate with whom he shared his first beat with as probationary constables in the early 1970s.
He praised a man who he said served in the most difficult role, and most important rank, in the force – that of a general duties sergeant.
“We walked the streets of Chippendale and Redfern together,” he said.
“He left behind many footprints filled with camaraderie, dedication and commitment, and the most important footprints were those dedicated to his family.”
Mr Powell is survived by eight children, two from his first marriage and six from his second, to Petria.
Retired Byron Bay Inspector Owen King remembered his colleague, Muzza, as one of the proudest fathers he knew – one who was constantly regaling workmates with his children’s exploits.
“It seemed like he was always expecting a baby,” he said fondly.
“He’d come in saying Petria was expecting again, then again.
“After he moved from Bangalow to Clunes the children kept coming after that – it earned him the nick name the ‘Bangalow Bull’.”
Mr King commended Mr Powell’s composure in the most stressful of policing situations and remembered his now famous morning teas.
“Woe betide anyone who brought in a prisoner during morning tea,” he quipped.
“It was his duty to keep the place ticking over and he was so fussy people used to say ‘he thinks he owns the place’.”
Mr King remembers a man who “took it all in his stride” and embraced the advice to “not count the days, but make the days count”.
“Muzza old mate, you’ll be sorely missed but your suffering is over and you’ve gone to a better place,” he said.
The funeral procession to Eureka Cemetery was led by two highway patrol motorcycles before family, friends and colleagues gathered at Clunes Hall for “one last morning tea”.
Murray POWELL was NOT mentioned on the Retired Police Association website.
****************************
Kym Andrew GODFREY
| 12/01/2015
Kym Andrew GODFREY
South Australia Police Force
Regd. # ?
Rank: Constable
Stations: Pt Adelaide C.1 Division
Service: From ? to 28 December 1981
Awards: ?
Born: ?
Died on: ?
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident
Age: 22
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: Enfield Memorial Park, Adelaide
Buried at: plot No. 15
[alert_green] Kym IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green ]
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Kym was responding to an alleged incident, died after the police car in which he was a passenger crashed on South Road, Thebarton, S.A.
He was a beloved son and brother.
Kym Andrew GODFREY – grave stone
Inscription:
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
KYM ANDREW GODFREY
ACCIDENTLY KILLED 28.DEC.1981
AGED 22 YEARS.
BELOVED SON OF NORMAN & BERYL
LOVING BROTHER OF IAN, WAYNE, DARRYL,
NOELENE & MARY.
UNCLE OF MICKEAL
Lauren Maree JOHNSTONE
| 12/01/2015
Lauren Maree JOHNSTONE
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class 272J
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 32346
Rank: Senior Constable
Stations: Flemington, Queanbeyan – Death
Service: From ? ? ? to 7 January 2015 = ? years Service
Lauren is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
A special young lady who was part of our Police “Family”. She had a good heart and was very special to many of us!
Rest in Peace Lauren Johnstone!
Accidental overdose leads to calls for changes to ACT’s prescription monitoring system
Daniella White
Lauren Johnstone was excited about the future: she had a new partner and was counting down the days until her daughter’s wedding.
A former police officer, she had long battled with post traumatic stress disorder but she seemed to be turning her life around.
Ariarne Bunyan and her sister Tamara Farrell lost their mum to an accidental prescription overdose. Picture: Dion Georgopoulos
She was still on a number of strong prescription medications but had an agreement with her GP, which she was following diligently.
On January 7, 2015, her daughter, Ariarne Bunyan came home from work to find her dead, just a day after being discharged from a cosmetic surgery clinic.
ACT Chief Coroner Lorraine Walker recently determined Ms Johnstone’s death was an accidental overdose as a result of taking her prescribed medication as instructed, and aggravated byover-the-counter medication her doctors were not aware of.
She recommended changes to the ACT’s recently introduced prescription monitoring system, DORA, which, even if it was operational in 2015, would not have raised any red flags for many of the drugs Ms Johnstone was taking.
Ms Johnstone’s daughters, Ms Bunyan and Tamara Farrell, say their mother’s death showed the at-times blasé approach to scheduled medications, including over-the-counter drugs.
Crucially, one of the drugs Ms Johnstone took that could have played a major part in her death was an easily acquired over-the-counter sleeping pill called restavit.
Lauren Johnstone with her daughters Tamara Farrell and Ariarne Bunyan.
Her family doesn’t believe Ms Johnston would have had any idea of the risk she was taking by combining the drugs she did.
On January 5, 2015, Ms Johnstone was admitted to a clinic where she underwent a planned facial surgery.
She was discharged after one night and prescribed endone for pain.
On her request, she was also prescribed her regular medications: imovane, valdoxan, tramadol and valium.
While the doctor called Ms Johnstone’s regular GP to consult, he was advised her GP was on vacation.
His only warning to Ms Johnstone about the drugs was the risk of increased drowsiness as a result of combining the medications with endone.
At the time, and not known to her doctors, she had also obtained the over-the-counter sleeping pill doxylamine and codeine.
While the cause of her death was determined to be the combined effect of prescription and non-prescription medication, it was not possible to determine which drugs were more significant contributors to her death.
Her family believe Ms Johnstone should not have been prescribed the drugs after surgery and, considering her history and health, should not have been deemed fit for it. They also believe she was discharged too soon.
Lauren Johnstone.
“People have to start taking all drugs more seriously, including over-the-counter medication,” Ms Bunyan said.
“Instead of the warnings being on a tiny pamphlet with the tiny spot down the bottom that no one reads, it should be in bright red on the packaging.
“You can just go to your doctor and ask for certain medications – a lot of the time they’ll just do it.”
The current DORA system – introduced earlier this year – covers strong opioids like oxycodone, but not drugs like diazepam.
As a result of Ms Johnstone’s death, the coroner recommended the ACT Health Minister declare tramadol, sleeping pill doxylamine and diazepam to be monitored drugs.
She also suggested widening the scope of monitored medicines to include all schedule 3 and 4 drugs, or, alternatively certain prescription and over-the-counter medications that may have significant sedating effects when taken in combination with opioids or benzodiazepines.
Other recommendations included the clinics altering pre-admission forms for patients to list all over-the-counter medications they were taking.
The family welcomed the coroner’s recommendations.
They said considering drugs like pseudoephedrine were monitored closely across the country, those much more dangerous to people should be as well.
Even though such a system would be too late to save their mother, they believe it would save many others.
Former health minister Meegan Fitzharris said the government was considering the recommendations and would formally respond.
“Prescription monitoring is a challenge faced by all states and territories and it is an area where the ACT government has continued to make progress,” she said.
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on Sunday 18 August 1996 ( aged 24 years, 5 months, 13 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 14 February 1997 ( aged 24 years, 11 months, 9 days ))
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Senior Constable
Stations: Campbelltown, Campbelltown Transit Police, Talbingo – Lock Up Keeper
Service: From 18 August 1996to? 2005 – Resigned & joined NSW Fire Brigades
Awards: ?
Born: Sunday 5 March 1972
Died on: Tuesday 6January 2015
Cause: Suicide – Albury – where he was stationed with Fire Brigades.
Age: 42 years, 10 months, 1 day
Funeral date: Friday 16 January 2015 @ 3pm
Funeral location: Sacred Heart Church, Beechworth Rd, Wodonga, Victoria
Dress request: Hawaiian shirt & thongs or Safari Suit from the 1980’s.
Buried at: Cremated at Glenmorus Gardens Albury
Dean Campbell tries the free online fire safety audit with his colleagues Brett Arundel, Mark Shields and Shaun Scanlon. Picture: MATTHEW SMITHWICK 8 October 2010
Shaun SCANLON: A genuine Mate that will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with you and your family Michelle. Chris Coomas, Sydney, New South Wales
Shaun is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ON THIS MAN / INCIDENT.
**** NOTE: This is Shaun SCANLON – NOT Sean Scanlon who was attached to Liverpool area.
Shaun SCANLON left the New South Wales Police Force around 2005 and joined the New South Wales Fire Brigades – being stationed at Albury.
SCANLON, Shaun Desmond
Born 5 March 1972.
Passed away on 6 January 2015.
Cherished son of Lesley and Des. Loved husband of Michelle and father of Hannah, Kurt, Connor. Beloved brother and brother-in-law of Natalie, Tracy, Ross, Peter and special Uncle to Chris, Gemma, Sam, Ben, Nick, Lisa, Grace.
Fire & Rescue NSW notes with regret, the passing of Senior Firefighter Shaun Scanlon (8791) of Liverpool and Albury Fire Stations on 6th January, 2015.
The Commissioner wishes to place on record his appreciation of the dedication to duty exhibited by Senior Firefighter Scanlon during his years of service to the people of NSW.
SCANLON, Shaun. – Fire & Rescue NSW notes with regret the passing of Senior Firefighter Shaun Scanlon (8791) of Albury Central Fire Station on January 6, 2015.
The Commissioner wishes to place on record his appreciation of the dedication to duty exhibited by Senior Firefighter Scanlon during his years of service to the people of NSW. Greg Mullins, Commissioner.
SIRU Junior Rugby advises all clubs and players of the sudden passing of Shaun Scanlon from the Albury Junior Rugby Club. Shaun has been a coach and an active member of the Albury Junior Rugby Club and was the assistant coach of the SIRU Juniors under 13 side in 2014.
On behalf of the SIRU Seniors and Juniors Clubs we offer our deepest sympathy to Shaun’s family and the Albury Junior Rugby Club.
We knew Shaun when he was stationed in Talbingo. Our deepest sympathies to the family.
From Roger & Sharon Frew
January 17, 2015
Michelle, we have just got word up her in North Queensland…. Our hearts are breaking for you…. We shared such fond memories of Shaun and you all with our time spent at The Steamers rugby club! Our condolences to you Hannah Connor and Kurt……. Yours in rugby
Cath, Ronan,Charlie, Oliver and Amelia Betcher
Catherine Betcher, Townsville, Queensland
January 17, 2015
To The Scanlon Family.
Our deepest sympathy to Michelle, Hannah, Kurt and Conner at the passing of your husband and father.
Take care Kiwi!
From The Sunde family.
Jason Sunde, Bonegilla, Victoria
January 16, 2015
To my sister and her gorgeous kids Hannah, Kurt and Connor. Our thoughts are with you and we will be there whenever you need us. RIP Shaun Love Nicole and Cheryl x
Nicole, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
January 16, 2015
My heart is breaking, it is so hard to believe we are never going to see that checky smile again, your parents raised a beautiful man who had a beautiful soul – I am sure you will be watching from heaven – just don’t give those ‘All Blacks’ all the wins give us Aussies a win once in a while. Till we meet again – earth is a little bit darker place at the moment but the stars are ever so bright with you up there – God wrap your arms around my friend and protect him.
Michelle Smith, Tweed heads, New South Wales
Contact Me
January 16, 2015
To my sister and her three gorgeous kids, Hannah, Kurt and Connor, sending our love to you all and we want you to know that we will always be there for you xx RIP Shaun Love Nicole and Cheryl
Nicole, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
January 16, 2015
My deepest sorrow to the family Shaun will be forever missed.
Tom Hetherington, Sydney, New South Wales
January 16, 2015
Our ?? aches for you Michelle, Hannah, Kurt and Connor. If only we could have you back Shaun, fly with the angels big fella. We love and miss you so much, till we meet again ?? Love Chris, Sally, Marty, Millie and Harry
Chris & Sally Norman, Albury, New South Wales
Contact Me
January 16, 2015
May the light that burns within you Scano, keep burning far beyond your short time on this earth. Rest in peace big fella.
Lorrae, Paul and Nylah Kovacs, Thurgoona, New South Wales
January 16, 2015
Shaun, our years of working together in the police at Campbelltown will never be forgotten. You were a great fella who was always up for a good laugh, hard work and backing up your colleagues. Both Paul and I cannot believe the devastating loss of you and what your family must be going through…many communities across NSW have certainly lost out since your passing, as we have not only lost a dedicated and devoted former NSW police officer but also a NSW Fire Brigade member. You were selfless in your devotion to serving many communities and keeping us all safe… Scano, your absence will be felt by many, especially the residents of Albury…our hearts go out to Michelle, Hannah and Connor.
Lorrae, Paul and Nylah Kovacs, Thurgoona, New South Wales
January 15, 2015
Our deepest sorrow is extended to all the Scanlon family but especially to our mate Kurt. Nothing we can say will ease your pain but remember that we are all here to help in any way we can.
Mrs P, Rama and Chisholm 7, CCW
Carolyn Packer, Wodonga, Victoria
January 15, 2015
Shaun, mate thank you for the Rugby, beers your friendship and the guidance you gave Jarryd and all the other Juniors. I know the lounge in heaven will be comfortable, the fridge full of fine ale and TV tuned to Rugby. To Michelle, Hannah, Kurt and Connor please accept our deepest sympathy and condolences. All our Love and thoughts Terry , Vera, Ashleigh and Jarryd.
Terry Morriss, Wodonga, Victoria
January 15, 2015
Forever missed – we love you Shaun – seems unthinkable a world with out you. Love Karen, Mike, Zanthe and Jordis
Karen Curtis, Auckland, Auckland
January 15, 2015
RIP Shaun, in gods care.
January 14, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Michelle, Hannah, Kurt and Connor. Shaun brought a smile to the faces of so many. He was a dedicated and respected police officer, but more importantly, a genuine, caring and lovable bloke. Dubbed ‘High tower’ by many Cootamundra locals during his OSG duties, you will be sorely missed mate. On behalf of all those who were lucky enough to have worked by your side – you will not be forgotten.
Soul Ryan, Shellharbour, New South Wales
January 13, 2015
A genuine Mate that will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with you and your family Michelle.
Chris Coomas, Sydney, New South Wales
January 13, 2015
Shaun was a man of conviction and integrity. I first met him working at FDC over 18 years ago and he was a person you would never forget. To his family I offer my deepest condolences.
Peter Burns, Sydney, New South Wales
January 13, 2015
RIP Shaun – miss you my beautiful friend.
Michelle Smith, Tweed heads, New South Wales
January 13, 2015
Shaun, may you always look down on us, for we will always remember you. We will be there for Shell, Han, Kurt and Connor. We will cherish all the laughs and good times we had. Your Mates, Az, Fee, Paddy, Ollie and Pol
Albury, New South Wales
January 13, 2015
We will always cherish our memories with you, Michelle, Hannah, Kurt and Connor at Talbingo. You were a great friend a great husband and a great dad. You will always hold a special place in our hearts. Love Terry, Tracey, Heath and Beau Mulligan
Terry Mulligan, Tooma, New South Wales
January 12, 2015
Shaun,
I’m not sure what to say, just can not believe it, you will be so sadly missed, one of the most generous blokes I know. I will miss the jokes, the beers, but most of all I will miss you as a person, the change of shift will never be the same, my heart goes out to Michelle and your great kids, I’m sure they will make you proud. Thanks for the memories.
Chris Davies
Chris Davies, Table Top, New South Wales
January 12, 2015
RIP Shaun Scanlon. A man of integrity.
January 12, 2015
The greatest tribute to the lose of my friend is not grief but gratitude . Thank you for being a great mate and an exceptional colleague. Michelle the station doors will always be open for you and your family. All our love Brett and family.
January 11, 2015
Shaun will be sorely missed as a friend and collegue of anyone that worked with him at Fire and Rescue NSW.
chris ziochos, sydney
January 11, 2015
Hey mate – Life at the station will never be the same! You were a colleague, an inspiration but most importantly my friend. Words cannot say how much you will be missed. Michelle you will always be a part of our special family please call on us for anything. Our love to you, the children and all of Shaun’s family.
Stephen Hayes, Chiltern, Victoria
January 11, 2015
Devastated to no longer have you in our life. So many happy childhood memories spent together. Mostly getting into mischief, but all good times. Just wish we had the time to create more fun times. Will never ever forget you Shaun, love you little cuz always and forever RIP xxx
Heather Farrell
January 11, 2015
May you rest in peace with the knowledge that we will all be here for Shelly and the kids in every way we know how. You were the life of every party, may that continue when we all meet again. All of our love, Keen & Matt xx
Corrina Walsh, Sydney, New South Wales
January 10, 2015
To my Darling Daddy, love you so much, my life will never be the same.
love Hannah
Hannah Scanlon, Wodonga, Auckland
January 10, 2015
Our hearts are breaking…To my sister Michelle,Hannah, Kurt and Connor…. We will always be there for you. Love always Jo, David, Morgan, Maddie and Kyle xxx
Joanne Raftet, Sydney, New South Wales
January 10, 2015
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
January 10, 2015
We will truly miss you Shaun, such a like minded friend and one of a kind. Our thoughts are with all of your family now and always. Long live fine music, great times and safari suits.
Matt, Di, Jordan, Riley & Tyler
Hempel Family, Wodonga, Victoria
January 10, 2015
Shaun I love you and will miss you. Rest peacefully. One day we will be reunited and ready for a good party! Love Natalie
Natalie Hick, Auckland
January 10, 2015
My darling ‘little’ brother. I will always love you and miss you heaps!! You are always with us.
Natalie Hick, Auckland, Auckland
January 10, 2015
Beloved nephew of Michael & Sheila Clark, Cousin of Kathleen & Collin, John & Julie, Heather & Robert and their families. Rest in peace Shaun.
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. -Psalm 14:18
The Commissioner regrets to advise of the passing of
Senior Firefighter Shaun SCANLON (8791),
of Liverpool and Albury Fire Stations, on 6 January 2015.Funeral
Friday
16 January
3.00pm
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Beechworth Road
WodongaFollowing the service a private cremation will be held at the Glenmorus Gardens AlburyBrigade members attending may attend in uniform and form a Guard of Honour should one be required.Dress Code: Summer dress, Blue Shirt, Tie, Peak Cap & Ribbons
About 11.25pm on 13 June, 1989 police in Byron Bay commenced a high speed pursuit of a panel van. The pursued vehicle drove south in the Coast Road, followed by the Byron Bay Police vehicle, and into Ballina. As both vehicles continued south through Ballina, a local Highway Patrol vehicle driven by Constable 1st Class Beaver, with Senior Constable Rampling and Constable 1st Class Figtree as passengers, joined the pursuit. More police vehicles arrived to assist as the pursuit continued through the township of Wardell. About five kilometres south of Wardell the Ballina Highway Patrol vehicle began to draw level with the offending vehicle. As it did so, the driver of the pursued vehicle drove across to the centre of the roadway and clipped the front of the Byron Bay Police car. As a result, the police vehicle veered across the road and skidded in loose gravel before colliding with a power pole.
All three police were trapped for some time in the badly damaged police car and when freed were conveyed by ambulance to the Lismore Base Hospital. Constable Beaver recovered from internal injuries received, however Constable Figtree died before he reached hospital and Senior Constable Rampling died a short time later.
Senior Constable Rampling was born in 1959 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 15 January, 1979. At the time of his death he was attached to the Ballina Detectives.
Constable Figtree was born in 1964 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 28 November, 1983. At the time of his death he was attached to the Ballina Highway Patrol.
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Peter Allen FIGTREE grave plaque
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Deadly toll
By Jonathan Pearlman November 6, 2004
Alone in his patrol car, Chris Thornton had the police siren flashing as he chased a white sedan through Woy Woy.
Thornton, 35, a highway patrolman, had been in the force for 15 years. He was, his mother says, “the best driver I have ever seen”.
The reason for the chase that night in April 2002 is unknown. Both cars were seen travelling at high speed. Thornton was about 50 metres behind.
Meanwhile, Leonard Rowley, 56, an unlicensed driver, was driving to his local KFC to pick up dinner. He saw the first car flash past and judged – wrongly – that he had time to turn out in front of the patrol car. Thornton tried to avoid Rowley’s car but clipped the back, veered onto the wrong side of the road and hit a power pole.
Thornton died on the spot, which is marked by a permanent stainless-steel cross. Rowley later received a suspended two-year sentence.
“His life from the age of 12 was about helping people,” says Thornton’s mother, Freada Thornton. “He was in the surf club and he was there to rescue people and then he went into the force and he was doing the same thing.” His father, Barry Thornton, says: “He loved life. He had been in Gosford for 15 years and was so popular with the community there.”
Police pursuits are, says Barry, a necessary evil: “If they don’t catch the criminals there will be more deaths on the roads. The ones that they’re in pursuit of are the idiots that have done the wrong thing to start with.”
But pursuits have come at a cost to the NSW Police Department. Fifteen officers have died as a result of high-speed chases, beginning with the death of Constable George Boore in 1937.
Details provided by the NSW Police Association show a steady stream of fatalities involving cars and motorcycles. The full list of casualties is as follows:
Gezza J KtBelieve it or not, I was working the radio comms for this at Lismore station that night. Called the whole thing & did all the post crash co-ord. A horrible night shift with Sgt GJ Menzies, S/C Mark Burridge, Const’s Jordan, Gahan & Me.
*****
June 2019
30 year memorial – Senior Constable Glenn Rampling – Constable First Class Peter Figtree – A memorial service will be held at the Ballina Surf Club, Lighthouse Parade, Ballina on Thursday, 13 June 2019 at 1000hr to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the death of Senior Constable Glenn Donald Rampling and Constable 1st Class Peter Allen Figtree.
Senior Constable Rampling was tragically killed on duty on 14 June 1989 and Constable 1st Class Figtree was tragically killed on duty on 13 June 1989, both as a result of motor vehicle collision at Wardell, south of Ballina.
Attended this morning quite a moving 30 year memorial service for Glenn Rampling and Peter Figtree killed in a car chase near Ballina. May they rest in peace.
Photo by: Glenn Taylor
Photo by: Glenn Taylor
Photo from: Geoff Lowe Peter FIGTREE back row, 4th from left. Redfern Police Academy Class 199B
Photo by: Ken Medway
Dennis Warren STEPHENSON
| 12/01/2015
Dennis Warren STEPHENSON
aka Stevo
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 12235
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 16 September 1966
Senior Constable – appointed 29 August 1976
Sergeant – appointed 31 August 1984
Stations: Bike Course participant at St Ives 1969 / 70, North Sydney STP / HWP, Waverley, Rose Bay, Daceyville HWP, Maroubra HWP ( around 1977 – 78 ), Paddington ( 10 Division ) – ( around 1977 – 80 )
& G.D’s for 10 years at 10 Division, 15 Division – Death
Service: From 16 September 1966 to 20 February 1996 = 29+ years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted on 18 November 1982 ( SenCon )
1st Clasp to the National Medal – granted on 22 January 1993 ( Sgt )
Born: Tuesday 2 January 1945
Died on: Sunday 20 February 1996
Cause: ?
Age: 51 yrs 1 mth 18 days
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ?
Started at the old STP on the same day with Stevo and Peter Moore. Worked with him there, Waverley, Daceyville and Maroubra an unforgettable character and a kind hearted soul…Unless you were a hoon, of course. Dennis at left with John Murphy and Billy White at Maroubra HWP around 1979. I’m sure that he and Wayne are stirring things up together up there with the boss. R.I.P.
Dave Morris September 21, 2019 NSW Fallen Police 1972 and to mark our one year at Waverley STP, Stevo (right side standing) baked a cake. He was a really good cook, the baked dinners were legendary!
DENNIS is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
Nothing further is currently known about this man and further information is requested and required.
Cal
Ernest ANDREWS
| 12/01/2015
Ernest ANDREWS
New South Wales Police Force
Rank: Constable
Regd. # 31??
Stations: George Street North Police Station
Served: From 24 April 1929 to 3 January 1931 = 1+ years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? 1908
Died: 3 January 1931
Age: 23
Cause: Shot – Murdered at Bondi Junction
Funeral date: 5 January 1931
Funeral location: Rookwood Cemetery
Buried: Buried in Rookwood Cemetery ( side by side with Norman Thomas ALLEN )
Zone: C Section: 09 Grave 4211
DOUBLE POLICE MURDER
Memorial location:
Ernest ANDREWS touch plate at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra
Ernest IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
Constable Norman Thomas Allen ( 1931 )
Constable Ernest Andrews ( 1931 )
Constable Allen was shot in the street at Bondi Junction while attempting to detain an armed, deranged man named Kennedy who had earlier had an altercation with a local shopkeeper. The constable had been directing traffic and when informed of the dispute he found and confronted the offender. As he approached Kennedy from behind, the man spun around and shot Constable Allenin the chest at point blank range. He then shot the constable twice more in the heart. At this time Constable Andrews – unarmed, off duty and heading for the beach – passed by in a tram and saw a crowd gathered around the body of Constable Allen. Alighting from the tram he joined in the pursuit of Kennedy who managed to reach his home in nearby Lawson Street.
On arriving and finding the front door locked Constable Andrews went to the rear of the dwelling and burst through the back door. Unfortunately Kennedy was waiting with rifle raised and as Andrews lunged at him he shot him twice in the chest. He then took a knife and stabbed the constable in the throat. Sergeant Seery and Constable Johnson from Waverley Police then arrived and began to smash their way in through the front door. Although fired at by Kennedy, Constable Johnson returned fire, hitting Kennedy in the chest. Seery and Johnson then smashed their way in and found the offender in a bedroom bleeding to death. He died that night.
In the aftermath of the murders, the Brisbane Courier dated 5 January, 1931 published a complete account of the entire incident, and concluded with the following.
COMMISSIONER PRAISES MURDERED POLICE.
Both murdered constables were highly efficient and popular officers. Allen leaves a widow and young child. He lived in New Street, Bondi. Constable Andrews was single, his only relative in Australia being a sister, Mrs Clark. The men will be buried tomorrow with full police honours. The Commissioner of Police Mr. Childs, in an appreciation, said “I wish to pay a tribute to the manner in which both these young men carried out their duty according to the best traditions of the service. They saw their duty before them, and did not hesitate a moment in the execution of it. Although I would not make any distinction between them I cannot help referring to the action of Constable Andrews, who, though unarmed, rushed in to effect the arrest of a man who had already shot Constable Allen. “
Constable Norman Thomas ALLEN was born in 1901, joined the New South Wales Police Force on 14 May, 1926 and shortly thereafter resigned. He rejoined on 26 September, 1928. At the time of his death he was stationed at Waverley.
Constable Ernest ANDREWS was born in 1908 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 24 April, 1929. At the time of his death he was stationed at George Street North Police Station.
Funeral procession through Railway Square in 5 January 1931 for two police constables, Allen and Andrews, killed in the line of duty. Source: Sydney Mail newspaper 7 January 1931
The Sydney Morning Herald
Tuesday 6 January 1931 page 10 of 14
DEAD POLICEMEN.
Impressive Scenes at Funeral.
THOUSANDS PAY TRIBUTE.
The State paid homage yesterday to the two policemen, Constable Norman Thomas Allen and Constable Ernest Andrews who met their death at the hands of a madman at Bondi Junction on Saturday. There were mourners from almost every part of New South Wales.
Many thousands lined the route as the funeral cortege moved from Wood Coffill’s funeral parlours George-street to the mortuary station; the mortuary platform was thronged when the funeral train moved off to Rookwood and thousands had assembled in the cemetery.
The scene in the vicinity of Wood Coffill’s funeral parlours is likely to be remembered by the thousands of people who thronged the streets leading into Railway-square. Early in the morning bearers of wreaths and floral tributes passed through the doors to deposit their tokens of sympathy. At the approach of noon people began to assemble on the footpath and many entered the chapel to view the coffins. The near relatives arrived at 1 o’clock and the chapel was cleared while Constable Allen’s widow and her mother approached the silver mounted caskets which rested on trestles side by side. An affecting scene followed. Then the simple Church of England burial service was conducted by the Rev Frederick Riley and the coffins were borne to the waiting hearses.
MUFFLED DRUMS
The scene was unforgettable. A solid mass of people crowded the thoroughfares. Presently the mounted troopers urged their restive horses forward and with the deep roll of muffled drums the cortege moved off. Thousands of hats were removed.
Handel’s Dead March in “Saul” was played by the Police Band. Behind the band came a contingent of foot police under the direction of Superintendent Leary. Two hundred men drawn from the various stations, marched behind. Then came the hearses, the wreath-laden carriages, and the chief mourners, Firemen, the sun glinting on brightly-polished helmets, were represented by over 40 uniformed officers and men. At the end of the slow-moving procession came numbers of retired men, friends of the dead officers, and business people from the eastern suburbs.
Along the route to the mortuary thousands stood bareheaded as the cortege passed. At the mortuary gates another huge crowd paid tribute to the dead men.
Among those who marched in addition to the police and firemen, were employees of motor bus companies in the eastern suburbs.
“THEY SAW THEIR DUTY.”
A most affecting scene at the graveside in the Church of England section of the Rookwood Cemetery was the playing by the police band of the hymns “Lead Kindly Light” and “Abide With Me.” The remains were buried side by side.
“Let men’s opinions be what they may,” said the Rev. Frederick Riley in an address at the graveside, ” we should be doing violence to the most sacred emotions of human life if we were to allow our brethren to depart without a word of farewell. We are met here today to pay honour to the memory of two men who were comrades of yours men whom we all respected and loved. Let us remember that these two men died in the carrying out of their duty. They served their King and country as men and soldiers who fall for their King on the battlefield. They saw their duty and the fear of death could not deter them. They have not created a new tradition for the traditions of the police force of New South Wales are amongst the highest in the world already, but these two men have added a new lustre to the traditions of your past. These two young men Norman Thomas Allen and Ernest Andrews, died in the execution of their duty. There is no higher glory to which a man can aspire. We pray to God that those who have been so suddenly bereaved may share the comfort which we know these two brave men are experiencing in the nearer presence of God.”
MAGISTRATE’S TRIBUTE
At the Burwood Police Court yesterday Mr. G. R. Williams, S.M. commented on the bravery of the two constables. They acted nobly and upheld the traditions of the force,” he said.
PALL BEARERS AND MOURNERS.
The pall bearers were.- For late Constable Allen: Constables Tomkins, Martin, Moore, Hudson, Steele and White. For late Constable Andrews: Constables Booth, Kimber, Fraser, O’Neill, Morgan, and Wright.
The principal mourners were Relatives of the late Constable Allen: Mrs Allen (widow), Mrs Prankish (mother-in-law), Mr and Mrs N. Frankish (brother In law and sister in law), Mr and Mrs Sutcliffe (uncle and aunt) Mrs Lamb, Mrs Hourigan, and Mrs Cummings (aunts) and Mr Rowland Allen (cousin).
Relatives of the late Constable Andrews: Mr and Mrs Edward Clarke (sister and brother in law).
The Government was represented by Mr Gosling (Chief Secretary) and Mr McKell (Minister for local Government). Police representatives in addition to the non commissioned officers and men who marched were Mr W H Childs (Commissioner) Superintendents Leary, Mackay and Linegar, Inspectors Winter, Weir, Bennetts, McCauley, Woodrow, Lynch, Duffell, Roberts, McMaster, O’Brien, Chaseling, Anderson, White, Long, Roser, Scott, Michaelis, Robson, Allen, Farley and Fowler.
Retired members of the police force who attended were ex-Commissioner James Mitchell, ex-Superintendents Roche, Cook, McIntosh, Sinclair, Thom, Drew and Park, ex Inspectors Fullerton, W J Jones (also representing the Navy and Army Veterans Association) Fraser, Tracey, Bolton, Smith, Fewster, Doran, Mankletow, Stutchbury, Briggs, Ewen, Dunn, O’Dea and Robertson, ex-Sergeants McDonald, T. Dobson, Payne, A. Smith, Taylor, J. Salmon, J. Loomes, R. C. Harper, Bath and Butcher, ex-Constables Swan and Dixon.
The Board of Fire Commissioners of New South Wales was represented by Mr T J Smith, M.L.C. (president) Mr J McNamara (Commissioner), and Mr H M Webb (secretary and executive officer).
Mr Nance chief officer New South Wales Fire Brigades was present and 38 men marched under Mr Grimmond (deputy chief officer). Inspector Neeve, District Officer McLachlan, and Station Officers Arthur, Neville, Parkes, McCarthy, Rust, Currier and Sclater.
Others who attended were:- Judge Sheridan, Mir George Cann, ex M.L.A., Mr J Herlihy ( Under-Secretary for Lands) representatives of the Prisons Department including Mr Seery (superintendent of the Long Bay Penitentiary) Mr T.W. Irish (Assistant Under Secretary for Lands) Mr H. B. Mathews, (Surveyor General Department of Lands).
Mr N. W. Bond (representing the head office Bank, of New South Wales) representatives of ambulance divisions, Mr. and Mrs. C. R. Law, Mr. A. L. Parker (representing Superintendent O. H. Parker, of Goulburn) Mr Foster Doolan (vice president Police Association), Mr B Fortescue (secretary Police Association), Mr C T Thackeray (Police Association staff), Mr F M Jackson (representing Mr F C Hackett of Merriwa), Mr W T Missingham,
M.L.A., Mr A J Pollack, M.L.A., Mr W P Monaghan (Waverley Cemetery bus service), Mr W M Niland Mrs A Shuttleworth, Mr H L Harnett (representing Mr F M Burke, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly), Mr W E Clapin (representing Sir John Peden, President of the Legislative Council), Alderman David Hunter (Mayor of Waverley), Mr T J Thompson (Deputy Town Clerk of Waverley), Mr and Mrs A Williams, Miss Williams, Miss Beryl Williams, Miss Brady, Mr and Mrs McMorland, ex Warder Charles Stone, ex Warder Little and a number of eastern suburbs business people.
The wreaths Included those from the mother and other relatives of the late Constable Allen, relatives of the late Constable Andrews, the New South Wales Police Commissioned Officers Association, comrades of No 2 Division, Redfern Police, New South Wales Police Association, members of the Railway Detective Office, officers, detectives, and staff of the C.I.B., No 3 Police, comrades of No. 10 Division, cyclists and drivers of police headquarters, officers and men of Circular Quay Fire Station, comrades at No. 4 Station, police at No 7 Station, “police pals at Bondi Junction.” end eastern suburbs bus drivers and conductors.
Barry is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
Barry John PEARCE, 68 old, former Regd,. No. 12631, a Member of the Manning Great Lakes Branch of the RPA.
Barry passed away on 27/12/2014 and his funeral is proposed to be held at 11am on Wednesday 31st Instant at Forster Catholic Church, 33 Lake Street, FORSTER.
Location of Church Service:
Some of Class 111 who commenced training at Redfern Police Academy on Monday 15 May 1967 and were Sworn In on Monday 26 June 1967.Front Row ( L – R ) ?, ?, ?, Probationary Constable Barry John PEARCE # 12631, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?
Rear row ( L – R ) ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?,
picture of Class111 26th June, 1967.All the cyclists have the first of the white helmets. They didn’t last long either’, once they realised that the broken necks were coming from the bad design, where the back of the helmet sat at the perfect point to break your neck, if your head was snapped backwards.
Second white helmets issued hurriedly, ‘say no more’..
Awards: Meritorious Unit Citation for work in East Timor.
Commendation for efforts in disarming a male carrying a replica pistol in Honiara Court.
Born: ?
Died on: Wednesday 22 December 2004
Cause: Shot – Murdered
whilst deployed on official duties at Honiara, Solomon Islands
Age: 26
Funeral date: Thursday 30 December 2004
Funeral location: ANZAC Memorial Chapel,
Royal Military College, Duntroon, ACT
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial: The main street of a new AFP training village in Canberra was named Adam Dunning Drive in his memory.
Adam DUNNING
Adam IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
Tears for the fallen as Adam comes home
By Craig Skehan and Aban Contractor December 24, 2004
AFP officers farewell their mate Adam Dunning after loading his coffin into a RAAF jet at Honiara Domestic Airport. Photo: Andy Zakeli
They had slow-marched their comrade’s casket to the plane that would take him home.
Their backs were straight, but the emotions were too much: tears tumbled down the cheeks of the Australian Federal Police pallbearers as they did Adam Dunning this last honour.
Then, once his body was stowed in the hold of the RAAF jet on the tarmac in Honiara, his mates made a last gesture of solidarity with the colleague they were farewelling forever – forming a circle, heads bowed, arms locked around each other’s shoulders.
Adam Dunning, the 26-year-old AFP protective service officer who was killed by a sniper in the early hours of Wednesday morning, was accompanied home by the Minister for Justice, Chris Ellison, and the Opposition’s home affairs spokesman, Robert McClelland, but at Fairbairn air base in Canberra, where the RAAF 737 touched down just before 6pm, it was Mr Dunning’s family and friends – his parents, Michael and Christine, his sisters, Sarah and Emma, and his girlfriend, Elise Wiscombe – who formed the guard of honour.
Standing in two straight lines, they faced the plane.
With the Australian Federal Police Commissioner, Mick Keelty, standing watch nearby, Mr Dunning’s parents held their heads high, and his sisters and Ms Wiscombe quietly sobbed as eight AFP pallbearers bore his flag-draped casket from the plane. His parents held hands and seemed to stand even straighter as their only son was placed in the hearse that would take him to the mortuary.
In the Solomons, police are questioning a taxi driver about several suspects in the murder. A Solomon Islands police source told the Herald that the taxi – seen near the murder scene with several passengers before the shooting – had been seized.
On a narrow, potholed road on the outskirts of the Solomons capital, Honiara, locals offered heartfelt apologies for the shooting.
“I am so very sorry,” said one young man. “He came here to help us.”
By the roadside at Zion Junction, investigating officers had cut the long grass to help search for clues to the identity of the person who, in darkness shortly after 3am on Wednesday, shot Mr Dunning while he was on patrol in a Toyota Land Cruiser.
Zion Junction does not have a particularly dangerous reputation. Rather, locals said, other settlements further along the same ridge were known for trouble, ranging from extortion to payback shootings.
Moffat Suiga, a community elder who was awakened by the shots that killed Mr Dunning, said he and others were at a loss to explain the murder.
A middle-aged businessman said the overwhelming majority of Solomon Islanders wanted to see those responsible put in jail. He said it would be a good thing if the Australian-led intervention force remained for the next 40 years.
At a commemoration service earlier in Honiara, Mr Keelty said Mr Dunning had “died for peace”.
The Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Sir Allan Kemakeza, said the young man had been helping the country overcome ethnic strife and crime. “We will not forget him,” he said.
A police funeral will be held for Mr Dunning on a day to be announced.
AFP officers farewell their mate Adam Dunning after loading his coffin into a RAAF jet at Honiara Domestic Airport.
Photo: Andy Zakeli
Australian Protective Services officers salute the coffin in a guard of honour at Honiara Domestic Airport before Adam Dunning’s coffin was flown back to Australia.
Photo: Andy Zakeli
Australian Protective Services officer Robert Turnbull sheds a tear at the official wake in the compund before Adam Dunning’s coffin flew back to Australia.
Photo: Andy Zakeli
The RAAF jet carrying Adam Dunning’s body touches down.
Photo: Andrew Taylor
Adam Dunning’s coffin is loaded from the aircraft to a hearse at the RAAF Base at Fairbairn.
Photo: Andrew Tayl
Senior officers and other dignatories, along with family members, watch Adam Dunning’s coffin being loaded from the aircraft to a hearse at the RAAF Base at Fairbairn in Canberra.
Photo: Andrew Taylor
The girlfriend of Adam Dunning, Elise Wiscombe (far left), cries as police salute the farewell of the coffin.
Photo: Andrew Taylor
Friends of Adam Dunning after the hearse had left the tarmac.
Photo: Andrew Taylor
Memorial Tribute to Adam DUNNING, 10 years on. 22 December 2014, National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra.
Excellent turnout at NPM this morning for Adam and his family. RIP and we remember.
Peacekeeper killed ADG’s funeral brings Air Force and police together
By FLGOFF Fiona Peacock
The funeral of LAC Adam Dunning, a member of the PAF and Air Force Active Reserve.
LAC Adam Dunning.
LEADING Aircraftman Adam Dunning, an ADG with No. 28 (City of Canberra) Squadron and former member of No. 2 Air Field Defence Squadron, was killed in December last year while on operational duty with the Australian Federal Police as part of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
In the early hours of December 22, LAC Dunning and an Australian Protective Service colleague were on a routine vehicle patrol in Honiara, protecting the Prime Minister’s and Governor General’s residences.
A concealed gunman shot at the vehicle, fatally wounding LAC Dunning, who was 26.
He deployed to the Solomons in October and, after only six weeks there, was awarded a commendation for disarming a man in front of the Magistrates Court.
At LAC Dunning’s funeral, members of 28SQN played a part in recognising his Air Force service. The squadron’s honorary air commodore, Air Commodore Justice Terence Higgins, represented 28SQN among the official party of Service chiefs.
Members of the Air Field Defence Wing provided the firing party and the guard of honour for receiving VIPs. The RAAF Ensign was carried by Pilot Officer Shane McGaughey and was escorted by Flight Sergeant John Forth.
Two close friends of LAC Dunning, Leading Aircraftmen Tim Gresham and David Pauli, were members of the bearer party. The President of 28SQN Association, Steve Williams, represented former 28SQN members. 28SQN members joined AFP personnel to form a guard of honour.
AFP Commissioner Mick Keelty praised No. 34 Squadron for the way it handled bringing LAC Dunning’s body back to Australia.
By Misha Schubert
Political correspondent
Canberra December 31, 2004
They stood side by side. Two long lines of blue uniforms facing each other along the tree-lined road. Like a slow Mexican wave, each snapped to attention and saluted as the body of one of their own passed by.
Adam Dunning, murdered by a sniper while on patrol in the Solomons early last week, had begun the last leg of his journey home.
Earlier, these men and women of the Australian Federal Police and the Royal Australian Air Force had wept openly as Mr Dunning was farewelled with full police and military honours in the Duntroon chapel. “He was a great man,” said his federal police mate Pat Castle.
The nation’s military chiefs turned out to pay tribute, as did Prime Minister John Howard, Governor-General Michael Jeffery and senior cabinet ministers.
But this ritual belonged to those who knew and loved Adam Dunning.
His mother, Christine, read from a tribute that she and her husband, Mike, had written to their son in February. They had praised his courage, sensitivity and mettle.
His partner, Elise, who had brought red roses for the man she had loved, said he was her greatest friend. “He was my strength, my inspiration, my love.”
Peacekeeper Beau Tennant, who was with Mr Dunning the night before he died, broke down as he recalled his friend’s generosity.
“Before he left me, his last words were: ‘Are you right for money mate?’ That was the kind of bloke he was,” he said.
Federal Police Commissioner Mick Keelty said Mr Dunning would live on in the memories of grateful Solomon Islanders.
“Adam Dunning died for peace and law and order. His work and his death will always be remembered by his colleagues,” he told mourners.
The federal police hope to build a memorial to Mr Dunning at their new training centre for overseas police peacekeepers.
Mr Dunning also served with RAAF in Timor before joining the AFP.
Police believe his murder and another attack on police on October 21 were carried out by three former members of the Malaitan Eagle Force militia.
They have charged two men – John Ome and Philip Kwaimani – over the attacks and are hunting James Tatau, who Mr Keelty said was present at both events and had access to a cache of weapons.
Police believe the trio were working on their own, with no sign of any broader uprising against the peacekeeping effort.
It fell to Emma, who had adored her older brother, to claim his service medals and caps from the flag-shrouded coffin and hand them to her grieving parents.
As his police mates carried Mr Dunning’s coffin from the chapel into the sunlight, drummers and bagpipers ushered him on his way. A police motorcade led the cortege through Canberra’s streets to a private service and cremation.
A plane carrying the body of murdered Australian peacekeeper Adam Dunning has landed in his home town of Canberra.
The 26-year-old Australian Protective Services officer was shot twice in the back by a sniper while serving as part of a peacekeeping mission in the Solomon Islands yesterday morning.
Members of Mr Dunning’s family, and his colleagues were on hand to formally receive his body.
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Mick Keelty returned from the Solomon Islands about half an hour before the plane bearing Officer Dunning’s body landed.
He was among those waiting for Justice Minister Chris Ellison and Labor’s homeland security spokesman Robert McClelland, who accompanied the body on the flight back to Canberra.
Commissioner Keelty, Senator Ellison, Mr McClelland and AFP officers formed a guard of honour before the coffin was removed from the plane.
Family members, including Officer Dunning’s parents Mike and Christine, and girlfriend Elise Wiscombe, stood arm in arm watching proceedings.
A guard of honour, carrying Officer Dunning’s hat, led the flag-draped coffin to the hearse.
Eight pall bearers stood tall under the weight, as Officer Dunning’s police colleagues watched on.
A cavalcade of AFP motorcycles is waiting to lead the hearse to Canberra’s mortuary.
A full police funeral will be held for Officer Dunning on a day to be announced.
Officer Dunning’s parents took the time to thank those who attended the short ceremony before the hearse headed for Kingston mortuary under police escort.
Senator Ellison later said the Solomons people were behind RAMSI and Australia’s efforts to bring law and order to the country.
He said some adjustments might be made to the conduct of night patrols but any final decision would depend on recommendations from the AFP.
He denied the Government had too quickly reduced the AFP’s military support in the Solomons.
“We’ve made fantastic progress in the Solomons and we never underestimated the danger that our people faced,” he told ABC television
By Craig Skehan and Cynthia Banham December 23, 2004
Australia is rushing 100 extra troops to the Solomon Islands in defiant reaction to the sniper murder of Adam Dunning, the nation’s first peacekeeper to be killed by hostile fire.
The murder highlights the perils of the new interventionist role in the Pacific islands, but the Prime Minister, John Howard, vowed the mission to the Solomons would go on “undeterred, unrestrained, unaffected by what’s happened”.
“We won’t be cowed by this,” the Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, added.
Mr Dunning, a 26-year-old Australian Protective Service officer from Canberra who had dodged bullets while serving in East Timor, was shot twice in the back while on a patrol in a four-wheel drives Toyota Land Cruiser in the capital, Honiara, at 3.10am on Wednesday. The bullets were among six shots fired rapidly from a high-powered military rifle.
“It looks as though the person who fired it had training in the use of such firearms,” a Solomon Islands official said.
Members of former ethnic militias – who had formed gangs and reduced the country to anarchy – are now being questioned. Australian investigators say the involvement of former Solomon Islands police officers, or an individual officer, cannot be ruled out.
At his Canberra home, Mr Dunning’s father, Michael, was distraught as he spoke of his son’s honourable death.
“It is sad as he cared for the [Solomons] people so much and was doing something really good on their behalf,” Mr Dunning told the Herald. “He always has been a decent person, tough and soft-hearted at the same time. He was totally honourable and very stubborn – nobody could make him do anything that he did not think was right. He was a credit to us.”
Adam Dunning had been planning a future with his 22-year-old girlfriend, Elise Wiscombe, on his return home next month. “I’m very, very proud of what he’s done over there,” she said. “He’s one of the greatest people I’ve ever met.”
Mr Dunning was part of the regional intervention force which has been seeking to stem ethnic and criminal violence in the Solomons since July last year.
A rapid-response, 100-member infantry company from the First Royal Australian Regiment was to leave Townsville on Thursday for the Solomons, just a day after the murder. The Defence Minister, Robert Hill, said: “This is to send a clear message to the thugs … that we will not tolerate the murder of our police officers.”
A meeting of departmental secretaries in Canberra recommended extra forces to support the 160 defence force personnel already there. Those troops are backing the 147 Australian Federal Police members who are serving in the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) – about 95 of them from the Australian Protective Service, which comes under the federal police. The Justice Minister, Chris Ellison, and the Federal Police Commissioner, Mick Keelty, flew to Honiara on Wednesday night. Australian forensic experts also flew in.
Mr Keelty said: “Over 4000 arrests have been made and over 3700 weapons have been seized [since the intervention began]. Clearly this indicates that there are some in the community in the Solomon Islands who are not happy about RAMSI’s presence.”
He said the hot tropical climate – and the large number of weapons already recovered – were among the reasons body armour had not been used for regular patrols. However, this is now under review.
Mr Keelty called Mr Dunning “a brave and courageous young Australian” and said his killing emphasised “the danger that our people face”.
The Solomons Prime Minister, Sir Allan Kemakeza, described the killing as barbaric and cowardly.
Mr Dunning’s partner on patrol, who had been driving, tried to resuscitate him.
The murder scene, on the outskirts of Honiara, was close to two settlements which are known to be frequented by former ethnic militiaman who formed criminal gangs.
The Australian police contingent has been at the forefront of efforts to clean up local police and officers have been charged with offences from corruption to assault and robbery. A number of local politicians are either under investigation or already facing various charges.
Mr Keelty said the ammunition used indicated the murder weapon was an SLR or possibly an AK-47. This was consistent with some of the weapons used before the arrival of the intervention force. The looting of many SLRs and other military-style weapons from Solomons police armouries had fuelled the five years of unrest that prompted the intervention of the Australian-led force.
There was a major riot at the Central Prison in Honiara this year, when inmates threw rocks at Australian personnel and painted anti-Australian slogans. Two months ago, an intervention force vehicle patrol was fired on.
Protective Service Officers were deployed along with other Australian law enforcement officers in the Solomon Islands as part of RAMSI. The peacekeeping force suffered their first casualty on 22 December 2004 when PSO1 Adam Dunning was shot and killed while deployed on official duties in the Solomon Islands. Two former members of a local militia were charged but acquitted of Dunning’s murder.[5] Officer Dunning was buried with full police honours.
The main street of a new AFP training village in Canberra was named Adam Dunning Drive in his memory.[6] The $2.8 million training facility at Mount Majura just outside Canberra, has been designed to replicate situations in regional countries to which personnel might be assigned.
The main street of a new training village for Australian Federal Police and other personnel being sent overseas has been named after murdered peacekeeper Adam Dunning.
The $2.8 million training facility at Majura, just outside Canberra, has been designed to replicate situations in regional countries to which personnel might be assigned.
Prime Minister John Howard officially opened the facility on Thursday in the presence of police chiefs from across the country as well as from several regional nations.
Australian Protective Service officer Mr Dunning, 26, was fatally shot twice in the back while on night patrol in the Solomon Islands capital of Honiara in December.
He was serving as part of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomons.
His parents attended the opening of the village, through the centre of which runs a road now named Adam Dunning Drive.
“The loss of Adam Dunning signified that this is very dangerous work,” Justice Minister Senator Chris Ellison said.
“That was the ultimate sacrifice paid in the course of his duties.”
Mr Howard said the new facility reflected the new security reality for Australia and its region.
“Events of the last five years have totally transformed both the demands and the expectations of the Australian community on the Australian Federal Police,” he told the gathering.
“In that five-year period we have seen the threatening arrival of international terrorism.
“We’ve (also) seen the emergence of an ongoing need on the part of this country, in cooperation with our friends in the Pacific region, to involve ourselves in the restoration of conditions of law and order and cooperation with police services and governments of those countries.”
The training village, to be used by a range of emergency services personnel as well as police, recreates the environment that police experience when on overseas missions.
Designed to reflect the streetscape of a small overseas township, it enables true-to-life scenario training which helps to prepare police for unknown and sometimes dangerous challenges.
It includes 18 buildings and structures including a corner store, a town hall, a police station, a school, a pub, a marketplace and even a cemetery, reflecting the fact that police are sometimes required to perform exhumations in the course of their work.
The spokesman said 124 personnel had already trained at the complex which was completed in March.
Some of Class 111 who commenced training at Redfern Police Academy on Monday 15 May 1967 and were Sworn In on Monday 26 June 1967.Front Row ( L – R ) ?, ?, ?, Probationary Constable Barry John PEARCE # 12631, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?
picture of Class111 26th June, 1967.All the cyclists have the first of the white helmets. They didn’t last long either’, once they realised that the broken necks were coming from the bad design, where the back of the helmet sat at the perfect point to break your neck, if your head was snapped backwards.
