‘Heartbreaking’: Suicide suspected reason for police officer death in South Australia
A respected female police officer was found dead at a police station. Now her cause of death has been revealed.
Sofia Dmitrieva
3 min read
January 10, 2024 – 4:19PM
A respected female police officer found dead at a police station in South Australia is believed to have taken her own life in the women’s bathroom of the building.
The officer was found at Port Adelaide police station on Monday afternoon and police have previously confirmed the death was not being treated as suspicious.
The detective brevet sergeant, aged in her 30s, is believed to have taken her own life between 2pm and 3pm on Monday, 7News reports.
Online reports from eyewitnesses claim police officers inside the station at the time heard a loud bang within the building leading to the discovery of her body.
The Indigenous mother of two’s name and photos have not been revealed due to cultural reasons.
The woman moved from Whyalla to Adelaide, where she initially worked as a community constable. The role involved her helping police engage with First Nations and culturally diverse communities.
She was nominated for the City of Port Adelaide Enfield’s 2012 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Awards for her work within the First Nations community.
“(I) would like to help turn around the public’s perception of police officers from a negative to a positive,” she wrote as part of her nomination for the Person of the Year award.
“I love the variety in my work and I love getting the opportunity to help people by making the best out of a bad situation.
In her nomination blurb she also wrote about her passion for serving the community with her ultimate goal to see the Aboriginal community represented more in SA Police.
“She has shown a genuine concern and passion for the community in general and has had life experience which she shares openly with her peers,” the nomination reads.
“She stands up for what she believes in and is very passionate about her cultural heritage.”
In 2015 the woman was sworn in as a full-time police officer and was assigned to the family violence unit at Port Adelaide Police Station.
Four years later she married her wife, who is also a South Australian police officer.
The deceased police officer was the granddaughter of a celebrated Aboriginal writer and poet who had more than 61 works published throughout their career, Daily Mail Australia reports.
The grandmother is considered to be a “pioneer in First Nations Australia literature in South Australia”, becoming the first ever published Aboriginal female writer within the state, winning awards for her contribution to the arts.
South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas said several tragedies had unfolded in South Australia recently and they were confronting.
“Anytime we see a tragedy of this nature involving anyone in our community it hurts,” Mr Malinauskas said.
Friends and fellow police officers have posted tributes to the officer on social media and expressing their shock over her sudden death.
“I just wish I could see and hear you one more time. You were loved by us all, miss you forever,” one person wrote on Facebook.
“R. I. P beautiful soul. If only we could hear her laugh again,” a second person said.
“Absolutely gutted … going to miss your bright bubbly face,” another said.
Condolences from strangers have also been coming in, with people thanking the police officer for her work.
“R.I.P. your shift is over, thank you for you service. Condolences to your family
I’m sorry, my thoughts and sympathies are with those grieving,” one person wrote
“My condolences to her family, friends and work colleagues…..Its sad to see a beautiful angel returning where she’s from. Hope her family, friends and colleagues are OK too,” another person commented.
The Acting Commissioner of Police Linda Williams has advised a Commissioner’s Inquiry will be undertaken into the circumstances surrounding this matter.
A coronial investigation also will be conducted into the tragedy.
A respected police officer told a colleague ‘everything would be ok’ just hours before she was found dead inside Port Adelaide‘s police station.
A police commissioner’s inquiry and a coronial investigation have now been launched after the officer died at the station, in the city’s northwest, between 2pm and 3pm on Monday.
Daily Mail Australia can reveal the female police officer was a mum of two and Aboriginal.
She married her wife, who is also a South Australian police officer, in late 2019.
Police have confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious but have not revealed the cause.
They have also requested media outlets not to publish the name or photos of the officer in question due to ‘cultural reasons’.
Reports from eyewitnesses online claim officers at the station heard a loud bang within the building before they discovered her body.
Devastated friends and colleagues have paid tribute to the tribute to the officer who was nominated for ‘Aboriginal Person of the Year’ in 2012 for her work within the First Nations community.
She was remembered as a ‘beautiful person’ who had an ‘infectious, loud laugh’ which could be heard ‘right across the station’.
One workmate said the officer told her ‘It will be OK, bestie’ during one of their last conversations on Monday.
‘You said it a thousand times to me over the years,’ her colleague wrote.
‘It doesn’t feel like anything will ever be OK again.
‘I am shattered. I loved you so much, but you knew that.
‘I will miss you forever.’
Another colleague recalled how kind she was when she first arrived at Port Adelaide and was struggling to adjust.
After the officer invited her out to socialise, they quickly bonded over their similarities – their ‘terrible memories, distractibility and having both lost their fathers.
‘The first day I met you your kindness and caring nature shone through. You went out of your way to make us and the kids feel welcome with invitations to kindergym and the park,’ she said.
‘I loved working in the same office as you. Your laugh, the lolly jar addiction, your big caring heart and your cracking sense of humour, always taking the piss.
‘I loved your passion for your people. You were a proud First Nations woman and I loved your stories of your beloved ‘Gary’.
‘I learnt so much from you. You were such a light in my life.
‘I wish you knew how much you are loved.’
A third cop said the officer affectionately dubbed her and another colleague as the ‘angels’.
She said she would miss the officer’s bright bubbly face and hearing her say ‘well, well, well… if it isn’t the angels’ when she would walk by.
A former colleague added the officer’s ‘pain is now gone’ and she will never be forgotten by those she left behind.
‘Fly high and free sister in blue,’ she said.
‘Big hugs and love to your heartbroken family, RIP lovely.’
The tragedy has rocked the South Australian police community, which is still reeling just two months on from the alleged on-duty fatal shooting of Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig and alleged hit-and-run death of SA Police Commissioner’s son, Charlie Stevens.
Counselling support services have been offered to the officer’s colleagues.
Acting Commissioner Linda Williams has announced the woman’s death will be subjected to a police inquiry as well as a coronial investigation.
‘The tragedy at Port Adelaide is something that will impact so many people – family and friends, but also the entire police family and indeed the wider community,’ South Australia Police Association president Mark Carroll said.
‘Our colleague’s death will be investigated so that we can understand the cause of this devastating incident.
The state’s Police Minister Joe Szakacs also shared his grief in a statement.
‘My heartfelt condolences go to the family, friends and colleagues of the police officer,’ Mr Szakacs said.
‘Her tragic passing will be felt deeply, and grieved widely. I ask everyone to keep the police family in their thoughts.’
Tributes poured out for police officer found dead at South Australian police station
Loved ones and co-workers of a female police officer found dead at a police station, prompting an inquiry.
Madeleine Achenza
less than 2 min read
January 9, 2024 – 2:14PM
Loved ones and colleagues have paid tribute to a female police officer who was found dead at a South Australian police station.
The officer was found at Port Adelaide police station on Tuesday afternoon and the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Friends and fellow police officers have posted tributes to the officer on social media and expressing their shock over her sudden death.
“Absolutely gutted … going to miss your bright bubbly face,” one person wrote on Facebook.
“RIP you were such a lovely person, can’t believe it,” a second person said.
“You were so special, so kind and someone I truly cherished throughout my time in the job,” another said.
Police Minister Joe Szakacs said her death would be “felt deeply” and “grieved widely” by the policing community.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the family, friends and colleagues of the police officer,” he said.
“Her tragic passing will be felt deeply, and grieved widely.
SA police have described it as a “tragic incident” and support is being provided to all police employees.
The Acting Commissioner of Police has advised a Commissioner’s Inquiry will also be undertaken into the circumstances surrounding this matter.
This death will also be subject to a coronial investigation.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to Karen, Stuart, Mitchell & Brett together with the family, friends and members of VicPol.
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In some tragic news, former Avoca Football Netball Club best-and-fairest, Rowan “Rooster” Andrews, was found dead at Laverton Railway Station just before 5am on Friday.
Aged just 38, the police officer and married father of two grew up in Tassie, being rookie-listed by the Adelaide Crows back in 2003 and playing at SANFL, VFL and NEAFL level.
Thoughts are with Rooster’s family, friends, former team mates and fellow officers during this time.
The Kingborough Tigers past players officials and supporters would like to send our condolences to the Andrews family after the passing of Rowan.
Rooster played with the club in the mid 2000’s playing 35 games along side brother Mitch.
Rowan was a fantastic player and was picked up by Adelaide in the 2003 rockie draft.
After being delisted by the crows, rooster came back to Tassie to play for the Devils in the VFL. After the Devils last season in 2008 Rowan went on to play in WA, Victoria and the ACT.
The Avoca Football Netball Club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our 2018 Best & Fairest Player, Rowan “Rooster” Andrews.
Rooster was highly thought of by all of his team mates and club members during his time at our club.
We pass our condolences on to his family members, and also to his work colleagues & friends.
The Ainslie Football Club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Rowan ‘Rooster’ Andrews.
Rowan joined the Ainslie Football Club in 2009 and made an instant impact not only with his uncompromising training habits but his fearless and tough way of playing football in the Ruck. He lead the way and set the tone for many games.
Two time Premiership player in 2010 & 2011, Rooster played 80 Senior games with the club.
Our sincere condolences to Alice, Max & Zac and to their extended family.
In a shocking turn of events, the community is mourning the sudden death of Rowan ‘Rooster’ Andrews, a beloved figure known for his dual roles as a police officer and a former professional Aussie Rules player. The 38-year-old father-of-two was discovered lifeless at Laverton Railway Station, shortly before 5 am last Friday.
Andrews, affectionately nicknamed “Rooster,” had transitioned to a career in law enforcement a decade ago after showcasing promise as an AFL player. His sudden demise has left family, friends, and sports clubs in grief, remembering him as a “rock” who brought people together.
Chris Rourke, Andrews’ former coach, expressed high regard for the late athlete, stating, “If I had sons and one of them came out like him I would have thought I’d won tattslotto.”
Having embarked on a footballing journey that spanned across Australia, Andrews was drafted from Tasmania to the Adelaide Crows in 2003. Although he spent two years on the rookie list, he didn’t secure a senior call-up. Subsequently, he returned to Tasmania, playing for Kingborough in the Tasmanian State League and VFL footy for his home state.
The talented ruckman then moved to Canberra, where he played in the NEAFL, emerging as one of the most dominant players in the competition. In recent times, Andrews had been contributing to local footy clubs in country Victoria and suburban Melbourne.
Recalling their time together at Ainslie in 2009, Rourke reminisced about Andrews’ “uncompromising” training habits, noting that he played a pivotal role in back-to-back premierships in 2010 and 2011. Condolences flooded social media platforms, with the Williamstown Superules Football Club expressing deep sorrow and The Ainslie Football Club describing Andrews as a fearless leader who set the tone for many games.
The community now faces the challenge of coming to terms with the loss of this man described as a “gentle giant” who left an indelible mark both on the football field and in law enforcement.
Rowan Andrews Death Australian Football League Melbourne, Avoca Football Netball Club Former Player Died by Suicide – Obituary
Rowan Andrews Obituary, Death Cause – The Avoca Football Netball Club is overcome with grief as we come together to mourn the untimely passing of our beloved
Rowan Andrews Death Australian Football League Melbourne, Avoca Football Netball Club Former Player Died by Suicide – Obituary
Rowan Andrews Obituary, Death Cause – The Avoca Football Netball Club is overcome with grief as we come together to mourn the untimely passing of our beloved 2018 Best & Fairest Player, Rowan “Rooster” Andrews. Rooster’s impact on our club, both on and off the field, was profound, and his memory will forever remain etched in our hearts.
Rooster’s tenure with the Avoca Football Netball Club was marked by exceptional skill, dedication, and sportsmanship. His prowess on the field earned him the prestigious title of Best & Fairest Player in 2018, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the team. Rooster’s commitment to the sport inspired his team mates and endeared him to all who had the privilege of playing alongside him.
Rooster’s presence in the club went beyond his athletic abilities; he was a true team player and a source of inspiration for his fellow team mates. Known for his positive attitude, Rooster brought a contagious energy to the field that uplifted spirits and fostered camaraderie.
His camaraderie extended off the field, making him a cherished friend to many within the Avoca Football Netball Club. As we mourn the loss of Rooster, our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his family members. Losing a loved one is never easy, and we share in their grief during this difficult time. Rooster’s impact on the club was undoubtedly felt by his family, and we hope they find solace in the memories of his remarkable life.
Rooster’s legacy extends beyond the sporting arena, reaching into the various facets of his life, including his work and friendships. The Avoca Football Netball Club extends heartfelt condolences to Rooster’s work colleagues and friends, recognizing the profound impact he had on those who shared different aspects of his life. Our thoughts are with each of you as you navigate this challenging moment.
As we bid farewell to Rooster, let us remember him not only for his remarkable achievements on the field but for the positive influence he had on the entire Avoca Football Netball Club community.
His memory will continue to inspire us to uphold the values of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and dedication that he exemplified throughout his time with us. Rest in Peace, Rowan “Rooster” Andrews. Your spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing and playing alongside you.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
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’..!
Class 111 – those transferred to Penrith – 1967
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. Rear row, 4th from left is Probationary Constable Barry John PEARCE # 12631
* Story behind any Nickname: A play on his surname.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Condolences to their son, Scott and Daughter, Jane and their respective children.
* Story behind any Nickname:
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Barrier Daily Truth (Broken Hill, NSW : 1908; 1941 – 1954),
Thursday 27 May 1954, page 12
Two Escape From Burning Car
Lithgow, May 26: A man and woman crawled clear of their car as it burst into flames after turning a somersault on the Mudgee Road.
The victims, Walter Cate, a school teacher at Kandos Intermediate High School, and Miss Iris Joyce Mayne, of Matraville, were taken to Portland Hospital and treated for multiple abrasions and shock.
The car was destroyed.
Cate told Constable L. Cole of Cullen Bullen, that the car got out of control when a rear tyre blew out two miles past Capertree (sic) ( Capertee ) on the road towards Kandos.
Three serious charges — two of them capital offences were laid against a Tyldesley man in this morning’s court at Portland in respect to offences on a six-year old girl.
The man, William Gordon McCann (46), of Tyldesley, was remanded to appear before Mr. K. M. Dash, S.M., at Portland court on February 5.
He is charged with having raped, indecently assaulted and carnally known a girl under ten years of age.
Two justices of the Peace, Messrs. T. J. Sophios and R. J. Cullen sat on the Bench.
Bail was refused.
McCann was arrested by Sergeant P. McGovern, of Portland and Constable L. Cole, of Cullen Bullen, defendant being charged in court by Detective Theo Stephenson, ( “possibly” NSW Police Cadet 0304 who joined in 1941 ) of Lithgow police.
In the Bathurst Quarter Sessions this week a jury found a man not guilty of slaying a retired miner whom he ran over in a utility truck after having been struck on the head and “knocked silly” with an iron bar and a broom during a domestic brawl near Cullen Bullen on May 24. The dead was was Charles Livingstone Gardiner who had been hurrying along Cemetery Hill, on the Mudgee-road, to ask police at Cullen Bullen to break up a brawl at the home of his neighbor.
The man involved in the brawl, – John Joseph James Collins, (39), bathroom attendant at Wimpey’s open cut mine, Ben Bullen, was before the Session charged with the manslaughter of Gardiner whom he ran into and hurled 20 feet off the road. Police alleged Collins had been under the influence while driving his utility.
Collins, who was represented by Mr. Frank Hidden, Sydney barrister, denied the drunken driving allegation; but said he had been given some doped beer at Cullen Bullen and later, at his father’s home, became involved in an argument with his father and hit him over the head with an iron bar. Blood flowed so he left the house and drove towards Cullen Bullen.
After a retirement of almost five hours the jury returned a verdict of not guilty following evidence extending over two days.
Collins pleaded not guilty to the manslaughter of Gardiner. The Crown alleged that Collins, as the driver of the vehicle, was guilty of criminal negligence.
Prior to considering the facts at the conclusion of evidence the jury inspected two vehicles involved in the fatality.
The Crown and defence each challenged three jurymen.
Crown’s Allegations
The charge of feloniously slaying Gardiner, said Mr. O’Toole, the Crown Prosecutor; was one dealing with criminal negligence.
He said the deceased came on to the road, waving a lamp. A Mr. Goodair stopped his car, Gardiner came to the car and stood on the inside of the vehicle on the drain of the road. The car, he said, was well illuminated.
While there, Collins drove between the drain of the road and on the inside of the car, knocking down Gardiner and killing him, it would be shown, said Mr. O’Toole.
It was contended Collins drove his car in such a way as to display recklessness, and the Crown would contend he was guilty of a very high degree of negligence, said Mr. O’Toole.
Edwin John Goodair, of Ben Bullen, said on May 24 he was on his way to Lithgow. At the foot of Cemetery Hill, about 1.5 miles from Cullen Bullen, he saw Gardner (deceased) standing on the roadside, waving a hurricane lamp.
Well illuminated
“I ‘ pulled up and stopped my car with the nearside wheels off the bitumen, and on the gravel of the roadway,” he said.
His car was well lighted, and the headlamps were left on. There was an interior light on, all the time the car was stopped.
“Gardiner was ta1king through the passenger side of the car. About five minutes after pulling up, deceased stepped back from the vehicle.
“I felt a bump, but heard no warning beforehand. The bump came from where Gardiner was talking. A utility shot through where Gardiner was. He was thrown about 20 feet.
“Accused who pulled up and came back, spoke to me and said ‘where are your signals,’ and I said ‘signals — I’ve been here five minutes,’ he said, ‘don’t get angry with me,’ and I said, ‘don’t get angry, and you’ve just killed a man.’
Later witness said he went to the police station.
Car Moved
Goodair, to Mr. Hidden, said he moved his car before the coroner came back, but was not told to move it.
Ivy Olive Goodair, wife of the previous witness, said she was sitting in the front seat of the car alongside her husband. She corroborated his evidence.
She said she heard a car coming from behind, but no horn sounded.
“Next thing, a car came on the wrong side of us. Our car was bumped. I did not see what happened to Gardiner, when the car passed we got out and went to Gardiner, but he was dead.’ she said.
She also said her husband was told , not to move his car.
Zelma Elaine Collins, of Cullen Bullen, said she was a sister of the accused. She said she was in Goodair’s car.
On the night of the fatality, there was an argument at her home.
Under the cross-examination of Mr; O’Toole, she, said about 6.30 p.m. on May 24, her brother was “in a very bad way.”
“He’d had a few drinks,’ she admitted under further questioning. Collins said she went to Gardiner’s to get help.
“He said ‘I won’t go up, I’ll go to Cullen Bullen with you, to get Mr. Cole.’
“I got into Goodair’s car on the driver’s side, because the nearside door was jammed.
“I saw lights coming, and heard the other car bash into Goodair’s car. It was my brother in the other car,
Hit With Iron Bar
“I eventually got a ride into Cullen Bullen in another car.” Gardiner, said witness had “had a few drinks” that night.
Witness said her brother was hit on the head with an iron bar. “It made him quite silly,” she said to Mr. Hidden.
Mr. O’Toole: “Who hit him — my father.
Mr. O’Toole: Where was his wife while all this was going on — under Dad’s bed!”
Mr. Hidden:- You gave him a pretty good whack too. — Yes.
A deposition by Garth Jowett London Phillips, medical practitioner, said Gardiner died from severe cerebal (sic) haemorrhage, as the result of a fractured skull and other extensive injuries were also outlined.
Police Evidence
Constable L. A. Cole, of Cullen Bullen, said he saw Collins (accused) about 5p.m. He was observed to drink two middies of beer. He again saw him about 7 p.m., . when he alleged Goodair ran into his car.
“At 7 p.m. Collins was staggering, he was thick of speech and under the influence of liquor,” said Cole.
Cole said next day “Collins complained about injuries.. However, to Mr. O’Toole, witness said he believed Collins understood the questions, and gave intelligent answers.
Constable Cole told Mr. Hidden; Collins persisted that Goodair’s car was moved.
Constable T.A. Chaseling, ( most probably Trevor Allen CHASELING, NSWPF – Cadet # 0487 – joined in 1944 ) of Lithgow said that he met Const. Cole on the, Mudgee-road at 9.15 p.m. following the accident.
“I saw accused in the cell at the Cullen Bullen police station. He was under a blanket and when I helped him to his feet, he staggered about,” the constable deposed.
There were signs that Collins had been sick in the cell.
Requested Doctor
Asked by Chaseling if he had been drinking Collins said he had four “middies’ at Cullen Bullen late in the afternoon. He was then charged with driving under the influence.
Accused requested a doctor but none was available.
Const. Chaseling gave evidence of the examination of accused’s utility, the deceased, the scene of the accident and Goodair’s car.
On the day following his arrest, the accused admitted having two beers at Portland in addition to the four beers at Cullen Bullen on the day previous.
Mr. Hidden (for the defendant) You expressed, an opinion here as to accused’s state of sobriety, do you claim to be an expert — No.
Accused’s injuries were obvious? — Yes
He told you he had been hit on the head with an iron bar? — I learnt that the following day.
How long have you been in the police force? — Seven years.
Do you know that during the time you have been in the force a number of perfectly sober men have been arrested and died in the cells in Sydney from concussion? — I have not heard.
At Lidcombe ? — I have not heard.
Don’t you think accused’s condition following the accident was the result of the severe head injury suffered when he was struck by the iron bar ? — No, it might have been a contributing factor. Accused was under the influence.
What are your reasons for saying he was under the influence ? — Accused smelt of liquor his eyes were bloodshot and he was unsteady on his feet.
If a man was perfectly steady on his feet but his eyes were bloodshot and his face was flushed, would you arrest him for driving under the influence ? — Yes, if his breath smelt of liquor.
Evidence By Defendant
In evidence, in reply, accused, from the witness box, said he had a total of six beers during the afternoon of May 24.
“The four bears I had at Cullen Bullen tasted rotten and I have been told that beer had been doctored with spirits.”
“Six beers is more than I usually have. I usually have four beers at the outside.
I went to my father’s home where there was an argument during which I was struck over the head with a stove scraper and with a broom.
“There was a lot of blood.
“I left my father’s house at about 6.30 and as I drove towards Cullen Bullen I saw two white lights. I thought I had a clear road and drove through on the left of the lights. I felt a bump but did not realise what had happened.
Liquor Not Cause
The accident was not caused by liquor but by the blow received from the iron bar and the loss of blood.
“I complained both to Const. Cole and Const. Chaseling.
Mr. Hidden: Do you still believe that you passed a car facing on its correct side in the direction of Mudgee — Yes, I saw two white lights and thought I had a clear road.
Under cross-examination accused said that when he heard the bump, he had not know he had struck Gardner.
Mr. O’Toole : Are you now satisfied that it was your truck which struck deceased? — Yes. Collins said he did not say he recalled getting into his truck after being struck on the head with the bar.
“I saw two white lights which I took for the parking lights of a stationary vehicle on my right,” he said.
Mr. O’Toole, C.P. : – You had had a lot of drink that night, there was a row at your father’s home ? — I had six beers, there was a bit of a row.
Told Whisky Put Into Beer.
Accused said he could not recall telling Const. Cole that Goodair’s car had struck him nor asking Goodair where his handsignals were immediately after the accident.
Mr. O’Toole: You have been told that the publican put whisky in your beer ? — Yes, I have been told that.”
A fair amount of whisky ? — Yes.
But you’d know the difference in taste between plain beer and beer to which a ” fair amount of whisky” had been added ? — Not at Cullen Bullen, you’re likely to get anything there.
You claim that you were affected by the beer and whisky ? — To some extent. The bashing I got affected me most. Ifelt pretty crook after I was hit on the head.
“I still believe that Goodair’s car was facing in the direction of Mudgee and was shifted after the accident;” Collins said.
Accused’s wife Iris Kathleen Collins, said she and her husband had been to Bathurst on May 24 and on the way back stopped at Portland and Cullen Bullen.
Did Not Hear Threat
“He then drove to my father’s home travelling quite safely and steadily,” witness said.
“When he received the blow on the head he seemed to lose control of his mind and wandered round in a daze.
Mr. O’Toole: Your husband’s younger sister ran away from the house because he threatened to kill her ? — I didn’t hear him threaten her.
Did you get under a bed at any time during the row ? — No, I was in the bedroom but not under the bed.
Arthur Mathew Harrison, of Cullen Bullen, identified photographs taken by him at the scene of the accident. The photographs were objected to by Mr. O’Toole and withdrawn by Mr. Hidden.
In his summing up His Honor (sic) defined the degrees of negligence and the association with criminal negligence.
Constable L. Cole, of Cullen Bullen police, was admitted to Portland hospital today where he will undergo treatment for a month. He will be relieved from Lithgow by Constable G. W. Workman. ( possibly Q 9195 who was a ProCst on18 Feb 1911 )
A bushfire which had raged for more than a week in the Cullen Bullen area appeared to have burned itself out last night after open cut personnel had done excellent work in the initial stages controlling the blaze.
Volunteers, urgently called from open cuts and mining firms in the area, fought the fire for more than two hours, last week to prevent fierce flames from engulfing a residence.
Constable L. Cole, of Cullen Bullen police, issued a call for volunteers early last Thursday afternoon when flames threatened the McMurdoe’s residence.
Cullen and Tyldesley residents, employees from Wimpey, an English coal firm, Delco open cut, Beaumaris open cut and Renown siding, fought for more than two hours before the flames were brought under control.
A bulldozer, supplied by Mr. H. Watson, of Baumaris mine, was utilised to construct fire breaks around other cottages which the fire was approaching.
Judging by signs of smoke, there was a possibility of the fire flaring up again towards Ben Bullen, but the fire on the hill adjacent to the Mudgee-road had burned itself out.
Police expressed appreciation of the assistance given by more than 35 volunteers.
Four letters dealing with permit officers were before yesterday’s meeting of Bathurst P.P. Board.
The Department of Agriculture advised that Mr. J. W. Richardson, of William Street, Bathurst, has been appointed a permit officer. Mr. J. Dorner, of Newnes via Lidsdale, resigned.
He said he was about to leave the district. He added that Webb Bros., three miles from his locality, issued permits.
Mr. J . T. Hunter; of “Glenrock,” Rydal asked to be appointed a permit officer. This will be recommended by the Board.
Constable L. A. Cole of Cullen Bullen declined the office.
Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 – 1954),
Monday 7 July 1947, page 9
SEEKING FURTHER MEDICAL ATTENTION
Constable L. COLE, of Capertee who was recently severely injured when he sustained a fall from a motor bike has left Portland hospital and gone to Sydney for further treatment. It is expected that it will be some time before he will be able to resume duty.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Passed away surrounded by loving family on Saturday, 30th December 2023. Beloved husband of Tish. Dearly loved father of Karly and Glen. Cherished Opa of Ruby. Much loved brother of Raymond (dec), Lynne, and Wendie. Allan will be sadly missed by his loving family and many dear friends.
Aged 68 years
We will miss your smiling face, a special person no one can replace
Alan Baker
Aloha… my old friend
Michele Woods
I have fond memories of Al from Parra… then experienced his kindness at Xavier.
RIP
Lachlan O’Donohoe
Likewise I have memories of Al at Parra and experienced his compassion and willingness to be there for many people who were not at their best and needed a familiar face to chat! May he rest in peace.
Glen Bennett
Al was truly unique man in every way. A true gentleman, an incredible Police officer, a loving family man, a person who unselfishly gave so much to the broader community in the Hawkesbury. Although Alan’s passing leaves so many of us with a heavy heart, I personally feel blessed to have shared part of his life. RIP mate.
Madonna Collis
Al was such a beautiful man and a great Detective. He had a sense of grace and ‘coolness’ about him that I so admired, Sad times – sincere condolences to family ????????????
Ron Viles
Such a kind man a privilege to know sadly missed RIP my friend
Matt Brodin
Al was a great , kind , very compassionate man. I will miss our chats.
R.I.P Mate.. ????????
Jonathan Cornelius
It was my great privilege to know and work with Al. A great friend and mentor who taught me so much. Rest easy Al.
Tish
Thank you to all for the beautiful, heartfelt comments.
From the Duncan family ????
Olli O’Keeffe
Gone too soon Al. Such a dedicated and talented Detective and a mentor to so many young Police. I loved working with you at Granville and Parramatta. You were such great company and respected by all. Deepest condolences to your family and loved ones.
JEFFREY MOORE
Rest in peace Allan, I meet you at Bowen Mountain on many occasions with melissa gods own ???? country, bye mate
Greg Callander
https://police.freom.com/allan-duncan/
May Allan DUNCAN ( NSWPF # 18922 from Redfern Police Academy Class 165 ) who Served the people of NSW from 24 September 1979 – ?, Forever Rest In Peace.
Reputed to be one of the “driving forces of the Windsor Blue Light disco …”
Class 165B – 10 December 1979
* Story behind any Nickname: Dunko – play on surname.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
* Story behind any Nickname: Big Gordy – “hands the size of Legs of Ham”
Some of Class 129 – 13 December 1971. These members have Not been identified in this photo as yet ( 2024 )
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
The News paper items I attributed to Lionel John Alexander COLE were to the incorrect Lionel COLE – so those articles, which were here, have now been withdrawn and attributed to Lionel COLE who was Stationed at Capertee & Cullen Bullen and whom Retired H.O.D. c1959.
Those incorrect attributes were picked up by Gordon Weaver, NSWPF # 8167 for me.
* Story behind any Nickname:
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Passed away peacefully on Saturday, 23rd December 2023.
Beloved wife of the late Ron.
Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Terri and Tony, Brett and Toula.
Cherished Nan of Kiah, Jesse and Natalia, Erin and Tommy, Tyron and Brie and
great Nan of Jordan, Remie, and Valentina.
Aud will be sadly missed by her loving family and many dear friends.
Aged 84 Years
Forever in our Hearts
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Aud’s funeral service to be held at H. Parsons Funeral Home, 10 Woolworths Avenue Warilla on Tuesday, 9th January 2024 at 12noon.
Audrey FOSTER & Ron FOSTER – Friday 6 September 1985 – Warilla Police Social at Berrima Wool Shed, Berrima, NSW
THURSDAY 8 SEPTEMBER 2016 LAKE ILLAWARRA RETIRED POLICE DAY. 45 people turned out to Lake Illawarra ( Oak Flats ) Police Station at 10am today for the Retired Police Day. 15 National Police Service Medals were awarded to various Police who live in and / or worked in the Lake Illawarra Area Command. These awards were presented by the current LA Commander, Zoran Dzevlan. Sgt Scott ABBOTT & Audrey FOSTER – Widow of Ron.
* Story behind any Nickname: Play on Christian name
You were a bloody good woman Audrey and it is sad to see you gone. May you now forever Rest In Peace together with Ron.
Cal
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Information would be appreciated with the Final Rank and Retirement date
Final Rank: = ?
Stations: ?, Moss Vale ( Inspector )( 1981 ),
Time employed ( Paid ) with NSW Police: From: 26 May 1947 to ? ? ? = ? years,
Service ( From Training Date ) period: From 26 May 1946to? ? ? = ? years, Service
Retirement / Leaving age: = ?
Time in Retirement from Police: ?
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours system for any other National or State Award.
Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct ( Imperial ) – granted 20 February 1973 ( Det Sgt 2/c )( in company of SenCon Robert John McNAMARA ) ( Apprehend an armed man )
Scenes at the siege in Hastings Parade, Bondi today.A detective with a rifle at the scene of the siege, Det. Sgt. Herb Talarico.
Detective Sgt. H. Talarico and Det. Adrian Allingham are flying to Melbourne this morning with the bomb found at Sydney Airport.
September 11, 1969.
( Photo by Noel Harold Stubbs / Fairfax Media via Getty Images ).
Born: Wednesday 23 July 1924 in Hornsby, NSW
Died on: 1 October 2003 in Tuggerah Lakes, NSW
Age: 79 years, 2 months, 8 days
Organ Donor: Y / N / ?
Cause: ?
Event location: ?
Event / Diagnosis date: ?
Funeral date: ? October 2003
Funeral location: ?
LIVE STREAM ( N/A )
Wake location: ???
Wake date: ???
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?
Grave Location: Section: Row: ?Plot: ?
Grave GPS: ?, ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( December 2023 )
HERB is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Betty died on 6 March 2014 and her funeral was 13 March 2014.
They Married in 1924. Margaret was 19 old at time of Marriage.
An Australian Business Number ( ABN ) lookup reveals ABN 50 631 626 936 which appeared to be valid from September 2000 to 1 October 2003 when it was Cancelled.
An Ancestry.com.au search shows that Herbert died sometime in 2003.
02/10/2003: Herb Talarico passed away last night. Tuggerah Lakes Memorial Pistol Club, It’s committee and members express condolences to Herb’s family. Herb will be sorely missed.
Article, Article/Other article – The Sydney Morning Herald (Sydney, Australia) – 2012
… of an eastern suburbs break-and-enter investigation led by the late and famous detective Herb … Talarico, who was involved in the arrest of the infamous bank robber and prison escapee Darcy Dugan. Mr …
Article, Article/Other article – The Sydney Morning Herald (Sydney, Australia) – 2012
… of an eastern suburbs break and enter investigation lead by the legendary late detective Herb … Talarico, who was involved in the arrest of the Qantas bomb hoax extortionist Peter Macari and the infamous …
Access conditions apply
I am unable to access the above links.
From the Archives, 1969: Bondi siege ends peacefully
50 years ago, an armed man barricaded himself in a block of flats in Hastings Parade, Bondi. For Detective-Constable John Tracey, 24, it was a day to remember.
By Staff reporter
First published in the Sydney Morning Herald on September 10, 1969
For 30 minutes yesterday a Bondi detective sat on a garden fence with the barrel of a loaded, high-powered rifle pointed at him.
And talked, and talked.
Passers-by shelter behind fences near the scene of the siege in Hastings Parade, Bondi on September 9, 1969Credit: Laurie Shea
And while he talked, all available police from the Eastern Suburbs, the Riot and Emergency Squads, armed with revolvers, rifles, shotguns, tear-gas and bullet proof shields, arrived to help him.
They surrounded a block of flats in Hastings Parade, Bondi, in which an armed man had barricaded himself and refused to come out.
For Detective-Constable John Tracey ( NSWPF # 11404 ), 24, it was a day to remember.
The man had fired one bullet through the front door of the ground floor flat and later fired four others into the garden.
Detective Tracey sat only eight feet away, the barrel of the .22 Magnum pointed at him.
So Detective Tracey talked. He asked the man what his troubles were, keeping him occupied until the other police arrived.
Police run forward to grab the rifle which had been dropped from the window by a man. September 9, 1969. Credit: Laurie Shea
After a siege that lasted 1 ½ hours the man was finally persuaded to drop the rifle, and was captured without police firing a shot.
The drama began at about 11.45 a.m. yesterday when Detective Tracey and Detective Robert Campbell, both of Bondi, were called to the flat.
As the two detectives approached the flat door, a man pointed a rifle over a windowsill.
It was then that Detective Tracey began talking. He lit a cigarette and gradually eased himself on to the sandstone garden fence.
The Riot and Emergency Squad men stayed at a distance, their weapons out of sight.
The man’s girl friend was brought to the scene and she spoke to him from the veranda of a nearby house.
Police spoke to him through a loud-hailer, urging him to give himself up.
About 1 o’clock the man seemed ready to do so.
Holding the rifle by the barrel, he pushed it through the open window.
Then, abruptly, he dragged it in again and fired four shots into the front garden.
A small crowd of sightseers at both ends of Hastings Parade retreated.
Then, at 1.16 p.m., the man dropped the rifle into the garden.
As he did so, a detective grabbed his wrist, while Detective-Sergeant R. Phillips( NSWPF # 7413 ) and Detective-Constables Nelson Chad( NSWPF # 8675 ) and D. Mussey ( possibly D.A. Mussing – NSWPF # 11476 )( No Mussey in 1968 – 1969 Stud Books ) rushed into the flat and overpowered him.
A man being carried by police from the scene of the siege on September 9, 1969. Credit: Laurie Shea
A 24-year-old man was later charged at Paddington police station with unlawfully discharging a firearm in a public street and with wilful damage to a flat door. He will appear in Paddington Court of Petty Sessions today.
Police riddle of who owns painting with a colourful past
By Rachel Olding
IT IS an enigmatic depiction of a voluptuous woman being tempted by a devilish satyr, but this steamy painting may turn into one of the police force’s coldest cases.
Woman with Satyr, a nude by Norman Lindsay, was discovered in 2010 gathering dust in the vaults of the Art Gallery of NSW, with scant details of its origin and date.
Woman with Satyr.
The oil painting had been lent to the gallery by the police in 1980, yet neither they nor the gallery had any records as to how it came to be in their possession.
After hitting several dead ends, the police’s search for the painting’s owner has taken a new twist with much of the artwork’s colourful past coming to light.
However, its owner may remain an enduring mystery, said the detective in charge of Operation Matisse, Tim Axtens ( NSWPF # 37860 ).
He has discovered that Woman with Satyr was taken to the Art Gallery of NSW by an exhibit officer from the former Criminal Investigation Bureau who was responsible for securing all seized drugs, firearms and valuable property in a vault beneath an old hat factory in Surry Hills.
Former Police Sergeant, Peter Chilton ( NSWPF # 07879 ) is now living at Mylestom. A former police officer now living at Mylestom has solved the mystery of how a Norman Lindsay nude painting, Woman with Satyr came to be in the Art Gallery of NSW. But the owner of the painting remains a mystery.
Peter Chilton, now 81 and living in Bellingen on the state’s north coast, said he stored the painting with the heroin and cannabis as it struck him as being unusual and very valuable.
He believes it was seized as part of an eastern suburbs break and enter investigation lead by the legendary late detective Herb Talarico, who was involved in the arrest of the Qantas bomb hoax extortionist Peter Macari and the infamous bank robber and prison escape artist Darcy Dugan.
In 1980, the Surry Hills basement became infected with tobacco beetle and Mr Chilton had it sprayed with chlordane. Worried that the painting would be damaged, he obtained authority to transfer it to the art gallery ”for safe keeping”.
”The gallery didn’t even know it existed, they were very happy to take it,” he said. ”I expected that the police would carry on with their investigations to find the owner.”
From there, however, the painting quietly slipped between the cracks. The CIB disbanded, Detective Talarico was transferred out of Sydney, detectives either had no breakthroughs or forgot about its existence and the sensual nude went unloved for more than 30 years.
It was not until August 2010 that the gallery called the police to question the length of the loan, sparking a police investigation to not only determine how it came to be at the gallery but also return it to its rightful owner.
An inscription on the back of the painting reads ”A. Jewell/ Burraburra Ave/ Vaucluse/ f.u. 2962”. The code is an old telephone number for the Rose Bay exchange pre-World War II and Vaucluse post-World War II.
Albert Jewell was an avid and wealthy art collector who died in 1963. A surviving son in Tasmania, however, told police he believed his father was no longer in possession of the painting when it was seized in 1980 and may have even sold it before his death in 1963.
”That 17 years is an enormous gap to fill,” senior constable Axtens said. ”We’ve still got a few lines of inquiry but it may be very difficult to find the owner.”
Neither the Norman Lindsay Gallery and Museum nor Lindsay’s granddaughter, Helen Glad, an art historian, had come across the painting, which the Art Gallery of NSW said could fetch between $30,000 and $40,000 at auction.
Lindsay was a prolific artist, producing countless paintings, etchings, drawings, watercolours and sculptures until he died at 90, Ms Glad previously told the Herald.
”If it was an early work it could have been posed by my grandma Rose,” she said. ”But in the ’30s he used any number of models.”
If the painting’s owner can’t be found, senior constable Axtens would like it to be donated to a gallery for the public to enjoy.
Mr Chilton would like to see it donated to the Norman Lindsay Gallery and Museum at Faulconbridge.
”I had always hoped it would have gone there,” he said.
Foster parents … Linda Elliott and Stephen Payne with the Norman Lindsay painting they will exhibit at Wagga Wagga for the next 12 months.Credit: Addison Hamilton
HER owners will remain a mystery but at least she finally has a home – the first of a series of homes, actually.
A two-year search for the owners of a mysterious Norman Lindsay artwork has ended with few answers but the voluptuous nude will have a new home for the next 12 months on the walls of the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery.
Woman with Satyr was discovered gathering dust in the vaults of the Art Gallery of NSW in 2010, having been lent to the gallery by the police force in 1980.
With scant details about its origin and date and no record of how the police force came to possess it, or why it was in the gallery’s basement, detectives set about solving the decades-long cold case.
Along the way, much of the oil painting’s colourful past came to light, yet police say they will never know its true owner.
It was taken to the Art Gallery of NSW in 1980 by an exhibit officer from the former Criminal Investigation Bureau who was responsible for securing all seized drugs, firearms and valuable property in a vault beneath an old hat factory in Surry Hills.
Peter Chilton, now 81 and living in Bellingen on the state’s north coast, said he stored the painting with the heroin and cannabis as it struck him as being unusual and very valuable.
He believes it was seized as part of an eastern suburbs break-and-enter investigation led by the late and famous detective Herb Talarico, who was involved in the arrest of the infamous bank robber and prison escapee Darcy Dugan.
Mr Chilton moved the painting to the gallery to protect it from a tobacco beetle infestation but it was then forgotten about for 30 years.
Detective Tim Axtens spoke to relatives of the late Albert Jewell, a Vaucluse art collector whose name was inscribed on the back of the painting, but it is believed he sold the painting before he died in 1963.
Unable to track down any other owners, police have decided to lend the artwork to NSW galleries for 12-month stints.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Saturday 24 June 1989, page 1
Is there something to hide?
VERY senior NSW and federal police have something to hide from an impartial inquiry into police involvement in cannabis plantations in the Bungendore area and the Federal Government knows this, according to NSW Independent MP John Hatton.
For several years, Mr Hatton has been quizzing the NSW Government about the plantations, and recently called for the establishment of a Royal commission.
He has also suggested that “untainted” Victorian police be invited to investigate NSW and Federal Police involvement in up to 14 separate cannabis plantations in southern NSW.
The AFP is not impressed with Mr Hatton’s suggestions that it has some thing to hide. While senior officers might privately admit their embarrassment over the Bungendore affair, they deny strongly any suggestion of illegality on their part. They point out, correctly, that their role was investigated by former National Crime Authority Chief Justice Donald Stewart and that their members were cleared of any criminality.
Again privately, senior AFP officers suggest they were duped by their NSW colleagues. They say they got involved in Operation Seville — the code name for the Bungendore plantations exercise — with the best of honourable intentions: to catch some of the Mr Bigs. They say they were entitled to accept that their interstate colleagues were on the level. If anyone had something to hide, it was the NSW Police.
The Bungendore plantations were established on private and Crown land between 1980 and 1983. Their existence and operation were sanctioned by senior members of the AFP and the NSW Police. The operation was dubbed Operation Seville.
Activities on the plantations — which saw millions of dollars of cannabis harvested and sold — ultimately led to several men being charged last year with conspiracy to supply cannabis. Four of the men were committed for trial, but the NSW authorities have since decided not to proceed with the charges because of the unreliability of the chief prosecution witness, Giuseppe Verducci. One of two Bungendore
crops was grown on Verducci’s property, Montebello. The other was on Crown land nearby.
Operation Seville turned into a monumental embarrassment for both police forces because cannabis worth millions of dollars came to be harvested and sold, despite the close watch police were meant to be keeping on activities. Some have since suggested that this occurred in spite of police involvement.
The whole purpose of the exercise was to catch the major players in the financing, distribution and selling side of organised cannabis growing. However, not one person of this type was arrested at the time. As mentioned above, several of those involved — including three men said to be important organisers — were charged last year by the NCA, but the charges against them have either been dismissed or dropped.
The AFP is quick to point out that Operation Seville had one very important outcome: the arrest of Gianfranco Tizzoni.
Police informer
Tizzoni was arrested with two other men in 1982 by Victorian police. One of the vehicles the men were travelling in to Melbourne was found to contain a large quantity of Bungendore cannabis. Tizzoni subsequently became a police informer. This led to the jailing of himself, James Bazley and George Joseph over the murder of Donald Mackay and of Bazley and Joseph over the murder of Mr Asia syndicate members Douglas and Isobel Wilson.
While the arrest of Tizzoni was a major breakthrough, the NSW and Federal police can take little credit for it. An AFP tip-off enabled the Victorians to arrest Tizzoni, but everything which followed was due to the efforts of the Victorian police. No one knew at the time what Tizzoni’s arrest would lead to.
According to Mr Hatton, police were also “associated” with several other cannabis crops during the late 1970s and early 1980s. These included: one in the Brindabellas ( in the ACT, west of Canberra ); another two
in the Bungendore area; three at Dalton ( near Gunning ); one at East Lynne ( west of Durras, on the South Coast ); one west of Eden ( on the far South Coast ); one at Michelago ( south of Canberra ); two in the Monga State Forest ( near Braidwood ); and one at Hoskinstown ( between Queanbeyan and Captains Flat ). Mr Hatton referred to only one plantation in the Brindabellas, but there were two.
Mr Hatton said he had given the National Crime Authority information about police involvement in southern NSW cannabis plantations two years ago but the NCA had not acted on it. He had also referred potential witnesses to the NCA.
Neither the NCA, because of its past record, nor the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption, which was limited by state borders, could properly investigate the matter.
Both the Prime Minister, Bob Hawke, and the Minister for Justice, Senator Michael Tate, had rejected calls for a Royal commission. Mr Hatton wondered if the Government simply wanted to save the AFP from embarrassment or had some other reason for not wishing to pursue the matter.
Mr Hatton thought the involvement of corrupt police in cannabis growing could be proved, but nothing had been really done to investigate this. This was because too many senior police would be seriously embarrassed by the outcome.
On May 11, Mr Hatton placed a long list of questions on the notice paper of the NSW Parliament about cannabis plantations in southern NSW. Among other things, he has asked the Attorney-General, John Dowd, to detail the number of plantations observed by NSW police during Operation Seville and the duration of the operation. He wants to know the names of all police involved in the operation and whether any have been “charged” with incompetence because of their involvement.
Mr Hatton has also asked for details of all crops grown on the Southern Tablelands and South Coast between 1980 and 1985, including the size and value of crops, the amounts harvested
or “ripped of” during police surveillance, and whether any arrests were made. He wants to know who authorised the growing of the crops, what legal advice was obtained beforehand and who within the AFP and NCA knew about them.
None of the questions has so far been answered.
On May 14, Mr Hatton moved in State Parliament that a Royal Commission be established to investigate the growing of cannabis in the Monga State Forest and at Michelago and Bungendore. Among other things, he said the commission should investigate whether cannabis had been harvested and marketed from crops in the Bungendore area while these had been under surveillance.
Long report
Mr Hatton said the Royal Commission should investigate the roles played in these matters by the late Detective Inspector Bill Cullen ( formerly of Queanbeyan and Goulburn ), Detective-Sergeant George Slade, of the NSW Bureau of Criminal Intelligence, Superintendent Reg Martin, Superintendent Herbert Talarico, Executive Chief Superintendent Gallagher, Assistant Commissioner Bob Shepherd and former Commissioner Cec Abbott.
Messrs Cullen, Slade, Shepherd and Abbott were mentioned in evidence during the Bungendore committal hearing in February and March. Cullen — who died in Gosford last month — was the senior detective at Queanbeyan at the time of Operation Seville. He was closely involved with NSW Bureau of Criminal Intelligence officers taking part in the operation.
An NCA officer, Detective-Sergeant Robin Small, told the Queanbeyan Local Court that Commissioner Abbott, Assistant Commissioner Shepherd, and Detective Sergeant Slade were aware of the operation. Sergeant Slade, in fact, prepared a lengthy report on Operation Seville and this was tendered during the hearing. He is currently facing criminal charges unrelated to Operation Seville:
An application was made by defence counsel before Mr Justice Kerr and an ACT Supreme Court jury yesterday for the transcript of evidence of a Crown witness who could not be found to be tendered to the court.
The application was made in the case in which Nikola Talanga, 41, diamond driller, of Gibbes Street, Newtown, NSW, is standing trial on a charge of having feloniously and maliciously murdered Sofia Malovic in Canberra on September 28, 1968.
Mr K. Enderby, instructed by Mr M. Somes, of Gallen, Kelly and Dainer, for Talanga, said he consented to the transcript of evidence given before Canberra Petty Sessions by Antoni Eres being tendered. The transcript should be tendered by the Crown, as the evidence of Eres was not unimportant to the defence.
The Senior Crown Prosecutor, Mr A. R. Watson, said he declined to tender the transcript. Before February 24 the defence had been told that the Crown would not be calling Eres at the trial because he could not be found.
Even if Eres were present the Crown would not call him because his evidence did not advance the case any further.
Mr Justice Kerr said he would not make any observations at that stage, but suggested that if Mr Enderby wished to take the request further he could do so when the Crown case ended.
Earlier, Mr Watson tendered a transcript of evidence given before Canberra Petty Sessions by George Mestitz, who was absent from the Commonwealth.
Mr Enderby consented to the tender of this transcript, which was read out in court.
Rama Hadzic, of Minerva Road, Wedderburn, NSW, said that on the night of September 29 Talanga had come to his house.
When asked by Talanga if he had heard about what had happened in Canberra, he had said he had heard about it over the radio.
When he asked Talanga why he had done it, he had replied that he did not know. Talanga had said he had found Sofia after eight months.
Talanga had said that when he asked her to come out of the shop and talk things over she had refused.
Talanga alleged that Sofia had insulted him, so he had shot her.
Hadzic said that while Talanga was staying with him he (Talanga) could not sleep. He would wake up and jump out of bed and cry. He had threatened to kill himself.
Two wounds in head
Detective Constable John Radalj ( 09566 ), of the NSW Police, said that on October 6 he was with a group of ACT and NSW police who surrounded a house at Wedderburn.
After a gunshot had been heard from the house Detective Sergeant Herbert Talarico had rushed inside.
Constable Radalj said he also had entered the house and had seen Talanga lying on the floor, with two wounds in the head.
Constable Radalj said he had asked Talanga in the Yugoslav language if he had shot and killed Sofia Malovie in Canberra on September 28.
Talanga had replied, “Yes”.
When asked why, Talanga had said, “Because she did not want me”.
Detective Sergeant M. J. Robinson, of the Canberra CIB, said that Talanga had been extradited to Canberra from Sydney on November 7, 1968.
When being brought back to Canberra by car, after being warned by Detective Constable H. G. Harrison, of the Canberra CIB, Talanga had said that he had shot the woman a couple of times inside the shop and shot her again outside.
He had wanted her to come back and live with him. When she spat on him he had become angry and shot her.
Detective Sergeant Colin Victor Letherbarrow ( # 6383 ), of the scientific investigation bureau, Sydney, said that an examination of six fired cartridges revealed that they had been discharged from the rifle produced in court. A cartridge case recovered from a house at Wedderburn had been discharged from the same rifle.
SYDNEY, Friday. A man was fined £100 and had his licence suspended for 10 years by Mr. Meagher, S.M., in North Sydney Court to-day for driving a car while under the influence of liquor.
The man, Alfred de Visne Cornwell, 48, insurance broker, of Pacific Highway, Pymble, had prior driving convictions.
He pleaded “Not guilty” to driving under the influence at Gordon on July 1.
Constable Herbert Talarico said he followed Cornwell along the Pacific Highway at Killara. His car was swaying from side to side. Cornwell’s speech was thick and he smelt strongly of liquor.
Frederick Harold Morris, building contractor, of Kippax-street, Sydney, who was in the car with Cornwell, said Cornwell was not in a condition to drive.
Morris said he (Morris) drove the car until stopped near Gordon Council Chambers by Constable Talarico.
Mr. Meagher said he was satisfied that Constable Talarico was an honest witness.
“Cornwell, according to his own story, was badly under the influence of liquor,” the magistrate added.
SYDNEY, Thurs — A 20-year-old probationary constable, with only two months’ service, knocked out with the butt of his revolver a man who allegedly threatened him with an iron bar.
The constable, Herbert Talarico, saw a man acting suspiciously near the Eastwood post office about 2 a.m. yesterday.
Realising he had been seen, the man allegedly threw a stone on the roof of the post office to warn his mate inside and made off.
When Constable Talarico over took the man, he turned and brandished a piece of iron.
But Constable Talarico knocked him out with the butt of his revolver.
Police searched the Eastwood post office, and found a charge of gelignite plugged in the safe key hole, ready to be blown.
Then followed dashes to suburbs by the wireless patrol, culminating at 8 a.m. with a visit to a shop in Prince’s Highway, Tempe.
Police alleged that as they entered the shop a man thrust his hand, in his pocket, but was over powered and handcuffed. A fully-loaded revolver, was allegedly found in his pocket.
As a result of the night’s work, detectives believe they have put an end to a cycle of safe-blowing in the northern suburbs.
Mr. Barry Gulliver says he finds singing in Grand Opera uplifting after his rather sordid work.
In the daytime Mr. Gulliver works for the Taxation Department, investigating charges of dishonesty made in anonymous letters.
At night Mr. Gulliver is one of the chorus of demons in “Faust,” at the Conservatorium.
The demons sing hideous songs which drive Marguerita to madness and to killing her child.
We met Mr. Gulliver back stage at the Conservatorium this week during the opening scene of “Faust,” in which Mephistopheles tempts Faust.
Mr. Gulliver told us about his work as an investigator of anonymous letters, which the Federal Treasurer (Mr. Chifley) considers desirable.
He said that a lot of the people he had to interview in the course of his duties were rude. Some made use of the word “pimp.” Others used stronger language than this.
At this point there was a blinding flash as Mephistopheles leaped on to the stage. As Faust, the aged philosopher, was selling his immortal soul to Mephistopheles, Mr. Gulliver continued his narrative.
MR- GULLIVER said you would be surprised at the amount of deception and dishonesty that goes on in New South Wales.
Just then Mr. Curt Prerauer, the chorus-master, walked past to conduct the chorus of angels In his inner pocket Mr. Prerauer carries during the performance numerous watches and much jewellery and money which members of the chorus of angels leave with him so they won’t be stolen.
Mr. Gulliver says that when he was investigating some anonymous taxation letters at Wingham, near Taree, in 1938, a young woman was impressed with his voice and advised him to take up singing. He did so, and soon he was singing at church concerts at Wingham. “Opera is a wholesome change from investigating dishonesty,” he said.
At this stage Mephistopheles drew from a stage barrel water which the audience was led to believe was wine. Mr. Gulliver says that you meet interesting and ambitious people in opera companies.
ONE of the people Mr. Gulliver has met in the chorus is Mr. Herbert Talarico, Wahroonga barber.
Mr. Talarico‘s singing name is Lawrence Morrell.
Mr. Talarico is interested in the career of Mr. Joseph Schepsi, Melbourne’s singing barber, who charges £4/4/ for the Schepsi permanent wave and £4/4/ for a seat at his concerts.
Mr. Talarico charges only 1/6 for haircuts and receives the award rate of £5/7/ a week for his work in the opera chorus.
He says Schepsi must be a very interesting man. He would like to have a talk with him.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Scenes at the siege in Hastings Parade, Bondi today.A detective with a rifle at the scene of the siege, Det. Sgt. Herb Talarico.
Alan Baker