Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 16 August 1965
Senior Constable – appointed 16 August 1974
Detective Sergeant
Detective Inspector 3rd Class – appointed 24 May 1989
Superintendent – Retired
Stations: ?, National Crime Authority – Inspector – ( Senior Investigator from 1989 ), Kings Cross ( Patrol Commander from 1992 ), Newtown, South West Region Commander – Retirement
Service: From? ? pre August 1965to 2 July 1997=31years Service
My question without notice is to the Attorney General, and Minister for Industrial Relations. In view of the question raised yesterday in this House by Reverend the Hon. F. J. Nile concerning an alleged police cover-up and allegations against solicitor John Marsden by Superintendent Bob Small, will the Attorney make it clear to the House that those allegations have already been investigated by the police royal commission and that Mr Marsden and Assistant Commissioner Alf Peate were completely exonerated of any improper conduct? Is it a fact that Superintendent Small and other police officers have given internal police papers and police documents to Channel 7, either directly or through intermediaries, in breach of police regulations, in order to assist Channel 7 in its litigation with Mr Marsden? If so, will the Police Integrity Commission investigate those officers?
The Hon. J. W. SHAW:
I do not know, and therefore cannot comment on, what information the police may or may not have given to Channel 7 in relation to this contentious litigation. I simply want to stay completely away from that. I reiterate the point I endeavoured to make yesterday, namely that honourable members ought to be circumspect about commenting on pending litigations in the Supreme Court. Obviously, there are some very hard-fought issues between Mr Marsden and Channel 7 that the judge will need to adjudicate upon. I myself am cautious about making any comments about the matter, and I think all members ought to be cautious. I believe that the honourable member is correct in suggesting that this allegation of a police cover-up was dealt with by the police royal commission. However, I would not want to go further than that.
I wish to make a personal explanation. My political character and integrity have been impugned by claims by the former Kings Cross local area command, Superintendent Robin Small, which have been reported in the media. The inference of these claims is that as the honourable member for Bligh I sought inappropriately to influence decisions to move a police officer. The implications are outrageous and completely false. These matters date back to 1993 and 1994, prior to the Wood royal commission, of which I was a vocal and consistent supporter in the efforts to remove corruption and ensure an accountable and honest New South Wales Police Service. Over many years I have made appropriate representations as the member for Bligh on behalf of my constituents concerning serious crime problems in the Kings Cross local area command. I have reported to police and the Minister for Police serious problems of street crime, prostitution, drug dealing, violence, property damage, antisocial behaviour and people not being safe on the streets. I continue to make these representations on behalf of my constituents.
While Robin Small was superintendent of the Kings Cross local area command I was very concerned about his approach and attitude. I was particularly concerned about the priorities of Kings Cross local area command. Despite the very real crime problems in the area, Superintendent Small undertook a campaign of 24-hour blitzes on parking, which involved police observing alleged infringements from a moving police car, with the paperwork being done back at the police station. I wrote to the Minister for Police informing him that the campaigns appeared to be targeted at revenue gathering rather than responding to real community concerns. Specific reported incidents included deliberate harassment of a doctor and nurses responding to an emergency situation at St Vincent’s Hospital, deliberate disregard of a disabled person in a wheelchair in Oxford Street, and issuing of infringement notices to a resident parked on the right-hand side of the road in a short dead-end street and causing no obstruction. I informed the Minister for Police that in conducting these campaigns Kings Cross police were failing to exercise sensitivity and sound judgment.
Another serious allegation involved action by Superintendent Small to break up a community-based Neighbourhood Watch group. The Police Service attempted conciliation and was unsuccessful. The matter was referred to the Ombudsman, with the former Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator stating that Superintendent Small owed them a public apology. Although I have made appropriate representation over many years on behalf of my constituents concerning the adequacy of policing at Kings Cross, no member of Parliament, not even the Minister, has the power to direct police staffing and operational matters. I have never sought to interfere inappropriately in any police operational matter. From memory I was in fact informed by Commander Darcy Cluff that he made the decision to move Superintendent Small “in his own interests”. Former Commander Darcy Cluff and police records can be consulted to verify these facts.
Mr DEPUTY-SPEAKER:
Order! For future reference I remind the honourable member of the provisions of the standing orders relating to the making of a personal explanation, which on this occasion she almost breached.
Reverend the Hon. F. J. NILE [6.07 p.m.]: In May 1994 serious allegations relating to the supply and use of Indian hemp and other drugs were made by citizens against Mr John Marsden, who at that time was a member of the police board. Mr Marsden received preferential treatment in the investigation of this matter in that the execution of the search warrant was delayed and executed only after he became aware that a police investigation was under way. Obviously, nothing was found in the search. Shortly after this the officer who headed the investigation, Superintendent Bob Small of Kings Cross, was transferred in highly unusual circumstances.
In an internal document in September 1994 Mr Small challenged the reason for his transfer. He claimed that the reasons advanced were untrue and that a confidential conversation with senior police –
Page 3542
in which confidence was guaranteed but was later broken – was used to his detriment. To Mr Small’s knowledge there was never an inquiry of any sort into his allegations. In order to publicly air the subject, in December 1994 Mr Small spoke to the Hon. Deirdre Grusovin, the honourable member for Heffron, and informed her of the matters and the circumstances surrounding the favoured treatment of Mr Marsden. In January 1995, by document handed to senior police, Mr Small voluntarily brought to the notice of the Police Service that he had unlawfully handed police documents to the Hon. Deirdre Grusovin relating to the Marsden investigation.
The Hon. R. S. L. Jones: On a point of order. Reverend the Hon. F. J. Nile is raising a number of police matters. I earnestly urge him to ensure he does not endanger any police investigations.
The DEPUTY-PRESIDENT (The Hon. D. J. Gay): Order! No point of order is involved. I am sure the honourable member will take due notice.
Reverend the Hon. F. J. NILE: In addition, Mr Small complained about the failure of the Police Service to properly handle his complaint of September 1994, and also about the favoured and preferential treatment given to Mr Marsden. As a result Mr Small was informed that a complaint was registered against him for supplying the documents to Mrs Grusovin. In February 1995, apparently as a result of his January disclosure, Mr Small was interviewed by a senior police officer in relation to this matter. At the close of the interview Mr Small was informed that by bringing his allegations to light he was regarded as an internal informant. Several days later Mr Small was informed that the royal commission would take over the investigation.
The Hon. P. T. Primrose: On a point of order. Is the honourable member reading from a publicly available document?
The DEPUTY-PRESIDENT: Order! No point of order is involved.
Reverend the Hon. F. J. NILE: Absolutely not. That is the purpose of bringing it to the attention of the House. In late 1996 the royal commission obtained some written information from Mr Small about the matter. More than three years have passed since Mr Small fairly and squarely made his complaints against the Police Service. Why has not the Police Service contacted Mr Small about his status as an internal informant? Why has not the Police Service and/or the Ombudsman’s office contacted Mr Small about his complaints against the Police Service? Why has not the Police Service and/or the Ombudsman’s office contacted Mr Small about the complaint registered against Mr Small?
Why was Mr Small put through the trauma of waiting from February 1995 until his retirement in May 1997 without ever, even to this date, being told the result of the complaint registered against him? Given the miserable failure of the Police Service and/or the Ombudsman’s office to competently, credibly and promptly investigate these suspicious events surrounding the investigation into serious drug allegations by Mr Marsden, the equally suspicious transfer of Mr Small and the failure of the Police Service internal informants policy, are the Premier, the Minister for Police or the Attorney General prepared to refer these issues to the Independent Commission Against Corruption so that a full investigation and examination can be made?
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Friday 20 November 1992 (No.137), page 8306
NEW SOUTH WALES POLICE SERVICE
Commissioned Officer Appointment
HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, has approved of the undermentioned Commissioned Officer appointment, effective from the date indicated:
Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 – 2001), Friday 9 June 1989 (No.72), page 3386
NEW SOUTH WALES POLICE FORCE
Commissioned Officer Appointments
HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, has approved of the undermentioned Commissioned Officer appointments, effective from the dates indicated:
Inspector, District Staff Officer, Operations, Dee Why
Senior Sergeant Edward James Gilligan, date of entry on duty.
Inspector, Senior investigator. National Crime Authority
Detective Sergeant Robin Barrett Small, date of entry on duty.
Inspector, Senior Investigator, National Crime Authority
Detective Sergeant Malcolm James Brammer, date of entry on duty.
TED PICKERING,
(1326) Minister for Police and Emergency Services.
QUEENSLAND’S police union has labelled the torment of Brett Forte’s wife today as “nothing short of a disgrace”.
Widow and fellow senior constable Susan Forte built the courage to make a midday public appearance, after spending the morning surrounded by family, friends and colleagues inside the Toowoomba police station.
About 10.45am, Susan emerged from the station with tears streaming down her face and a large bouquet of flowers in her hand.
She walked slowly towards the makeshift memorial that had been made in her husband’s honour.
Susan Forte is supported by friends and family as she visits a makeshift memorial to her husband outside Toowoomba police station. Picture: Darren England
But as she laid the bouquet down — inconsolable and barely able to stand on her own accord — Rick Maddison’s supporters saw an opportunity to let their voice be heard.
One person in a full car yelled “What about Rick?” as the Forte family huddled together, hunched over Susan in the floral sea of colours.
A gasp could be heard, but the family did not retaliate as the station wagon continued down Neil St.
Union president Ian Leavers lambasted the culprit.
“It is nothing short of a disgrace that associates of a career criminal and murderer would dare heckle a grieving widow while she pays tribute to her husband,” he said.
“Police and their families deserve better than to be treated like this.”
Queensland Police Union president Ian Leavers says officers and their families deserve better
Despite the shock, Brett’s father Stuart turned and smiled as the family walked away — Susan arm-in-arm with her daughter Emma Morris.
Stuart confirmed yesterday that Brett’s funeral would be held in Toowoomba next Wednesday at the University of Southern Queensland campus.
Stuart said the family was doing its best to cope with the tragedy and the subsequent attention it had received.
Early morning visits to the Brett’s shrine outside the station have formed part of the grieving process for the family over the last two days.
Via a lawyer yesterday, Maddison’s family also spoke of their pain.
Memorial located at: ? A card left by Brett Fortes in-laws. Picture: Darren England
A statement — read out by Alroe and Sullivan’s Solicitors practice manager Michele Alroe -claimed the murderer was more than just a career criminal.
“To us he was not the one-dimensional career criminal which the media are now portraying but rather a loved son, brother, nephew, uncle, grandson, friend and mate to many and as such will be sadly mourned,” the statement read.
The statement went on to say that Maddison’s actions may never be fully understood, but it expressed condolences to the police force and the Forte family.
The streets of Toowoomba are rife with anecdotes about Maddison’s self-destructive behaviour.
Friend Anthony Hogan said Maddison was “banned from more licenced venues than he was allowed into”, but said he would never hesitate to help out a mate.
“His name can strike fear into people. He was notorious … I’ve known Rick for many years and I’m not ashamed to say,” Mr Hogan said.
“I loved the guy and I will miss him.
“I’m not defending his actions or his criminal side, nor would he want me to defend him, but those who truly know him, well there was a caring and fiercely loyal side to the man too.”
Stuart acknowledged that the Forte’s were not the only family grieving and maintained that he felt no ill-will towards Maddison for his actions.
Susan and Brett Forte on their wedding day.
Brett Forte’s funeral is expected to be held in Toowoomba next Wednesday.
Constable Forte was shot by Maddison as he gave chase to the criminal in bushland on Monday.
It is understood Constable Forte and his partner were in one of three police cars that followed known criminal Maddison down a dirt road in a “low speed chase” around 2pm on Monday at Seventeen Mile, near Toowoomba.
His colleague used her bare hands to tear a hole in the windscreen of their upturned car so she and others could drag him to safety — all while under fire from a crazed gunman with an automatic weapon.
The Courier-Mail understands Constable Forte and his partner were in one of three police cars that followed known criminal Maddison down a dirt road in a “low speed chase” around 2pm on Monday at Seventeen Mile, near Toowoomba.
In bushland, Maddison stopped and opened fire with a high-powered automatic weapon, hitting Toowoomba Tactical Crime Squad officer Constable Forte.
His vehicle and the other vehicles tried to reverse, but his rolled on the rough terrain, trapping him and his partner inside. With Maddison still firing, several officers from the second vehicle ran back to try to get their badly injured colleague out.
THE FAMILY of a gunman who shot dead Senior Constable Brett Forte have called his actions inexcusable but deny he was a “one dimensional career criminal”.
In a statement released through lawyers this morning, the family of Toowoomba man Rick Maddison expressed their condolences to the family and friends of Senior Constable Brett Forte.
“The Maddison family wishes to express our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the late Senior Constable Brett Forte for their tragic loss,” the statement read.
Senior Constable Forte’s funeral is expected to be held in Toowoomba next Wednesday.
The scene of a tense stand-off between police and Rick Maddison near Gatton earlier this week.
They said Rick’s actions could not be excused, “nor is it likely they will be ever fully understood”.
“To us he was not the one- dimensional career criminal which the media are now portraying but rather a loved son, brother, nephew, uncle, grandson, friend and mate to many and as such will be sadly mourned,” the statement read.
The family also expressed their support for QPS and thanked negotiators for their attempts to resolve the situation peacefully.
Senior Constable Brett Forte.
“We express our support for the Queensland Police Service and the often difficult and dangerous work its officers are required to undertake. We particularly wish to thank the police negotiators for their attempts to resolve a very difficult situation peacefully.
“The Maddison family thank the many people who have expressed to them their overwhelming support, sympathy, love and prayers,
“We ask both the press and public to accept the pain and remorse we are feeling and to respect our privacy at this very difficult time.”
Rick Maddison was shot dead by specialist police officers after a tense 20-hour standoff at his barricaded rural property in Adare, east of Toowoomba on Tuesday
Constable grew up to passionately follow in his father’s policing footsteps
Chris Clarke, The Courier
Senior Constable Brett Forte.
-Mail
AN OLD police hat will be placed in Senior Constable Brett Forte’s hands when he is laid to rest in the coming days.
It was the hat his father Stuart wore during his more than 42 years with Queensland Police.
More than a decade ago – soon after Brett had married the love of his life and fellow officer Susan – the respected Toowoomba officer had found the hat sitting in the laundry of his father’s home.
He claimed it and wore it as his own until his final day on Monday when he was shot and killed by a cop-fearing gunman.
The hat is a symbol of the Forte family’s affinity for policing, Stuart told The Courier-Mail yesterday.
A treasured possession that will forever remind him of the boy who would sneak out of home to turn on his old man’s police radio.
The boy who would grow up to passionately follow in his father’s policing footsteps – like Stuart had done himself years earlier.
“He’s just a hero,” Stuart said. “He was a great bloke and he needs to be remembered,” he said.
Brett – known for his humour at home and at work – wasn’t afraid to do the hard yards and he rose through the ranks by doing his time in the regions around Brisbane.
Brett Forte with wife Susan on their wedding day.
Brett’s children: Step-daughter Emma with Brodie and Samuel.
His career had him sent to Cunnamulla, west of Brisbane, before going to Toowoomba, then Caboolture and settling down in Toowoomba again.
Brett leaves behind two sons, Brodie, 9, and Samuel, 3, and stepdaughter Emma, 16.
Similarly, Brett grew up in a family of three, but it wasn’t until early adulthood that he informed his father of his desire to join the force.
While Stuart’s father had some reservations about his own son joining the force around 1970, Stuart himself was never reluctant to see his son sign up.
“(Brett) was always that way (passionate about policing),” he said.
“I wouldn’t say he was gungho, but he wanted to get in there and do the job and do the job right.
Brett’s father Stuart Forte: He was a great bloke and he needs to be remembered. Picture: Liam Kidston
“I’ve been told that he was the guy who had the knowledge of the guidelines and how you’re supposed to do things.
“If anyone wanted any advice, he’d tell them that you do it this way.
“He knew what he was doing and he was very smart in that area.”
Brett’s heartbroken stepdaughter Emma Morris yesterday laid flowers outside Toowoomba Police Station in memory of her father figure.
Bretts son Samuel, 3, is comforted at the Toowoomba police station memorial. Picture: 7 News Queensland
She echoed her grandfather’s sentiments, calling Brett a hero.
But Emma wept at the thought of her brothers growing up without the guidance she had received from him.
“Brett was just a true hero to everybody he knew … a true family man that would put his life on the line for anybody,” she said.
Slain police officer Brett Forte’s step-daughter Emma, 16, placed flowers and read cards with a friend at the Southern District Headquarters Memorial, Toowoomba. Picture: Liam Kidston
“Especially because I have younger siblings and they’re never going to remember him.”
Brett is expected to be laid to rest in coming days with his faded police hat.
But Stuart expects his son’s legacy to live forever within Queensland police ranks.
It remains to be seen whether Brodie and Samuel will follow in their father’s footsteps and continue the family tradition.
One thing Stuart will ensure is that they will grow up knowing their dad was a hero.
Arrangements for Brett’s funeral are still being discussed by his family, who gathered at the home he and Susan shared at Highlands, a suburb of Toowoomba, yesterday. The funeral will be held in Toowoomba next Wednesday in Toowoomba but the location of the ceremony is yet to be determined.
While some in the Forte family have expressed anger towards the slain officer’s killer, Stuart says he has no ill will.
“I don’t hate anybody,” he said. “Funnily enough I thought I would, but there’s no hatred there.”
A tribute outside police Regional Headquarters in Toowoomba. Picture: Liam Kidston
Such a waste…………………both to Brett’s personal family and friends and his Police Family. Why such a good soul has to be taken from this world, is beyond comprehension!! Cherryl
You’re a hero of the thin blue line. May you now rest in peace brother. Fred
No words can be said other than THANK YOU and you will be missed. noel
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EXCLUSIVE: Harrowing video shows the frantic moment police race to save the life of a fellow officer and married father-of-two ‘shot dead by a wanted man armed with a machine gun’
Video has emerged of the moment police tried to save an injured officer’s life
Snr Const Brett Forte was shot and killed in the Lockyer Valley, west of Brisbane
Mr Forte was shot by a wanted man during the incident west of Brisbane
Harrowing footage shows police frantically performing CPR on Snr Const Forte
Local residents have reported hearing ‘non-stop automatic machine gunfire’
The gunman is believed to currently be holed up in a rural farmhouse nearby
Published: 22:00 +10:00, 29 May 2017 | Updated: 01:50 +10:00, 30 May 2017
Harrowing video has emerged of the frantic moment police officers bravely tried to save the life of a hero Queensland senior constable who was shot dead allegedly by a wanted man on Monday.
Daily Mail Australia has obtained video from a Lockyer Valley resident who watched with her heart in her mouth as cops worked frantically to save the life of a married father-of-two.
A known offender, Rick Charles Maddison, 41, allegedly shot Senior Constable Brett Forte at about 1.40pm during a police chase in the regional area near Toowoomba, an hour west of Brisbane.
‘A hero lost his life today,’ state police minister Mark Ryan said in a statement.
In the video, filmed on a mobile phone from the window of a nearby home, officers sprint up the road, sirens wail and police can be seen performing CPR on Snr Const Forte.
WARNING *******UPSETTING AUDIO IN THIS CLIP ***** PTSD TRIGGERS
‘Jesus Christ!’ the woman could be heard exclaiming.
Police later bellowed for her to step away from the windows due to the active shooter, sources said.
Maddison, who was believed to be armed with a machine gun, abruptly stopped and got out of his car during the chase involving two police vehicles and four officers and allegedly shot Snr Const Forte.
Maddison, from Toowoomba, then drove down a dirt road at Seventeen Mile, just northwest of Gatton.
A police vehicle is towed from the scene where Snr Const Forte was killed on Monday afternoon
It was understood the police vehicle Snr Const Forte had been travelling in rolled over after the chase resumed and Maddison also allegedly fired at a police helicopter while fleeing into bushland before entering a farm house.
The husband of the woman who filmed the video told Daily Mail Australia she was frightened and ‘freaking out a bit’ after gunfire rang out through the area.
Police officers would later carry the wounded officer off the paddy wagon onto her front lawn and ‘keep him alive’, he said.
Several locals were forced to watch helplessly behind a barricade for hours while their wives were stuck in their homes behind police lines.
Truck driver Peter Hills had been stuck outside on Adare Road for six hours when he spoke to Daily Mail Australia.
Mr Hills, who drives fresh produce for a living, said his wife called him on Monday afternoon asked: ‘Do you know if they’re shooting a movie or something?’
His partner witnessed streams of police cars, including black specialist vehicles and detective vehicles zooming down her street and then changing direction.
‘There’s a black paddy wagon, there’s another police car, now there’s an unmarked D-car… and then there was a little bit more – and then more went!’ he recounted her telling him.
‘And then all of a sudden they’ve all gone back the other way.’
Fatally wounded as he pursued the offender through the Lockyer Valley Region, Snr Const Forte was remembered as a hero by the Queensland police minister.
‘My thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues of the Queensland Police Service officer who was tragically killed this afternoon while doing his job selflessly serving the people of Queensland,’ Mr Ryan said.
‘Along with millions of Queenslanders, I pay tribute to his service. He will never be forgotten. With honour, he served.’
TIMELINE OF EVENTS
– Tactical response officers travelling in two police cars tried to pull over a vehicle on Wellers Road, Seventeen Mile, in Queensland’s Lockyer Valley about 1.40pm on Monday
– Rick Charles Maddison, who was believed to be armed with a machine gun, got out of his car and allegedly opened fire on the police vehicles
– Senior Constable Brett Forte was shot
– Maddison then drove down a dirt road and it was understood one of the police vehicles rolled over after the chase resumed
– Maddison also allegedly fired at a police helicopter while fleeing into a farm house
– Snr Constable Forte was airlifted to Brisbane Hospital but was confirmed to have died by 4pm
– Police announce an emergency declaration has been declared under the provisions of the Public Safety Preservation Act and an exclusion zone has been put in place
– A manhunt begins for Maddison who is believed to be holed up in the farm house
Police are now negotiating with Maddison who is holed up in a farm house inside a locked-down area.
‘We have a person contained and at my last advice we were negotiating with that person,’ Queensland Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said at a press conference on Monday night.
Police had warned locals to stay indoors while negotiations were underway.
Local resident Kyal Pennell, 23, who was trapped in his home due to the exclusion zone, said he could hear ‘non-stop bursts of automatic gunfire’ and police sirens.
‘Every five minutes there’s gunfire. There’s been handgun shots, machine gun shots, and shotgun shots from what I can tell,’ he told Daily Mail Australia on Monday afternoon.
At 4.30pm, Mr Pennell said police holding semi-machine guns arrived at the front gate of his home to evacuate him and his neighbours from the area. Gunshot bursts were still echoing through the valley.
‘As far as I know, a couple of guys broke out of a jail and they’ve shot a police officer on the front lawn,’ one man told 9 News.
I had to go pick up the kids because the wife couldn’t get out, I was at work.’
Snr Const Forte was airlifted to Brisbane Hospital but was confirmed to have died by 4pm.
He had served in the force for 15 years and was a member of Toowoomba’s Tactical Crime Squad.
His wife, Susan, is also a police officer.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said in a statement her thoughts and prayers were with Snr Const Forte’s family and friends.
‘Every day, the brave officers of the Queensland Police Service put their lives on the line when they go to work,’ Ms Palaszczuk said.
‘Each of us should be immensely grateful for the work they do.’
In a tragic coincidence, Snr Const Forte’s death comes on the anniversary of slain Gold Coast detective Damian Leeding‘s shooting after he responded to an armed robbery at the Pacific Pines Tavern in 2011.
Heartbreaking attempt to save ‘hero’ cop caught on camera
May 30, 2017 1:51am
A DESPERATE attempt to save a dying policeman shot by a gunman in Queensland has been caught on camera.
Senior Constable Brett Forte, a father of two, was shot in Queensland’s Lockyer Valley on Monday afternoon when a man got out of his vehicle and opened fire on a number of police cars with an automatic weapon.
Police officers try to save the life of their shot colleague Brett Forte. Picture: Daily MailSource: Supplied
The heartbreaking footage, obtained by the Daily Mail, shows cops performing mouth-to-mouth and heart massage in a ditch beside a police car.
When officers notice the woman shooting the video, they yell at her to “get inside” and “get away from the window” because the shooter was still at large.
Queensland Police confirmed that Snr Const Forte had died in a statement on Monday night.
“A hero lost his life today,” Queensland Police Minister Mark Ryan said.
Officers try to revive Brett Forte. Source: Supplied
The gunman, who The Courier-Mail identified as “career criminal” Rick Maddison, is in a stand-off with police in an area near Gatton in southeast Queensland.
The incident began about 2pm when police attempted to stop a vehicle being driven by a “person of interest” on Wellers Rd at Seventeen Mile, near Toowoomba.
Snr Const Forte’s fellow officers were able to move him away and extract themselves from the scene.
Police are in negotiations with the gunman, who fled the vehicle into nearby bushland.
While neighbours reported hearing what sounded like machine-gun fire, police did not confirm details about the weapon.
Queensland Police Commissioner Ian Stewart described the situation as an “active scene” and said the gunman was considered to be “at large”.
“Obviously we want to resolve this situation as peacefully as humanly possible,” he said.
Officers from the Special Emergency Response Team have arrived at the scene and a huge area has been locked down around Seventeen Mile, 115km west of Brisbane.
Gatton resident Kyal Pennell told news.com.au that he heard the first shots, which sounded like machine-gun fire, about 2.30pm and then a police siren for about 15 minutes.
“Then there was basically gunfire every 10 to 15 minutes from about 2.45pm through to 4.30pm,” he said.
“It was pretty scary, I wasn’t sure what to think, I wasn’t sure what was going on and I couldn’t see anything. I was only hoping it wasn’t getting any closer.”
Mr Pennell said he was eventually evacuated about 5.30pm and was now staying at a hotel with his family as police continued to hunt for the shooter.
Snr Const Forte was part of Toowoomba’s Tactical Crime Squad and worked with Queensland Police for about 15 years.
“My thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues … along with millions of Queenslanders, I pay tribute to his service,” Mr Ryan said in his tribute.
“He will never be forgotten.
“With honour, he served.”
There were also unconfirmed reports shots were fired at a police helicopter, which was forced to land for its own safety.
Police have urged nearby residents to remain inside as they try to locate the gunman.
A Queensland Ambulance Service spokesman earlier confirmed paramedics had been called to the scene to treat two people, one with critical injuries, however only one was transported to hospital.
One person was taken to nearby Toowoomba Hospital with shortness of breath.
An exclusion zone in place for the area of Fords Rd, Forestry Rd West, Sandy Creek Rd, Gerard Lane, 17 Mile, Wallers Rd and Forest Rd.
Cop shot dead as he tried to escape crashed police car
Yahoo7 News
Senior Constable Brett Forte had been pursuing the wanted violent offender when he opened fire at a patrol car.
Shortly after the officer was killed, police engaged in a shoot-out with the fugitive as residents reported hearing a volley of gunshots.
Pictured: Cop shot dead as he tried to escape crashed police car. Source: 7 News
On a country road in the rural Locker Valley is where a police pursuit came to a bloody and abrupt end.
Some residents have recorded the moment a gunman opened fire on police with a semi-automatic weapon.
It’s understood Senior Constable Brett Forte and his partner had pulled over wanted man Rick Maddison on Waller Street just after 2pm on Monday when the fugitive began shooting their patrol car.
It’s believed it rolled down an embankment during the gunfire.
The Toowoomba tactical crime officer was critically injured.
Details aren’t clear but it’s understood police had tried to return fire.
Those nearby attempted CPR however his injuries were too severe.
Police say the shooter then fled in a vehicle and then on foot.
An exclusion zone was set up across several hectares streets locked down and residents told to stay inside.
“I looked out the window, couldn’t see nothing but I could hear sirens then all of a sudden like 6 or 7 short bursts of a machine gun,” Kyal Pennell a neighbour told 7 News.
PolAir assisted from above until Maddison opened fire on the police helicopter.
“I haven’t heard police fire for about 25 minutes, half an hour, but the machine gun every five or then minutes he’s letting off like quick bursts,” Pennell continued.
It’s understood the man was wanted over a series of serious crimes – including torture.
He was being pursued at the time by Senior Constable Brett Forte, a married father of two and the son of a highly regarded retired police officer.
The tragedy comes on the anniversary of the shootings of detective senior constable Damien Leading and former deputy Commissioner Ross Barnett.
Queensland Police have requested locals avoid Wallers, Forestry, Ringwood, and Fords Rds near Seventeen Mile.
Bravery awards for police who tried to save fellow officer’s life
Brisbane Times on 28 March 2018, 6:30pm
When thousands of mourners had filed away, as slain Queensland policeman Brett Forte’s family stood by his grave for a private service, a woman approached them.
“Brett saved my life,” she said.
Thousands of mourners farewelled slain police officer Senior Constable Brett Forte at his funeral in Toowoomba.
Photo: Supplied
It’s one of many memories that make Stuart Forte proud as he struggles to come to terms with the killing that tore his family apart 10 months ago to the day.
When Senior Constable Brett Forte is posthumously awarded a Commendation for Brave Conduct on Thursday, it will be “lovely”, a fitting recognition of his sacrifice.
But it won’t stop Stuart Forte breaking down when he tries to pick out a photo to go up on the wall from his son’s wedding to still-distraught fellow officer Susan, a tribute that’s been a work-in-progress for months.
When Brett’s policing partner Senior Constable Cath Nielsen, along with Senior Constable Stephen Barlow, Acting Sergeant Scott Hill and Constable Brittany Poulton, are bestowed with Bravery Medals for trying to save his life, the 67-year-old won’t find it easy to express his thanks for what they did.
Brett Forte’s wife Susan and daughter Emma at his funeral in Toowoomba last June.
Photo: Dan Peled/AAP
Those four officers risked their lives deep in the Lockyer Valley, west of Brisbane, on the afternoon of May 29, as a cop killer sprayed them with bullets from an automatic rifle.
On Thursday, they will be among 34 Bravery Medal recipients to be honoured in this year’s Australian Bravery Awards, a federal tradition dating back to 1975.
“It’s hard to answer because we still feel the tragedy of it,” former cop Stuart Forte said.
“It’s had a huge impact on the family and everything and it’s lovely to hear when these things are going to happen and everything.
“Because it’s a recognition of the sacrifice that he made and what sort of person he was and the heroic things that went on by the other officers there trying to save him.”
The repeat offender had been convicted of assault and charged with torture at one point and had a “grievance” with the Toowoomba Tactical Crime Squad, according to police.
By the time Maddison had driven down the hill from Toowoomba, the crew from Gatton and another from Helidon had joined in.
He avoided road spikes before driving off the edge of the highway, eventually ending up on Wallers Road, where he seemed to lie in wait for the first car to come over the hill.
Senior Constable Barlow heard the shots first, before the Helidon crew started reversing back over the rise and Senior Constable Nielsen shouted for help over the radio.
Confronted with such a heavily armed offender, Senior Constables Hill and Barlow and Constable Poulton knew their cars would be too large a target, so ran along a driveway up to the scrub and down the hill to rescue their colleagues.
“It was daunting,” Senior Constable Barlow said.
“At first when we got out of the car, our training kicked in.
“ … When we got to the actual scene, the police vehicle was on its side. The siren was blaring out.
“It was quite overwhelming but, as I say, we knew what we had to do.”
All the while Senior Constable Nielsen was firing back at Maddison with nothing but her police service handgun.
When the other three arrived, Constable Poulton laid down cover fire as officers Nielsen and Barlow kicked in the window to rescue their dying colleague.
Despite the gunfire, Senior Constable Barlow started first aid, before Constable Poulton raced away from the area in a squad car with Senior Constable Forte on board, according to the bravery citation.
“We didn’t know where he was but we could certainly hear machinegun fire,” Senior Constable Barlow said.
“We didn’t know whether he had us in his sights or what he was doing.”
Realising they were outgunned, officers Barlow, Nielsen and Hill retreated once the car was safely away.
Ten months on, the extended Forte family will gather in Narangba for Easter, where Stuart promises there will be a massive Easter egg hunt as Brett loved it last year.
The 2018 awards will also recognise with the Star of Courage slain Lindt Cafe manager Tori Johnson for his role in calming the gunman in the December 2014 Sydney siege, and NSW man Antonio Rokov, who died saving the life of a 14-year-old boy in a skydiving accident.
Also in Queensland, 65-year-old Norman Olsen will be posthumously awarded a Bravery Medal for freeing a woman from her partner’s assault in Toowoomba, on February 22, 2016.
The woman was able to run from the scene, but Mr Olsen was punched in the head and fell backwards, fatally striking his head on the footpath.
Several other Queenslanders, both in and out of the emergency services, will be recognised with a Commendation for Brave Conduct.
A memorial for police dog Waco, who died after suffering heat exhaustion while trying to track down offenders in Deception Bay in February, has been held today.
Commissioner Ian Stewart joined Dog Squad officers at the QPS Animal Memorial in Oxley to honour and pay tribute to the beloved pup.
During the memorial, PD Waco’s handler ( Senior Constable Stephenson ) spoke fondly of his partner saying Waco was dearly missed by him and his family.
“Waco was my first police dog and we worked together as a team for seven years,” Waco’s handler said.
“He never hesitated to protect me and for that I will be forever grateful.”
During his time, PD Waco was responsible for locating missing people and hundreds of offenders for numerous offences ranging from armed robberies and unlawful woundings to break and enters.
Commissioner Stewart said “We remember PD Waco today with fondness and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice he gave in serving the Queensland community.”
Waco is the first working animal recognised as passing on duty since the establishment of the QPS Animal Memorial in December 2014.
Death of a Constable. – The news reached Toowoomba on Monday that Constable Christopher McKenna, who recently filled the office of watchhouse keeper here, died in Brisbane Hospital the previous day.
Deceased, who had been some six years in the service, about 12 months ago while on duty in the Central district, burst a blood vessel, and being thereafter in delicate health, obtained an exchange to Toowoomba where he was provided with the lighter duty of watchhouse keeper.
The injury to the system, however, proved, incurable and he was perfectly aware months ago that his days were numbered.
In March last he became too ill to attend to his work, sick leave was obtained, and he went to Brisbane where he first put himself in the hands of Dr. Binns Southam, and eventually removed to the hospital, where the end came as stated.
Constable McKenna was a very amiable young man, obliging, and attentive to his duties, and will be regretted by all who came in contact with him.
The funeral of the late Christopher McKenna, constable in the Police Force, who died in the Brisbane Hospital on Sunday, left that institution at 2.30 p.m. yesterday for the Toowong Cemetery. As many of the Police Force who were at liberty to attend did so in uniform. Constable McKenna was stationed in Toowoomba and was much respected both in and out of the force.
LONGDEN:
WA POLICE UNION Members are invited to attend the Memorial Service for our Retired Member John Duncan Longden at the Norfolk Chapel, KARRAKATTA Cemetery on THURSDAY (27.04.2017) at 2.30pm.
LONGDEN
John Duncan
Passed away in Perth on April 19th 2017.
Will be sadly missed by cousins Jim and Bill and their families.
April 28, 2017
Fond memories of a lovely man with a great sense of humour. Thoughts are with Anne, Helen, David & families.
Travis Taylor & family.
Travis Taylor, London
April 27, 2017
Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Helen, Anne, David and the wider family in your time of mourning. I had the absolute honour of working with John at the NCA/ACC and he is well and truly at the helm of the great leaders I’ve experienced in life. One could learn an awful lot about life just by talking to John. Kindest wishes, Mick and Sue Judd and family
Mick Judd, Perth, Western Australia
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April 26, 2017
Condolences to the Longden family. John was my manager about 10 years ago and he was much respected by the staff here. Very sad to hear of his passing.
MOORMANN (Robert):
Passed away suddenly on 28.4.2017.
Loving husband of Sandra.
Much loved father, granddad and great granddad.
The tears in our eyes we can wipe away, but the ache in our hearts will always stay. Forever you will be in our hearts.
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Saturday, 6 May 2017
Dear Bob, I can’t believe I spoke to you just a few weeks ago to let me know about another school reunion. I have just come home from the UK. My condolences to Sandra & all your family. Our friendship from Primary School through High School will never die. RIP
Pat Robertson (Spicer)
~
Patricia Robertson,
Erskine, Western Australia
Monday, 8 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert ): Little did I know that when I spoke to you in April it would be for the last time. Very good friend through primary and high school. Deepest sympathy to Sandra and family. RIP.
You will be forever missed.
Pat Robertson (Spicer)
Published in: The West Australian
Saturday, 6 May 2017
MOORMANN (Rob):
Deepest sympathy to the family. Fond memories of a great mate of Barry Thowless (dec). R.I.P.
Venus Thowless and family
Published in: The West Australian
Friday, 5 May 2017
MOORMANN (Bob):
Condolences to Sandra and families on the passing of Bob. Long time mate.
Suzanne, Debby and Jim Miles. Rest in peace.
Published in: The West Australian
Friday, 5 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert):
Retired Superintendent, WA Police Force.
A man’s man, colourful and a true friend to many. He will be remembered.
From the CIB Social Club and Bunbury Commercial Club Friends
MOORMANN
Robert (Bob):
Our neighbour, work colleague and always a good friend, big smile and presence, wonderful stories that grew. Great memories. Condolences to Sandra and family.
Michael and Patricia Dean
Published in: The West Australian
Friday, 5 May 2017
MOORMANN (Bob):
Deepest sympathy to Sandra, Janine, Peta, Tanya and families on the sad loss of a great friend.
Chris and Lettie Peos.
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 4 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert ): To Sandra and the girls thinking of you all at this difficult time. Good memories with a great mate.
With love from Wayne, Kay and family.
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 4 May 2017
MOORMANN (Bob):
Ripple soul desert boots, hair slicked back with a kiss curl and duffle jacket – Bob’s Armadale High School Uniform. When asked to leave school we went on our own way, later meeting up in the WA Police Force, what a journey Bob. Condolences to family and friends on Bob’s passing.
Watto and Larraine Watson.
Published in: The West Australian
Thursday, 4 May 2017
MOORMANN
Robert (Robbie):
Our deepest sympathies to Sandra and Rob’s families. Rob, you were a life long friend of the Marriott’s – Graham, Rhonda, Wayne and Kelly, Wendy, Joan (More Mum) and Bill (More Dad) (dec); and the Kiely’s – Georgina, John (dec) and Greg.
Memories of you, your generosity and big personality will be forever in our hearts and thoughts. Words cannot express the loss we all feel.
Rest now dear friend.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN (Bob):
Deeply saddened by the loss of a good mate of many years.
We will treasure all of the great memories. Deepest condolences to Sandra, Janine, Tanya and Peta. RIP mate.
Eddie and Henry Piotrowski and families.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN Robert
(Bob):
At end of life what really matters is not what we bought but what we built, not what we got but what we shared, not our competence but our character and not our success but our significance. Bobbie you achieved all of the above and more and was a much loved friend. You lived a life that mattered to so many of us.
One of life’s true Gentleman. Our deepest sympathy to Sandy and all family members.
You will be sadly missed.
Love Alan, Maureen and Leah. XXX
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN (Bob ): Past member and friend to all at the Commercial Club Bunbury. Deepest sympathy to Sandra and family. Management committee and members.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert):
One of the good ones taken too soon. Bob, you will be missed by many for a long time. Love and sympathy to Sandra and family.
Russell and Tricia.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert):
Our deepest sympathy to his wife Sandra. Little did we know when we were in Bunbury together that we would be doing this. Bobby, you were -A great workmate A great cricket mate A great bowls mate A great drinking mate Rest in peace now our Bobby Moormann.
Bill and Jean Burnett
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert ): Sad loss of a great friend.
Sincere condolences to Sandra and Families.
Sam Martino and Sau Ching Kwok
Published in: The West Australian
Tuesday, 2 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert):
Remembering a great friendship over a long period of time. Sadly missed. Sincere sympathy to Sandra and Family. Rest in Peace
Doug and Peggy Scott
Published in: The West Australian
Tuesday, 2 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert):
So many memories of a great work colleague and friend. Deepest sympathy to Sandra and Family. Rest easy Mate
Terry and Jo Richmond
Published in: The West Australian
Tuesday, 2 May 2017
MOORMANN (Bob):
Condolences to Sandy and all of Bob’s family.
A great friend and will be deeply missed. RIP.
Don and Val Wright
Published in: The West Australian
Tuesday, 2 May 2017
MOORMANN Robert (Bob):
Sad loss of a great mate. Sincere condolences to Sandra and families.
Mark, Tracy and Trent Andrews.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert ): Heartfelt condolences to Janine, Peta and Tanya. Our thoughts are with you at this time
from the Simoni family.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN (Rob):
Sincere sympathy to Sandra, Rob’s daughters Janine, Peta, Tanya. From Elliott family –
Ron, Jason, Kerstine, Novak, Jessica.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN (Robert):
Dad, you will live eternally in our hearts. Thanks for the memories.
Love forever.
Janine, Boyd, Jayde, Kacey, Teagan and Willow.
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN
(Robert Pieter):
17.09.47 – 28.04.17
Dear Dad, you were there and held me when I took my first breath and I held your hand as you took your last. I will miss the stories of your life, precious memories forever in my heart.
Love you so much Dad.
Your youngest daughter Tanya.
Rust in Vrede Papa
Published in: The West Australian
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
MOORMANN
(Robert Pieter):
Loved father of Janine, Peta-Lee and Tanya.
Grandfather of Jayde, Kacey, Teagan, Willow, Melody, Brittany, Shayla, Tenielle and Ryan.
Great Grandfather of Trey and Meelah.
Our deepest sympathy to Sandra, Richard, Jackie and families.
Sleep peacefully Rob. Jan and Rob.
Treasured memories will always be in our hearts.
TURPIN:
WA POLICE UNION Members are invited to attend the Funeral Service for our late retired member Mr Roderick (Rod) Turpin 3024 at Fremantle Cemetery on Monday (15.5.2017) at 2:30 pm.
Cal lit a candle for Katherine Amanda (Kate) Ellison
24 May 2017
Dear Rob & Jess,
Our sincerest condolences on the loss of your mum.
We are thinking of you with warmth, sympathy and thoughts of comfort during this difficult time.
Kindest regards,
The Peglers bought sympathy flowers for Katherine Amanda (Kate) Ellison, delivered on 05/05/2017
