John passed away during the afternoon of Thursday 28 July 2016 in Gosford Hospital.
May he forever Rest In Peace.
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Retired Detective Chief Inspector John Hutchings update
Geoff Talbot called into Gosford Hospital this morning ( Wednesday 27 July 2016 ) and spent some time with Johns wife Verna who has been at his bedside for just on 2 weeks. Today is day 13 since John consumed any food and is mostly in a state of unconsciousness. His family and close friends are regular visitors being support for his wife. I mentioned the comments here on FB and Verna asked me to thank those members who have John in their thoughts and prayers.
If you know John or Verna and you are in the Gosford area – you may wish to visit and offer your support.
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May John forever Rest In Peace.
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Austin William MANN
| 28/07/2016
Austin William MANN
aka Aussie / Ozzy
( late of Eltham )
Victoria Police Force
Academy Squad 21 of 2005
Regd. # 35360
Rank: Senior Constable
Stations: ?, Diamond Creek, NWM Division 5 HQ, Heidelberg Police Station, Diamond Creek SOCIT
Service: From 3 October 2005to 19 July 2016=10+years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: ?
Died on: Tuesday 19 July 2016
Cause: ? Possible Suicide ?
Age: 34
Funeral date: Monday 1 August 2016 @ 10.30am
Funeral location: Victorian Police Academy Chapel, View Mount Road, Glen Waverley
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial at: ?
[alert_yellow]AUSTIN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
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Funeral location:
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
MANN
A Service celebrating the life of Senior Constable Austin William Mann will be held in the Chapel of the Victoria Police Academy, View Mount Rd, Glen Waverley on MONDAY (August 1st, 2016) at 10.30 am.
A Private Cremation will follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Beyondblue in memory of Austin. Envelopes at the service.
MANN. Austin. On behalf of the Committee and Members of the North Eltham Wanderers Cricket Club, we wish to express our sincere condolences to Austin’s family. An excellent Vice President who made an outstanding contribution to our Club. Will always be remembered At Rest
MANN. Austin. On behalf of all members of the Diamond Valley Vietnam Veterans Sub Branch, we express our sympathy and condolences to our member Paul Mann and his wife Jan on their sad loss.
The Officers and members of Diamond Creek Fire Brigade wish to offer our sincere condolences to Austin’s family, friends, colleagues, members of Diamond Creek Police Station. Rest in Peace mate
MANN. Austin. Senior Constable 35360 Sadly missed by your colleagues but never forgotten. Our sincere sympathy to your loving family and friends. May you rest in peace. Staff at Diamond Creek Police.
The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Senior Constable Mann and extend their deepest sympathy to his family. At Rest
On behalf of all Members of Diamond Creek SOCIT we wish to express our heartfelt condolences to Austin’s family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. He will be sadly missed.
MANN. Austin. Aussie, to us you were someone special. We will always remember your generous nature, unwavering support and friendship. Always in our hearts. Our thoughts are with the Mann family.
Cable, Shayna, Taygen, Tully and Judith Sage, and Flyn Loughlin.
MANN. Austin. Austin will be remembered as a kind and loving friend who worked tirelessly for the Eltham North Wanderers Cricket Club. Our memories of Austin will live on in our hearts forever, his laughter rings in our ears.
Deepest sympathy to Jan, Paul, Alistair, Jarrod and Pete and families at the loss of your beloved son, brother and uncle.
MANN. Austin. Aus, you were always there no matter what. You always had a cold beer and a hug when I needed it. You always made me laugh. You took so little and gave a lifetime of memories. You were a generous soul and felt everything so deeply my friend. Rest peacefully. I miss you Aus. My heartfelt and deepest sympathies to to Jan, Paul, Al, Pete and Jabba.
The NorthElthamWanderers Cricket Club would like to thank everyone for their well-wishes and support during such a tough time. The tragic loss of our Vice-President Austin Mann has rocked us, and it truly is comforting to be a part of such a supportive community in the toughest of times.
As per the Herald Sun today, funeral information is as follows:
“A Service celebrating the life of Senior Constable Austin Mann will be held in the Chapel of the Victoria Police Academy, View Mount RD, Glen Waverley on MONDAY (August 1, 2016) at 10:30am. A private cremation will follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Beyond Blue, in memory of Austin. Envelopes are available at the Service”
It is with sadness that Macleod Cricket Club extends its condolences to the Mann family and NorthElthamWanderers Cricket Club on the sudden passing of Austin Mann.
Aussie was the most competitive of opponents and a gentleman of the game, always keen for a beer and a chat amongst rivals.
His selfless work in the cricket community and wider community will see benefits for others for years to come.
RIP Aus.
The Riverside Cricket Club wishes to pass on its sincerest condolences to the NorthElthamWanderers Cricket Club and the Mann family upon the passing of Austin.
Our thoughts are with you all at this very sad time. RIP Austin Mann
On behalf of all of our members and supporters the Lalor Stars Cricket Club Committee extends our heartfelt condolences to the NorthElthamWanderers Cricket Club on the tragic passing of Austin Mann. We hold the Mann family and all at NEWCC in our hearts and thoughts at this sad time.
Troubled police database blamed for officer’s death
THE force’s trouble-plagued LEAP database has been blamed for the death of a senior officer in a damages claim against the state lodged on behalf of his two young sons by their mother.
After 21 years on the force Sergeant Martin “Marty” Veal, 46, took his own life on June 1, 2015, using a police gun obtained a day before against force protocols.
Good Afternoon, my name is Damian Downie ( Sen Sgt ) and today I would like to take you through the service history of Sergeant Martin Veal or as we all knew him, Marty.
Firstly I would like to say that it was an honour and a privilege to manage and work with Marty over the last 2 and half years.
In April 1994 Marty began his career as a recruit at the Victoria Police Academy.
From August 1994 through to 2002 Marty worked in the Coburg area as a Constable performing general duties. In that time the Superintendents comments on Marty’s work performance were:
“A team player who will be an asset to his next station.” and
“A professional, conscientious, effective and efficient member who is an asset to the Force and displays potential for promotion”
The reasons behind these comments were Marty’s excellent work ethic and his tenacious nature. In May 2000 while working at Coburg Police Station, Commander Peter Graham commended Marty for his good work in that:
“After an armed robbery on Pascoe Vale Road Marty used his local knowledge of the area to predict in advance the escape route of the offenders in which Marty arrested both of the offenders, recovered the knife used in the armed robbery and the victims cash.”
In July 2002, Marty transferred to Melbourne City Police Station as a Senior Constable performing general duties. In that time the Superintendents comment on Marty’s work performance was:
“A well conducted member whose work performance was above satisfactory.”
In March 2007 Marty transferred to Heidelberg Uniform performing general duties. In that time the Superintendents comment on Marty’s work performance was:
“An efficient, mature and hard working member whose work performance was above average.”
Testament to this:
In May 2007 while at Heidelberg Marty was recognised for his good work in arresting a rapist and preserving the crime scene that supported the conviction of the offender, and showing the diversity of Marty’s skills.
In that same month Marty was at the scene of an accident where one of the drivers forwarded a letter of thanks to the Officer in Charge of Heidelberg. The lady involved in the car accident wanted to thank Marty for his professionalism and support.
In June 2009 Marty was promoted to Sergeant and transferred to one of the most innovate IT projects at the time, being the Criminal Justice Enhancement Program. Marty was an asset to the project with his extensive operational knowledge and problem solving skills. Marty’s efforts helped to deliver enhancements to the way Victoria Police managed offenders and communicated with other government departments.
In December 2010 Marty transferred to the Operations Response Unit where he performed specialist duties such as assisting local police with public safety, road policing and crime reduction.
In September 2011 Marty had the opportunity and transferred to the Victoria Police Air wing. Marty was involved in a range of specialist activities including:
Aerial observation and tactical assistance for ground units.
Crime prevention and detection with regular patrols of metropolitan Melbourne.
Supporting ground units involved in pursuits
Search and Rescue missions
In March 2013 Marty transferred to what was then the LEAP Management Unit, and then on to the Business Readiness and Transition Unit. When Marty transferred we identified that he had an extensive operational, IT and specialist services knowledge. As a result of this knowledge Marty was assigned to the LEDR Mk2 Project. I met Marty when he commenced at the LEDR Mk2 Project and over the next 2 and half years it was my pleasure to work with him.
In his role on the LEDR Mk2 Project Marty was instrumental in delivering an IT system that benefits operational members and people in the Victorian Community. I was always impressed with Marty’s work ethic, his problem solving skills and dedication to supporting operational members.
Marty has been awarded the Victoria Police Service Medal with 20 year clasp, National Medal and the National Police Medal of which he will be awarded posthumously today.
Marty was a team player and he will be missed by me, people in our office and the Victoria Police community.
On behalf of Victoria Police and the Information, Systems and Security Command we’d like to express our deepest condolences and sympathy to the Veal family and their loved ones.
A Service to celebrate the life of Martin James Veal will be held in the Great Hall, The Centre Ivanhoe, 275 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe, on TUESDAY (June 9, 2015) commencing at 2.00 p. m.
VEAL. Martin. It is with heavy hearts the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Football Club family record the tragic passing of our dear friend and life member Marty. Premiership captain, coach and administration secretary.
Always there for his mates and willing to do whatever was asked of him.
Sadly missed.
All at OIGFC offer our deepest sympathy to the family.
Rest in Peace Marty. You will always be a respected and loved member of the OIGFC family.
VEAL. Marty. A much admired team mate, mentor and a loyal and treasured friend of our family. We are deeply saddened by your unexpected and tragic loss. You will be greatly missed.
Our heartfelt sympathies to the entire Veal family.
Assistant Commissioner Wendy Steendam, Officers and Employees of the Information, System and Security Command Victoria Police Force, regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
VEAL. Martin. The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Sergeant Veal and extend their deepest sympathy to his family.
VEAL. Martin. The Committee, Members and Supporters of the Banyule Cricket Club are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our friend and member, Martin Veal.
A talent unequaled on the field matched by your incredible passion and love for the club. In recent years your leadership of our 3rd X1 premiership team was inspirational and a generation of juniors call the Banyule Cricket Club home thanks to your dedication as our Junior Manager.
Our love and prayers are with Michelle, Cooper and Spencer. Deepest condolences to our Life Members John, Dorothy, David and Tim together with Chris and all families.
Rest in Peace Marty Your memory will remain always
VEAL. Martin. I wouldn’t have got through Chem without your help, Marty and I will never forget your comment “Just like toothpaste, Moz” all those years later when you were on the beat in Coburg.
The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family
VEAL. Martin. We are deeply saddened by your passing. Loving thoughts and deepest sympathy to Michelle, Cooper and Spencer, Dorothy and John, Chris, David and Tim and families.
Our love
Uncle Russell (dec. ), Lorraine, Matt, Emily and Amy and families.
Banyule Cricket Club wishes to express its condolences in the very sad passing of Marty Veal. Our thoughts are prayer’s are with Marty’s family and friends during this sad time. A valued member, friend and mentor to many. He will be sadly missed by all.
Greg RussellTo say I was shocked to hear the news this morning is an understatement. Our thoughts are with Martins immediate family, particularly his children. RIP Martin Veal. Greg, Deanna, Blake and Taylah Russell. Sadly missed.
Banyule Cricket ClubThis morning a son, brother, father, team mate, friend and colleague was lost. Marty was one of the most genuine men I’ve come to know. He was a loving, caring, passionate, hard working man who would go above and beyond to help out off his own bat. I am absolutely shattered, and wish to share my sincerest condolences with the entire Veal family whom are so heavily in our thoughts on this incredibly sad day. To Marty, I say thank you for being a mentor, a team mate whom shared my love for Banyule and for being a friend to celebrate with and confine in whenever I needed. You’ll be forever remembered and cherished.
Tim LowerJust heard of this. My condolences to the Veal family and the broader BCC community.
I’m sure I can pass on condolences on behalf of the GCC as many have played against. RIP Marty.
We regret to advise that Marty Veal died tragically in the early hours this morning.
We are opening the Chelsworth Club rooms tomorrow (Tuesday) night at 6.30pm for any past players, supporters, members who wish to have a chat and drink following this devastating news.
All are welcome.
Kevin McLean
OIGFC President
Joanne TollSuch sad, sad news. Deepest sympathy to the Veal family.
Hem PaTerrible, terrible news. Appears his last post was a call for help but alas too late. He was a good player, great captain, friend and colleague. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest in peace Vealy.
Dean CrakerVery sad news RIP Vealy a legend of the club and great gifted footballer, one of the best team mates a club could wish for. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Veal family at this very sad time…
Peter ParkerAn incredibly sad, tragic and sensitive time for all concerned. Sympathies to all and time to reflect on a wonderful contributor to the community in both his work and leisure.
Patricia WoodsIt’s never easy to lose anyone but so much harder when a life has been cut short. Deepest sympathy to the Veal family our thoughts and prayers are with you. Graeme and Tricia
Scott KentVale skipper. Marty absolute champion of OIGFC just numb at the moment. Great player but even more importantly one of the best club man RIP thinking of the whole Veal family.
Catherine JonesVealy…a lifelong friend to Dirk and family gone far too soon. No words for the shock. Sincere sympathies and prayers to the Veal family.
Matt PowerA tragic end for a man I was mates with from the age of 10. Absolutely shattered. Get down to chelsworth and toast a man who was talented beyond how he saw himself. A unique individual who will be sorely missed. Vale my friend Marty.
Zac KeaneMarty, I have fond memories of our 2005 season together. You were a leader of young men. Your legacy won’t be forgotten at OIGFC. Rest In Peace mate
Joel MathewMarty you lived and breathed OIGFC. You were a great mentor to me when I came to the club in 2005 and always gave your all for brown and white. Sad to hear the news
Paul NortheyThe class of 86 is devastated by this news and there have been many messages shared today between our crew. A few of us were lucky to catch up with him at the OIG centenary dinner a month or so ago and I was lucky enough to sit next to him, something I will always be grateful for. A freak of an athlete, fantastic teammate (1st XIII, 1st XI and OIGFC), always interested in how you were going and always with a smile on his face. We are grieving today for our mate who was blessed with incredible talent and intelligence who followed his own path in life, sometimes the road less travelled. I was able to sneak a final year of footy in 98 back at OIGFC and my only teammates left from the 1st XVIII of 86 were AP and Marty. I was blessed to play that year with the great MV, sweeping across half back like a quarterback controlling the ground as if it were his own…..and it was! He was so proud of his boys and our hearts ache for them and the rest of the Veal family who are in our thoughts. Rest peacefully MV!
George Gabriel HarosVealy, no words but plenty of premiership memories. A question though: Why mate? Please boys if anyone else is feeling shit….. TALK! Talk to me. Talk to your mates. Talk to someone. Gx
John William StevensI loved playing with you because you had a calming influence over the team. If it was a tight game I always felt safe when you were there and knew we’d win and most of the time we did. You were a fantastic player and a wonderful clubman. You bled brown and white and the brown and white community is feeling your pain tonight. My thoughts and love go out to the whole Veal family who have given so much to our great club. I will always picture you sweeping across half back and pushing forward to kick one of your legendary goals in front of the pavilion. We will honour you at our 20 year reunion, a year in which you won the B and F and dominated in the GF. Here’s a picture of 2 of our greats sharing a beer with you tonight from the other side of the world. The third beer is for you mate. RIP
Glen DouglasAbsolutely gutted hearing about this tragic loss..Vealy you had a massive heart on and off the ground..I can still hear you screaming at me to “Switch it” and watch you take off..farewell skipper. RIP #10.
Our thoughts and condolences to the Veal Family.
Chanz CrowleyMy thoughts are with his family and friends. His influence on many young men (including myself) at the club will be my lasting memory. Welcoming and caring. Gone too soon. #10
Dale HawkesMarty, you were a legend at the footy club. Such a selfless person as a player, coach and administrator over so many years. I’ll always have great memories of playing with you in your ever reliable “sweeper” role in defence, bailing us out on so many occasions. Very sad news. Thoughts are with your friends and family. RIP mate.
Ryan ColemanTotally unbelievable. Such a great man who was so great to so many of us. Vealy always cared and was so supportive. Very sad news. Thoughts are with his family.
John SmartOnly played 2 seasons of seconds footy in the late 90s for old ivanhoe. Marty used to prop up the back line when we were short on numbers. It was easy to see Marty was a class above. In my minimal dealings with him he was a lovely fellow and made me feel welcome. I bumped into him last year nearly 15 years later and he remembered me and was exactly the same. Rip marty.
Dan VanWinkelLoved my time at OIGFC and I remember Marty as a very helpful, passionate and highly respected man with a wicked sense of humour. Hope everyone at the club is holding up.
Sam PearceMarty Veal (MV), club legend, leader of men, an inspiration as a player and a great example of a true clubman! We’re thankful to have known you mate and our thoughts and prayers are with the family, close friends and all who knew you! What a great man!
Steve SmithI had the pleasure of knowing Marty and his family through Banyule football and cricket clubs. Saddened by the news. My thoughts are with the whole Veal family. R.I.P. Marty
My team mate. My committee mate. My confidant. My friend.
I can’t understand why and you, you strong stubborn headstrong bastard can’t explain it to me now.
A great man who we both know always told me there is a reason for the mad world we live in but I’m struggling to believe that right now.
You were more than a mate. More than a friend. You shed light when there was sometimes only dark.
You shook my hand on a wing one day (playing for Banyule) and told me I wouldn’t see you again. And your 35 possessions and 4 goals summed that up. I was banished to the seconds at OI almost never to return
I shared so many moments. Watched you determined to conquer what the world put before you. I am at a loss to figure this one.
I love you. I pay my respects to your family. I will always be indebted to you for how you made my life better.
I’m not religious but I trust you are at peace with yourself.
Robbie ChalkleyMarty .. That twinkle you got in your eyes .. The smile you gave when talking of your passions .. You gave your heart and hand to so many .. Steve, Jaimee and I were so fortunate to have you in our lives ..
Rest now .. Thoughts and love to all the family xxx
James M Wooster Marty. We went to the same Primary School – and played footy together all those years ago. We attended at the same Grammar School – and played footy together there as well. In 1992 I joined OIGFC and again we played footy there together and won three premierships with you patrolling the backline like a panther protecting his own. I followed you and other great mates into the same career pathway. And I’m glad I did. And we share the same first name. You were a leader and were damn good at it. You inspired many and guided others. I’m finding it hard to accept what has happened; I can’t believe the tragedy. My thoughts and prayers go out to the VEAL family and to the OIGFC family. Spiritually you are in a much more calmer and peaceful place. RIP mate. From a fellow BIG 7 member.
Belinda HillWords cannot describe how much this is effecting those touched by Marty at some point in there lives… From all the Tolley Family – Mark, Craig, Allan, Robyn and myself, we pass on our deepest sympathy’s to all the Veal‘s at this difficult time. RIP xo…
On Tuesday night I attended a gathering at Chelsworth Park, home of the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians’ Football Club.
It was an impromptu gathering called by the President Kevin McLean. At very short notice, the Club came together to honour a former Captain and leader of the club, Martin (Marty) Veal.
Married for some fourteen years, with two young sons, Martin, a Policemen, his life ended tragically on Monday morning, the first day of a very cold winter.
Upon hearing this tragic news, the Club decided to invite all associated with it to meet at Chelsworth Park; come together and try to work out how such a tragedy could occur and how best to deal with the human emotions. A committee man, Dan Bodycoat, himself a Police officer and grief/trauma counsellor addressed all present.
Why you might ask am I relating this sad event to you?
For many years whilst privileged to be part of the VAFA Board I stressed on many occasions our Association was more than a football competition. We are a mixture of clubs; men and women, who by their association are uniquely placed to embrace each other in circumstances that I have described where we can support, console, show concern, and offer our help and love to those most in need of it.
I know Management and Board are across many of the issues, such as depression, confronting people in our clubs . In your position you are able to “strengthen our arm” in dealing with such issues and showing leadership.
Last evenings’ experience whilst sad was uplifting, to see over ninety young men and women embrace each other and share a sad burden that had befallen them and their club and to find comfort in each other’s company. I urge you all Management and Board, players and supporters, as you steer the future, to even further cement links and ties with everyone in the VAFA; embrace them, hear their story and always be there for them.
If you or anyone you know need to talk, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14. The VAFA and the player led initiative Thick and Thin encourage all in the VAFA community to #StartTheConvo if you or anyone in your circle need to talk.
Two Victoria Police officers take their own lives in a week
Nino Bucci and Cameron Houston
Victoria Police is grappling with the suicides of two officers in a week, as it awaits a high-level review of mental health issues within the force that is expected to recommend an overhaul of support services.
As Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton described the challenge of mental health issues among police as “one of the most important issues” he had to face, the families of the two officers were mourning the sudden losses.
In 41 days this year, two officers and a police employee have taken their lives. It has been almost 10 years since a Victoria Police officer died on duty, according to the Police Association honour roll.
The first officer who died this week was from Echuca police station, but ended his life at a house in Tocumwal, a small town in NSW about 110 kilometres to the north-east.
The other officer( SenCon Paul Anthony BRENNAN ) was from Mordialloc station, and is understood to have taken his own life after being involved in a minor traffic incident in the bayside suburbs on Wednesday night.
Neither officer was on duty at the time of their deaths.
“The death by suicide of a police member is always cause for enormous concern at Victoria Police. Looking after our people is one of our highest priorities,” police spokeswoman Acting Sergeant Melissa Seach said.
“We are heavily committed to improving the mental health support available to all our staff.
“We know that anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress can all be triggered by the stressful situations our people can find themselves in.”
Acting Sergeant Seach said the Victoria Police Mental Health Review would be completed in late March. Mental health experts have been consulted as part of the review.
“Suicide has long been a problem for Victoria Police as it has been across the population in general.
“Victoria Police understands that with improvements in recognising and addressing mental health issues, the incidence of suicide can be reduced and we are committed to doing this.
“The organisation will continue to work … [with] partners such as the Police Association, beyondblue and independent universities to improve our services and ability to break down barriers and help those at risk.”
In October, The Age reported that an officer had taken her own life at a police station, soon after she was deemed fit to carry a service firearm, despite suffering from mental illness.
It was also reported that a senior police officer who was charged with murder suffered mental health issues for almost a decade before he allegedly shot and killed a man during a routine intercept in Windsor in 2013.
He is believed to have an extensive history of psychiatric problems, raising further concerns about Victoria Police’s handling of mental illness and its policies surrounding access to firearms.
Mr Baker took extended leave on several occasions because of his illness, and was only allowed to resume work after approval from a Victoria Police psychiatrist.
But less than a year before the shooting, it is believed Mr Baker was involved in a serious altercation with another officer that should have set off alarms, according to colleagues of the accused man.
The coroner is also set to investigate the death of a sergeant( Sergeant Martin James VEAL ) who took his own life last June.
It is believed at least five officer deaths are before the coroner. More than 40Victoria Police officers have reportedly committed suicide since 1990.
The force said they would not comment on the circumstances of the officers’ deaths while they were the subject of coronial investigations, including whether they were reviewing access to service weapons.
Unnamed male who suicided the week pre 11 February 2016.
This officer was from Mordialloc station, and is understood to have taken his own life after being involved in a minor traffic incident in the bayside suburbs on Wednesday night.
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Two Victoria Police officers take their own lives in a week
Nino Bucci and Cameron Houston
Victoria Police is grappling with the suicides of two officers in a week, as it awaits a high-level review of mental health issues within the force that is expected to recommend an overhaul of support services.
As Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton described the challenge of mental health issues among police as “one of the most important issues” he had to face, the families of the two officers were mourning the sudden losses.
In 41 days this year, two officers and a police employee have taken their lives. It has been almost 10 years since a Victoria Police officer died on duty, according to the Police Association honour roll.
The first officer ( Ray McNISH ) who died this week was from Echuca police station, but ended his life at a house in Tocumwal, a small town in NSW about 110 kilometres to the north-east.
The other officer( SenCon Paul Anthony BRENNAN ) was from Mordialloc station, and is understood to have taken his own life after being involved in a minor traffic incident in the bayside suburbs on Wednesday night.
Neither officer was on duty at the time of their deaths.
“The death by suicide of a police member is always cause for enormous concern at Victoria Police. Looking after our people is one of our highest priorities,” police spokeswoman Acting Sergeant Melissa Seach said.
“We are heavily committed to improving the mental health support available to all our staff.
“We know that anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress can all be triggered by the stressful situations our people can find themselves in.”
Acting Sergeant Seach said the Victoria Police Mental Health Review would be completed in late March. Mental health experts have been consulted as part of the review.
“Suicide has long been a problem for Victoria Police as it has been across the population in general.
“Victoria Police understands that with improvements in recognising and addressing mental health issues, the incidence of suicide can be reduced and we are committed to doing this.
“The organisation will continue to work … [with] partners such as the Police Association, beyondblue and independent universities to improve our services and ability to break down barriers and help those at risk.”
In October, The Age reported that an officer had taken her own life at a police station, soon after she was deemed fit to carry a service firearm, despite suffering from mental illness.
The leading senior constable( Simon CARROLL ) was a mother of three.
It was also reported that a senior police officer who was charged with murder suffered mental health issues for almost a decade before he allegedly shot and killed a man during a routine intercept in Windsor in 2013.
He is believed to have an extensive history of psychiatric problems, raising further concerns about Victoria Police’s handling of mental illness and its policies surrounding access to firearms.
Mr Baker took extended leave on several occasions because of his illness, and was only allowed to resume work after approval from a Victoria Police psychiatrist.
But less than a year before the shooting, it is believed Mr Baker was involved in a serious altercation with another officer that should have set off alarms, according to colleagues of the accused man.
The coroner is also set to investigate the death of a sergeant( Sergeant Martin James VEAL ) who took his own life last June.
It is believed at least five officer deaths are before the coroner. More than 40Victoria Police officers have reportedly committed suicide since 1990.
The force said they would not comment on the circumstances of the officers’ deaths while they were the subject of coronial investigations, including whether they were reviewing access to service weapons.
BRENNAN. Paul. The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Senior Constable Brennan and extend their deepest sympathy to his family. At Rest
BRENNAN. Paul. The St Brigid’s / St Louis Cricket Club sincerely regret hearing about the passing of past player Paul Brennan. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.
BRENNAN. Paul. The St Bedes / Mentone Tigers AFC is sad to record the passing of Paul, our 2006 and 2007 Senior Premiership Player and we extend our deepest condolences to his mother Ann, brother Neil and extended family. Brezza as he was affectionately known was much loved by all of us and his personality was infectious. He will always be remembered by all at our club. R. I. P.
Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill on behalf of all employees of the Southern Metro Region sincerely regret the tragic passing of our colleague and offer our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.
Station Command, Sergeants and all past and present members at Mordialloc Police Station sincerely regret the tragic passing of our friend and colleague. We stand together to offer our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.
BRENNAN. Paul. The Mordialloc Football Netball Club committee, players and supporters are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our assistant coach for 3 years and inaugural part of our 2014 premiership, Brezza. His warm smile and engaging personality will be sorely missed around Ben Kav in years to come. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends.
The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force, regret the passing of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
Today we remember a great man of our club and the community.
Our sincere condolences to the family & friends of Paul Brennan who tragically passed away overnight.
The Mordialloc Football club have extended an invitation to all SBMT players and supporters to join them at Mordy HQ today to celebrate Paul’s life from 5pm
Janice PrenticeThis is ?…. May the family be comforted by family and friends.
Luke HealySuch terrible news! But a legend who will be remembered fondly by many. RIP Brezza. Thoughts and condolences are with Ann and Neil in this time.
St Bedes/Mentone Tigers AFC The funeral for Paul Brennan will be held at St Louis de Montfort primary school hall, Dolphin Street Aspendale, this Thursday 18th of February 2016 at 11:00am.
Please be advised that parking around the school is very limited so we request as many people as possible car pool to maximise the available spaces in the car park and surrounding streets.
In lieu of flowers the family request a donation be made to Beyond Blue (envelopes will be available on the day).Following the funeral service light refreshments will be served at the rear of the school hall. Ann Brennan, Neil Brennan & Karin Laidlaw then invite all family & friends of Pauls to join together at Mordy HQ (Mordialloc Sporting Club) 528 Main Street Mordialloc from 2pm to share your memories of ‘one of the greats’.
In remembrance for a champion bloke, A top mate and ‘one of the greats’ Paul Brennan.
‘Team Brezza’ ” Chris Jamieson (Rocco), Simon Barker (Simmo) and Matthew Joyce (‘Bingo’ or ‘Jars’) are going to participate in Australia’s most stunning Ultra-Marathon- The Great Ocean Road 60KM Ultra Marathon!We’re going to raise money for Beyond Blue who passionately provide information and support to the lives of people who are experiencing anxiety and depression. Currently we have raised $2700 Cheers to all who have supported so far.Where also looking at other ways we can fundraise for this event. (Details to come).I know Brezza had a big impact on many people in Melbourne’s southern suburbs, so I’m hoping many of you will get behind this good cause.Every little bit helps so please donate now by clicking on the link and pressing donate .Thank you for your support.
beyondblue Ltd
Most Australians have some experience with anxiety and depression or related disorders, whether it is personal or via family, friends or work colleagues. beyondblue’s work is aimed at achieving an Australian community that understands depression and anxiety, empowering all Australians, at any life-stage, to seek help. beyondblue raises awareness, reduces stigma and ensures people have access to the information they need to support recovery, management and resilience. beyondblue is a national, independent, not-for-profit organisation and a bipartisan initiative of the Australian, state and territory governments. beyondblue works in partnership with health services, schools, workplaces, universities, media and community organisations, as well as people living with depression/anxiety and their carers, to bring together expertise and provide tools and resources.
For information on depression, anxiety and related disorders, available treatments and where to get help, visit www.beyondblue.org.au, call beyondblue info line: 1300 22 4636 (local call cost from a landline), or email infoline@beyondblue.org.au
Thanks again
Constable Glenn Wallace, died in a car accident on Friday 19 July 1985.
It is believed that during his shift he had broken down a colleague’s front door to stop the colleague’s wife’s attempted suicide. I presume she was treated and lived.
After his shift, he went to the local pub with his mates, as was the culture in those days.
No doubt the day’s events played a big role in heading to the pub—not that a reason was ever needed.
Some time later that night he drove home intoxicated and had a head on accident with a truck, which killed him instantly.
He died in part uniform, probably with his Cronulla / Sutherland Police Rugby League team track suit top on.
He hadn’t been home, but he was deemed not to be on duty as he hadn’t gone straight home from his work place.
He was only 25. He was in the Highway Patrol at Gundagai.
A true man’s man with a heart of gold and iron fists. You wouldn’t want to take him on.
Two idiots did at Cronulla one night on night shift. He was in the station alone and ran outside to stop an assault on the street. The two idiots attacked him. He left one unconscious and the other with a broken jaw. More fool them.
He was very important to all of his family, and of course his many friends. He was our leader, albeit often unwillingly, and his loss has darkened all of us forever.
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Leslie Malcolm AUSTIN
| 28/07/2016
Leslie Malcolm AUSTIN
aka Guts or Les
New South Wales Police Force
“Possibly” from Class 17 from Penrith Police College
Regd. # 5456
Uniform # 367
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed Monday 13 January 1947 ( aged 21 years, 5 months, 23 days )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 1 April 1968
Final Rank: Sergeant 2nd Class – death
Stations: Five Dock, Petersham, Parramatta STP ( 1949 – ), Hornsby STP ( 1950’s – ), North East District ( 1968 ), Gosford STP & General Duties – death
Service: From? ? pre January 1947to 14 April 1971 =23years Service
