A copy of the Funeral video is available upon request
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of the 4 square metre rule at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ??? TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ???
( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: James Murrays Funerals, 27 Belford St, Broadmeadow, NSW
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( July 2020 )
PETER 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.
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this was a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ???
( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: Alan Harris McDonald Funerals, Wagga Wagga, NSW
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( July 2020 )
TONY 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.
Passed away suddenly at his home, the place he loved in Coolamon on Tuesday, 23rd June 2020.
Beloved husband of Debbie.
Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Daniel & Bree, Mitchell and their mother Janice.
Loving stepfather of Katie, Carissa, Sara and Sonia & Peter.
Treasured Pop of Logan, Eli, Riley, Aaliyah, Sophia, Matayo and Maharlah.
Cherished by his four-legged mates Lochie, Benson, Betty and Tilly.
Aged 59. He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.
A Service to Celebrate Tony’s life will be held at the Alan Harris McDonald Chapel, 76 Copland Street, Wagga Wagga on Tuesday, 30th June 2020 commencing at 11:00am.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend.
For family and friends unable to attend the Celebration for Tony’s life, you are invited to watch the service via live-stream at the website: www.alanharrismcdonald.com.au.
If you would like to be recorded in the family memorial book, please contact the team at Alan Harris McDonald on: (02) 6933 7802.
The club is saddened by the loss of Tony Cramp, better known around the club as Crampy. Crampy became involved in the club over the last few seasons and didn’t miss a training this pre season, always making sure the players drink bottles were full and always up for a chat.
Thank you for your contribution Crampy the club was a better place with you in it and we will miss you mate.
Pauline MizzLassiCrampy May you bring laughter to the heavens above, just as you did on earth. Thank you for everything you did for my family and I, something that will never be forgotten. Some tears were shed by my four children with my eldest reminding me how much you helped him in his teenage years. Rest peacefully ????
It is with great sadness that I share this post of a Cabramatta icon. My beautiful Mum, Margaret Rose O’Neill sadly passed away on 30 December 2019 in the Palliative Care Unit at Liverpool Hospital, aged 77.
Prior to Mums death she had been a resident of Coventry Rd, Longfield St and John St ( Cabramatta ) for the majority of her beautiful life.
Her employment included 25 + years working at Lansdowne Nursing Home.
Mum was always well known in the CBD of Cabra, and her means of transport were mainly the local bus and taxi services.
It is without doubt that the staff in the Liverpool Palliative Care Unit is living proof that Angels live amongst us.
During Mums funeral service, my sister Cheryl Mcgrath paid homage to the Students of Cabramatta High School who, on Christmas Day, visited the Hospital and shared their love of man kind as they joyfully sang Christmas Carols to the patients. It was the most beautiful experience and a true acknowledgement of the values being instilled in the Students at Cabramatta High.
Mum will be absolutely sadly missed, but I believe her commitment by always remaining a resident of Cabramatta she will always be remembered as a “True Local” of this beautiful town we call Cabra.
RIP Mum forever in our hearts Cheryl & Tony ????
Class 194 A – May 1983
Some great memories when Tony was our shift supervisor at VKG4 Wagga a fun 9 years. RIP now Big fella. S/C R Nixon, SCO R Faulkner, Sgt Tony Cramp, SCO M Mackintosh, S/C K Burness Kind Regards Michelle Mackintosh ex serial# 8880008
Aaron David VIDAL
| 31/07/2020
Aaron David VIDAL
AKA AZZA
Late of ?
Son of Serving NSWPF Chief Inspector David VIDAL# 24342
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class # 332
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 52214
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Academy on ? ? 2017?
Probationary Constable- appointed 8 December 2017 ( aged 26 years & 13 days )
Constable – appointed ? December 2018
Constable 1st Class – appointed 8 December 2019
Final Rank = Constable 1st Class
Stations: Sydney City Police Area Command – Day St ( Pro Active Crime Team 2019 – 2020 )
Service: From? ? 2017? to18 June 2020 = 2 years, 6 months & 12 days Service
Employment prior to NSWPF:
Australian Regular Army – enlisted 2009 – aged 17
Served until 2013
2nd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment Amphibious Light Infantry Unit
Police Awards: No Find On Australian Honours
Born: Wednesday25 November 1991
Died on: Thursday 18 June 2020
Age: 28 years, 6 months, 24 days
Cause: MVA – Rider – Off Duty – Returning home from Duty – Not at Fault
Event location: Schofields Road & Windsor Road, Rouse Hill, NSW
Event date: Thursday 18 June 2020 about 5.45pm
ORGAN DONOR
Funeral date: Monday 29 June 2020 @ 10am
Funeral location: St Mary’s Cathedral, College St, Sydney ( opposite Hyde Park ), NSW
All friends and former colleagues are invited to attend
Future Wake location: ???TBA
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ???
( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( June 2020 )
AARON is NOT mentioned ( BUT WILL BE ) on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
A motorcyclist who died in a crash at Rouse Hill yesterday has been identified as a serving NSW police officer.
Constable Aaron Vidal, aged 28, was travelling home after completing his duties at Sydney City Police Area Command when he was struck by a utility about 5.45pm (Thursday 18 June 2020).
Constable Vidal attested as part of class ‘332’ on Friday 8 December 2017, after which he commenced duties as a probationary constable at Sydney City. He was confirmed as a constable in December 2018.
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller has extended his condolences to the Vidal family on behalf of the NSW Police Force.
“My thoughts are with Aaron’s family and fiancée, as well as his current and former colleagues at this difficult time,” Commissioner Fuller said.
“Aaron was one of six siblings and worked alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal, at Sydney City.
“Dave has always been incredibly proud of his son following in his footsteps and walking the beat side-by-side with him.
“He spent his entire policing career at Sydney City Police Area Command, where he has been part of the Proactive Crime Team since late last year, targeting crimes that directly impact the community.
“On two occasions he had been formally recognised for good police work by members of the community, which shows that he was held in high regard by not only his peers, but the community he served.
“Prior to joining the police force, Aaron served in the Australian Army, which further demonstrates his commitment to serving and protecting the community,” Commissioner Fuller said.
Constable Vidal’s family has requested privacy at this time.
“To lose a child it is a pain that’s impossible to describe to anyone unless you’ve gone through it yourself,” David told me.
David Vidal is a shattered man.
In June last year his life changed forever.
“To lose a child it is a pain that’s impossible to describe to anyone unless you’ve gone through it yourself,” David told me.
David Vidal and his son Aaron were both in the New South Wales Police Force. (A Current Affair)
The father of six is a Chief Inspector in the New South Wales Police Force.
His son, Aaron, followed in his father’s footsteps.
“To stand by him side-by-side in the uniform of the New South Wales Police was one of the proudest days of my life,” David remembers.
Aaron died when his motorbike collided with another vehicle. (A Current Affair)
After serving his country in the army, Aaron fulfilled his dream – to wear the blue uniform.
“I knew he was going to be an amazing policeman … he had the qualities that you look for in a cop,” David said.
“I fully expected if I was in the police force long enough that he’d end up being my boss – he had the most enormous potential.”
Aaron Vidal and his fiancé Jess. (A Current Affair)
Aaron was riding his motorcycle home after a night shift when he was hit by a car and killed.
“In that split second my life changed forever – my family’s life changed forever,” David told me through his tears.
“It was like a part of me had been torn from me.”
Aaron and his fiancé Jess were due to be married but had to defer because of COVID-19.
Aaron Vidal’s son Etzio was born after Aaron died.
But they started their family.
Etzio was born after Aaron died.
“Not much positive has come out of COVID,” David said.
“But that’s one thing we are thankful for because otherwise we wouldn’t have Aaron’s son … my grandson.
“Etzio is our living part of Aaron that we still have.”
Aaron died when his motorbike collided with a car driven by Tommy Balla.
Balla pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death.
Aaron Vidal died when his motorbike collided with a car driven by Tommy Balla.
Judge Stephen Hanley heard he turned in front of Aaron’s motorbike.
But the court also heard the 28-year-old police officer had allegedly breached road rules by illegally lane filtering.
David has been at Balla’s every court appearance.
“The court process was very hard in a lot of aspects,” he said.
“Obviously hearing about the circumstances as to how your son is killed is difficult to hear, no matter how it happens.”
David Vidal. (A Current Affair)
“We’re not looking for vengeance or revenge, we’re looking for justice.”
Facing 10 years in prison – Balla was sentenced to a two-year Intensive Corrections Order – no jail time.
On Friday the case is back before Judge Hanley to determine if Balla qualifies for home detention.
The Vidal family is determined to make a difference and is now helping establish a Road Trauma Victims Support Group to help others better understand the legal process.
“This is really a dire need … there needs to be much more support out there to help victims,” David said.
“They are already going through massive trauma, but to be further traumatised by the process is terrible, we can’t allow that to happen.
Aaron Vidal. (A Current Affair)
“(As a police officer) I’ve told parents that their child’s never coming home, and I’ve walked away.
“Whilst I felt their pain, I could never really understand their pain and now that I’ve gone through it, I know that nobody can understand that pain unless you’ve gone through it yourself.”
The support group is the brainchild of the Highway Patrol’s Crash Investigation Unit boss, Katie Orr.
“I started to think, how do we support these families,” she told me.
“And how do we help the police support these families (with) the ongoing trauma – I guess the police as well – we’re all human, have families, have children.”
She’s seen proof the support group is empowering families impacted by road trauma.
“We had our first Road Trauma Support Group meeting in March this year and we had about 40 families.”
The Vidal’s know nothing will ease their pain, but they want to ensure others facing the same trauma get the support they need.
They want that to be Aaron’s legacy.
“As hard as it is to do all this and it is hard because I’m still grieving – I do it for Aaron, so that his death is not in vain,” David said.
As David showed me a beautiful photograph of his grandson, I asked him: “what happens if Etzio, one day, says to his grandfather, ‘I want to be a policeman’?”
Over 1,000 people are killed on the road and over 40,000 people admitted to hospital annually in Australia*. The numbers are getting worse, not better. It’s time for change. This is an open letter to the NSW Government, the Australian Federal Government, The Director of Public Prosecutions NSW and the Insurance Council of Australia.
As the voice of families who have experienced road trauma we are seeking change. Too many people die on the roads through the criminal act of another. It is our vision that no more families will ever experience the death of a loved one in this way.
The Road Trauma Support Group NSW Australia petition for the following 7 reforms:
1. New language: We seek a new language for reporting road crime. Firstly, the term ‘accident’, risks making crashes seem inevitable and unavoidable. Most often these are NOT accidents but collisions that could have been avoided. Secondly, call it what it is consistently – road deaths caused by a criminal act of another should be called Vehicular Manslaughter or in extreme cases Vehicular Homicide.
2. Stronger deterrent: Stop being soft on road killers and repeat offenders. When a person is killed by a criminal act of another on the road a recommended sentence of at least 5 years with an increase of the maximum sentence to 25 years consistent with the current maximum penalty for manslaughter. Licences are a privilege not a right. People who cause death on the road or have been proven unfit to drive should lose their license for a minimum of 10 years and then they should have to prove they have not committed any offences and have completed traffic offender courses/Victim impact panels.
3. Reform legislation: Urgent Change is needed to the legislative system to ensure justice is served. Greater emphasis should be made to ensure that the judiciary is NOT to give greater weight to the impact on or welfare of the offender over the victims. The Judiciary must consider in their judgement in detail the impact upon the living victims.
4. Support for victims: Formal recognition that every road death leaves behind many living victims. These victims need to be recognised and supported in their grief and assisted through their trauma. Currently perpetrators of road crime get treated better than victims of road crime. The impacts of their illegal acts not only cause death but also a tidal wave of trauma and destruction through families and our community. The knock on ripple effect is widespread and costly.
5. Overhaul of CTP Insurance system: The current CTP system is ineffective, outdated and cruel for people undergoing a traumatic event. We propose a review of current mechanisms in place to support all victims of road crime.
6. Victim Impact Panels: Mandatory attendance for all DUI and repeat road offenders at Victim Impact Panels. The purpose of the Victim Impact Panel (VIP) program is to help drunk and drugged and repeat driving offenders to recognise and internalise the lasting and long-term effects of dangerous and substance-impaired driving. The objective is to create an empathy and understanding of the tragedy, leave a permanent impression that leads to changes in thinking and behaviour and prevents future offences. The right ripple effect.
7. Education: More needs to be done to prevent and manage road crime. Firstly, this means better educating internal stakeholders such as the Police, DPP and Judiciary regarding managing road crime and road trauma victims. Secondly, making road responsibilities and the impact of road crime a formal part of the education process of our youth, driver’s licence applicants and repeat traffic offenders.
* 1,125 deaths in last 12 months to May 2021, 2.4% up on previous 12 months. Source: Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport Regional Development and Communications. Australian Road Deaths Database.
Dead NSW off-duty police officer an expectant father
A motorcyclist who died in a crash in Sydney’s north-west has been identified as an off-duty police officer who was expecting his first child.
NSW Police constable Aaron Vidal, 28, died on Thursday afternoon after he was struck by a ute in Rouse Hill while travelling home from work.
He leaves behind a pregnant fiancée.
Police alleged in court that 37-year-old Tommy Balla drove the ute through a red light at an intersection.
Balla appeared in Blacktown Local Court on Friday on charges of dangerous driving occasioning death and negligent driving occasioning death.
He was granted conditional bail preventing him from driving a motor vehicle and is due to appear before the same court on August 14.
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said in a statement Constable Vidal had been recognised within the force for his commitment to protecting the community.
“On two occasions, he had been formally recognised for good police work by members of the community, which shows that he was held in high regard by not only his peers, but the community he served,” Mr Fuller said in the statement on Friday.
Deputy Commissioner Jeff Loy said Constable Vidal worked alongside his father David, a duty officer, at the Day Street Police Station in Sydney’s CBD.
Constable Vidal had been confirmed as a constable in December 2018 and was attached to the force’s “proactive crime team“.
“He was a man of service – he was a member of the armed forces before he joined the police force and really, a 28-year-old young man on the journey of life,” Mr Loy said.
“There’s a lot of people around that young lady [Constable Vidal’s fiancée] today, also his father, and he has five other siblings – so it’s a big family.
“Police deal with tragedy and trauma but when we lose a young officer in really such a wasteful way in some respects … it really hits us in the heart.”
Police Minister David Elliott said Constable Vidal‘s passing left a significant mark on the police community.
“Mr Vidal was a dearly valued and loved member of the Sydney City Police Area Command since graduating in 2017, and worked alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal,” Mr Elliott said in a statement.
“Both had previously served in the Australian Army and, as proud veterans, continued to serve the community as members of the NSW Police Force.”
A ute driver accused of running a red light before hitting and killing a young police officer in Sydney’s north-west has been released on bail.
Tommy Balla, 37, was turning onto Schofields Road from Windsor Road in Rouse Hill during evening peak last night when he knocked constable Aaron Vidal off his motorbike.
Paramedics were called but the 28-year-old officer died at the scene.
Tommy Balla, 37, has been charged with negligent driving and dangerous driving occasioning death. (Supplied)
On the beat – Mr Vidal (right) with a colleague ( his father – David ) from the Sydney City Police Area Command. (NSW Police)
Mr Balla wasn’t injured in the crash but is now facing charges of dangerous driving and negligent driving occasioning death.
The father of two told the court he believes the traffic lights were amber, not red, when he made the turn.
Police colleagues have today paid tribute to the slain officer.
Mr Vedal worked at Sydney City Police Area Command alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vedal, since graduating as a police officer in 2017.
Mr Balla, a father to two young children, has been released on bail. (Supplied)
The 37-year-old told police he believes the traffic lights were amber, not red, when he made the turn. (Supplied)
He had been involved with the force’s “proactive crime team”, which investigated criminal activity in the inner city and monitored street protests.
“He was a man of service – he was a member of the armed forces before he joined the police force and really, a 28-year-old young man on the journey of life,” Police Deputy Commissioner Jeff Loy said.
Mr Vedal had been planning his wedding with his fiancée.
Mr Vidal pictured with his fiancée. The couple had been planning their upcoming wedding. (NSW Police)
The scene of the crash where Mr Vidal was killed yesterday. A ute driver has now been charged. (9News)
“There’s a lot of people around that young lady (Const. Vidal’s fiancée) today, also his father, and he has five other siblings – so it’s a big family,” Deputy Commissioner Loy said.
“Police deal with tragedy and trauma but when we lose a young officer in really such a wasteful way in some respects … it really hits us in the heart.”
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller also offered his condolences to Mr Vidal’s family.
“My thoughts are with Aaron’s family and fiancée, as well as his current and former colleagues at this difficult time,” Mr Fuller said in a statement.
“Aaron was one of six siblings and worked alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal, at Sydney City.
Mr Vidal with his fiancée. The family has requested privacy as they grieve. (NSW Police)
Mr Vidal served in the army before joining the NSW Police Force. (NSW Police)
“Dave has always been incredibly proud of his son following in his footsteps and walking the beat side-by-side with him.”
Mr Fuller said Mr Vidal had been formally recognised for good police work by members of the public twice during his short career, which “shows that he was held in high regard by not only his peers, but the community he served”.
Before joining the NSW Police Force, Mr Vidal served in the Australian Army.
Do The Work or Pay Later is the message in almost all things but it doesn’t make sense until it’s to late let’s chat tonight and passively see how we are going in life as we head into the weekend.
Also tonight we shall be giving a minutes silence for the Thin Blue Line of the loss of Aaron Vidal former soldier turned Cop along side his father David like so many soldiers do.
Police lined the streets and crowds stood outside St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney on Monday for the funeral of 28-year-old police officer Constable Aaron Vidal from Bligh Park.
The father-to-be died after his motorbike was involved in a crash at the intersection of Windsor and Schofields roads just before 5.45pm on Thursday, June 18 on his way home from work.
His fiancée Jess Loh told mourners at the funeral that the couple were expecting a baby boy.
Channel 7 News reported that Aaron Vidal was an organ donor and two people will benefit from his gift of life.
The driver of the utility involved in the crash, a 37-year-old man from The Ponds has been charged with dangerous driving occasioning death, and negligent driving occasioning death.
Constable Vidal, worked at Sydney City Police Area Command alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal.
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said: “Dave has always been incredibly proud of his son following in his footsteps and walking the beat sideby – side with him.”
Constable Vidal was part of class ‘332’ and started duties as a probationary constable at the Day Street Police Station in December 2017. He was confirmed as a constable in December 2018.
He joined the Proactive Crime Team at the end of last year, targeting crimes that directly impact the community.
Commissioner Fuller said: “On two occasions he had been formally recognised for good police work by members of the community, which shows that he was held in high regard by not only his peers, but the community he served.”
“Prior to joining the police force, Aaron served in the Australian Army, which further demonstrates his commitment to serving and protecting the community,” he said.
PARRAMATTA, Australia — As a police officer, David Vidal has seen many bodies, but he cannot rid himself of the moment he had to identify his high-achieving son.
“That image of Aaron on the table, lying with his life and soul squeezed out of him, replays in my head again and again,” said Vidal, Chief Inspector, to Parramatta District Court on June 4. “I cannot burn that from my memory.”
Constable Aaron Vidal, an expectant father in his dream career alongside his father in the New South Wales Police Force, was killed on his way home from work in June 2020.
The four-year Army veteran’s motorcycle was hit by a car driven by wannabe rapper Tommy Balla, who had run a red light in an intersection in Sydney’s Hills District.
Josephine Vidal, Jessica Loh and Chief Inspector David Vidal speak to reporters about the death of Constable Aaron Vidal outside Parramatta District Court in Sydney, Friday, June 4, 2021. (AAP Image/Luke Costin)
“I know he did not do it with intention (of killing Aaron),” he said. “But no one on the roads today does not know the potential running a red light could and, in this case, did have.”
Vidal told the court how his son’s death stripped him of his best friend and passion for policing.
Vidal’s mother lost a piece of her soul. His broken-hearted younger sister forfeited her empathy while a younger brother was robbed of his best man at a future wedding.
Jessica Loh, widowed by the crash, said her life of excitement had turned to a daily struggle, as she cares for their baby born after the crash.
She recalled receiving a doctor’s call confirming the gender of her baby minutes after saying goodbye to her husband at a funeral home.
Father-of-two Tommy Balla (centre) leaves Parramatta District Court in Sydney, Friday, June 4, 2021. Balla faced a sentence hearing after pleading guilty to dangerous driving occasioning the death of Aaron Vidal, a police constable on his way from work to his pregnant fiancee at home. (AAP Image/Luke Costin)
Her last message from Vidal came minutes before he died.
“Got out early, babe, jumping on the bike now,” he texted.
But, uncharacteristically, he never showed up, said Loh.
“I called and messaged repeatedly but still no response.”
A check of a traffic website sparked her worst nightmare before she drove to the crash site.
“I kept repeating, ‘Hang in there, babe, I will be there soon,” she said.
While police officers would not tell her if he was OK, she quickly saw the answer for herself; the constable’s body in the wreckage, his bloodied bag on the ground nearby.
“I felt numb, sick, and empty,” she said. “I started thinking I would lose our baby next.”
The “violent and meaningless tragedy” left her envious of those in her mothers’ group who had husbands to go home to, she said.
“I have a beautiful baby boy, and I am very happy to have him in my life,” she said. “But with each exciting milestone, there’s a reminder of what’s missing.”
Balla, 38, who broke down in tears when the court adjourned for lunch, is due to be sentenced later on June 4.
A man is set to be spared jail time for causing a devastating collision that killed a beloved young police officer and father-to-be last year.
Constable Aaron Vidal died when his motorcycle slammed into the ute driven by Tommy Balla, who had run a red light at Rouse Hill in Sydney’s northwest on June 18, 2020.
Constable Vidal, 28, had just finished a shift in the city and was riding home to his pregnant fiancee Jessica Loh when his life was cut tragically short.
Constable Aaron Vidal and Tommy Balla.
Balla, 38, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving occasioning death and told Constable Vidal’s family during a hearing at Parramatta District Court last month he would never forgive himself.
Facing 10 years in jail, Judge Stephen Hanley on Monday sentenced him to a two-year prison term to be served in the community by way of an intensive corrections order.
But the court heard Balla first needs to pass a home detention application in order to avoid the jail time. If unsuccessful he will serve his sentence behind bars.
The judgment came after Judge Hanley found Constable Vidal had himself breached the road rules by illegally lane filtering just before he hit the side of Balla’s Mitsubishi Triton as it turned across Windsor Road.
Constable Vidal with his father and fellow officer, Chief Inspector David Vidal.
The court heard witnesses reported seeing the motorcycle moving “fast” past several stationary cars stopped at the intersection, travelling at up to 50 to 60km/h.
Judge Hanley said the speed limit for lane filtering – an “inherently dangerous” manoeuvre – was 30km/h and as a police officer Constable Vidal should have known better.
“I’m satisfied the (crash) would not have occurred if the victim was observing the rules … and in that sense contributed to the collision,” he said.
The court heard the young cop, however, was faced with a green light and was entitled to believe no vehicle would be illegally travelling across the intersection. The speed limit on Windsor Road is 80km/h.
Tommy Balla was on a call using his cars wireless Bluetooth system when he ran a red light and killed a young police officer. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Dylan Coker
Balla proceeded to turn across the “very busy” intersection at peak hour onto Schofields Road two seconds after the turning arrow had turned red, the court heard.
He claimed not to have noticed the red lights and said in his police interview he believed it was still amber.
At the time the father-of-two was speaking on the phone via Bluetooth and had his 21-month-old child in the front passenger seat.
Judge Hanley said Constable Vidal’s “tragic and unnecessary death … occurred as a result of (Balla’s) inattentiveness”.
He accepted Balla was “sincerely and profoundly” remorseful and had been living “in his own prison” due to serious mental health issues and public humiliation from media reporting.
“I accept he has excellent prospects of rehabilitation and I would be very surprised if he reoffended,” he said.
There was no evidence Balla was affected by drugs or alcohol, and he had a good driving record, the court heard.
Judge Hanley said the crash occurred in a “split second” and found neither Balla nor Constable Vidal would have seen each other coming.
Chief Inspector David Vidal and partner of Aaron Vidal, Jessica Loh, arrive at court on Monday. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Dylan Coker
Constable Vidal had followed his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal, into the NSW Police force in 2017 after previously serving in the Australian Army.
The father and son worked together at Day Street police station in the CBD at the time of Constable Vidal’s death.
At the time he was excitedly expecting the birth of his first child, a boy named Etzio, and was engaged to be married to his soulmate Ms Loh.
Judge Hanley said Constable Vidal’s family had suffered “immeasurable pain” from the loss of a “larger than life” young man who brightened every life he touched.
He said Balla’s family had also become “innocent victims” in the fallout from the crash, saying there were “no winners” from the tragic incident.
Balla has been granted bail as he awaits the outcome of his home detention assessment.
Aaron Vidals fiancee Jessica Loh and father Chief Inspector David Vidal embrace at the constables funeral at St Mary’s Cathedral. Picture: Rohan Kelly
‘Aaron was my hero’: Family mourns police officer killed in crash as motorist assessed for home detention
The family of a police officer who was killed when a motorist ran a red light and hit the father-to-be say they will feel the loss of their son, husband and friend for the rest of their lives.
It’s been just over a year since Constable Aaron Vidal, 28, suffered fatal injuries in a crash with a Mitsubishi Triton ute at the intersection of Windsor and Schofields roads in Rouse Hill. Tradesman Tommy Balla, 38, had run a red light. He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving occasioning death.
Chief Inspector David Vidal and his sons fiancée Jessica Loh outside the court on Monday. Credit: Nick Moir
On Monday, Parramatta District Court heard Balla would be assessed to serve two years’ imprisonment in home detention, with Judge Stephen Hanley describing him as profoundly remorseful and living “in his own prison”.
Balla had made a “split-second decision” to proceed into the intersection, which was a “misjudgement”, Judge Hanley said.
“If he’s not suitable for a home detention order, he’ll have to serve a term of imprisonment of two years,” he said.
Outside court, Chief Inspector David Vidal, who held a photo of his son, linked arms with Constable Vidal’s fiancee, Jessica Loh, as the pair told reporters, through tears, that they continued to feel the loss of him every day.
“We’re heartbroken and devastated as we were a year ago when we lost Aaron,” Chief Inspector Vidal said. “And we will continue to [feel this way] for the rest of our lives. Aaron was my hero.
“His parents are heartbroken, his siblings are heartbroken, his fiancee is heartbroken, his friends and his colleagues are heartbroken. Probably worst of all, he leaves behind a son he will never know.”
Chief Inspector Vidal said his son had dedicated his short life to protecting others and serving his country: first in the Australian Army and then in the NSW Police Force, where they worked alongside each other at Sydney City police area command.
He added that, while nothing could bring his son back, more needed to be done to support victims of road trauma. He called on the NSW government and community to introduce better education programs, judicial reform to increase prison sentences for offenders, and increased support for the loved ones of victims of road trauma.
Ms Loh said the couple’s son had got her through the last year, but she wished Constable Vidal had been alive to see him.
Chief Inspector Vidal added they would do everything they could to ensure Constable Vidal’s son knew what “an incredible human being Aaron was”.
Ms Loh told Balla’s sentence hearing last month she had been waiting for her partner to arrive home but checked a traffic website and raced to the crash site, where he had died.
After farewelling her partner in the funeral home, she received a call confirming the gender of their baby and went back inside to hold his hand and tell him they would be having a boy.
Balla said he had learnt a “very cruel life lesson … that things can change rapidly for the worst” and his actions are a “haunting reality”.
“Knowing Mr Vidal will never experience the joy of becoming a father hurts me the most,” he said, adding that Ms Loh had given birth to “a baby boy he will never get to meet because of me”.
“I do not ask or expect forgiveness … as I will never forgive myself.”
Judge Hanley on Monday said the statements given had been a “deeply moving and emotional experience” and no one present was unaffected by the “substantial loss”, which for Constable Vidal’s family is “immeasurable and everlasting”.
The judge said after watching dashcam footage of the crash, the right-hand turn traffic light from Windsor Road into Schofields Road had turned from amber to red, and was red for approximately two seconds before Balla crossed the solid white line and entered the intersection. Constable Vidal entered from the other direction on a green light and collided with the side of the ute as it turned.
Judge Hanley said, based on witness accounts and the footage, the victim was attempting to get in front of a stationary vehicle on his motorcycle and “most likely lane filtering in a speed and manner in breach of the road rules”.
But despite his manner of driving, the off-duty police officer was “entitled to believe there would be no vehicle illegally traversing” across Windsor Road.
The judge said the “tragic and unnecessary death” occurred as a result of Balla’s inattentiveness. However, he was satisfied he did not deliberately or intentionally ignore the red light warnings.
He was further satisfied the collision would not have occurred if the victim was observing the specific road rules around lane filtering, at a speed of 30km/h or less, but reiterated Balla caused the fatal crash by illegally crossing the intersection in circumstances dangerous to other road users.
The judge believed Balla was profoundly remorseful, to a level rarely seen in his more than four-decade career in law, and was satisfied he had excellent prospects for rehabilitation.
“I would be surprised if he ever reoffended,” the judge said, adding that Balla “will remain in his own prison … unless he can find a way out”.
Judge Hanley hoped all of those affected “will not be anchored to this for the rest of their lives”.
The judge convicted Balla, who remains on bail, and ordered a home detention assessment, with the intention of imposing a two-year intensive correction order to commence when the part-heard sentence returns to court in August.
Dept. records indicate he was attached to Hurstville at the time of Retirement. Other records indicate Sutherland.
Service: From3 June 1954 to28 October 1989 = 35 years, 4 months, 25 days Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours – although
NSW Police Imperial Service & Good Conduct medal – granted ? May 1971
NSW Police Long Service & Good Conduct Medal – granted 25 June 1980
Police Medal – with 35 year Clasp – granted 29 October 2008
National Police Service Medal – granted 22 December 2016
Born: Monday 9 August 1937 at Waverley, NSW
Died on: Tuesday 9 June 2020 at Sutherland, NSW
Age: 82 years, 10 months
Cause: Complained of headaches but wouldn’t go to Hospital until he suffered a Stroke where he suffered another Stroke. He had been diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer 2 months earlier.
Event location: Sutherland Hospital, NSW
Event date: ?
Funeral date: 17 June 2020
Funeral location: Woronora Memorial Park, Sutherland, NSW
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ???Unknown
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ???
( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: Olsens Funerals, Sutherland, NSW
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: Nil
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( June 2020 )
KEVIN 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.
Kev is remembered, by his many work mates, as having NSW Number plates KEV-000 displayed on his vehicle(s) – an old yellow Chrysler then a gold Holden Statesman at Hurstville.
He is also remembered as being a great bloke by his work mates.
He has been highly respect by all that have worked with him and is being greatly missed by his wife, children, grand children, sister & brother-in-law.
If everyone had Kevin’s integrity and loved and cared for their family and friends as Kevin did, the world would be a much better place.
Kevin Robert RAUE
| 31/07/2020
Kevin Robert RAUE
AKA ?
Late of Tweed Heads, NSW & Solomon Islands – Vanuatu
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # 124
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 14290
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Academy on ? ? ?
Probationary Constable- appointed 14 September 1970
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed 14 September 1979
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( Yes )
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 21 March 1986
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Appears in the 1988 Stud Book as a Sgt but not the 1989 issue
Final Rank = ?
Stations: ?, Central ( 1 Division ), Special Branch, Leeton Dets, Blacktown Dets, Homicide Squad, National Crime Authority ( NCA ), ?, North West Major Crime – Retirement
Service: From? ? pre Sept 1970? to17 January 1989 ( Resignation ) = 18 years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 8 June 1988 ( Det Sgt )
Born: Wednesday 11 July 1951
Died on: Thursday 4 June 2020
Age: 68 years, 10 months & 24 days
Cause: ?
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Tuesday 16 June 2020 @ 1pm
Funeral location: Tweed Heads Memorial Gardens and Crematorium, 176 Kirkwood Road Tweed Heads NSW
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 50 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ???
( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( May 2020 )
Det Cst 1/c Kevin RAUE – Leeton CIB
KEVIN 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.
Kevin Raue comes from an extensive policing background having served as an operational police officer, specialising in criminal investigations, in Australia and Papua New Guinea over a 25-year period.
Mr. RAUE is currently the Deputy Team Leader, Justice and Corrections Coordinator, with the Solomon Islands Justice Program (SIJP), coordinating Development Programs in the justice sector in the Solomon Islands for the GoA through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
He has been involved in international development program management throughout the Pacific and Asia since 1996 specialising in Police development, Correctional Centre management and justice administration.
Prior to that he was a serving Police Officer in Australia and Papua New Guinea, completing his formal policing career in 1995 as the Deputy Director/Manager Investigations of the Australian Government’s Organised Crime agency, the National Crime Authority (NCA) now known as the Australian Crime Commission (ACC).
Skills
•Criminal investigations
•Project Management, Leadership and coordination of Police and Law and Justice (capacity building) development programs (Pacific/Asia)
•Community Safety programs
•Aviation security
•Public Sector reform/Governance
•Technical advising/coaching/mentoring Police, Corrections and Justice sector professionals
Part of Class 124. Richard HURST ( first on the right ) Kevin RAUE ( 3rd from right ) ( RIP – 4 June 2020 ) Photo via Phillip Brand.
Tue 9 June 2020 at 12:38 PM · Staff at the Australian High Commission are deeply saddened to learn that our good friend and colleague, Kevin Raue, recently passed away. Kevin had a great love and respect for Solomon Islands and spent many years working here, particularly with CSSI and justice sector colleagues. We will miss Kevin immensely – his wonderful presence and commitment were an inspiration to us all.
Det ?, Det Sgt Kevin RAUE, one of Anita Cobby’s killers, Det Cst 1/c Garry HESKETT
On this coming Tuesday 16th of June a police legend, a great Australian, Kevin Robert Raue, will be laid to rest in his hometown of Tweed Heads. Kevin passed away suddenly on Thursday 4th of June. Kevin was 68.
A dedicated, brilliant and decorated police officer he was one of the homicide detectives involved in the Anita Cobby case and led the investigation into the Janine Balding murder in 1988. A stellar 25 year career with NSW police followed by a successful career in Commonwealth law enforcement.
Kevin also made a huge contribution to policing and justice and corrections administration in New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and throughout Asia and is held in the highest of regards in all jurisdictions where he had input.
A humble and decent man Kevin was a credit to the New South Wales and Commonwealth policing tradition. A true altruist and human rights advocate who put the safety of the community as his highest priority. He represented everything that was and is good about our police force.
Due to covid-19 restrictions there will be a limit of 50 at Kevin’s funeral, a fraction of those who would have liked to attend and pay their respects. His funeral however will be live streamed starting at 12:55 p.m. this Tuesday.
( See link above )
Rest in peace Kevin
“Thank you for your service”
(Kevin is third third from left)
Excerpt from Police Heritage story p327
Anita Cobby’s movements were re-enacted the week after her murder, with Constable Debbie Wallace, Blacktown Police, playing the part of Anita Cobby in the re-enactment.
For the re-enactment, Debbie Wallace dressed in similar clothing to what Anita Cobby was wearing when Anita was murdered. Detective Senior Constable Kevin Raue of the Homicide Squad had asked Debbie Wallace to play the part of Anita and the reenactment was widely covered by the media. Debbie Wallace was designated a detective in 1989, and became a Detective Chief Inspector at Cabramatta Police. Some of the other police working on the Anita Cobby murder case were, Detective Sergeant Ian Kennedy,
Detective Sergeant Graham Rosetta, Senior Constable Hugh Dundas, Detective Senior Constable Phil Gaspert, Detective Constable 1
Class Garry Heskett, Paul Davies and Tony Cassimatis. The ranks of Davies and Cassimatis at the time are unknown to me.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Wednesday 6 May 1987, page 8
Cobby defendant bashed, says QC
SYDNEY: A NSW Homicide Squad detective denied in court yesterday that he had extracted a false confession from a defendant in the Mrs Anita Cobby trial by having him repeatedly assaulted.
Mr Bill Hosking, QC, for Mr Michael Murphy, alleged that Detective-Sergeant Kevin Raue and Detective-Sergeant Ian Kennedy had conspired to fabricate his client’s statement and had had him bashed to secure his signature during questioning at Blacktown Police Station on February 26 last year.
Brothers Mr Leslie, 23, Mr Gary, 29, and Mr Michael Murphy, 34, and Mr Michael Murdoch, 19, are charged with the kidnap, abduction, sexual assault and murder of 26-year-old Sydney nurse Mrs Cobby on February 2 last year.
Mr Hosking said Sergeant Raue‘s statement of Mr Michael Murphy’s alleged confession was exactly the same as that prepared by Sergeant Kennedy, who headed the investigation into Mrs Cobby’s death. This was despite having prepared it last May 30, almost four months after the event.
Sergeant Raue said he had had access to Sergeant Kennedy‘s statement in preparing his own, but denied copying it. He said his and Sergeant Kennedy‘s statements appeared similar because they were from the same notes.
Mr Hosking alleged that the two detectives had collaborated in preparing the statement after a challenge to police evidence at the Glebe Coroner’s Court inquest last year.
“You made sure that the conversations tallied word for word,” he said. “You could not produce a version the same as Kennedy‘s without putting your heads together.”
Mr Hosking added, “Let me put this to you. You and Detective Kennedy conspired to produce a fabricated interview and secured a signature on it by having Michael Murphy assaulted repeatedly.”
Sergeant Raue denied the allegation. Earlier, he denied allegations by Mr Brad Mulligan, for Mr Leslie Murphy, that his client had been assaulted by detectives during questioning at Blacktown Police Station after he was picked up last February 24.
Sergeant Raue said Mr Murphy did not appear shaken or unsettled during about six hours of questioning.
Mr Mulligan said two other police officers had entered the interview room when Mr Murphy was alone and slapped him across the face.
The detective said Mr Murphy did not seem upset after he had been left alone briefly and he would be surprised if the alleged incident happened.
A Former NSW MP is being sued by two retired policeman involved in the investigation into the murder of Sydney woman Janine Balding. Kevin Raue and John Carroll have launched defamation action against former Upper House member Peter Breen over references in a book about the 1988 killings that he self-published. Three men are serving life for the murder.
Former NSW Upper House MP Peter Breen has been a busy boy since he was forced to resign from the Labor Party last year after stating his “love” for rapist and murderer Stephen “Shorty” Jamieson.
In July Dossier reported that two former detectives were suing the self-described “passionate” legal reformer over his 2006 book, Life As A Sentence. The True Story of the Janine Balding Murder.
John Carroll and Kevin Raue are claiming aggravated damages on several grounds, including Breen’s motivation for publication: “his love for Stephen Jamieson”.
Breen believes Jamieson and another person “B”, who was a juvenile at the time, were wrongly convicted of Balding’s rape and murder.
In his book, Breen comments on remarks by a radio talkback caller, who says “it sounds like I love B”.
“The statement causes me to blink at the stars. I remember how much Jack Begnell loves B and is committed to his cause. It is a form of love, I suppose, to believe in a person and work hard for them in the hope they receive mercy as well as justice. I love Shorty Jamieson no less and I’m not ashamed to say so.”
Now Breen is suing Nationwide News over several articles published in The Daily Telegraph and one in The Weekend Australian.
He’s pleading the following meanings:
(a) He is unfit to be a member of parliament because he is romantically in love with two vicious murderers.
(b) He holds a perverse attraction to two vicious murderers.
(c) He disgraced himself as a member of parliament by declaring his love for two convicted rapists and murderers.
(d) He holds a perverse attraction towards two convicted rapists and murderers.
(e) In declaring his romantic love for two convicted rapists and murderers, he is ridiculous as a member of parliament.
(f) As a member of parliament he engaged in disturbing conduct by declaring his romantic love for two violent sexual offenders.
(g) He holds a perverse attraction towards two violent sexual offenders.
(h) He is romantically in love with at least two murderers.
(i) He is an idiot.
(j) He lied to a reporter when he said that he had been admitted to St Vincent’s hospital.
On October 4, NSW District Court judge Judith Gibson refused an application by Breen’s barrister Bruce McClintock SC to strike out Nationwide’s defence of comment.
Gibson found that while there were inaccuracies and omissions in the articles, there were sufficient facts (complete and undistorted) to justify the comment defence being pleaded.
She gave Nationwide two weeks to replead the particulars of fact, setting out those that are relied upon for each imputation.
Husband to Carolyn ROMELINGH ( nee STEWART ) NSWPF # 21112
AKA Pete
Late of Corrimal, formerly of Newcastle & Sydney, NSW
NSW Goulburn Police Academy Class # 226
New South Wales Police Force
ProCst # 98283
Regd. # 23629
Uniform # 1?998?
Rank: Commenced Training on ? March 1987?
Probationary Constable- appointed 15 May 1987 ( Aged 27 years, 6 months & 19 days )
Constable – appointed 15 May 1988
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( Yes )
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Detective Senior Constable
Stations: ?, Crime Squad secondment, Corrimal Dets, State Operations Group ( SOGs ) – ( 1990s ), Wollongong Dets, Wollongong Anti Theft Squad, ?, Hurstville – Retirement
Service: From? ? pre May 1987? to 25 March 2006 = 19 years Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours
Constable 1/c Peter B. ROMELINGH# 23629 – on left, Constable ?, Senior Constable Les HOCKING# 19053 – on right – 1992
Currently serving with
NSW AMBULANCE SERVICE
Regd # 60082338
Commenced 22 August 2016
Stations: Kogarah Super Station
Currently serving with
NSW FIRE BRIGADES
Regd # 269024
Stations: formerly of 269 Station, Corrimal
Retained Fire Fighter
Awards: NSW Fire Brigades Long Service & Good Conduct Medal –granted22 April 2005
Corrimal Fire & Rescue 269 15 June 2017 Peter ROMELINGH – 1st on left in rear.
Corrimal Fire & Rescue 269 June 15, 2017 at 1:37 PM Peter ROMELINGH – 1st on right – hands on hip.
Born: Friday 13 November 1959
Died on: Thursday 4 June 2020 at home
Age: 60 years, 6 months & 22 days
Cause: Heart attack
Event location: Home
Event date: Thursday 4 June 2020
Funeral date: ? June 2020
Funeral location: H. Parsons Funerals, Wollongong, NSW
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 50 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ?TBA ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 10 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ??? ( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: H. Parsons, Wollongong, NSW
Buried at: ?
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( May 2020 )
PETER 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.
Loved son-in-law, brother-in-law, and uncle to the Stewart and Henderson families.
Aged 60 Years
Always loved and sadly missed
A private service will be held.
Donations to NSW Police Legacy and Surf Life Saving Australia in Peter’s name would be appreciated.
June 11, 2020
Such sad news.
Pete, such a lovely gentle man.
Gone too soon.
Sending our love and prayers.
Condolences to you Carolyn, Caitlin, Mikaela, and Piper.
Matthew and Leanne x
Leanne Hunt, Miranda, New South Wales
June 11, 2020
Not fair.
Taken too soon.
Deepest condolences to Carolyn and family.
John Crowley, Adelaide, South Australia
Contact Me
June 11, 2020
Pete, such a lovely gentle man.
Gone too soon.
Sending our love and prayers now and always.
Condolences to you Carolyn, Caitlin, Mikaela, and Piper.
Matthew and Leanne x
June 11, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, Peter was a caring person always helping the community, his love of his family was immense, he was very proud of his girls.
Rest in Peace
Nina & Brianna
Nina Cauduro, Corrimal, New South Wales
June 10, 2020
A pleasure to have worked with – a lovely, gentle man and I am sure Pete will be sadly missed.
So very sorry for your loss Carolyn and family.
Vikki Gorman, Austinmer, New South Wales
June 10, 2020
A true gentleman in every sense of the word.
Donna, Corrimal
June 10, 2020
May Peter ROMELINGH ( NSWPF ), ( AMBULANCE NSW ), ( NSW FIRE BRIGADES ) Forever Rest In Peace.
https://police.freom.com/peter-romelingh/
Greg Callander, Goulburn, New South Wales
June 9, 2020
Dear Caitlin, please accept my deepest condolences for your family’s loss.
Christiana
Published by Illawarra Mercury from June 9 to June 11, 2020
Carolyn stood before us and spoke of the good man we all know. So strong.
A Guard of Honour filled with uniformed firefighters, ambos and retired cops 250 m long gave our salute to a man who gave his life to serve and care for others.
He gave his life to his 4 girls, the police, the fire brigade and recently the ambulance service.
The world could use a few more like Peter Romelingh.
Condolences to Carolyn & 4 girls.
The Commissioner ( NSW Fire Brigades ) regrets to advise of the passing of current serving Firefighter Peter ROMELINGH (269024), formerly of 269 Station Corrimal, on Thursday 4th June 2020.
Peter was also a current serving officer with NSW Ambulance.
Funeral details will be distributed once advised.
Anyone wishing to submit a message of condolence may do so utilising the online condolence form
Peter also played with the Police football team – Illawarra Falcons.
Warren John REID
| 31/07/2020
Warren John REID
AKA ?
Late of ?
NSW Redfern Police Training Centre – Class # 109
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 12304
Rank: Commenced Training a Redfern Academy on Monday 31 October 1966 ( Aged 22 years & 19 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed Monday 12 December 1966 ( Aged 22 years, 2 months old )
Constable – appointed 12 December 1967
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? 1973
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? 1976
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 29 June 1984
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank = Detective Sergeant
Stations: Newtown GDs ( 5 Division ) ( 1966 – 69 ), 21 Division ( 19 Nov 1969 – 1 Oct 1970 ), Phillip St – Plain Cloths – CI Duties ( 4 Division )( 2 October 1970 – 3 August 1974 ),
North Sydney – CI Duties ( 6 Division )( 4 August 1974 – 10 September 1977 ), Hornsby – CI Duties ( 16 Division )( 11 September 1977 – 20 May 1978 ), North Sydney – GDs ( 21 May 1978 – 9 May 1981 ),
Central ( 1 Division ) – Licencing ( 10 May 1981 – 3 December 1983 ), Central ( 1 Division ) – CI Duties ( 4 December 1983 – 26 November 1985 ),
Drug Law Enforcement Bureau – Gosford ( DLEB ) ( 27 November 1985 – 19 April 1986 ), Eastwood – CI Duties ( 16 Division )( 20 April 1986 – 11 April 1992 ),
Chatswood – CI Duties ( 12 April 1992 – ? ), Pennant Hills – CI Duties ( ? – 30 June 1997 ),
Gladesville – CI Duties ( 1 July 1997 – 8 October 1988 ) until Retirement
Service: From 31 October 1966to 8 October 1998 = 31 years, 11 Months & 7 days Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 22 April 1983 ( Det SenCon )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 27 August 1992 ( Det Sgt )
National Police Service Medal – granted 29 October 2015 ( Det Sgt )
Born: Thursday 12 October 1944
Died on: Wednesday 27 May 2020
Age: 75 years, 7 months, 15 days old
Cause: ?
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Wednesday 3 June 2020 @ 10.15am
Funeral location: North Chapel, Northern Suburbs Crematorium, Delhi Rd, North Ryde, NSW
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 35 persons at a Funeral ( size of room ) due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this Funeral is already at capacity )
Future Wake location: ?TBA ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 10 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( June 2020 )
Assistant Commissioner Dennis CLIFFORD # 14795 with Warren John REID.
WARREN 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.
31 October 1966 – Metro Police Training College – Trainee
12 December 1966 – Metro No.5 Div (Newtown) – General Duties
19 November 1969 – Metro C.I Branch – No. 21 Squad
02 October 1970 – Metro No. 4 Div (Phillip St) – C.I Duties
04 August 1974 – Metro No. 6 Div (Nth Sydney) – C.I Duties
11 September 1977 – Metro No. 16 Div (Hornsby) – C.I Duties
21 May 1978 – Metro No. 6 Div (Nth Sydney) – General Duties
10 May 1981 – City of Sydney, Central – Licensing
04 December 1983 – City of Sydney, Central – Investigations
27 November 1985 – Drug Law Enforcement Gosford – Investigations
20 April 1986 – Eastwood – Investigations
12 April 1992 – Chatswood – Pennant Hills – Investigations
01 July 1997 – Endeavour Region, Gladesville – Criminal Investigations
8 October 1998 – Medical Retirement
Awards
22 April 1983 – awarded the National Service Medal
29 October 2015 – awarded the National Police Service Medal
Service Eulogy
Detective Sergeant Warren John REID. (Ret’d)
A member of the New South Wales Police Force from 31 October 1966 to 08 October 1998.
Registered Number: 12304.
While this is a sad time for all, today we should take the opportunity to not only grieve for the loss of a friend, colleague, father and grandfather but to also celebrate the wonderful life of Warren John Reid.
Detective Sergeant Warren John Reid served the New South Wales Police Force and the community with outstanding dedication and devotion to duty for 31 years.
Today, we farewell a highly regarded and dedicated officer. Detective Sergeant Warren John Reid sadly passed on 27th May 2020, aged 75 years.
Warren approached life and his career as a police officer with determination, confidence and enthusiasm. He was a policeman through and through, and like many police who take on that role he loved it.
Warren joined the New South Wales Police Force on 31 October 1966. After successfully completing his training at the Police College, he was sworn in as a Probationary Constable. This was an exciting time, being the same year when Robert Menzies retired as Australia’s longest-serving Prime Minister and is succeeded by Harold Holt. Decimalisation; the Australian currency is changed to dollars and cents, with the Australian dollar replacing the Australian pound., Warren was exposed to various facets of policing working at Newtown Police station learning his trade in general duties. A year later, he was confirmed as a Constable and remained at Newtown until 1969
On the 19th November 1969, Warren decided to try his hand in plain clothes and applied for training at No.21 Squad where he undertook Detective training. Shortly after this, Warren was transferred to No. 4 Division at Phillip Street, Sydney performing Criminal Investigation Duties. Warren was promoted to Constable First Class and performed plain clothes work, and no doubt with the older and more experienced Detectives of the time who decided to give him the jobs and reports no one else wanted to do. This was done to see how keen he was. He would have been preparing himself and studying the Crime Acts & proofs in preparation for the notorious Bull Ring. In February 1970, he was given a permanent job as an Investigator.
Between 1970 and 1977, Warren transferred between Phillip Street, North Sydney and Hornsby undertaking criminal investigation duties. In 1973 after undertaking so many years in training, he was officially given a Detective designation. During this period in 1976, Warren was again promoted to the rank of Senior Constable.
It was in 1978 where Warren changed his job roles and worked back in general duties at North Sydney for four years. In 1981, Warren become involved in Licensing Police duties at Central and two years later, continued in Detective’s duties in criminal investigations.
In 1984 after studying the Sergeants promotion books, he was successful in passing the Sergeant 3rd Class examination and in June that year, he was officially promoted to Sergeant 3rd Class.
Warren being a consummate plain clothes investigator wanted to further his passion as an investigator. Later in 1985 he moved across to the Drug Law Enforcement Bureau and worked at Gosford Police District.
Between 1986 and 1997, Detective Sergeant Warren Reid worked at Eastwood, Chatswood, Pennant Hills and finally at Gladesville, he remained to his retirement in 1998, still performing investigative duties.
At the end of his career Detective Sergeant Warren John Reid had provided over 31 years of outstanding service to the NSW Police Force and the community of NSW. His achievements are outstanding and are a tribute to his work ethic and professionalism.
On the 22 April 1983, Warren was awarded the National Service Medal recognising the special status sworn police officers have in protecting the community. Eligibility for this Award requires a minimum of 15 years ethical and diligent service.
His last award was presented on the 29th October 2015 by receiving the National Police Service Medal
To the Reid family members and friends on behalf of the New South Wales Police Force I extend our deepest sympathy for the passing of a remarkable and admired friend and colleague.
Chief Inspector
Paul Smith
Commander Protocol & Awards Unit.
1st June 2020.
Police Ode
As the sun surely sets, dawn will see it arise.
For service above self-demands its own prize.
You have fought the good fight; life’s race has been run, and peace, your reward, for eternity begun.
And we that are left shall never forget.
Rest in peace, friend and colleague, for sun has now set.
We will remember, we will remember.
Hasten the dawn
NSW Police Academy Class 109. Walked into Police Training Centre, Redfern, NSW on 31 October 1966 & were Sworn In on Monday 12 December 1966.
Warren was a competitive Wood Chopper in his younger days.
Warren REID front and centre with North Sydney’s Finest at a Reunion.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this man at the time of publication.
Cal
2 June 2020
Ramon William BRADBURY
| 31/07/2020
Ramon William BRADBURY
AKA Ray
formerly of Newcastle & Mt Kuring-gai
Son of former NSWPF Member: Sgt 3/c Lacey BRADBURY ( 1929 – 1965 ) ( Father ) who is also the brother of:
Det C/Supt Robson “Bob” Lacey Bradbury # 6494 ?, Born 22 July 1930 * Cadet # 665 – Deceased 2010 ( 40 years Service. Homicide Squad, OIC – CIB – Retired 1987 )
( Bob’s sons – George BRADBURY # ????? ( Det Insp & D.O. – Brisbane Waters ) & Bill BRADBURY # ????? )
Det Sgt 2/c Ken H. Bradbury # 7865 ?, Born May 1935
( Ken’s son – Peter BRADBURY # ????? )
Det Sgt 1/c Ron G. Bradbury # 8984 ?, Born May 1937 &
John W. Bradbury 9706 ?, Born May 1941 Ramon being a nephew to them all.
Ramon being the Grandfather of NSWPF Member Christopher BRADBURY # 30208 ( Newcastle City )
and Chris being the partner of – Angela DALTON # 42870 ( Maitland )
Ramon being the Great Grandfather ( George being the father ) of NSWPF Member Ben BRADBURY # ????? – Redfern PAC ( 4th Generation & 10th member of the Bradbury family to join NSWPF )
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # ‘Possibly’ 008
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 6036
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Academy “possibly” on 23 February 1948 ( aged 20 years, 5 mths & 2 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed 12 April 1948 ( aged 20 years, 6 mths, 22 days )
( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 20 – 30 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ?TBA ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 10 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: Pettigrew Family Funerals, Wallsend, NSW, 02 4951 1166
Buried at: Cremated. Ashes to be scattered
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( May 2020 )
RAMON 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.
Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 – 1954), Sunday 30 April 1939, page 2
CROSSWORD PRIZES of 2s 6d each for the Hen and Chicken Crossword Puzzle of April 9 have been won by the following :— Mary Angwin, “Dalkey” (9) Addison-avenue, Roseville; Wilga Duckworth (13), 1 Rose-street, Petersham: Enid Sherwood (12), 74 Colin-street, North Sydney; Ramon Bradbury (11), Blackned’s Bay, Swansea, via Newcastle; Owen Wiltshire (11), 10 Augusta-street, Five Dock.
The District Inspectors of Schools. Messrs. J. W. Mann and A. H. Dyce, released to-day the following allotments to the undermentioned schools for candidates in the High School Entrance and Bursary Examination held on November 1. Announcements regarding Hamilton and Wickham Domestic Science Schools and Central Junior Technical School (Broadmeadow) will be made later. The names of pupils who gained bursaries will be released by the head office of the Education Department, Sydney.
Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate (NSW : 1876 – 1954), Saturday 25 April 1953, page 11
NEWCASTLE COURT BEFORE MR. R. A. HARDWICKE, S.M. REMANDED.– Sidney Keith Perry, 80, taxi-driver, was remanded to May 22 on charges of having driven negligently in King-street, Newcastle, and having used Insulting words to Constable Ramon William Bradbury on December 17.
The LONGEST SERVING Member of NSWPF RETIRES 15 MAY 2020
John Ross THOMPSON
Great Grandfather of – Sub Inspector John CARROLL # ???
Son of Ross THOMPSON ( 21 Division ) # ????
Nephew of Jack ? ( Parramatta – 18 Division Dets ) # ????
NSW Police Cadet # 1735
Redfern Police Academy Class # 95A
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 10718
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Police Academy, as a Cadet, on 8 January 1962 ( aged 17 years, 5 months, 4 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 5 August 1963 ( aged 19 years )
Constable – appointed 6 August 1964
Constable 1st Class – appointed 6 August 1968
Senior Constable – appointed 6 August 1972
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ???
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ???
Senior Sergeant – appointed 18 January 1988 – *15 May 2020 – 8 January 2023
*( Friday 15 May 2020 – John’s last physical Duty BUT with NSWPF.
8 January 2023 will be John’s last Actual Employmentdate with NSWPF. ( He has 2+ years Long Service Leave to take ).
By leaving on the 15 May 2020 – he has Served 58 years, 4 months, 7 days.
By the time his Long Service Leave has ended on 8 January 2023 – he will have been in the employ of NSWPF for exactly 61 years.
Retired age 1 = 75
Retired age 2 = 78
Stations: ?, Parramatta ( 18 Division ), Chatswood, 21 Division, Eastwood – Licencing, Surry Hills – ‘A’ District, City of Sydney – Transit Unit, State Planning Unit ( last 20 years until retirement )
Service: From 8 January 1962 to 8 January 2023 = 61 years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 11 December 1980 ( SenSgt )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 15 December 1989 ( SenSgt )
2nd Clasp to National Medal – granted 24 March 2000 ( SenSgt )
3rd Clasp to National Medal – granted ? ? ? ( SenSgt )
NSW Police Medal – granted ? ? ?
National Police Service Medal – granted ? ? ?
150th NSW Police Force Anniversary Medal – granted ? ? ?
Glenn Stan Cam StanleyHe is 13,000 registered numbers senior to the current commissioner ( # 24552 ) and 50,000 police have signed up since he started and retired.
Great service to NSW and much good kudos for you SSgt Thomo
I remember John when he was a Cadet and his father worked at the Fingerprints Section which was then located at the Police Training Centre at Redfern.
John’s Dad rode a motor cycle outfit to and from work and John would arrive at the PTC of a morning sitting up very proudly in the sidecar.
After nearly 60 years of service with the NSW Police Force, Senior Sergeant John Thompson is ready to call time on his distinguished career.
The decorated officer – who began as a 17-year-old police cadet in Redfern in 1962 before being officially sworn in on his 19th birthday – started his long service leave on Friday (15 May 2020) and will officially retire from the force in January 2023.
Senior Sergeant Thompson will retire after 61 years; making him the longest-serving police officer in NSW.
But his connection with the NSW Police Force started well before that – he was born at Gulargambone Police Station in 1944.
His father, uncle and great-grandfather also served as police officers – his great-grandfather, Sub Inspector John Carroll, arrested Andrew George Scott (also known as Captain Moonlight the Bushranger) in Gundagai back in 1879.
Snr Sgt Thompson started as a probationary constable at Parramatta Police Station and has worked in various commands across the force, including Chatswood, Surry Hills, and Police Transport Branch.
He also worked the 21 Division, where he served with his father, Senior Sergeant Ross Thompson. The 21 Division was the training ground for the Criminal Investigations Branch for many years until its disbandment.
During his career, he has been awarded the NSW Police medal, the National Police Service Medal, the National Medal as well as clasps, and the 150th NSW Police Force Anniversary medal.
He also received a letter of thanks for his service from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge following their visit to Australia in 2014.
For the last 20 years of his career, Snr Sgt Thompson has worked in the State Planning Unit at major events across the state, including New Year’s Eve, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Bathurst 1000, and the Tamworth Country Music Festival.
His last arrest was three years ago while working at the New Year’s Eve celebrations for an alleged aggravated robbery.
NSW Police Commissioner, Mick FULLER # 24552 presenting the Certificate of Service to retiring Senior Sergeant John THOMPSON # 10718 at the Planning Unit, Parramatta, on Friday 15 May 2020.
To hear more of Snr Sgt Thompson’s interview, please visit
NSW Redfern Academy Class # Started with 081 – Ended with 087
NSW Police Cadet # 1426
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 10067
Rank: Commenced Training as Police Cadet on 28 January 1958
Probationary Constable- appointed 15 June 1961
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed 1 April 1967
Detective – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 2 December 1977
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? March 1986
Inspector – appointed 14 October 1987
Chief Inspector – appointed ? September 1989
Final Rank = Chief Inspector
Stations: As a Cadet: Kogarah Traffic Office, Kogarah Charge Room and School Crossings.
Once Confirmed as ProCst: South District ( 1967 ), Regent St Police Stn – GDs ( 16 June 1961 – 2 August 1962 ), Rockdale GDs ( 3 August 1962 – ? ? 1962 ), Bourke ( Inspectors Clerk & GDs – 1962 ), Young – Lock Up Keeper ( 1970s – SenCon ), Warren ( Sgt – OIC 1978 ), Wagga Wagga ( 1981 – GDs ), Inspector – Team Leader – Management Review Branch ( 1987 ), Senior Service Delivery Assessor – Service Delivery Assessment Branch – Police HQ – College St Sydney ( 1989 – 19 May 1994) – Retirement
Service: From28 January 1958 to19 May 1994 = 36+ years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 11 December 1980 ( SenCon )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 8 June 1988 ( SenSgt )
Australian Police Medal with 5th Clasp( APM ) – granted 14 June 1993 ( SenCon ? )
National Police Service Medal – granted 10 February 2016 ( 22 yearsafter he Retired )
BornMonday 15 June 1942 in Tumut, NSW
Died on: Tuesday 5 May 2020
Age: 77 years 10 months 20 days
Cause: ?
Event location: ?, Wagga Wagga, NSW
Event date: ?
Funeral date: Friday 8 May 2020 @ 9.30am
Funeral location: ?, Wagga Wagga ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 10 persons at a Funeral due to the Cornona19 Virus Pandemic – this will be a Private Funeral )
Future Wake location: ?TBA ( Due to current Govt. restrictions of 2 persons only at ‘Gatherings’, there won’t be an immediate Wake )
Future Wake date: ( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Today our city has lost one of natures true gentleman. A man who served to protect our community with integrity, loyalty and commitment for 37 years. It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Tony Bede Madigan APM.
Class Stud Book entry commencing with Warren Taylor (ex Prosecutor) 9999 and finishing with Brian Warwick 10062 (HWP). Class 87A from 29 May 1961
The reunion photo identified as follows: Left to right – back row – Mike Stephens, Rod Fulham, Paul McGowan, John Imeson, Merv Braithwaite, Kevin Mongton, Barry Luckie, Brian Rowley, John Baker, Brian Borthwick, Barry Cooper, John Hayes, Tony Madigan, Bruce Spencer, Barry Lawson, Bernie Lee, Roy Fry (partly obscured by Ian Robb standing at end of middle row), Roy Leabeater (Instructor). Middle row – Ross Goodwin, Brian McIlvenna, Leo Gately, Gordon Doyle, Harvey Juergens, Wally Lark, Helen Clark (later Magnus), Ida Luke, Fred Sewell, Ron Blake, Terry Lester, Tom Powick, Ian Robb (standing). Front row – Trevor Neill, Les Wyatt, Bob Drooger, Warren Taylor, Brian Johnson, Brian Warwick, Les Miller, Bill Dent, Clem Long, Lloyd Taylor, Len DeAudney, Col Bell. We held a 45 year reunion at the same venue 2006.
Class Stud Book entry commencing with Warren Taylor (ex Prosecutor) 9999 and finishing with Brian Warwick 10062 (HWP). Class 87A from 29 May 1961
Wagga Police mourn death of Chief Inspector Anthony (Tony) Madigan
Police officers came to honour the memory of chief inspector Anthony Madigan, who died on Tuesday after a long and decorated career in the force.
He will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic and dedication to his community, evidenced by the vast collection of medals that were on display at his funeral on Friday.
During his career he was awarded some of the highest honours a police officer can receive, including the Australia Police Medal and National Police Service Medal for his lifetime’s accomplishments.
The medals were distributed among his family members, who will be keeping them to remember the long-lasting impact he made on the community.
His wife Wendy Madigan will be remember him as a dutiful family man who always found ways to make time for his five children and five grandchildren.
“He was a loving husband, an amazing father, and a really amazing grandfather,” Mrs Madigan said.
“He was also a very humble man; he never bragged about anything.”
Mrs Madigan was married to Mr Madigan for 58 years, but she still remembers the first time they met as though it were yesterday.
The two of them first locked eyes on each other in Sydney when they were only 19 and 20 years old, and they would quickly fall in love and end up sharing lifetime together.
“I was introduced to him by a friend of mine who was a police officer and, as they say in the classics, the rest is history,” Mrs Madigan said.
“The 58 years went in a heartbeat.”
Mr Madigan’s son Brendan Madigan he took some consolation knowing that his dad lived a good life right up until the very end.
“Mum and dad had a love of travel over the last 25 years, so they enjoyed a lot of overseas travel together and they shared a lot of memories,” Brendan said.
“He was a great father.”
Chief Inspector Paul Smith said Mr Madigan was “a policeman through and through”, and that his death was a loss to the entire NSW Police Force.
“Tony approached life and his career as a police officer with determination, confidence, and enthusiasm,” Inspector Smith said.
“At the end of his career Sergeant Tony Madigan had provided over 36 years of outstanding service to the NSW Police Force and the community of NSW.”
Wagga Police mourn death of Chief Inspector Anthony (Tony) Madigan Police officers came to honour the memory of chief…
Former NSW Upper House MP Peter Breen has been a busy boy since he was forced to resign from the Labor Party last year after stating his “love” for rapist and murderer Stephen “Shorty” Jamieson.
