Coroner urges six-monthly welfare checks after inquest into four police suicide deaths
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In short: A Hobart coroner who investigated the deaths of four police officers who took their own lives has recommended Tasmania Police conduct mandatory half-yearly well-being screenings for PTSD.
What’s next? The Police commissioner says work will continue with the police association to implement changes
The family of one of four Tasmanian police officers who died by suicide between 2016 and 2020 say they hope the findings of a coronial inquest may prevent a similar tragedy in the future.
Coroner Simon Cooper has handed down his findings into the deaths of Constable Paul Hunt, Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds, Constable Simon Darke and Sergeant Robert Cooke, recommending a swathe of welfare supports be implemented.
WARNING: This story touches on themes of depression and suicide.
During last year’s hearings, the court was told how overworked officers were self-medicating with alcohol and drugs, and of significant shortfalls in welfare support — particularly in areas such as fatigue management and protocols around interactions with the Professional Standards Command.
In his findings, Coroner Cooper, acknowledged the fact that these men were all serving police officers was “only part of the whole picture” of their lives, but he said he had “no doubt” that “Sergeant Cooke‘s police service was the direct cause of his death“.
But he said the provision of welfare support and whether it was adequate was a “central consideration at the inquest.”
He called for Tasmania Police to immediately develop and implement a fatigue management policy saying it was essential it was “addressed urgently”.
The inquest heard Robert Cooke had reportedly worked “16-hour continuous shifts for four weeks” during the Central Highlands bushfires in 2019.
This had left him “exhausted and barely functioning towards the end of the third week”.
“Tasmania Police had no fatigue management policy at any time, up to and including as recently as when the evidence at the inquest was publicly taken at the end of 2022,” he said.
“The absence of any fatigue management policy was, I consider, a direct factor in Sergeant Cooke’s death.”
Tasmania Police officers salute at Robert Cooke’s funeral in 2020 .(ABC News: Luke Bowden)
The coroner also recommended six-monthly screenings of all operation police officers for post-traumatic stress disorder.
“Sergeant Cooke obviously suffered from the effects of PTSD for a long time before it was diagnosed,” he said.
“Every health care professional who gave evidence … unanimously agreed that his PTSD was entirely attributable to his service as a police officer.
“Every health care professional also agreed that earlier detection of PTSD increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.”
Tasmania Police investigating the feasibility of “introducing a points system”, whereby an officer’s exposure to severe incidents would be tracked, was also recommended.
When a “critical points threshold” was reached, an automatic referral to a psychologist should be triggered, Coroner Cooper said.
The coroner also called for better support for officers under investigation for misconduct — including ensuring that those who had their phone seized by Professional Standards be given a replacement mobile pre-programmed with well-being support numbers.
“The death of any member of the community by suicide is a tragedy,” Coroner Cooper said.
“The suicide of serving police officers, whatever their individual circumstances, is particularly tragic for serving members of the police force and the community at large.
“My sincere hope is that some improvements and learnings can emerge from the deaths of Constable Hunt, Senior Sergeant Reynolds, Constable Darke and Sergeant Cooke.”
Sergeant Robert “Cookie” Cooke was well-regarded among his Tasmania Police colleagues.(ABC News: Luke Bowden)
Families welcome findings
In a statement, Robert Cooke‘s mother Lyn and sister Michelle said they were satisfied with the findings, particularly the recommendations for a fatigue management policy and screenings for PTSD stress disorder.
“The family miss Rob terribly and hope the findings and increased support for mental health may prevent similar events in the future,” they said.
“[Our] thoughts are with all the families involved in this inquest.”
Commissioner committed to ‘safe model of policing’
Police Commissioner Donna Adams acknowledged it was a difficult time for the families and colleagues impacted by the coronial report.
She said improvements had already been made within Tasmania Police.
Strategies included “a strong peer support group, and a critical stress program” to ensure officers could access the help they needed.
But she said changes wouldn’t end there — and that Tasmania Police would work with the Police Association to examine the coroner’s recommendations.
Police Minister Felix Ellis said the government had allocated funding to “Tasmania Police and the Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management’s nation-leading wellbeing program”.
“Police officers, by the nature of the job, are exposed to some pretty difficult and extraordinary circumstances, so providing that support is important,” he said.
“We want to work to make sure that policing continues to be a career or choice, and that we’re supporting our officers if they do find themselves facing challenging circumstances.”
Inquest hears Tasmania Police officer Paul Reynolds was facing child exploitation claims before suicide
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The inquest heard the allegations involved numerous underage male youths being sent photos and inappropriate messages.(ABC News)
A senior police officer who was part of the response to the Port Arthur massacre and the Beaconsfield Mine collapse was facing serious child exploitation allegations before his death, a coronial inquest has heard.
Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds was 54 when he died by suicide in September 2018 in Parkham in Tasmania’s north.
The deaths of Constable Paul Hunt, Constable Simon Darke and Sergeant Robert Cooke will also form part of the inquiry.
All four men died by suicide between 2016 and 2020.
Counsel assisting the coroner, Cameron Lee, said Senior Sergeant Reynolds was a “highly respected police officer” but that reputation was tarnished when “shocking and despicable allegations” came to light.
On the night before his death, Senior Sergeant Reynolds was visited at his Westbury property by officers from the Professional Standards Command.
They were there to search the property after allegations he had sent and received child exploitation material, and that he had groomed young men, including members of the local Deloraine Football Club, into doing unlawful acts.
The allegations against Senior Sergeant Reynolds involved numerous underage male youths being sent photos and inappropriate messages.
Senior Sergeant Reynolds is also alleged to have given young boys “rub downs” at the football club, been present when they were showering and during “naked ice baths.”
Police also are alleged to have found photos and sexually explicit messages on his phone sent to other male adults.
The inquest heard a senior officer had lodged a complaint the week before outlining the claims to Blue Teams — a tool available for officers to report and make complaints about colleagues.
At the time of the search, the inquest heard Senior Sergeant Reynolds denied any wrongdoing and told his wife there was no evidence to find.
At the inquest, Mr Lee read a quote from a transcript of Senior Sergeant Reynolds during the search of his property.
“This is career destroying … what an end to a 40-year career,” Mr Lee said.
He told the inquest that “it was widely known in Deloraine that he was a paedophile“.
Paul Reynolds joined Tasmania Police in 1980.
He was one of the first on the scene at the Port Arthur massacre in 1996 and at the Beaconsfield gold mine collapse 10 years later.
The coroner was told Senior Sergeant Reynolds was diagnosed with depression in 2012.
In the same year, he was formally reprimanded for poor work performance and demoted from inspector to senior sergeant.
“He didn’t like being an inspector, he wanted to return to being a sergeant and be one of the troops,” Mr Lee told the inquest.
Welfare officer felt ‘let down’
Sergeant Fiona Smith told the inquest her workload as a welfare officer “was massive”. ( ABC News: Jessica Moran )
Sergeant Fiona Smith was Tasmania Police’s welfare officer at the time.
The inquest heard she was asked to contact Senior Sergeant Reynolds the morning after the search and check on him.
She was unable to get in touch as his mobile was confiscated during the search.
“It was obviously difficult to contact him when he didn’t have a phone,” she said.
During her evidence, she said felt let down by Tasmania Police and was not offered the support she needed for her growing caseload.
When she was in the role, she said she could have more than 100 cases. The role is now split between eight people.
“I had, at one stage, grave concerns for 13 members of the Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management teams … my workload was massive.”
In regards to the management of Constable Paul Hunt, Sergeant Smith said she was not invited to be involved in his meeting with Professional Standards on the day he died.
On Monday, the inquest heard that Constable Hunt took his life on the day he had a meeting with the police professional standards team.
“I knew him very well, we were very good friends, he trusted me and our relationship was really good,” she said.
“I stressed to the inspector at the time that I needed to be in that meeting … it made me quite angry that I wasn’t, even just for me to be outside afterwards.
I’m not saying he wouldn’t have done what he did when he got home, but I’m confident I would have got him home and supported him.”
The inquest also heard Sergeant Smith was served with an official directive to not communicate with Paul Hunt’s family after his death as it could be perceived as a conflict of interest.
“Paul was the Inspector in Charge during the rescue operation at the Beaconsfield mine collapse on the 25th April 2006 where one person died and two others, Todd Russell and Brandt Webb were rescued a fortnight later. Paul received a Police Commendation for his efforts in that disaster.” – FB user
“This event (Beaconsfield mine rescue) was a defining moment in his career. His ability to adapt his leadership approach from briefing EM committees to the media conferences (where he virtually led the way for TasPol, to the sensitivities of dealing with volunteers eg. within SES was without a doubt, extraordinary. It was recognised from afar eg WAPOL who flew us over to learn from the experience. I remember the way Beau stood out the back with Bill Shorten and how he carried himself in those moments. Sharp wit mixed with tailored delivery.” – FB user
“I’ll never forget the cheeky look on his face every time I walked into the PFCP at beaccy and he’d kick you and your slow typing off the computer. Every single time. I can’t believe I’ll never see that cheeky smile again.” – FB user
“I was only a young boy growing up in the town of Savage River and PR was our local police officer, a fresh-faced young Constable. Sorry, I can’t recall the years, I was born in 77 and we left in 90. He left before we did, I believe they closed the station a few years before we left.” – FB user
“Paul ‘Beau’ Reynolds was serving at Tullah in the late 80s when I was about 14/15 years old. I was playing basketball for the Tullah men’s side as teenagers and Paul was a part of that… he taught us hardness and respect… treating us as adults… absolute champion bloke who had our respect both as a person and a police officer. RIP Beau… absolute legend!!” – FB user
“A truly wonderful gentleman whom we had only met in the last few years through football but he made such a positive impact in our son’s life and ours he certainly will be missed. RIP Paul. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and work colleagues” – FB user
“I first came across Beau having him as our basketball coach, then as a referee when I joined the Coppers. A true gentleman who treated everyone with respect. His jokes and laughter were infectious… Always made people smile.” – FB user
“So many funny and fond memories of my friend Beau from our St Brendan’s Shaw days then later in life when I happened to be at the police academy for a visit. What a great funny man who should have been beside the great comedians in Hollywood. Forever his pranks and humour will live on. The world is now less without you in it old mate” – FB user
“Directing Staff on 2002 Sergeants Course. I never forgot his influence…” – FB user
Tasmania Police senior sergeant Paul Reynolds has died
Matt Maloney
We are mourning the death of Paul “Beau” Reynolds who passed away suddenly on Thursday, 13th September 2018.
Senior Sergeant Reynolds served with Tasmania Police for 38 years, including time as an inspector in Launceston. He was born in Devonport and attended Charles Sturt University.
He was most recently in charge of prosecution services in the North-West.
Commissioner Darren Hine said welfare support was being provided to his family and the wider police community.
Senior Sergeant Reynolds was elected president of the Northern Tasmania Football Association last year after serving as coach for the Longford Tigers and working with the St Patrick’s College senior team.
He was chairman of the Tasmanian Football Council.
AFL Tasmania chief executive Trisha Squires said the Tasmanian State League would observe a moment of silence this weekend and players in all three grand finals would wear black armbands in his memory.
He will forever be remembered for his dedication to serving the community and as a true leader within the state’s police and football community.
Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds remembered as ‘a wonderful father, husband and a very fine police officer’
19 2018, 5:30PM – Melissa Mobbs
Hundreds of police formed a guard of honour at Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds’ funeral on Wednesday. Pictures: Scott Gelston
As the church bells rang on Wednesday, hundreds of police officers stood side by side, in solidarity, as they farewelled their colleague and their mate.
Senior Sergeant Paul “Beau” Reynolds tragically died last week, leaving his family, friends and Tasmania Police team devastated.
Long-time friend and celebrant of the funeral Father Richard Ross said Senior Sergeant Reynolds was remembered as a man “who had time for everyone”.
“He always made the person he was speaking to feel so special,” he said.
“He was full of love, warmth, and generosity, and was just such a terrific and well-respected guy.
“He was a wonderful father and husband, and a very fine police officer. He was a really effective coach and administrator, particularly in the football community, and the sense of loss [during the funeral] was massive.”
Father Ross also shared a message for Senior Sergeant Reynolds’ colleagues, and that was “thank you”.
“Just for what they do, they see the worst of humanity and they deal with that on a daily basis,” he said.
“The cumulative effect of trauma has been well documented and I think ultimately Paul was a victim of that.
“I encourage police to take care of themselves and know it is OK to ask for help.”
Speaking at the service, Commissioner Darren Hine shared some of the many highlights from Senior Sergeant Reynolds’ 38-year career.
He was one of the first officers on the scene at Port Arthur after the 1996 massacre and received a commendation for his work following the tragedy.
He was also commended by the Commissioner for his performance as the officer in charge of managing police activities during the rescue of miners Todd Russell and Brant Webb and the recovery of the body of Larry Knight at Beaconsfield in 2006.
The dedicated officer also spent time working in the Coroner’s office and attended countless fatal crashes throughout his career.
Senior Sergeant Reynolds’ 38-year career with Tasmania Police was recognised.
“Beau was posted all over the state during his 38-year career,” Commissioner Hine said.
“Beau successfully completed many courses throughout his career and he put those skills to good use wherever he served.
“His loss will be deeply felt across Tasmania Police, and our thoughts are prayers are with [his family] at this difficult time.”
Officers from across the state formed a guard of honour after the funeral service for the much-loved son, husband, father, brother and uncle.
Beyond his work in the force, he was highly regarded among the local football community.
Last year he was elected president of the Northern Tasmania Football Association and had served as coach for the Longford Tigers, worked with the St Patrick’s College senior team, and was chairman of the Tasmanian Football Council.
Senior Sergeant Reynolds leaves behind his wife Sharon, and children Jacob, Emily, Ben and Tori.
Launceston road closures expected as police, family prepare to farewell Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds
September 19 2018, 8:18AM
Police officers, family and friends will gather in Launceston today to farewell Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds.
The funeral service is expected to cause some delays and police are asking drivers to be patient.
Margaret Street between Frederick Street and York Street and Elizabeth Street between Margaret Street and Bathurst Street will be affected from about noon.
Senior Sergeant Reynolds died suddenly last week.
He served with Tasmania Police for 38 years, including time as an inspector in Launceston.
His funeral will be held at 11am today at The Church of the Apostles in Margaret Street.
Beau served as a member of the Tasmania Police Service for 38 years and his loss will be felt deeply across our agency.
The Commissioner, Members and Employees of Tasmania Police are saddened by the sudden death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
Brett leaves behind his wife Debbie of 35 years and 3 children; Mel, Nathan (deceased) and Matt. He also leaves behind 6 grandchildren; Harry, Bella, Jack, Ruby, Layla and Liam.
Brett’s brother Scott is also a serving Police officer with Goulburn HWP.
Brett was also a Retained Fire Fighter with NSWF & R at 305 Station ( Goulburn ) for a while.
FERGUSON, Brett Ronald – passed away peacefully on the 6th September 2018.
Late of Dewhirst Street Goulburn.
Very much loved husband of Debbie.
Cherished & loved father & father in law of Mel & James, Nathan (dec) and Matthew.
Adored pop of Harry, Bella, Jack, Ruby, Layla, Liam.
Loved brother & brother in law of Scott & Tanya, Lesley & Tony & their families.
Loved son of Ron (dec) & Ena.
Aged 56 years.
“Forever in our hearts “
Brett’s relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral service at NSW Police Academy Chapel, McDermott Drive Goulburn commencing at 11.30am, Wednesday 12th September 2018.
Following the funeral service the cortege will proceed to the Lawn Cemetery Goulburn for Interment.
Flags at Half Mast for the funeral of Brett Ronald FERGUSON
Brett Ronald FERGUSON & his son Matt
Brett Ronald FERGUSON in Fiji
October 9, 2018
Debbie Ferguson, Goulburn, New South Wales
LIGHT A
CANDLE
October 9, 2018
Matt Ferguson
October 9, 2018
Matt Ferguson
October 9, 2018
Matt Ferguson
October 9, 2018
Matt Ferguson, Goulburn
LIGHT A
CANDLE
September 11, 2018
Shane Hunter, Queensland
LIGHT A
CANDLE
September 11, 2018
Brett your the mate that nothing is or was a problem. Your taken way to early before your time. Now you can start to humor every one that you meet in you new journey that your now taking. RIP bro until we meet again and have fun like the night at Tully Park out the front when we were awaiting Deb to pick us up. See you soon best friend. xxx
Laurie is reported to have passed away whilst in Rome, Italy.
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VALE LAURIE ANDREWS – A MAGPIE GREAT
by Peter (Parra) Montgomery
Received sad news on the weekend of the sudden death of former much loved Hay-ite Laurie Andrews.
Laurie passed away in Italy on September 1 while on holidays with his partner Annette and friends.
He had celebrated his 71st birthday just a few weeks before, and had been in good health up until his sudden death.
Laurie was a great mate to all who knew him. He was particularly close to his Rugby League mates with the Hay Magpies, and was a regular attendee of functions to do with the Magpies Club, especially involving the 1967 premiership team of which he was a prominent member.
Laurie travelled to Hay in October 2017 to attend the Magpies Presentation Night, and was a chief organsier of the 1967 Premiership Re-union held in Coffs Harbour late last year.
Laurie was an outstanding horseman, and represented Australian in TentPegging, He became involved in TentPegging while he was a member of the Mounted Police in Sydney.
The Australian State Mounted Police also adopted Tentpegging as a demonstration of their skill and horsemanship, participating in demonstrations and competitions at Royal Shows.
The sport got its first international recognition when the Olympic Council of Asia accepted Tentpegging as an official event in the 1982New Delhi Asian Games. Since then countries have been hosting International Events. 1994 saw the establishment of a World Tentpegging Organization, “International Equestrian Tentpegging Association”. International events are becoming more frequent with growth of the sport in countries such as South Africa, Namibia, India, Pakistan, Israel, Great Britain, Netherlands, USA, Canada, and New Zealand.
Just reading through my ‘archives’ and came across this story I wrote about Laurie and George – two great mates – two brothers who gave 100% effort to the Hay Magpies Club during the mid-late sixties…
Players of the Past – George and Laurie Andrews
During the mid to late sixties a pair of brothers, George and Laurie Andrews from a strong Aussie Rules background made their way to Hay, and almost immediately became an integral part of the Hay Magpies.
They were employed by the late Jack Carver at Toogimbie Station, and soon linked up with Jack’s sons, Phillip and Ray.
Phil and Ray were both playing with the Magpies, and it wasn’t long before the Andrews brothers joined them in the ranks
Although they were Victorians they adapted to Rugby League like ducks to water.
Not only were they tough and un-comprising players, they were also good blokes.
Both George and Laurie have remained firm friends with all their team mates since the sixties and enjoy nothing better than catching up at reunions.
Since he sold his Water Truck in Tamworth and retired George has been a regular visitor to Hay, to catch up with his son (Laurie) daughter (Roslyn) and his grand children
On the field, George and Laurie were different style of players. George, was more a Blue Collar type player. A forward who loved mixing it with the tough players of his era in Group 17.
The game, in those heady days of the sixties, was much more physical, and not as ‘fitness orientated’ as it is now.
Training consisted of a game of touch, laps of the Oval, exercising, and ball handling. High shots, stiff arm tackling and rough house tactics were the order of the day. The ‘survival of the fittest‘.
The tougher the game the more George liked it.
Both the Andrews boys were involved in successive Grand Final appearances for Hay – 1966 and 1967
Laurie was a backline player with silky skills, and tough defence.
He was comfortable at home in the centres or or the wing, and was one of the first blokes picked each week.
Laurie left Hay to join the Mounted Police, and by the time he retired from the Police Force had risen to the position of Licencing Sergeant of the Tamworth District.
George and Laurie were blokes who played huge roles in the strong development of the Magpies Club, both as a successful organisation, and a Club to be respected on the paddock.
Both were players who gave 100% effort. Blokes who helped dig the well others are drinking from now.
Rest in Peace Laurie. You were a great mate and loved by all who knew you. Sincere condolences to Annette your extended family.
Laurie wasfather of Leila, Lachlan and Alisha Andrews, Step father to Joanne & Shaun Harrison, Kate & Dave Horsley and Rebecca Howat
Adored Poppy Loz to Ali, Nick, Gabbi and Caprice.
Loving brother to George, Judith, Robert and Graham
Members of the Magpies Class of 1967 will remember your mateship with much fondness, and your memory will live on, particularly in the close-knit group of friends.
“Once a Magpie, Always a Magpie” Laurie, a star of the class of 1966, 1967, 1968 Hay Magpies…and a bloody good mate to all who knew him.
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Laurence Kenneth Andrews
Passed away suddenly while holidaying in Rome, Italy on 1st September 2018.
Loving partner of Annette Arthur,
Cherished father of Leila, Lachlan and Alisha Andrews, Step father to Joanne & Shaun Harrison, Kate & Dave Horsley and Rebecca Howat
Adored Poppy Loz to Ali, Nick, Gabbi and Caprice.
Loving brother to George, Judith, Robert and Graham.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Laurie’s funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Coffs Harbour Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 21st September 2018, commencing at 1.00 pm, thence for interment in the Coffs Harbour Lawn Cemetery, Karangi.
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Judith Mary MORTON-KING
| 16/09/2018
Judith Mary MORTON-KING
Widow of Jim KING ( nothing further known about Jim who died July 2009 )
Late of ?
New South Wales Police Force
Rank: Police Wife
Stations: ?
Service: From? ? ? to? ? ? = ? years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? ?
Died on: Friday 31 August 2018
Age: 85
Cause: ?
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Monday 10 September 2018 @ 10.30am
Funeral location: at the graveside of Bernard Francis ‘Bud’ MORTON at Point Clare Cemetery, Coolarn Ave, Pt Clare, NSW
Wake location: Breakers Country Club, 64 Dover Rd, Wamberal, NSW
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: Point Clare Cemetery, Coolarn Ave, Pt Clare, NSW
Grave location: Lawn 7, Row 39, Plot 19
GPS: -33.43487377338858 151.31234952799878
Memorial located at: ?
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Funeral location:
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Judith, who married former NSWPF Retired member John KING, after the death of her first husband ( Bernard MORTON ) will be buried at the grave of Bernard.
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Bernard Francis ‘Bud’ MORTON ( late RAAF – Warrant Officer / Flying Officer / Squadron Leader – 025983 ) – the first husband to Judith, was born 7 April 1931 and died on Monday 16 August 1993, aged 62. Bud is buried at Point Clare Cemetery: Lawn 7, Row 39, Plot 19.
Further research shows that Bernard was murdered, by sawn-off shotgun, at the The Grange Hotel, Wyoming, where he worked part time in the bottle shop.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Wednesday 18 August 1993, page 5
‘Callous’ murder
SYDNEY: The shooting death of an elderly bottle shop attendant on the NSW central coast on Monday has baffled and shocked police, who describe the shooting as “callous and senseless”.
The detective in charge of the investigation. Sergeant Pat O’Brien, said yesterday police did not know why 62-year-old Bernard Francis Morton, of Wyoming, was shot.
They believed the gunman’s main motive was robbery.
Mr Morton was shot once in his chest with a sawn-off shotgun at The Grange Hotel in Wyoming, where he worked part-time, about 5 pm.
He died soon after, despite desperate attempts by ambulance officers to revive him.
Sister of serving NSWPF member – Chief Inspector Ken SCHACK
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class 267
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 31228
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Academy – 18 August 1996
Probationary Constable – appointed 14 February 1997
Senior Sergeant
Final Rank = Senior Sergeant
Stations: ?, Professional Standards Command – Death
Service: From 18 August 1996 to 28 August 2018= 22+years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? ?
Died on: Tuesday 28 August 2018
Age: 45
Cause: Cancer
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Wednesday 5 September 2018 @ 10.30am
Funeral location: St Stephen’s Anglican Church, 189 Church St, Newtown
Request: The Schack family have requested no formal police involvement at the funeral service however they do invite friends and former colleagues to attend if they wish.
Wake location: ?
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial located at: ?
[alert_yellow]KARINA is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
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Funeral location:
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Hello everyone ,
I am reaching out to all my family, friends and colleagues to spread this message to help our dear friend Karina. She has flown to Mexico to receive treatment for cancer . This expensive Gersen Therapy costs $6000 per week for 3 weeks. This does not include travel to Mexico or other living expenses. Her story is below. I am aiming to raise enough funds to help cover the cost for her and assist the financial burden.
Kylie Hand
“My name is Karina Schack. I’m 41 years old. I’ve been diagnosed with a terminal illness. In August 2008 at the age of 35, I found a lump in my breast which I thought little of.
As a close friend had recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, I decided to go to my GP to have her check it out. She was concerned enough to schedule a mammogram and ultrasound to investigate further. She reassured me that it was most likely nothing to worry about.
As it turned out, a cancerous tumour the size of a golf ball was growing underneath my pectoral muscle, right down to my chest wall. This was swiftly removed, however the cancer had unfortunately started to spread to the lymph nodes under my armpit. These nodes were removed and an aggressive course of chemotherapy started, followed by radiation. Following about six months of treatment, the cancer was gone. I could breath a sigh of relief. At least that’s what I believed up until about 6 weeks ago.
During my six year annual check up (involving a mammogram and ultrasound) I mentioned to my doctor that I was experiencing severe pain in my chest. It felt like bone pain. She ordered a bone scan to ensure nothing ‘sinister’ was going on. The results of the bone scan revealed metastasis (recurrence) of the original cancer in my sternum, spine and sacrum. Upon being informed of this, I asked the burning question. ‘Is there chance of being cured at this point?’ The answer, ‘No, typically not.’
Typically not.
As I was alone at the appointment, my first thought was of having to break this news to my loved ones. I was numb. Just wanted to wake up. I won’t even say my worst fears had come true, as I hadn’t even imagined this scenario. There were three doctors in the room with me, all looking at me with very sad eyes. All I could do was think how difficult it must be to break that news to someone.
I was meant to go on a holiday to Vietnam the following week. This was cancelled to make way for radiation to two of the most affected areas. It was early on in my treatment when I was told about a clinic in Mexico where they are getting some excellent results in the treatment of cancer patients. The clinic is called Gerson. I started to research the Gerson Therapy and found real logic in their approach to treating serious illness. The therapy is all about building the bodies’ immune system to a point where it will heal itself.
As my oncologist was not recommending immediate systemic treatment of my condition beyond the radiation therapy I had received, I decided to make application to attend the Gerson Institute. This application was recently accepted on a week by week basis, with the hope to stay for three weeks. This wholly depends on how I respond to treatment.
I departed for Gerson on 22 November 2014. Right now, it’s 11:23pm and I sit in my hotel room in San Diego, with a shuttle bus due to pick me up first thing in the morning to take me to Tijuana, Mexico. Let the Gerson adventure begin…”
A HUGE thank you to everyone who has supported Karina. She is “blown away” by everyone’s generosity. She is currently in her second week of the Gerson Treatment and thankfully her results so far been have been positive. Let the Gerson Adventure continue!
Well, this update is well overdue. Firstly, I want to say a huge thank you to Kylie for organising this page for me. When I was diagnosed in October, I could not have predicted the kindness, love and support I’d receive from my work colleagues. Thanks Kylie. I owe you big time. And thanks to all the people from work that have supported me and continue to do so on a daily basis.
Next, I’d like to thank each and every one of the beautiful people that have donated their hard earned to fund my adventure to Mexico. I didn’t see the page until about a week in to my three week stay at Mexico and by that time, about $7000 had already been donated. To say I was overwhelmed by the generosity would be an understatement. I was truly floored. I cried like a baby (in a good way) when reading the comments of support, inspiration and positivity; including from complete strangers. I can guarantee that every single comment has been read and re-read by me when I find myself struggling or doubting my choice.
My trip to Mexico was made possible by you guys and I can emphatically say that this has changed my life for the better! The Gerson Therapy has changed my life forever. My regime is strict and will continue for at least a couple of years, likely longer. The three weeks in Mexico gave me the insight and knowledge required to maintain this lifestyle to the degree required to heal. For those of you interested in exactly what’s involved in the therapy, you can visit www.gerson.org. Suffice to say, it’s not snake oils or black magic, it’s the use of wholesome, organic and nutritious food, juices and supplements, as well as regular coffee enemas (or upside down coffee breaks) to enable the body to build its own defences to assist in healing.
THE RESULTS
My bloods improved a great deal while in Mexico. My white blood cells increased steadily throughout my stay and my ph levels after a week entered the very alkaline range and remain alkaline. Cancer doesn’t like an alkaline environment.
I had a CT scan last week of my organs. The previous scan in October revealed two lesions on my liver. I received the results of the scan yesterday…..cue drumroll….the lesions on the liver have more than halved in size and are now barely visible on the pictures. I can vouch for this as I had to squint to see them! The scan also reported on my bony lesions which appear to have improved slightly. There are no new lesions in either bone or organs….cue sigh of relief… These results are fantastic! The leadup to these tests were a little, shall I say…stressful?! I just wanted some validation that what I’m doing is worth it. Well, the results speak for themselves. It’s definitely worth it!
Besides the results on paper being positive, I also feel good. I feel strong and healthy. Ironically, I’m probably the healthiest I’ve been in years.
The money which has been raised not only helped to fund the trip to Mexico, but also helped buy a second fridge (required to store the large volume of organic produce I consume every week), as well as a water distiller. The supplements alone cost about $2000 every three months, so the money provided by you has been a godsend.
Once again, thanks to you all for your incredible support through what has been a difficult time. Without a doubt, I’m made stronger and more determined in my resolve with the assistance of you all; my family, friends and colleagues.
With much love, Karina
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Karina won a Silver medal in the 2012 NSW Police Games Angling competition with 174 points and is mentioned on page 11 of 36.
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Carey Thomas JOHNSON
| 16/09/2018
Carey Thomas JOHNSON
Late of Lemon Tree Passage – formerly of Newcastle, NSW
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class 125
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 14375
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 27 November 1970 ( Aged 24 years, 1 month, 5 days )
Constable 1st Class – appointed 27 November 1975
Detective
Sergeant – appointed 2 May 1986
Senior Sergeant – appointed 21 June 1989
Final Rank = ?
Stations: ?, Manly DLEB, Chatswood ( early 1970’s ), Broken Hill ( 1975 ), Wallsend ( 1985 – 88 )
Service: From? ? pre November 1970? to? ? 1991= 21years Service
Police Awards: National Medal – granted 2 November 1988
Service: Vietnam from 29 December 1965 – 4 June 1966 – 1RAR. Then 6RAR & was WIA ( Wounded In Action ) at the Battle of Long Tan. Returned to Australia 5 November 1966. He did a 2nd Tour with 8RAR from 17 November 1969 until 16 July 1970.
Wake location: will be held after the service at the
Memories Function Centre.
4 Charles Street, part of the same complex
Funeral Parlour: Pettigrew Family Funerals – 49511166
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial located at: ?
Lynette N Dennis Burrows Back To Barrier October 7, 2016 · Back Row left to right Ron James – Joe Richards – Buster McLennan ( from Wilcannia. Was in Police in mid 70’s & was stationed in 10 Division (Rose Bay). Didn’t like the city, so Resigned and moved back to family property at Wilcannia. ) – Peter Cinitis – Don Forsyth – Dave Stuart / Stewart – Carey Johnson – Peter Whitfield @ Soapy – Ian McKenzie Bottom left to right Gordon Fraser (HWP ) – Dennis Burrows – Bob Barton?(not police) – ? Nowlan (not police ) – Geoff Mobbs – Charlie Fisher – Wayne Ison ( Wilcannia & Ivanhoe, Forster ) .Taken at Turf Oval, Broken Hill around 1975 – 76
CAREY 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.
Dearly loved husband of Jill, father and grandfather of Leisa McMahon, Steven Johnson, Jason Turner, Adrian Turner and their families.
Family and friends of CAREY are invited to attend a Celebration of his Life to be held in The Chapel, Harris St, Wallsend, this TUESDAY 04/09/18 service commencing at 12noon. In lieu of flowers Donations to Calvary Mater Oncology Unit may be made at the service.
Forever In Our Hearts
Published in The Newcastle Herald on Sept. 1, 2018
Published Tue 28 Aug 2018
It is with regret that I inform you that 215887 Carey Thomas JOHNSON passed away Monday 27th August 2018.
Carey served with 1RAR in Vietnam 29.12.65 til 4.6.66, he was then posted to 6RAR and was WIA at the Battle of Long Tan. Returned to Australia 5.11.66.
He did at second tour with 8RAR 17.11.69 til 16.7.70
Carey came to 6 RAR after having served 5 months with 1 RAR. He served with 5 Pl B Coy and was wounded while returning to Long Tan on 18 Aug 1966
Passed away 27/08/18
Tuesday 4th September 2018, 1200hrs.
Pettigrew Family Funerals, 12 Harris St Wallsend NSW 2287.
Followed by a Private Cremation
A wake will be held after the service at the
Memories Function Centre.
4 Charles Street, part of the same complex.
LEST WE FORGET
A Warrior’s Farewell
Go now and travel beyond the void
Seek the green column and when you meet
See once more those smiling faces
Hear again laughter and sounds of marching feet
No more the visions of the bloody past
Gone are the nightmares and lingering pain
Soon you will be home at long, long last
United with fallen comrades once again
And when the final roll is called
Another page of history complete
You will rest with brave spirits such as they
In a camp where you will find restful sleep
Go swiftly now and seek your past
Your duty done for all to tell
With pride of who and what you were
And now we bid you a fond farewell
George Mansford – December 2007
Homeward Bound
I saw the shooting star burning so bright
Falling, falling, fading and soon from sight
So distant and yet so near
In its wake, a soldier’s journey so very clear
Duty, sharing, caring, courage and sometimes fear
No longer a mortal in life’s short race
A contented spirit bound for home somewhere in distant space
This fiery trail I saw tonight marks a warrior’s farewell
Leaving behind another legacy of proud deeds to tell
The Soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.
Step forward now, Soldier,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?’
The soldier squared his shoulders and said,
‘No, Lord, I guess I ain’t.
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can’t always be a saint.
I’ve had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I’ve been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.
But, I never took a penny,
That wasn’t mine to keep…
Though I worked a lot of overtime,
When the bills got just too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear..
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I’ve wept unmanly tears.
I know I don’t deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears
If you’ve a place for me here, Lord,
It needn’t be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don’t, I’ll understand.
There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod.
As the Soldier waited quietly,
For the judgement of his God.
‘Step forward now, you Soldier,
You’ve borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven’s streets,
You’ve done your time in Hell.’
May you rest in peace – you will always be in our hearts and fondest memories.
Will miss your cheery nature and the educational stories of your life experiences
Jeffrey and Shona Dawson,
Lemon Tree Passage, New South Wales
September 3, 2018
May you rest in peace. From Gaye, your children Leisa & Steven, Grand children Stephanie, Jaden & Jorja and Great grand children Chase & Tyler.
I remember Carey telling me he was walking downhill at Long Tan. It had been raining and the rubber trees appeared to be glistening. Unfortunately it was not the rubber trees but the NVA & their weapons.
He was wounded and laid for quite some time before being extracted.
RIP.
Rodney Thomas PARKER
| 16/09/2018
Rodney Thomas PARKER
Late of Bateau Bay
NSW Police Academy Class “possibly” # 184B
New South Wales Police Force
[alert_yellow]Regd. # 20317[/alert_yellow]
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 23 July 1982
