Narrabundahs own protector. Truely the honest cop. Always remembered A gentleman. One of Tasmanias finest. It was an honor knowing you Max. I smiled every time I saw your lovely daughter take you to Mudgeeraba for coffee.
MAXWELL JOHN ROBINSON AO OStJ QPM JP
Commissioner of Police (Retired)
Passed away peacefully on the 10 September 2014.
Loving and loved husband of Janet (dec).
Father of Sharon, Darryl and Nadine.
Father-in-law of Chris and Roger.
Gramps and grandpa of Timothy and Ashleigh, Mark and Steven (dec), Nicholas, Daniel and Joshua.
Maxwell John ROBINSON, QPM, Seven Mile Beach, Tas – for public service, particularly with the Tasmanian Police Force, and for service to the community;
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 30 April 1993
Born: 17 May 1948
Age: 66
Event location: ???
Event date: 8 September 2014
Died: 8 September 2014
Funeral Date: Monday 22 September 2014 @ 11am
Funeral location: North Chapel of Forest Lawn Crematorium, Camden Valley Way, Leppington
Memorial location:
Wayne and his wife were on a cruise ship. He walked onto the deck and collapsed.
Wayne grew up in the Taree area and used to live at Croki on Jones Island near Taree as a kid.
Funeral is proposed to be held at 11am on Monday 22nd Instant at the North Chapel, Forest Lawn Memorial Park,Leppington.
HACK, Wayne
Late of Lurnea
1948 – 2014
Passed away suddenly September 8, 2014 Aged 66 years
Wonderful husband of Ann. Devoted Dad and Grandad to his children and grandchildren.
Sadly missed by all his family and friends.
Family and friends of WAYNE are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held on Monday September 22, 2014 in the North Chapel of Forest Lawn Crematorium, Camden Valley Way, Leppington at 11:00am.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Ronald McDonald House, donations can be made at the Chapel.
MAX PERRAMS FUNERALS
143 George Street, Liverpool”Opposite Police Station”
September 2012 : The first “Retired Police Day” was held by the combined Liverpool LAC and Green Valley LAC. It was hosted by the respective LAC Commanders Supt Raymond King and Supt Jim Johnson.
The function was held at the Liverpool Catholic Club at Hoxton Park, attended by more than 30 retired Police Officers.
Some of those who attended were retirees : – Alan Randall; Bob Durbin; Bob McMahon; Brian Rope; Dianne Weston; Don Rizzi; Ged Kervin; George Kovacs; Henry Krupa; Jim Greiss; Joe Stanioch; John Sweeney; Michael Kennedy; Michael Weston; Noel Short; Peter Wick; Roger Ford; Ron Flockhart; Steve Packer; Vince Valenti; Warren Mustow; Wayne Hack; and a few others.
( Liverpool Police History – 1788 – 2016 )
Ian Mark REAKES
| 22/09/2014
Ian Mark REAKES
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 23685 & 34614
Rank: Leading Senior Constable
Stations: Windsor HWP
Born 16 March 1963
Died 13 September 2014
Illness – Heart attack
51 old
Late of Laurieton
Funeral Friday 19 September 2014 @ 3pm at Penrith Cemetery, Cox Ave, Kingswood.
Leading Senior Constable Ian Mark Reakes
Constable First Class Ian Reakes
Ian Mark REAKES – Funeral pamphlet – 19 September 2014
Ian Mark REAKES Eulogy pamphlet issued at the funeral
[blockquote]
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to Ians family. I knew Ian from similar work we did within the Hawkesbury community. I thought Ian was a gentle mannered, caring person It is really sad to hear of his passing, 51 is not old. May you Rest In Peace Ian.
Thought and prayers to all family. Ian’s warmth, love and laughter for all the simple pleasures in life will be remembered by all who knew him. Our deepest sympathy to all the family.
16.3.1963 – 13.9.2014 Late of Penrith Loving husband to Gaylene. Loving father, brother, son, pop, uncle and great mate. Taken too soon Will be sadly missed Relatives and friends of Ian are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held at Penrith General Cemetery, Cox Avenue, Kingswood TODAY, 19th September, 2014 at 3pm.
Died 8pm on 16 September 2014 at home in Tintenbar, NSW.
71 old
Cause of death: ?
Funeral: Monday 22 September 2014, 11am
Funeral service will be held at Rainbow Chapel, Rainbow Avenue, WEST BALLINA on Monday, 22nd September 2014 at 11am.
Committal service will be held at Tintenbar Cemetery on Monday, 22nd September 2014 at 12:30pm.
Todd Andrew CARVER
| 22/09/2014
Todd Andrew CARVER
aka Carves
Tasmania Police Force
former Constable – 2011
Regd. # ?
Stations: ?
Born: 5 December 1971
Age: 42
Died: 13 July 2014
Funeral 18 July 2014 at ?
CARVER, Todd Andrew. 5.12.1971 – 13.7.2014
Tragically taken from us too soon.
Loved and loving husband of Fiona, devoted father to Andrew, Emily, Samantha and Luke. Son of Helen and Neville (dec), stepson of Tony (dec). Brother of Tim and Anne, Michael and Sonya, Darlene and Jason, Jason and Sandra, Jade and Claire. Much loved and respected uncle of all his nieces and nephews.
Your life was full of friendly deeds, always thoughtful of others needs, cheerful, generous, unselfish and kind, what a lovely memory to leave behind. Never to be forgotten, always in our hearts.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. Our hearts are broken as we say goodbye to a much loved and very special friend. Todd you have been our rock since the loss of our treasured Matt, who was your great mate. Now we will do our best to be here for Fiona and your beautiful family. Thank you for always being here for us and give Matt lots of hugs from us. Love always Linda, Jake, Madi and Molly.
CARVER, Todd. A good mate who was always there for a drink and a good laugh. A mate who was taken too soon. Our deepest sympathy to Fiona and families. Dinga, Jane and family.
CARVER, Todd. Love you boy, miss you bad. Love to Helen, Fiona, Andrew, Emily, Samantha and Luke and the Carver family. Love from Uncle Greg and family.
CARVER, Todd. An honour to call you a mate. You’ve been taken from us too soon and will be greatly missed. You always had my back and it was a privilege to work with you. Our deepest condolences to Fiona, Andrew, Emily, Samantha, Luke and family. From Spear, Nicole and kids.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. A mate with a heart of gold. A mate I thought would live forever, to chat with when I grew old. A voice I’d love to hear. A smile I’d love to see. Memories that forever will remain with us. Miss you so much. Dazza, Claire, Brooke and Ollie.
CARVER, Todd. We love you and miss you dearly Carvs. You lived life to the full and inspire us to do the same. We will look after them and be here for them always. Love Chilla, Weaz, Ayesh and Brandy. I will always look over my shoulder each morning when I collect the paper- Chilla. ”Carn the Blues. ”
CARVER, Todd. Friend and mate to many at Huon Aquaculture, especially the Dover crew. Appreciated and respected member of the Harvest logistics team. Our deepest sympathy to all of Todd’s extended family on such a tragic loss. Peter, Frances and family and the Huon Aquaculture Company.
CARVER, Todd. Loved nephew of Shirley and Ernie (both dec), loved and admired cousin of Jill, Darren, Steven, Karren and Brett. Deepest sympathy to all the Carver Family.
CARVER, Todd Andrew (Carves). Fee, Andrew, Emily, Samantha, Luke, Helen, Mick, Timmy, Darlene, Jase, Jade and families. I don’t have enough words to express the feelings of loss and the sympathy and love that I have for you all. You all made me part of your family. My mate Carves. I have never had such a good mate as you. Carves, you were one of the best, the most toughest, honest, courageous and bravest police officers that I had the honour and privilege to serve with. I’ll miss your cheeky grin and your infectious laugh. Keep the beers cold cobber. Fee, Andrew, Samantha, Luke – anything, anytime. Cookie.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. Thinking of you all at this sad time on the sad loss of Todd. Gone to be with his Dad. Loving nephew of Auntie Bev, Uncle Wayne, cousin of Leanne, Kaylene, Scott, Mark, Tracey and Kylie and families. Sleep Peacefully Never forgotten – Uncle Wayne Carverand family.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. Taken suddenly on July 13, 2014. Colleague, friend and brother from another mother. The Allen family are going to miss our mate terribly. The laughter and mischievous grin will never be forgotten. Pat will miss the rides, 50 minute phone calls, but definitely not the VB. Now with his mate Matty. Our love and support goes out to Fiona, Samantha, Luke, Emily, Andrew and the rest of the Carver Clan. From Pat, Kathy, Christopher, Tami, Rebecca, Natalieand Robbie.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. Taken too soon. Going to be greatly missed. Deepest sympathy to Fee, Andrew, Emily, Samantha and Luke. Mick, Sonya and family. Never got that fishing trip.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. Deepest sympathy to Fiona, Helen, Tim, Michael, Darlene, Jason, Jade, Claire and families. Well respected family man, taken too soon. Doug, Lorraine, Jeremy, Adam and families.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. 5.12.1971 13.7.2014 To my darling son Todd, you were supposed to visit me in Kingston, not leave me, you should be here to keep the kids together and be with your kids. You were a fantastic father, always doing things with them. You were always stirring me in the wheelchair. Fiona and the kids have lots of support and the others will always keep them close. This is my biggest nightmare since your Dad died. I promised him I would keep you all safe in your lives. You have finally found your father. 2 Dads and lots of friends up there with you and we reckon you are having a blast. You will forever be in our hearts every day. From your proud and loving Mum xxxxxx.
CARVER, Todd. Always full of laughs, the best advice and support. A best mate and a true legend. Miss the 3am chats Todd. Always to be admired, never to be forgotten. Craig and Alison.
CARVER, Todd. We are absolutely heartbroken and still waiting to wake from this nightmare. We will miss your smile, contagious laugh and long crazy stories. We will think of you every day and you will be in our hearts forever. Love Jade, Claire, Ethan, Chloe and Harper.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. To Fiona, family and friends, sincere condolences on the tragic loss of a wonderful man in Todd. Our prayers, thoughts, love and light are sent to comfort you. Paul, Barbie and family.
CARVER. A Service for Mr Todd Andrew Carver will be held at the Graham Family Funeral Home Chapel, Cnr Risdon and Bay Roads, New Town, on Friday (tomorrow) at 12.00 noon. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend. Private Cremation. Donations may be made to Canteen and will be gratefully accepted at the Service.
CARVER, Todd. If ever you wanted someone in your corner, Carvs was your man. It was a pleasure to work with him. It was an honour to have him as a mate. It is a tragedy to say goodbye to him so soon. He will be sorely missed by all. Our deepest sympathy and love to Fee and families. Farewell Carvs from your old mates at Eastern Traffic. Angry, Drummie and Chuck. ”Back on. No report. ”
CARVER, Todd Andrew. December 5, 1971 Dad, you were there for me all the time, loved and cared for me, will love and miss you forever Old Boy. R. I. P. Your son Andrew xx.
CARVER, Todd. Words are few, our feelings are deep, our memories of you we will always keep. Our heartfelt sympathy goes to the family. Wayne and Roslyn, Chris, Juanita and Bryce, Mark and Jill.
CARVER, Todd. To my Dearest Fiona and family, thinking of you at this very sad time. With love Nanna Fay. Sending all our love to Fiona, Andrew, Emily, Samantha and Luke. A great bloke that will be sadly missed. Sharon, Bret, Jack and Ruby. Thanks for the experiences, I will always remember the great times we had fishing. RIP Mate. Jack Becker
CARVER, Todd. On behalf of his work family at De Bruyn’s Transport, our thoughts and prayers are with Fiona, Andrew, Emily, Samantha and Luke at this tragic time. Todd was a valued employee and well respected by his peers. He will be sadly missed.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. A wonderful man taken way too soon. It was a pleasure to have known you and to call you a friend. You will be truly missed by all who knew you. Our deepest sympathies to all. Greg and Tracey Roberts.
CARVER, Todd. Life time mate to Squid. Todd, you will be sadly missed, but you have left me with so many wonderful memories of the great times we have had together. Our deepest sympathy to Fiona and family at this sad time. I will never forget you ”you long haired creep”. Squid, Kelly and family.
ARVER, Todd Andrew. Adored husband of Fiona, devoted Dad of Andrew, Emily, Samantha and Luke. Taken from us before his time. Life as we know it will never be the same again. You were our rock and you are our hero. Babe, I just can’t find the words to say how I’m feeling right now. My heart aches for you and there is a piece of me that has gone with you forever. You were the most amazing husband and father I have ever known. You were my person . .. . my heart will always be yours. I know you’re up there now with Matt and you are both keeping watch over us all. Loves You xxx. Daddy, I wasn’t ready to start living my life without you. You were always there for me no matter what. You always had plenty of advice for me whether I wanted it or not. The best thing I loved about you was your big, beautiful smile. There was a lot of you in me, we were so alike. And now that you are gone my heart is not whole. Love you to the moon and back, Emily Kateasauras Rex. xxx
Daddy, you were the awesomest Dad ever. You always looked out for me and taught me lots of things. I’m sad that you aren’t able to finish teaching me everything. I love you all the numbers. Love always, Sammy. xx
Daddy, you were the best Dad ever. Thank you for teaching me lots of things like riding my motor bike and playing darts. I love you always and always will. Miss you forever and ever. Thank you for being my Daddy. Love Lukey. xxx
CARVER, Todd Andrew. Dearly loved friend of Lia, Nick, Lochie and Georgie. Words cannot adequately express the man you were, nor express the loss we feel. So sorry we aren’t there now. Our love always to Fee, the kids and families. We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a great mate. We will cheer even louder for the mighty Blues now. Nicki, Andrew, Tessa, Remi. One of a kind who will be sadly missed. Fond memories of camping at Port Arthur. Ang and Kev.
CARVER. A Service for Mr Todd Andrew Carver will be held at the Graham Family Funeral Home Chapel, Cnr Risdon and Bay Roads, New Town, on Friday at 12.00 noon. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend. Private Cremation. Donations may be made to Canteen and will be gratefully accepted at the Service.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. My beautiful brother. Taken away too soon. No words can describe the emptiness that we feel. You were my rock, I could always count on you to be there for me. We had a very special bond that can never be broken. We will never forget your infectious smile and big hugs and kisses. A huge part of all of us left with you that day. Love you and miss you forever. Your sis Darlene, bro Jason, Adam, Craig, Mark, Kayla and Ella. xxx
CARVER, Todd. Fiona, our hearts are broken for you, Andrew, Emily, Samantha and Luke on the passing of your beloved husband and father Todd. He was not just family to us, he was a great mate and we treasured him dearly. Our love and prayers are with you and all your families. Juliana; Walter and Genie; Michael, Shelley and family; Lydia, James and family; Victoria and Tshepo; Simone and Jake.
CARVER, Todd Andrew. How do you say goodbye to such a man, a man of integrity and honesty with a heart big enough for everyone that knew him. Todd you were the best husband, father and son-in-law and the best friend. My heart is breaking for my beautiful daughter Fiona and my grandchildren. Todd’s family will have a hole in their lives that will never be filled. To have had Todd call you his friend was a privilege, to have him as my son-in-law was an honour. You will always be my number 1. Love always, Annette. x
CARVER, Todd. Taken from this world too soon. A true mate and gentleman who would do anything for you. A man who would never take a backward step, larger than life, who lived life to the fullest. I’ll never forget our trip to Phillip Island. Deepest sympathy to Fiona and family. Gordon Jamieson and family.
TASMANIA Police’s former lead driving instructor has slammed the force’s attitude to driver training.
He says management has run just one refresher course in the past decade.
Todd Carver left the organisation last year after more than 20 years as a police officer.
He spent a decade working in traffic and championed the importance of internal driver training.
Mr Carver who has trained the Australian Federal Police, and Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment and Infrastructure Department staff said he became tired of hitting his head against a brick wall.
“Driver training within Tasmania Police is a joke,” he said.
“Five days of the 34-week recruit training course is devoted to driving. Once they graduate that’s pretty much it unless you’re involved in a serious crash.
“Only then do you have to do a couple of days ‘remedial’ training.”
Despite police being required to complete one day of training every five weeks, Mr Carver said it had been virtually impossible for officers qualified in driving instruction to get the time off from usual duties to conduct training sessions.
“I did my instructor’s training in 2001 and it took another seven years to get them to approve a course,” he said.
“Even then the only way I could get them to allow it was by making it a requirement for new instructors to achieve their qualification.”
His criticism comes a week after a Tasmanian coroner found police officers involved in a suspicious vehicle call-out in 2010 that ended in a Glenorchy boy, 16, dying after crashing at speed, had breached procedures and did not have a sufficient level of knowledge and understanding of the policy.
“It’s unfair officers involved in these incidents are blamed when the fault lies squarely with management who consider driver training the lowest priority,” Mr Carver said.
Tasmania Police said low-risk driver training and manoeuvring had been scheduled into this year’s training for all officers.
“This will involve the delivery of lectures in low-risk driving techniques,” said Commander (human resources) Mark Mewis.
“A manoeuvring course will also be available for police officers to practice low-speed manoeuvring.”
Mr Mewis said officers from all front-line departments would participate in the training program.
Mr Carver said the response was in line with the force’s “reactive approach”.
“If they do this, great that’s what’s motivated me to speak out,” he said. “It’s a pity they have to wait until something happens before they address their unacceptable attitude towards safety on the roads.”
Interstate police forces, such as NSW Police, use a graduated licence system with officers allowed to drive certain vehicles at specific speeds based on their level of training and certification.
“Here you’re either restricted or unrestricted and pretty much everyone is unrestricted,” Mr Carver said.
“But all management cares about here is making sure all the boxes are ticked.”
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Myles Ernest McDONALD
| 22/09/2014
Myles Ernest McDONALD
aka ” Smacker “
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 9101
Rank: ?
Stations: P.S.B. ( Public Safety Bureau ) Wollongong, Detective at Wollongong for many years. Towards the end of his career he was stationed at Kogarah as O.I.C. of Detectives.
Born: ?
78 old
Died 14 September 2014
Illness – cancer
Funeral Monday 22 September 2014, midday, H. Parsons Funeral Directors, 4 Princes Hwy, Dapto.
Myles died in the palliative unit of Port Kembla Hospital after roughly two years battling cancer.
Myles left behind four children and seven grand children.
William Meredith BLUNT
| 22/09/2014
William Meredith BLUNT
Late of ?
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # ‘ Q ‘ 4872 ( Pre NSW Police Force current numbering system )
IN MEMORY: Phil Jacobson APM is fondly being remembered as a man who served his family, the Police Force and his community.
With regret I advise the death of Phillip Keith JACOBSON, 59 old, former Regd. No. 16117, a non-member of the RPA of Sawtell.
Phillip passed away on 11/09/2014 and his funeral is proposed to be held at 10.30am on Thursday 18th Instant at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Gordon Street, COFFS HARBOUR.
Funeral location:
A fitting farewell for ‘Jaco’
18th Sep 2014 4:00 PM
The funeral of Phil Jacobson APM in Coffs Harbour today. Gemima Harvey/Coffs Coast Advocate
IN the measure of the man, a large crowd today celebrated the life of Phil Jacobson in Coffs Harbour.
Family and friends were joined by retired, former and serving police officers, who paid their final respects to the dedicated family man, decorated former police officer, surf club stalwart and revered Sawtell community leader.
In testament to the life Phil lived, and the generosity he shared throughout his 59-years, there was standing room only at Coffs Harbour’s St Augustine’s Catholic Church.
Phil is survived by his partner Suze, and was the loving father and father-in-law of Louise and Nifty, Mark and Amy, Kurt and Amy, Alicia and Ben, Bianka and Rebecca and Ronnie.
His children remembered an extraordinary man, who as a young father and sole parent served as a police officer while raising five children, then aged between 27 months and 13, following the sudden death of their mother Annette.
“Your memories will live on forever,” the family wrote in tribute to the beloved ‘Pa’ to six grandchildren.
A mile long police guard stood in honour of the man, many knew affectionately as ‘Jaco.’
“As police officers we are aware that incidents occur or matters arise that simply do not make sense or cannot be explained. The death of our esteemed former colleague, our mate, Phil Jacobson APM is one of those events,” Coffs Clarence Local Area Commander Mark Holahan said.
“His loss is devastating to his immediate family, his communities that he served so selflessly, his friends and his police family. It is hard to understand why a good man is taken from us so early.
Phil served as a police officer for 41 years and he arrived on the Coffs Coast in 1983 from Cobar.
“His experience, knowledge and personality endeared him to all his colleagues,” Supt. Holahan said.
“His well developed sense of community saw him involved in many and varied interests including developing young people in rugby league and surf life saving.
“He carried this into the workplace and was able to coach and mentor many young police, probably hundreds in this command.
“He was an officer with a great deal of commonsense, loyal and trustworthy.
“Apart from his family, policing was his love.
“His overall ability was recognised in 2009 when he was awarded the Australian Police Medal for distinguished service in the Queen’s birthday honours list. For Phil this was a humbling experience.
“Not often is a Senior Constable awarded this award.
“For me as his Commander it was a well deserved honour, rightfully awarded to a more than worthy recipient.
“Phil’s presence in the workplace was reassuring, what we saw was what we got and how we miss it and him since his retirement.
“Rising to meet personal tragedy, passing on his life experiences to others and his engagement with his community, a police officer of the calibre of Phil cannot be replaced.
“His passing is a great loss to many. Quite simply it hurts. It is not fair. His life though, is an example.
“The people he has touched, the lives he has changed the difference he has made, that is his legacy.
“Good bye old mate. Thank you for being all that you were for your community.”
Many fond memories were shared of Phil’s time as a tireless servant for the Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club, the Sawtell Golf Club, Apex and the Sawtell Panthers Rugby League club.
Public recognition of his community service came in 2012 when he was named ‘Sawtellian of the Year.’
Great mate Jason Breton, who served with Phil for a decade at the Coffs Harbour Police Station, remembered a man who always put others before himself.
“It’s strange in a way, but now that Phil is gone he is a better man, but then again we always knew that,” Jason said.
“He was an authority on policing, a man who was above title, there was no demarcation of rank when it came to Jaco, he was the man everyone looked up too for advice in policing and in life.
“Not too many senior constables have ever won the Australian Police Service Medal, but Jaco set the example.
“He was an exceptional police officer and an exceptional person.
“Even the crooks couldn’t help but like him, that’s what sort of bloke Jaco was, a true gentleman in every sense of the word,” he said.
Phil Jacobson was laid to rest this afternoon at the Coffs Harbour Lawn Cemetery at Karangi.
PHIL Jacobson APM has been remembered as ‘a man who put others before himself’ following his sudden passing this week.
A dedicated family man, community leader and decorated former police officer, the 59-year-old retired from duty as a Senior Constable last year after 41 years with the NSW Police Force.
Coffs Clarence Local Area Commander Mark Holahan said Phil’s passing had devastated his immediate family, friends, the communities he served so selflessly and his police family.
“It is hard to understand why a good man is taken from us so early,” Supt Holahan said.
“The worth of a person is not the length of time they live.
“It is how they live their life, the legacy they leave and whether they have been good and virtuous.
“Perhaps Phil would have changed a few small things, but not too much.
“His life, as short as it was, was rich and rewarding. Rising to meet personal tragedy, passing on his life experiences to others and his engagement with his community, a police officer of the calibre of Phil cannot be replaced.
“Goodbye old mate.
“Thank you for being all that you were for your community.”
In 2009, Phil was awarded an Australian Police Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for his work as a domestic violence liaison officer.
He was also a long-serving member of the Sawtell Surf Club, the Sawtell Golf Club, Apex and the Sawtell Panthers.
Born in Narromine and a gifted rugby league player, Phil played in the Eastern Suburbs Roosters’ 1976 premiership-winning Under-23s side.
After five years in the job at Cobar, Phil settled in Sawtell with his wife Annette and their young family in 1983.
Friends say they realised Phil’s true strength of character when as a single father he raised his five children.
In his last interview with The Advocate last September, Phil reflected on his family, career and retirement.
“Annette was 30 when she passed away and the kids were aged between 27 months and 13,” Phil said.
“I owe a lot to my parents, who helped me raise the family, the police department was remarkable and the police commanders I served under allowed me to work split shifts and early mornings to spend that valuable time at home.
“Being a father is the best thing I’ve done in my life and I’m the proud grandfather of five.
“I would like to thank friends and acquaintances both in and outside the police for their support over the years. Thanks, I’ve really enjoyed the journey,” he said at the time.
Phil Jacobson, Police Officer, single father, community all-rounder, 2012 Sawtellian of the Year winner and just a breat bloke. Here we find out what motivates a man to continue giving to his community.
You’ve had a huge career, a rugby career with the Roosters, joining the Police Force in the early ‘70s, hitting the pavement in King Cross, before being transferred to Coffs Coast in the early ‘80s. Tell us about your outstanding career …
I was born and bred in Narromine, a small town of 3,000, 25 miles west of Dubbo. In 1971 I had an offer to play professional rugby league with the Eastern Suburbs Roosters. Their policy was that you had to have a job if you wanted to play. They were to organise a building apprenticeship, but it fell through, and at 17 years of age I ended up joining the NSW Police Cadets. I was sworn in at 19 years of age and then stationed at Darlinghurst/Kings Cross, playing for the Roosters.
I was part of the Roosters that very successful year, under Jack Gibson. The first grade won in 1974 and 1975. We were undefeated and won the under 23 premiership in 1976.
In 1977, I fractured discs in my back and was told that I would never play contact sport again. After extensive rehabilitation, I commenced playing again in 1978, and later that year I transferred to Cobar, a wonderful western town with great people.
In 1983 I transferred to Sawtell and have been in the area as a Police Officer ever since. I have the luxury of living on the coast, but can visit family who live on properties and in Forbes and Cobar.
I have worked as a general duties Police Officer, an Intelligence Officer and at the present time as the Domestic Violence Liaison Officer. I am going into my 42nd year, and currently I’m in the process of retiring.
Policing is a very unique and rewarding job and one of the few careers where you get to make a difference. It’s also a job where you are required to make tough and unpopular decisions. However, the majority of the community appreciate the job we do.
Your involvement in the community is very honourable. What are you involved in at the moment?
I am currently involved with the Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club and Sawtell Rugby League.
New Year’s Day saw you take out the Sawtellian of the Year Award. How exciting!
I was surprised and very honoured to be chosen as the Sawtellian of the Year. I am well aware of a great number of people within our community who also deserve this honour. Volunteers and their work go a very long way to making Sawtell the wonderful community it is.
What do you regard are your biggest achievements?
My number one biggest achievement is that I’m a dad to my kids. My second greatest achievement, either as a Police Officer or a member of the community, was being in a position to make a positive difference to some people’s lives. To see a person who was not coping with life or going down a destructive path, and then later for them to turn it all around and prosper is very rewarding.
What inspires you to continue to keep contributing to the community …
To make the Sawtell community a better and safe place to live. It is as simple as that. If we all do our little bit, it is very achievable.
HIS mates say he’s a man “who never says no to doing a favour” and as a police officer Phil Jacobson has done his duty.
The decorated Senior Constable has called it a day retiring from the New South Wales Force after 42 years service.
Hailing from Narromine, Phil said he enrolled in the police force in Sydney at age 19 “as every rugby league player had to have a day job back then.”
Retiring police officer Senior Constable Phillip Jacobson at Coffs Harbour Police Station Photo: Trevor Veale / The Coffs Coast Advocate
As a hard running centre, he played in the Eastern Suburbs Roosters’ 1976 premiership winning Under 23s side and went on to play two seasons in reserve grade.
After five years spent in the job at Cobar, Phil settled in Sawtell with his late wife Annette and their young family.
Friends say they realised Phil’s true strength of character when as a single father he raised his five children.
“Annette was 30 when she passed away and the kids were aged between 27 months and 13,” Phil said.
“I owe a lot to my parents who helped me raise the family, the police department was remarkable and the police commanders I served under allowed me to work split shifts and early mornings to spend that valuable time at home.
“Being a father is the best thing I’ve done in my life and I’m the proud grandfather of five.”
Voluntary work in Sawtell has also been close to Phil’s heart, serving with Apex, volunteering at the Sawtell Golf Club and surf club and coaching junior teams with the Sawtell Panthers.
Reflecting on his career, he says policing is all about “upholding the law and public trust”.
“As police officers we deal with people who find themselves in complex situations on a very personal level.
“Our role is to help and protect and through the job I’ve met a lot of good people over the years.
“I would like to thank friends and acquaintances both in and outside the police for their support over the years. Thanks, I’ve really enjoyed the journey.”
Phil Jacobson is congratulated by Coffs Harbour City Council Mayor Cr Keith Rhoades after being named Sawtellian of the Year.
ACCORDING to organisers of the annual Sawtell Fun Day, this year’s choice for Sawtellian of the Year was fairly simple.
Although a strong field of nominations was received, organising president Warren Hollyman said Phil Jacobson was a more than deserving winner due to his heavy involvement in the Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club and Sawtell’s junior rugby league as well as his interest in doing community work as part of his role as a police officer.
“He (Mr Jacobson) is a very good community guy,” Mr Hollyman said.
“He got it (the award) for those three facets and they’re all involved with looking after the community, it’s not his own personal gratification.”
Mr Jacobson was presented with the award on New Year’s Day at the Sawtell Family Fun Day and was congratulated by many members of the large crowd at the successful event.
Aside from bestowing the annual honour on Mr Jacobson, the organising committee for the day was thrilled with how well the Fun Day went – the 92nd time it has been held.
“We put a lot of work into it and our sponsors are unbelievable,” Mr Hollyman said.
Publication: Sydney Morning Herald
Section: News and Features
Page: 14
WHEN Phillip Keith Jacobson put his career on hold to raise four children as a sole parent, he expected little reward.But today the senior constable is being recognised for his “devotion to the community” and “selfless sacrifice” with an Australian Police Medal often reserved for those of higher ranks.
The man, who had become a police officer by default and nearly quit when his wife died, has been a highly respected domestic violence liaison officer in Sawtell, near Coffs Harbour, for almost seven years.
Jacobson says he knew it was a field in which he could make a difference: “It gives me great satisfaction that I meet people when I first came across them, they were despondent, down-and-out, distrusting … to be able to see them blossom.
“What people needed was plenty of support and plenty of courage to take control of their life.”
A local women’s refuge and family centre supported his nomination, highlighting his “kind manner, professional knowledge and ability to help those most in need without discrimination”.
Jacobson, 54, became a police officer when his rugby coach, Jack Gibson, insisted he needed a proper job. He was resistant at first but, 37 years later, he says: “It’s been wonderful for me. Every day is a unique day. You get up close and personal with the good and bad side of life.”
In 1991 he wrote his resignation. His wife Annette had died suddenly of a cerebral hemorrhage at 30, leaving him to raise four children aged 27 months to 13. But his parents, friends and the “crew in blue” came to the rescue. He opted out of the promotions system and was granted permanent day shift so he could spend time with the children.
“I’m eternally grateful to my Mum and Dad … They put their life on hold,” he says.
PHIL Jacobson has given his all as a policeman on the Coffs Coast.
So much so the 54-year-old senior constable featured in today’s Queen’s Birthday honours with an Australian Police Medal (APM).
“It’s recognition I suppose of doing your job to the best of your ability,” Phil said.
“I’m part of an organisation which does good work every day in different fields.”
Phil is the Coffs/Clarence domestic violence liaison officer (DVLO) and according to his citation, it’s a role in which he’s excelled, ‘receiving the respect of his peers, his supervisor and his commander, as well as serving the North Coast community, especially those in need’.
“I’m assisted in this work by local agencies and organisations which are very committed and very passionate,” Phil said.
“We’re incredibly lucky as a Coffs Harbour community to have these services in this area.”
A young Phil left Narromine for the Big Smoke initially to play league with the Roosters and his under 23s would go on to win the competition in 1976.
He’s been a member of the NSW Police Force since 1972 after serving as a cadet at the tender age of 17.
He spent his first years of service at Darlinghurst and Kings Cross before transfer to Cobar in 1978.
In 1983 he arrived at Sawtell Police Station where he was the lock-up keeper ahead of his 1990 transfer to Coffs Harbour. The following year, his wife, Annette, died.
Phil stepped up from general duties policing to a 13-year stint with the intelligence division, followed by his appointment to the DVLO post.
Chief Inspector Shane Cribb from Coffs Harbour police described Phil as a ‘very knowledgeable, approachable and team-orientated’ officer.
Phil, a father-of-five, is also heavily involved in his community.
He’s spent the past 15 years with Sawtell Surf Club – where he’s a patrol captain – and has coached juniors and under-18s for Sawtell Rugby League. And is active in another sport where he remains an active junior rugby league referee.
