Adored and loving father of Christopher and Chantelle and their partners. Cherished son of Gordon (dec) and Nancye.
Dearly loved brother and brother-in-law of Melinda and Brett.
Much loved uncle, nephew, cousin and friend to all he met.
Relatives and Friends of DAVID (MARK) are warmly invited to attend the Celebration of his Life at Christ Church Cathedral, Church St, Newcastle this FRIDAY 30th November 2018 commencing at 10:30am.
April 5, 2019
Jane Walkom
December 10, 2018
An amazing human being. So kind, caring and thoughtful.. we are all at a loss.
You were always so selfless and always looked out for me. You believed in me. The memories you left behind will be treasured forever.
We will miss you Dave. You will never be forgotten. A hero in your own right!!
Xx
Anne Harrison,
St Marys, New South Wales
November 26, 2018
A legend of the community. He was a wonderful man who lifted people. His attitude was very contagious. A massive supporter of our event. After meeting him, you could never forget him.
November 26, 2018
Liann Taffe,
ADAMSTOWN, New South Wales
November 24, 2018
Sad news. MRk was always cheerful and outgoing and he loved his music. His kids went to school with mine and we had some funny conversations. Sorry to hear this news. Condolences to Chantelle and Chris.
Col ColmanThank you Noel Golledge for your fine and dedicated Service to your Community, and to the New a South Wales Police Force. You really did make a difference.
Special thank you for your assistance in assisting the Police Academy in supporting the production of the Police training film In the early 1980’s ” Fatal Accident Investigation” within the Penrith District. and also arranging a training week at Penrith Police Station for Academy Trainees during a week long train strike, with the assistance of Sergeant Tom Tilbrook.
Thank you Sir for your interest in the Training of young Police. Rest in Peace.
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Friday 24 January 1958 (No.11), page 145
THE undermentioned member of the Police Force to exercise, within the Licensing District preceding his name, the authority conferred by section 63, subsection 1, of the Liquor Act, 1912 1954, from the date specified, viz.:—
Young.— Constable 1st Class Noel Godfrey Golledge, stationed at Harden, vice Senior Constable John Richard Cavanagh,— from 18th December, 1957.
There is mention that Noel wore an Army Combat Badge above his ribbons on his Police Uniform. The only possible reference I can find, at this time, is: On the WWII Roll – there is a Godfrey Noel GOLLEDGE, born 2 April 1924, who enlisted in the Army ( NX190850 (N440328)) on 7 May 1942 at Walcha, NSW and was Discharged on 7 March 1947. He nominated his NOK as Edward GOLLEDGE.
Did Noel lie about his age to join the Army? If so, he would of only have been 14 at the time.
The above Family Tree link shows that Noel Godfrey GOLLEDGE was one of 9 children to Edwin GOLLEDGE, Born & Died in Walcha, NSW. B: 1886 D: 1960 and wife Mary Isobel KEIGHTLEY Born & Died in Walcha, NSW. B: 1893 D: 1959.
GOLLEDGE, Noel Godfrey
Passed away 23rd July 2019
Husband of Teresa (dec) and Jo (dec).
Loved father and father-in-law of Ian & Aldene, Bruce & Lyn, Ross & Audrey, Janet & Glen.
Devoted Grandfather and Great grandfather.
Aged 93 years.
SMITH & RINKIN (FDA of NSW)
Accredited Funeral Directors (Bruce Smith JP Manager)
57 Murray Street Cootamundra Ph: 02 6942 1028
July 31, 2019
Treasure of a man to our society. Treasured by all who encountered him. A leader beyond his time; Noel was a gentleman and a gentle man whose kindness, devotion and love could never be surpassed. We all love you Uncle Noel and always will.
Carmel redrup (Garry), DALBY, Queensland
Published in The Northern Daily Leader on July 26, 2019
Jack Kenneth Thomas BRACKEN
| 12/08/2019
Jack Kenneth Thomas BRACKEN
AKA ?
Late of Cessnock Formerly of Kurri Kurri and The Central Coast
NSW Police Training Centre – Redfern Class # ? ?
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 9005
Uniform # 1546
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 3 March 1958
Constable 1st Class – appointed 3 March 1964 ( Seniority date = 3 June 1964 )
Senior Constable – appointed 1 July 1968
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 29 March 1974
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Sergeant 2nd Class
Stations: ?, Regent St ( 2 Division late 60s early 70s ), City Markets Police Station, Parramatta ( 18 Division ),
Service: From? ? pre March 1958?to? ? ? = ? years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted22 August 1980 ( Sgt 3/C )
Born: Saturday 4 March 1944
Died on: Sunday 28 July 2019
Age: 85
Cause: ?
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Monday 5 August 2019 @ 11am
Funeral location: St Patricks Church, Wine Country Rd, Nulkaba, NSW
Wake location: ?
Funeral Parlour: C. R. SMYTH & SON, 4990 1425
Buried at: ?
Memorial located at: ?
JACK 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.
Late of Cessnock Formerly of Kurri Kurri and The Central Coast
Beloved husband of YVONNE.
A loved father, Step father, father-in-law, grandfather and great grandfather.
Family and Friends of JACK are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service in the Chapel of St. Patrick’s of Nulkaba this MONDAY, 05.08.2019 at 11:00am.
My dad. Wish I had updated photos on my telephone but I don’t.
My dad had three jobs to put us six kids through private school.
Police officers were not allowed to have a second job in the old days. Still, Dad drove trucks and laid cement on the side.
With three jobs he still always seemed to have the time to take us to our horse shows, picnics on the beach and just being there, being a dad in general to us.
Miss my dad every day. Happy Father’s Day Dad.
September 1955: Eileen Patrician WILSON, a Constable with the School Lecturing Section at Darlinghurst married Cecil Alfred Shaw, a Constable and member of 22 Division, Liverpool.
They married at St. Patricks Catholic Church, Parramatta.
( Source: Liverpool Police History – 1788 – 2016 )
Simon Graham DARKE
| 12/08/2019
Simon Graham DARKE
AKA ?
Late of Caitlin Court Midway Point, Tasmania
Tasmania Police Academy Class #? ? ?
Tasmania Police Force
Regd. # ?????
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Constable
Stations: ?, Southern Road and Public Order Services
Service: From? ? 2009?to6 February 2019 = 10 years Service
Awards: No find on Australian Honours
Born: ? ? ?
Died between: ( between Tuesday 5 Feb 2019 & ) Wednesday 6 February 2019
Age: 45
Cause: Depression – Suicide – ( Method ? )
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Friday 15 February 2019 @ 3pm
Funeral location: Turnbull Funerals, 71 Letitia St, North Hobart, Tasmania
Coroner urges six-monthly welfare checks after inquest into four police suicide deaths
Posted
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.”
The former partner of a Tasmanian police officer who died by suicide has told an inquest that he became fixated on jobs which involved suicide — but that he never sought help for his own mental health.
The coronial inquest is examining the death of Constable Simon Darke and the deaths of three other police officers between 2016 and 2020.
Kimberly Freeman told the court that while Constable Darke loved being a police officer, he started to become obsessed with the jobs he attended that involved death by suicide, and she had concerns about him being in possession of a weapon.
Ms Freeman said Constable Darke‘s mental status changed in the months leading up to his death in 2019.
The inquest also heard Constable Darke had worked 23 hours of overtime over three consecutive days whilst he was involved in the emergency response during the 2019 bushfires in the Huon Valley, south of Hobart.
“He told me he had been working long days so there is no doubt in my mind that he was extremely overtired,” Ms Freeman said.
“He picked up as much overtime and shifts as he could and mentioned several times that he didn’t have enough money.”
Darke ‘copped a lot of abuse’ during fire evacuations
Constable Darke‘s father Graham told the court that while he knew his son had problems with some relationships, the long hours during the 2019 bushfires and run of night shifts at a Hobart police station became too much for the 45-year-old.
“My son mentioned he had copped a lot of abuse when he asked people to leave their homes during the fires, he then went onto night shift by himself which in hindsight wasn’t appropriate,” Mr Darke said.
Another ex-partner, Shanna Sweeney, told the inquest she contacted police after Constable Darke threatened suicide in 2011 but did not believe her concerns were taken seriously.
Ms Sweeney told the court that it took a lot for her to speak up because she did not want Constable Darke to get into trouble at work, and was concerned he could be punished if he was seen as being vulnerable.
She said it was common knowledge among Tasmanian police officers that Constable Darke had threatened self-harm, even though he personally denied it.
“There was a perception he would be judged if he got help,” she said.
Ms Sweeney told the inquest Constable Darke did not really talk about his work unless it was “funny“, and never identified a particular event that would have caused him trauma.
The inquest continues.
Key points:
The inquest heard Constable Simon Darke had worked 23 hours of overtime over three consecutive days during the bushfire response in 2019
Ex-partner Shanna Sweeney said she contacted police after Constable Darke threatened suicide in 2011 but did not believe her concerns were taken seriously
She said it was common knowledge among Tasmanian police officers that Constable Darke had threatened self-harm, even though he personally denied it
In memoriam: Constable Simon Graham Darke, Tasmania Police, died suddenly on 6th February 2019. He was 45 years old.
Constable Simon Darke served as a valued member of Tasmania Police for ten years, most recently with Southern Road and Public Order Services.
He was a talented artist, bicycle racer, a caring and kind police officer, adored dad, loving son and brother. A great man who was snatched from us too soon.
He answered the call, never hesitated to help people, and he will forever live through all whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace and intercede on our behalf.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his young family and friends. May care and love of those around you provide comfort to get you through the days and years ahead.
Gone from our sight but not from our hearts.
Simon, a great artist, also owned ‘Spider Signs’ although that business was de-registered on 3 November 2008.
DARKE Family and friends are invited to attend a service to celebrate the life of Simon Graham Darke To be held at: Turnbull Funerals Chapel 71 Letitia Street, North Hobart Friday, February 15, 2019 3.00pm
Special and adored dad and daddy of Cleo, Archie (dec), Hallie and Lacey.
Loved and loving son of Jan and Graham.
Most dearly loved brother, brother-in-law and uncle of Shelley and Mark Spong, Nathan and Tegan, Mitchell, Sophie, Campbell, Abbey and Ainsley; Emerson and Ava.
Loved grandson of Patty and Fred Kean and Bill and Ailie Darke (all dec).
Talented artist, signwriter, devoted policeman.
Sorely missed, we will always love you.
February 14, 2019
Angela Gillam, Geelong, Victoria
February 14, 2019
Condolences to Darke family.
In our thoughts at this time and for whenever you may need us
Colin & Jackie McKenzie,
Howden, Tasmania
February 14, 2019
From all of us, at Salvation Army Street Teams Hobart, we would like to send our deepest sympathies and love to Family & friends of Constable Simon Darke. We are deeply saddened by his passing and we are all blessed to have known Simon.
We will surely miss his friendly chats, sense of humour and assistance at Street Teams.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Mel Street Teams,
Hobart, Tasmania
February 14, 2019
Rip Simon. You were a great friend to our family and we are shocked and saddened by your passing.
Hopefully at peace now xx
Ange & Pete Gillam
Angela Gillam, BC
February 14, 2019
Much respected and loved friend of Ken and Beryl (dec) Rayner. Simon’s friendship and care over the years has been so very appreciated and we are devastated to learn of his passing. So young and such a kind soul. We will miss you Simon.
Ken Rayner, Lauderdale, Tasmania
February 13, 2019
Condolences to all of Simons family and friends.
Forever a part of the Police family. He will be sadly missed.
Karen Westell, Hobart
February 13, 2019
Another Hero taken too soon, may you rest in peace. Condolences to your family at this time of great hurt.
Ian Hobbs, Huonville
February 13, 2019
So sorry to hear of Simons passing, our love and thoughts are with family and friends at this sad time x
Alison Hulm,
Launceston
February 13, 2019
RIP condolences to family, friends and colleagues.
Alex Robertson
February 13, 2019
Wendy Scholes,
GRANTVILLE
February 13, 2019
RIP Blue Brother.
Sincere condolences to Simons family.
Chris Richardson,
St Helens, MO
February 13, 2019
Condolences to family, friends and workmates Serving and police veterans Australia wide are hurting and our collective thoughts are with you at this time. Simon will forever be part of the Thin Blue Line
Mick Cummins,
Geelong, Victoria
February 11, 2019
We are saddened by the sudden loss of our cousin Simon. He will be sadly missed by us from far away. Our prayers, blessings, and love to my family in Tasmania.
Love Phillip, Kris, and Noah Webb, Ohio USA.
Phillip Webb,
Washington Court House, OH
February 9, 2019
Simon was a wonderful friend and neighbour and will be sadly missed. Our condolences to all the family.
Jean & Dave Wallace
February 9, 2019
DARKE Simon, Constable
Simon served as a valued member of the Tasmania Police Service for 10 years, most recently with Southern Road and Public Order Services, and his loss is felt deeply across the agency. The Commissioner, Members and Employees of Tasmania Police are saddened by his passing and offer their deepest sympathy to his family and friends.
We salute the service of Senior Constable Ricky John Hilton, Queensland Police Service, who died suddenly on 12th February 2019. He was 54 years old.
On Tuesday, 12th February 2019, Australia lost a kind police officer, a father, husband and brother, and his leaving has left our world a poorer place. He leaves behind his loving wife and two sons.
His friends describe him as a kind, humble, compassionate and considerate man.
Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow.
Gone from our sight, but not from our hearts.
Family and friends of Ricky are invited to attend a service at Centenary Memorial Gardens Chapel, 353 Wacol Station Road, Sumner, on Wednesday, 20th February, at 11 a.m. To respect his family’s wishes, please donate to Queensland Police Legacy.
Here is Ricky John Hilton’s obituary. Please accept Everhere’s sincere condolences.
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Ricky John Hilton (Ballarat, Victoria), who passed away on February 12, 2019, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends can light a candle as a loving gesture for their loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Ricky John Hilton to show support.
He was loved and cherished by many people including : his spouse Maree; his children, Pierce and Edward; his parents, Max and Marian; his siblings, Nicole, Yvette and Danielle; his siblings-in-law, Scott, Stephen and Mary Anne; his nieces and nephews, Thomas, Louisa, Jack, Patrick, Samuel, Isabella, Caelan, Bridie and Riagan.
We are sad to announce that Barry Hall died peacefully on Saturday 22nd June 2019. A lawn bowls ‘tragic’ and friend to all, Barry was dearly loved by his partner, children, siblings, grandkids and friends.
The service will be held on Monday 1st July 2019 at Pinnaroo Lawn Cemetery and Crematorium, Graham Road, Bridgeman Downs, commencing at 10am. A celebration will follow at the Sandgate Bowls Club (Burnett Place, Sandgate) from 11.15am. We invite all those who knew him to join us for a game of barefoot bowls in honour of our dad. Alisa Hall , Erin Hall
Barry had been working at Warilla, but had left prior to 1986 after he was involved in an MVA in his private vehicle around the Minnamurra area.
It is believed that Barry had worked around Sydney and also Cootamundra also. He may have been the Lock-Up-Keeper at Coota.
Whilst working in the Illawarra, he resided at Windang.
Her husband, Frank ( Regd # 5036 – born 1922 ) was a Trainee at the ‘Penrith Police College’ – NSW Police Academy. Just after two weeks, he was Attested on 18 February 1946 and Stationed at # 6 Division.
In 1960 he was transferred to 18 Division and in 1971 to 26 Division.
On 1 July 1967 he was a Sgt 2/C.
In May 1972 he was a Sgt 1/C at Liverpool Police Station.
In October 1974 he is transferred back to 26 Division.
In May 1975 Frank is promoted to Inspector 3rd Class at 26 Division.
In June 1975 he is transferred back to Liverpool ( 22 Division ) as an Inspector 3rd Class.
In May 1976 Franks passes away – aged 54 whilst attached to Liverpool Police Station as the Assistant Officer ( Inspector )
Prior to joining the Police, he was a Greengrocer ( 2 years ), Asbestos strip worker ( 6 mths ) & Store-man ( 2.5 years ).
In 1941 he enlisted in the C.M.F. ( 12 months ) and then transferred to the Australian Imperial Forces in 1942. ( 3 years 3 months )
He was discharged from the Army in 1946, after reaching the rank of Gunner.
He served in Borneo & Admiralty Island Morotai.
Info from Liverpool (NSW ) Police Line ( 1788 – 2016 )
His Policing Records show:
He was a ‘Foot’ Constable
He was 6′ 1.5″ & 13 stone in weight
Blue eyes, fair hair & medium complexion
He passed his Cst 1/c course on the 6 September 1949
He failed his Sgt 3rd Class exams 1956, 57 & 58 before passing on 4 February 1959
He passed his Sgt 1/c exam on the 13 May 1964 & his Inspector’s exam on the 15 May 1974.
He passed his G.D’s cars & ute driving course on the 31 October 1967.
For some reason, his Service Card was re-typed & checked on the 22 December 1958.
Frank had a knowledge of Wireless whilst a signalman in the Australian Imperial Force.
His knowledge of Morse Code showed him Sending 16 w.p.m & receiving 14 w.p.m. ( Words Per Minute )
Special Services shows that he Enlisted in Australian Citizen Military Forces ( C.M.F. ) on 3 November 1941. He Transferred to Australian Imperial Forces on 30 November 1942. He was Discharged from A.I.F. on 24 January 1946 with the Rank of Gunner, with 1st Australian Naval Bombardment Group.
He saw 109 days of Service outside of Australia. He Served in Borneo and Admiralty Island, Morotai. His Grade was a Gp 2 Signalman.
He obtained a mark of 91.5% at the completion of Training Class.
James Frederick FOSTER
| 12/08/2019
James Frederick FOSTER
AKA JIM, MULTI GRIPS, KANDOS
Late of ?
NSW Penrith Police College Class # ? ? ?
NSW Police Cadet # 0775
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 6672
Rank: NSW Police Cadet – commenced Tuesday 5 October 1948
