On the evening of the 18 April, 1956 Sergeant Ellis and Sergeant Fitzpatrick arrested two men in Liverpool Street, Sydney. The offenders were then marched off toward Central Police Station, one to be charged with drunkenness and the other with indecent language. Nearing the courtyard of the police station the offender detained for indecent language began to resist violently, punching and kicking the police. After being subdued and taken inside, the offender continued to climb out of the dock and attempt to assault any police near enough to him. The assault, followed by the effort of constantly restraining the offender exhausted Sergeant Ellis, and the following day he was suffering from severe chest pains. He was placed on sick report on 20 April and unfortunately died nine days later.
The sergeant was born in 1898 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 3 February, 1927. At the time of his death he was stationed at Central Police Station.
Bernard Alfred ORROCK
| 26/10/2012
Bernard Alfred ORROCK
( late of Alpha Rd, Willoughby )
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # ????
Rank: Constable
Stations: ?, Sydney Water Police – Death
Service: From 22 January 1951 to 26 February 1955 = 4+ years Service
Awards: Queen’s Police Medal for Gallantry
Bronze Medal from the Royal Shipwreck and Humane Society for his actions in the floods
BERNARD IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
On 26 February, 1955 Constable Orrock of the Sydney Water Police was performing flood rescue duties in the Maitland area during the horrendous 1955 floods. While travelling with Army and Air Force personnel in an Army Duck toward the Louth Park area, the wireless aerial on the Duck struck live high tension power lines. As a result, Constable Orrock and two Army Signallers, Sergeant William McGrath and Signaller Eric Chard, were killed. The cause of death was asphyxiation caused by electrocution.
He was posthumously awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for Gallantry and a Bronze Medal from the Royal Shipwreck and Humane Society for his actions in the floods that ultimately led to his death.
The constable was born in 1930 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 22 January, 1951. At the time of his death he was attached to the Sydney Water Police.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Tuesday 22 November 1955, page 5
AWARDS FOR GALLANTRY IN N.S.W. FLOODS
SYDNEY, Monday.
The Queen has conferred awards for services during the floods of last February and March.
The awards were announced by the Governor, Sir John Northcott, and the Prime Minister, Mr.Menzies, yesterday.
……….The Superintendent of Newcastle Police, Peter F. McLouglin or McLachlan, and Mr Ian Stuart Black, of Denman, receive the British Empire Medal.
The Queen’s Police Medal for gallantry was awarded posthumously to Constable Bernard Alfred Orrock, of the Sydney Water Police who was killed during rescue operations.
The Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct was awarded to four policemen and four civilians.
Inspector Peter McLachlan, of Newcastle, who was awarded the British Empire Medal, personally took part in more than 100 rescues in the Singleton district.
He was without sleep for four days and nights directing dozens of other rescue operations, including the organisation of an aerial flood lift into Singleton, and emergency accommodation for hundreds of homeless people.
Constable Bernard Alfred Orrock, 24, of Alpha Rd, Willoughby, who was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for Gallantry ( posthumous award ) was attached to the Water Police when he was electrocuted on an Army duck at Maitland on February 26.
The duck on which Orrock was travelling hit a 66,000 volt high tension wire near the Maitland railway bridge while trying to reach 100 people who were stranded there.
Before he was killed he assisted in the rescue and evacuation of about 70 people.
Constable Marius Joseph William John Bourke, Rudolph Luvaine Munns and Svend Aage Ivarsson, awarded the Queen’s Commendation for brave conduct, are all of the Sydney Water Police.
Washed Over Dam In Boats
There were in two police flood boats, which were washed over a dam, near Singleton, while trying to get Inspector McLachlan into Singleton at night.
Constables Bourke and Ivarsson later in Singleton, took part in scored of rescues under Inspector McLachlan.
Constable Munns worked with Constable Orrock at Maitland and took part in more than 100 rescues.
Wash from a ship’s propeller swept a man to death beneath a wharf at Walsh Bay yesterday.
A wharf foreman, who plunged fully clothed into the water to rescue him, received cuts and bruises when he was buffeted against the wharf.
Drowned was John Allan Mitchell, 57, of Nicholson Street, Balmain.
Mitchell, a welder, was working on the stern of the motor vessel Braeside, moored at No. 7 wharf.
He was standing on scaffolding on a raft floating between the ship’s stern and the wharf, when wash from another ship, Muliama, rocked the raft, overturned the scaffolding, and sent him tumbling into the water.
A wharf foreman, James Curry, of Cascade Street, Paddington, dived into the water and supported Mitchell until Maritime Services Board employees Stewart Dutton, of Herne Bay, and Leslie Lindwall, of Seaview Street, Dulwich Hill, reached them in a launch.
Mitchell was given artificial respiration before the arrival of the police launch Typhon, with Constables B. Orrock and W. Atkins aboard.
Central District Ambulance took Mitchell to Sydney Hospital, but he was dead on arrival.
Water Police yesterday rescued a man clinging to a pylon in three feet of water under a wharf at Walsh Bay.
The man, William McCormack, 60, of Victoria, told police he did not know how he got into the water, but must have been there for hours.
He was blue with cold, and on the point of collapse when rescued by Constable B. Orrock, assisted by Sergeant D. Lechleitner and Constable J. Nicholson.
McCormack was admitted to Sydney Hospital suffering from immersion.
Service: From 18 October 1948 to 21 October 1954 = 6 years Service
Awards: ?
Born: ? ? 1926
Died on: 21 October 1954
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident – ejected
Location of Event: north of the Hopefield Silose, Hopefiled Rd, Corowa
Age: 28
Funeral date: Monday 25 October 1954 @ 3pm
Funeral location: Woronora Crematorium
Buried at: Cremated at Woronora Cemetery
National Police Wall of Remembrance touch pad for Constable Edward Henry DILKS.
About 5.15pm on 21 October, 1954 Constable Dilks and District Licensing Inspector Sergeant Michael Joseph Whelan were returning to Corowa from an inspection at Brocklesby. Just north of the Hopefield Silos the rear, offside tyre on their vehicle blew out, causing the vehicle to swerve, leave the roadway and overturn several times. Both occupants were thrown from the vehicle. Constable Dilks was killed instantly while Sergeant Whelan sustained severe injuries. The constable left a wife and two children behind.
The constable was born in 1926 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 18 October, 1948. At the time of his death he was stationed at Corowa.
[divider_dotted]
South Coast Times & Wollongong Argus Thursday 29 April 1948 page 9 of 20
WEDDINGS
PHIPPS — DILKS
On Saturday, 28th February, at Wollongong Methodist – Church, the marriage was solemnised by the Rev. D. F. Almond between Lorna Ellen, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. V.B. Dilks of Wollongong, and Henry Thomas, only son of the late Mr.R. Phipps and Mrs Phipps, also of Wollongong.
The bride entered the church on the arm of her father wearing a classical cut gown of white crepe featuring a sweetheart neckline daintily hand embroidered and set in train with embroidery similar to that of the gown. The effect was enhanced by the two-tiered veil of tulle worn over an embroidered veil which was kindly lent by a friend of the bride, held in place by a coronet of orange blossoms while white carnations, tuber roses and stephanotis made up the charming bouquet.
The Matron of Honour, Mrs. Doug Williams (of Nowra) and the bridesmaid, Miss Jean Phipps, sister of the groom, wore identical frocks of shell pink and silver matching picture hats of crinolin straw. The bouquets consisted of blue delphiniums and pink carnations which toned in beautifully with the colour scheme.
Mr. Doug Williams, of Nowra, was bestman, and Mr. Edward Dilks, brother of the bride, groomsman.
The church had been tastefully decorated by friends.
During the signing of the register, Miss Olive Waters rendered “I Did Not Know” and “Because”; Mrs E. Tripp presided at the organ.
The reception held at the Methodist School Hall was attended by over seventy guests who were received by the bride’s mother wearing a suit of burgundy crepe with black accessories and a shoulder spray of pink carnations, assisted by the bridegroom’s mother wearing a royal blue dress with navy accessories and a shoulder spray of red roses.
With Mr. Les Redman presiding the customary toasts were honoured. Then the bride assisted by the groom, cut the beautifully decorated three tier cake made by the bride’s mother. The young couple received numerous telegrams of good wishes and congratulations.
The happy couple left for the Blue Mountains with the bride looking charming in cinamon crepe and matching accessories.
The future home of Mr. and Mrs. Phipps will be at Wollongong.
Newcastle Morning Herald & Miners’ Advocate Saturday 23 October 1954 page 2 of 20
DILKS. – The Relatives and Friends of Mr. and Mrs. V. B. DILKS, HARRY, LORNA and FAMILY, and GRAN are invited to attend the Funeral of their son, brother, Uncle and grandson, EDWARD HENRY DILKS, to take place at the Woronora Crematorium at 3 p.m. Monday.
Illawarra Daily Mercury ( Wollongong ) Monday 25 October 1954 page 4 of 12
Funeral Notices DILKS. — The officers and brethren of Lodge Aubrey Holloran No. 643 U.G.L. of N.S.W. and sister lodges are requested to attend the funeral service of their esteemed brother Edward Henry Dilks at Woronora Crematorium this Monday at 3 p.m. Regalia.
A bus for brethren will leave Parsons’ Funeral Parlour, Wollongong, at 1.15 p.m. J. S. Skillen, W.M. and E. L. Boyle, Secretary.
The Riverine Grazier ( Hay ) Tuesday 26 October 1954 page 2 of 4
SGT. WHELAN INJURED
Former police prosecutor for this district, Sgt. 1st Class, M. Whelan, was injured in an accident near Corowa last week. He was a passenger in a police car which skidded and overturned after a tyre had blown. The car’s driver, Const. Edward Henry Dilks, of Corowa police (formerly of Narrandera), was killed. Sgt. Whelan who has a broken arm, is at present in Corowa District Hospital.
Area: Zone F, Sect: Independent General K, Grave 2643
Memorial located at: ?
at the base of Cecils grave
Here are some amazing photos for you,
I have attached some photos of dad in uniform also a few of funeral procession that I found. Dad was also one of the officers who escorted the Queen on her Coronation Tour in Sydney May 1954. I think that might be the photo of him on his bike. After Sydney tour he was to escort the Queen & Duke to Canberra but his bike broke down at Liverpool. A couple of weeks later he lost his life.
Thanks again.
Ron
Cecil SEWELL
Cecil SEWELL funeral
Cecil SEWELL funeral
Cecil SEWELL funeral
Cecil SEWELL funeral
CECIL is mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
( NEED TO OBTAIN PHOTO OF TOUCH PLATE IN CANBERRA )
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
On 1 June, 1954 Constable Sewell was riding a police solo motor cycle in Woodville Road, Merrylands.
About 4.45pm the constable became involved in the pursuit of a motor vehicle. As the pursuit neared the intersection of Farnell Street, an elderly man alighted from a bus, ran out onto the roadway and was struck by Constable Sewell’s motor cycle.
Both men sustained severe injuries and were conveyed to the Parramatta District Hospital.
The pedestrian was found to be dead on arrival and Constable Sewell died the following morning.
The constable was born in 1927 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 3 August, 1948.
At the time of his death he was stationed at Parramatta.
Alone in his patrol car, Chris Thornton had the police siren flashing as he chased a white sedan through Woy Woy.
Thornton, 35, a highway patrolman, had been in the force for 15 years. He was, his mother says, “the best driver I have ever seen”.
The reason for the chase that night in April 2002 is unknown. Both cars were seen travelling at high speed. Thornton was about 50 metres behind.
Meanwhile, Leonard Rowley, 56, an unlicensed driver, was driving to his local KFC to pick up dinner. He saw the first car flash past and judged – wrongly – that he had time to turn out in front of the patrol car. Thornton tried to avoid Rowley’s car but clipped the back, veered onto the wrong side of the road and hit a power pole.
Thornton died on the spot, which is marked by a permanent stainless-steel cross. Rowley later received a suspended two-year sentence.
“His life from the age of 12 was about helping people,” says Thornton’s mother, Freada Thornton. “He was in the surf club and he was there to rescue people and then he went into the force and he was doing the same thing.” His father, Barry Thornton, says: “He loved life. He had been in Gosford for 15 years and was so popular with the community there.”
Police pursuits are, says Barry, a necessary evil: “If they don’t catch the criminals there will be more deaths on the roads. The ones that they’re in pursuit of are the idiots that have done the wrong thing to start with.”
But pursuits have come at a cost to the NSW Police Department. Fifteen officers have died as a result of high-speed chases, beginning with the death of Constable George Boore in 1937.
Details provided by the NSW Police Association show a steady stream of fatalities involving cars and motorcycles. The full list of casualties is as follows:
More than 200 plain-clothes and uniformed police attended the funeral yesterday of Constable Cecil Sewell, 27, of the Public Safety Bureau.
Constable Sewell was fatally injured on Tuesday when his police motor cycle crashed after hitting and killing a pedestrian in Woodville Road, Merrylands.
Constable Sewell was chasing a speeding motor cyclist when he hit the pedestrian – John Thomas Nivens, 60, of Paton Street, Merrylands.
The Police Pipe Band led the funeral procession to Rookwood Cemetery after a service at the Baptist Church, Harrow Road, Auburn.
Constable Cecil Edwin SEWELL
Parramatta Police
Motor Vehicle Pursuit
2 June, 1954
Resting Place – Rookwood Cemetery, Rookwood
On 1 June, 1954 Constable Sewell was riding a police solo motor cycle in Woodville Road, Merrylands. About 4.45pm the constable became involved in the pursuit of a motor vehicle. As the pursuit neared the intersection of Farnell Street, an elderly man alighted from a bus, ran out onto the roadway and was struck by Constable Sewell’s motor cycle. Both men sustained severe injuries and were conveyed to the Parramatta District Hospital. The pedestrian was found to be dead on arrival and Constable Sewell died the following morning. The Sydney Morning Herald of 3 June, 1954 printed the following article, and funeral notices.
CONSTABLE’S DEATH FROM INJURIES IN CYCLE CHASE CRASH
Constable Cecil Sewell, 27, of the Public Safety Bureau, who knocked down and fatally injured a civilian while chasing a speeding motor cyclist on Tuesday, died yesterday from injuries he received in the accident. He will be buried at Rookwood Cemetery today with full police honours. Constable Sewell was chasing the motor cyclist along Woodville Road, Merrylands, at 70 m.p.h. about 4.45 p.m. when he struck John Thomas Nivens, 60, who had stepped from a bus. Nivens, of Patons Street, Merrylands, died later from his injuries. Constable Sewell, who was thrown from the cycle after it had skidded along the road for 60 yards, died in Parramatta Hospital at 6.30 a.m. yesterday without regaining consciousness. He suffered a fractured skull and internal injuries. Doctors said his condition was too serious to operate. He was married with two children.
FUNERAL TO-DAY
Constable Sewell’s funeral will leave for Rookwood after, a service at the Baptist Church, Harrow Road, Auburn, at 1.30 p.m. The Police Pipe Band will lead the cortege, and Public Safety Bureau motor cyclists will escort the funeral. The Superintendent of Traffic, Mr. H. E. Snowden, will represent the Commissioner of Police, Mr. C. J. Delaney. Among other police officers present will be the officer in charge of the Public Safety Bureau, Inspector J. J. Agnew, and the officer in charge of Parramatta Division, Inspector C. S. Jardine. Police are making a wide search for the speeding motor cyclist, whom they blame for the deaths of Nivens and Constable Sewell. A senior police officer said yesterday that the cyclist, if arrested, faced charges of manslaughter.
“FINE OFFICER”.
Mr. Snowden said last night: “Constable Sewell was an outstanding young policeman with a particularly fine character. He was a policeman the public and the Police Force could ill afford to lose. His workmates in the Public Safety Bureau are stunned by his death.” Mr. Snowden said that police would not treat reckless and thoughtless motorists and drunken drivers and speedsters with “kid glove methods”. “We are determined to exert every means at our disposal to make the roads safe for everybody,” he said.
SEWELL – Masonic Lodge Auburn No 404 U G L of N S W, The Officers and Members of the above Lodge are fraternally Invited to attend the Funeral of their late esteemed Brother C E SEWELL. For particulars see family notice. Regalia.”
The constable was born in 1927 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 3 August, 1948. At the time of his death he was stationed at Parramatta. He is listed in the official New South Wales Police Honour Roll.
A police constable who killed a man when chasing a speeding motor cyclist last night, died at 6.30 am today. Police are now making an intensive search for the speedster who caused two deaths.
Dead as a result of the chase are Constable Cecil Sewell, 27, married with two children and John Thomas Nivens, 60, of Paton St., Merrylands.
At 4.45 pm yesterday Constable Sewell was chasing a motor cyclist along Woodville Rd., Merrylands, at about 70 mph ( 180kph ).
Siren’s scream
His cycle siren was screaming but Nivens stepped out on to the road from behind a bus. The police bike crashed into Nivens, who was killed instantly.
With Nivens draped across the handlebars, the motor cycle skidded for 60 yards before Nivens and Constable Sewell were catapulted from it.
Sewell, of Wycombe Rd., Yagoona, and attached to Parramatta traffic squad, was rushed to hospital. He was admitted with a fractured skull and facial injuries. Sewell was too badly hurt for doctors to operate on him and he died without regaining consciousness.
At present there is no clue as to the identity of the cyclist responsible for the crash.
Constable Sewell was a member of Yagoona Baptist Church. His two children are ; boys — Ron, 5, and Noel, 2.
Mrs. Sewell. 25, was with her parents in Lidcombe during the night.
Constable Sewell’s father, Mr. J. Sewell, of Alice St., Auburn, said today his son had been in the police force for six years.
“No gloves”
Traffic Supt. H. Snowden said, “Our drive throughout the State for road safety is going to be enforced with the gloves off. “Reckless motorists and road users who have no regard for the rights of other road users can expect no mercy. “Since police squads have been operating in plain-clothes and ordinary cars, there has been a noticeable decrease in the number of traffic breaches.”
THOMAS IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
[/alert_green]
Nothing is so far known of the death of Sergeant Rea, other than a brief article in the Sydney Morning Herald dated 28 April, 1954 which reported that “ Detective Sergeant Thomas Gordon Rea, 46, of the Vice Squad, collapsed and died on duty yesterday. Rea had been in the police force for 26 years and had been with the Vice Squad since 1947. His is survived by a widow and two daughters. ”
The sergeant apparently joined the New South Wales Police Force about 1928 and at the time of his death was attached to the Vice Squad, Sydney Criminal Investigation Bureau.
[divider_dotted]
The Newcastle Sun Wednesday 28 April 1954 p12
Detective’s Death
SYDNEY. — Det.-Sgt. Thomas Gordon Rea, 46, of the Vice Squad, collapsed and died on duty yesterday. He had been in the police force for 26 years and is survived by a widow and two daughters.
In the 1932 Electoral Rolls, Thomas Gordon REA resided at 6 Tait St, Five Dock, District: Martin, Sub District: Abbotsford, State: NSW. Occupation Police Constable.
In the 1935 Electoral Rolls, Thomas Gordon REA resided at 18 Leige St, Five Dock, District: Martin, Sub District: Abbotsford, State: NSW. Occupation Police Constable.
Up until the 1949 Electoral Roll, he was still living in the same District – Martin but with no street address.
In the 1954 Electoral Roll he was living in the District of Kingsford Smith, Sub District: Coogee West with no street address or occupation recorded.
NSW Police Gazettes: Constable Thomas Gordon REA. Event Type: Police Business. Publication date: 11 July 1928. Page: 453
NSWBDM: Birth: No find in NSW. No Marriage details located for Thomas & Mona.
Death: 7377/1954. Father = David Nelson. No mother details recorded.
[divider_dotted]
The Sydney Morning Herald Wednesday 13 August 1930 p10
DISTRICT COURT.
(Before Judge Thomson and a jury of four.)
ACTION AGAINST CONSTABLE
Henry v Rea
Alfred Henry, of Catherine-street, Leichhardt, sued Thomas Gordon Rea, of Macquarie-terrace, Birchgrove, for £400 damages. Plaintiff alleged that he was knocked down in Weston-road, Rozelle, on July 5, 1929, by a bicycle, negligently ridden by defendant, and received injuries. Defendant, who is a police constable, was riding behind a lorry as escort to a number of volunteer timber workers when the accident happened, it was stated. Defendant denied the allegation of negligence. The matter is part heard. Mr. Creer ( instructed by Mr. H. J. Bartier ) appeared for plaintiff, and defendant was represented by Mr. Hardwick ( instructed by Mr. J. V. Tillett, Crown Solicitor ).
The Sydney Morning Herald Thursday 14 August 1930 p6
DISTRICT COURT.
(Before Judge Thomson and a jury of four.)
ACTION AGAINST CONSTABLE
Henry v Rea
The hearing was continued of an action brought by Alfred Henry, of Catherine-street, Leichhardt, against Thomas Gordon Rea, of Macquarie-terrace, Birchgrove, for £400 damages. Plaintiff alleged that he was knocked down in Weston-road, Rozelle, on July 6, 1929, by a bicycle negligently ridden by defendant, who is a police constable, and received injuries. Defendant, it was stated, was riding behind a lorry as escort to a number of volunteer timber workers when the accident happened. Defendant denied the allegation of negligence. The jury awarded plaintiff £80. Mr Creer ( instructed by Mr. H J. Bartier ) appeared for plaintiff, and defendant was represented by Mr. Hardwick ( instructed by Mr J V Tillett, Crown Solicitor ).
On the evening of the 26 November, 1953 Constables Martin and Bacon were returning to the Belmont Police Station after attending the Newcastle Court. Constable Morris Bacon ( 27 old ) of Robert St, Strathfield, was driving his private car and Constable Martin was asleep in the front passenger seat. On the Pacific Highway at South Belmont the vehicle skidded, left the road and overturned. As a result both were taken to the Royal Newcastle Hospital however Constable Martin had sustained severe head injuries and died later that night.
The constable was born in 1921 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 16 April, 1950. At the time of his death he was stationed at Burwood.
National Police Remembrance Day ceremony in Lake Macquarie
David Stewart
September 29 2017 – 4:27PM
POLICE from Lake Macquarie Local Area Command have unveiled plans for a memorial wall at Belmont to honour the seven local officerskilled in the line of duty since 1863.
Plaques commemorating the seven officers were dedicated to the wall in a ceremony at Belmont police stationthis afternoon, National Police Remembrance Day.
Chief Inspector Murray Lundberg of Lake Macquarie LAC presided over a private ceremony attended by police, local high school students, and the families of the fallen officers.
“This is a time for reflection on the ultimate sacrifice that police officers can give in the execution of their duty,” Chief Inspector Lundberg said.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Brett Greentree, the Northern Region Commander, said the wall of remembrance, to be created on the distinctive blue wall at the entrance to the police station, would be striking.
“It will be a sight to treasure,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Greentree said.
“I want the officers, as they are walking out the front doors of this police station, to stop and reflect on the names, stop and reflect on the sacrifice.”
He said he hoped that the inaugural plaques to be installed on the wall were also the last.
“My dream is that we never, ever, add another name to this wall. I hope and pray that our wall is now complete.”
Acting Assistant Commissioner Greentree reached out to the families of the fallen officers.
“No commemoration or recognition can make good the loss that is unfairly carried by family members,” he said.
“I can only offer you my heartfelt condolences. Please know that your loved ones, who are no longer with us, will always be remembered.”
Across NSW, ceremonies were held to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the 269 officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, and through injury or illness, since the formation of the NSW Police Force in 1862.
Evan Clyde WILLIAMS
| 26/10/2012
Evan Clyde WILLIAMS
Late of Macquarie St, South Windsor
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # ????
Rank: Constable
Stations: Riverstone
Service: From 28 March 1949 to 10 August 1953 = 4+ years Service
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident – Police Bike – Rider
Event location: Riverstone Rd, Riverstone
Event date: 9 August 1953
Death location: Prince Henry Hospital
Funeral date: 12 August 1953
Funeral location: ?
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: McGraths Hill Cemetery, Charles St
Row 11, Plot 2
Memorial located at: ?
Gunner, Evan Clyde WILLIAMS
Evan Clyde WILLIAMS is buried with Ian Gary WILLIAMS – son – 1952 – 1957
[Half headstone missing] …Memory of / …OUR FOND FATHER / …WILLIAMS / …AGED 30 YEARS / …o / …WILLIAMS / …AGED 5 YEARS / …ISSED. [Note: Earlier transcriptions have Evan Clyde Williams died 11th August 1953 aged 30 years & Ian Gary Williams died 23rd November 1957 aged 5 years]
[alert_green]EVAN is mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
[divider_dotted]
Grave location: TBA
[divider_dotted]
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
On the evening of 9 August, 1953Constable Williams was riding a police motor cycle outfit along Riverstone Road, Riverstone when the cycle collided with another vehicle which had been travelling in the opposite direction. The constable was treated at the scene before being conveyed to the Hawkesbury District Hospital suffering from severe injuries including a fractured skull. He was transferred to the Prince Henry Hospital that night, where he was operated on, however he died on 11 10 August, 1953 without regaining consciousness.
The constable was on his way home from duty when the accident occurred.
The constable was born in 1923 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 28 March, 1949. At the time of his death he was stationed at Riverstone.
Residents of Merungle Hill were shocked to learn of the death of Constable Evan Williams, who died on Monday night as the result of injuries sustained in a motor cycle accident.
The late Mr. Williams was a member of the Police Force, and while riding a motor cycle between Parramatta and Windsor on Sunday night his machine came into collision with a motor car. He sustained a fractured skull, and a broken leg. He was taken by Ambulance to the Coast Hospital where doctors performed an operation in an effort to save his life. Despite the best medical skill however, he died from his injuries. The late Mr. Williams’ parents who reside at Merungle Hill, did not learn of the accident until told about it by a neighbor on Monday morning who had heard it In a news bulletin broadcast over the air. Mr. Williams immediately got into touch with the police who informed him that they had been endeavouring to locate him. Mr. and Mrs. Williams caught Monday night’s train for Sydney, but when they arrived at the Hospital the sad news had to be broken to them that their son had passed away during the night. The late Evan Clyde Williams was born at his parents home which is situated opposite the Merungle Hill School where he received his first schooling. He later attended the Leeton Intermediate High School. He was a returned soldier of the second World War and saw service In the Middle East and New Guinea. He was about 31 years of age, and is survived by his wife and two children. The funeral was held at the Windsor Cemetery on Wednesday. Mrs. Eckley, a next door neighbor of the Williams family, who had known the deceased ever since he was a little boy, said that the news of his untimely death came as a great shock to the people of Merungle Hill where he was so well-known and the shock was all the greater because of the fact that the announcement came so suddenly and unexpectedly over the air.
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 – 1954), Wednesday 12 August 1953, page 28
WILLIAMS, Evan Clyde.— August 10, 1953 (suddenly), late police constable, dearly loved husband of Pyhllis Williams of Macquarie street, South Windsor, and dear father of Graham and Ian, aged 30 years.
Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 – 1954), Tuesday 11 August 1953, page 21
POLICEMAN DIES
Constable Evan Clyde Williams, 30, of Riverstone, who was seriously hurt when his motorcycle outfit collided with a car near Vineyards railway station, Windsor, on Sunday night, died in Prince Henry Hospital early today.
Corporal Evan Williams, a Digger of the last war, who is now serving with the Hay Garrison, was seen in Leeton during the week-end with his son, Gunner Evan Clyde Williams, also in khaki. The latter has enlisted for service abroad, and is attached to the anti-tank reinforcements. Mr. Williams senior arranged his leave to be home with his son, and also to attend the 21st birthday party given in honor of his daughter, Joy, last night. She was the first baby born on Merungle Hill soldier settlement.
GUNNER EVAN CLYDE WILLIAMS as been wounded in action. Gunner Williams, who served in the Middle East, was in action in New Guinea. His father Cpl. Evan Williams, is attached to the garrison force at Hay. The wounded soldier’s mother, who resides at Merungle Hill, is at present a patient in the District Hospital, where she underwent an operation. The telegram containing the notification read as follows: ‘I regret to inform you that Gunner Evan Clyde Williams has been wounded in action. The Minister for the Army extends his sincere sympathy.’
Relatives of killed officer Evan Clyde Williams being sought
Krystyna Pollard
Relatives of a local police officer killed on duty more than 60 years ago are being sought as plans for his grave to be restored in an historic Hawkesbury cemetery forge ahead.
Constable Evan Clyde Williams, a resident of South Windsor, was killed on duty on August 9, 1953 while stationed at Riverstone. Constable Williams had been riding a police motorcycle along Riverstone Road when it collided with another vehicle travelling in the opposite direction.
He was treated at the scene before being taken to Hawkesbury Hospital suffering from severe injuries, and was later transferred to Prince Henry Hospital to be operated on. He died without regaining consciousness two days later.
The Narrandera Argus and Riverina Advertiser stated on August 17, 1953, that Constable Williams had only just returned to duty after an earlier injury.
“He had resumed duty only a fortnight after having received injuries when he chased a stolen motor car, the driver of which ran his machine against an electric light pole,” the article stated.
Constable Williams was buried at historic McGraths Hill cemetery, where his grave is currently in a state of disrepair. The NSW Police Memorial and Historical Society is working to restore his grave, and society member Ian Colless is asking descendants to come forward.
“We are seeking anyone who may have known or know the Williams family, or has any contacts in the Hawkesbury district, who could assist,” he explained. “McGraths Hill cemetery is heritage listed and any application for work normally requires permission of an ancestor or heir of the burial rights.”
Born in 1923 at Leeton, Constable Williams served in WWII where he was injured while serving as a gunner in the 2/4 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment of the AIF. He joined the NSW Police Force in 1949.
Constable Williams’ wife Phyllis stayed in the area for a time after his death and the couple had two sons, Graham and Ian. Ian died as a child and is buried in the same location. Anyone with information should contact coll2ian@gmail.com.
Touch plate at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra. Constable Garnet Frederick MORTLEY
Plaques commemorate eight officers from Sutherland Local Area Command who were killed in the line of duty. The names of the men and details of how they died hang on plaques in the foyer of the station. The plaques were unveiled during the 150th anniversary of policing in New South Wales.
On 27 May, 1953 Constable Mortley was riding a Police Special Traffic Patrol solo cycle to Sydney following an escort to the south coast. Whilst travelling along the Princes Highway near Waterfall, the front tyre on the cycle blew out. The constable was thrown to the roadway, sustaining compound fractures and severe head injuries. He was conveyed to the St George District Hospital, where he died five days later.
The constable was born in 1928 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 17 January, 1949. At the time of his death he was attached to the Special Traffic Patrol, Sydney.
[divider_dotted]
Illawarra Daily Mercury ( Wollongong ) Thursday 28 May 1953 page 1 of 12
Police Motor Cyclist Critically Injured
A Sydney police motor cyclist was critically injured when he lost control of his motor cycle on the Prince’s Highway on the southern side of Waterfall yesterday afternoon.
He got into difficulties on a corner at the bottom of a long hill on his way back to Sydney after escorting two big lorries through to the South Coast.
His cycle swerved and hit a lorry which was travelling in an opposite direction.
The rider was thrown to the side of the road and the motor cycle careered on along the road and crashed into another vehicle travelling in the opposite direction.
The cyclist suffered a compound comminuted fracture of the thigh, a compound comminuted fracture of the elbow, severe head injuries, internal injuries and severe shock. The motor cycle was completely wrecked.
St. George Ambulance rushed him to St. George District Hospital. His condition last night was described as “very low”
The Sydney Morning Herald Tuesday 2 June 1953 page 14 of 42
MORTLEY Garnet Frederick – June 1 1953 at St George Hospital (result of accident), dearly beloved husband of Elaine Estelle and loving father of Christine, aged 25 years.
MORTLEY, Garnet Frederick – June 1 1953 at St George Hospital (result of accident), loved son of Garnet (Dick) and Lillian Mortley and dear grandson of Elsie May and the late Frederick Shettle and Mrs C F and the late Charles Mortley.
MORTLEY Garnet Frederick – June 1 1953 at St George Hospital (result of accident), loved son-in-law of James Clifford and Nellie Evelyn Hay and dear brother-in-law of Evelyn Hay.
MORTLEY – The Relatives and Friends of the late GARNET FREDERICK MORTLEY of 36 Dalmar Street Croydon are invited to attend his Funeral to leave the Methodist Church, Dalhousie Street Haberfield Tomorrow (Wednesday) after service commencing at 11 a m for the Rookwood Crematorium.
GEO ANDREWS UA2808 9
237 – 9 Liverpool Road Ashfield
MORTLEY – The Relatives and Friends of Mr and Mrs W. W. Dennis Mr and Mrs C Ingle-Olson, Mr and Mrs H Ingle-Olson, Mr. and Mrs T Shirley, Mr and Mrs J Menzies, Mr. L. Traynor and Families, are invited to attend the Funeral of their loved Nephew and Cousin, GARNET FREDERICK to leave the Methodist Church Haberfield, after service at 11 am Wednesday for Rookwood Crematorium.
The Sydney Morning Herald Wednesday 3 June 1953 page 30 of 31
MORTLEY – Lodge Minimbah No 781 U. G. L. of N S W and Sister Lodges – Officers and Brethren are Invited to attend the Funeral of their late esteemed Bro. GARNET FREDERICK MORTLEY to leave the Methodist church Dalhousie Street Haberfield This Day after service commencing at 11 a m for the Rookwood Crematorium (Regalia ) F S GLOSS, W.M.; A. A. J GREEN Sec.
The Sydney Morning Herald Thursday 16 July 1953 page 5 of 22
Constable’s Death Accidental
The City Coroner, Mr. E. J. Forrest, S.M., yesterday recorded a verdict of accidental death at the inquest on Constable Garnet Frederick Mortley, 25, of Croydon Road, Croydon.
Constable Mortley, who was attached to the Public Safety Bureau, North Sydney, was riding a police motor cycle outfit along Prince’s Highway, near Waterfall, on May 27, when the front tyre burst.
The outfit collided with a lorry and Constable Mortley was thrown to the road. He died from injuries at St. George District Hospital on June 1.
Stations: ?, Officer in Charge – Port Kembla Police Station
Service: From 9 September 1921 to 1 September 1951 = 29+ years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ? ? 1895
Died on: Saturday 1 September 1951 @ 7.10pm
Cause: Heart Attack
Age: 53 old
Funeral date: Tuesday 4 September 1951
Funeral location: Woronora Crematorium
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial location: 1/ Police Wall – Woronora Crematorium
2/ Front wall of Lake Illawarra Police Station
3/ Inside hall – picture frame – Lake Illawarra Police Station
William Roy SMITH
On the afternoon of the 1 September, 1951 Sergeant Smith and Constable Searl attended the Commercial Hotel, Port Kembla in relation to an intoxicated man causing trouble. After a struggle the police managed to gain control over the man and walk him to the police station. Although suffering some physical discomfort after the struggle, the sergeant remained on duty. A short time later however, he began to lose the use of his arm and experience considerable pain. He was taken to the Wollongong District Hospital but died at 7.10pm.
The sergeant was born in 1895 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 9 September, 1921. At the time of his death he was stationed at Port Kembla.
Sgt 1/Class William Roy SMITH touch plate in Canberra
William Roy SMITH – Funeral Notice The Sydney Morning Herald Monday 3 September 1951
South Coast Times & Wollongong Argus Monday 3 September 1951 page 2 of 24
[divider_dotted]
Hillview Ave, Gwynneville, back in 1953, was a lengthy Avenue which is now ( 2015 ) a very short Avenue due to the Memorial Drive cutting through it and also F6 / Princes Motorway / Highway cutting across it – causing sections of Hillview Ave being named Graham Ave and also Murphys Ave. The original house would now be located somewhere in, what is now called, Murphys Ave.
On 5 February, 1949 Constable Patch was riding a police motor cycle from Parramatta to Sutton Forest where he was to perform special Vice Squad duty. About ten kilometres north of Mittagong, on the Hume Highway, the cycle left the roadway, throwing the constable onto a rock heap. As a result he sustained a fractured skull and died a short time later in the Berrima District Hospital.
The constable was born in 1922 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 11 November, 1946. At the time of his death he was stationed at Rose Bay.
[google-map-v3 shortcodeid=”262b32d1″ width=”350″ height=”350″ zoom=”12″ maptype=”roadmap” mapalign=”center” directionhint=”false” language=”default” poweredby=”false” maptypecontrol=”true” pancontrol=”true” zoomcontrol=”true” scalecontrol=”true” streetviewcontrol=”true” scrollwheelcontrol=”false” draggable=”true” tiltfourtyfive=”false” enablegeolocationmarker=”true” enablemarkerclustering=”false” addmarkermashup=”false” addmarkermashupbubble=”false” addmarkerlist=”28 10 31S 153 32 13E{}gpsloc.png” bubbleautopan=”true” distanceunits=”km” showbike=”false” showtraffic=”false” showpanoramio=”false”]
![[Half headstone missing] …Memory of / …OUR FOND FATHER / …WILLIAMS / …AGED 30 YEARS / …o / …WILLIAMS / …AGED 5 YEARS / …ISSED. [Note: Earlier transcriptions have Evan Clyde Williams died 11th August 1953 aged 30 years & Ian Gary Willilams died 23rd November 1957 aged 5 years]](https://police.freom.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Evan-Clyde-WILLIAMS-02-NSWPF-Died-11-Aug-1953.jpg "http://www.hawkesbury.net.au/cemetery/mcgraths_hill/mhmc010.html")
