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Phillip Arthur CLARK

| 29/04/2018

Phillip Arthur CLARK

Late of Fairfield

New South Wales Police Force

[alert_yellow]Regd. #  15143[/alert_yellow]

Rank:  Probationary Constable – appointed 27 March 1972

Constable 1st Class – appointed 27 March 1977

Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 30 September 1987

Stations:  ?, Liverpool Police Station ( Licencing Sgt )

Service:  From  ? ? pre March 1972?  to  ? ? ? =  ? years Service

Awards:   National Medal – granted 2 November 1988

Born:  18 October 1949

Died on:   ? ? 1992?

Age:  42

Cause:   Possible Heart attack

Event location:   ?

Event date:   ?

Funeral date:   Wednesday  8 April 1992

Funeral location:   Forest Lawn Crematorium Chapel, Camden Valley Way, Leppington

Funeral Parlour:  ?

Buried at:   Cremated

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

 


[alert_yellow]PHIL is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow]  *NEED MORE INFO

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 Funeral location:  TBA

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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It is believed that Phil suffered a heart attack and was Stationed at Liverpool at the time.
It is also believed that Phil was Cremated at Forest Lawn, Leppington.
Nothing further, at this time, is known about this man or his Service with NSWPF.
Cal
29 April 2018
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Dianne Gaye WILSON

| 29/04/2018

Dianne Gaye WILSON

AKA  Di
Late of East Corrimal

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. #  ????????

Rank:  Retired GSO ( General Support Officer ), Communications Officer – VKG 2 ( Wollongong & Warilla ),

Army Reserves & Illawarra S.E.S. member

Stations:  ?, Wollongong, Warilla – Retirement

Service:  From  ? ? ?  to  ? ? ? =  ? years Service

Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

Born:   9 October 1952

Died on:   Sunday  29 April 2018 @ 4am

Age:  65

Cause:   Cancer – Pancreatic and Stroke

Event location:  Port Kembla Hospital – Palliative Care Unit

Event date:  Sunday  29 April 2018 @ 4am

Funeral date:   Friday  4 May 2018 @ 9am

Funeral location:   Hansen & Cole Funerals, 634 Northcliffe Dve, Kembla Grange

Funeral Parlour:  Hansen & Cole, Kembla Grange

Buried at:   ?TBA

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

Di WILSON Di WILSON Di WILSON Di WILSON Di WILSON Di WILSON Di WILSON Di WILSON Di WILSON

 

 Funeral location: 


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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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WILSON Dianne Gaye “Di” Of East Corrimal

It is with great regret that we announce the passing of Dianne on the 29th April 2018.

Dearly loved Daughter of the Late James & Coralie.

Only Sister and Sister-in-law of Chris & Sharon.

Adored and cherished Aunty of Katelyn, Ashleigh, Lauren and partners.

Dianne will be missed by all of her loving family, friends and colleagues.

Aged 65 Years

Sleep now and finally be at peace and rest in loving memory

Dianne’s family and friends are warmly invited to attend a Celebration of her Life to be held at the Northcliffe Chapel of Hansen & Cole, 634 Northcliffe Drive, Kembla Grange on Friday 4th May 2018 commencing at 9:00am.

Dear Di,

May you rest in peace. You will be remembered as a kind and caring friend.

Love from Brett and Sue Cooper

May 01, 2018

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From memory Di was a General Support Officer ( G.S.O. ) at Wollongong Police Station in the early 1970’s before moving to VKG 2 ( Wollongong ) when VKG 2 was at the old Wollongong Police Station before moving to the new Warilla Police Station, Lake Entrance Rd, Warilla, in the early 1980’s.
Di remained a Comms Officer for many years there before taking up an Administrative job at VKG2.
Di was an active member of the Army Reserves and also the S.E.S. ( State Emergency Service – Wollongong ).
Upon retirement, Di worked at Dapto Leagues Club driving the Clubs bus to transport patrons to and from the Club.
In November 2017, Di was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer and by March 2018 was in Palliative Care at Port Kembla Hospital where she also suffered a Stroke.
Di was basically in an induced sleep over the past few days ( Morphine ) and passed peacefully about 4am this morning.
At this time, funeral details are not known, but when they are – the details on this Memorial page will be updated.
May you forever Rest In Peace Di.
Cal
290418
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Bruce Frederick COOPER

| 29/04/2018

Bruce Frederick COOPER

AKA  Coops
Late of  ?, Qld

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. #  ?????

Rank:  ?

Stations:  ?, Sydney District HWP ( mid 1990’s ), St George / Sutherland HWP

Service – NSWPF:  From  ? ? ?  to  ? ? ? = 10 years Service

 

Queensland Police Force

Regd. # ?????

Rank:  ?

Stations:  ?

Service – QPol:  From  ? ? ?  to  ? ? 2008 = 10 years Service

Total Police Service:  20 years

 

Awards:  No find on Australian Honours

Born:   Thursday  1 May 1958

Died on:   Saturday  21 April 2018

Age:  59 years, 11 months, 20 days

Cause:   Chronic PTSD – Suicide – Firearm

Event location:   ?, Qld

Event date:  Saturday  21 April 2018

Funeral date:   Tuesday  1 May 2018 @ 10.30am

Funeral location:   Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens and Crematorium – East Chapel
329 Nursery Road, Holland Park

Funeral Parlour:  ?

Buried at:   Cremated

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

Bruce COOPER

BRUCE is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance  * BUT SHOULD BE

Bruce Frederick COOPER

 Funeral location: 


FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

May they forever Rest In Peace

On behalf of Bruce’s sons, Simon, Joshua, Paul and Myself we would like to invite you to Bruce’s funeral to celebrate his life with us.

Tuesday 1st May 2018 at 10.30am

Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens and Crematorium – East Chapel
329 Nursery Road, Holland Park.

Post from Mark Kelly, Director Blue HOPE

 

It is with great sadness that I announce the death of Bruce Cooper who tragically died by suicide on the morning of Saturday, 21 April 2018.

He was 59 years old.

A 20-year veteran police officer, Bruce served with pride for 10 years with the NSW Police Force and another 10 years with the Queensland Police Service before leaving the job in 2008.

Policing took its toll on Bruce. He struggled with chronic PTSD for a long time and, like many who struggle with PTSD, Bruce tried to numb the pain with alcohol. Bruce was a fighter though; he fought his way back and had control over alcohol for a long time. The nightmares, painful memories and horrific images however, would not relent.

I first met Bruce in 2016, when he hit a hurdle and relapsed. His amazing wife Michelle reached out and we decided together that I would drop by to say G’day. I arrived unannounced and met a man who was in immense pain and struggling badly. At first, he was reluctant to talk so we just sat together watching television while he sized me up out of the corner of his eye.

Trusting people was hard for Bruce. He’d been let down many times in his life and aside from a couple of close friends and his family, he didn’t easily let people in. He was also a fixer; a man of great skill who could build and repair just about anything he turned his mind to. Cars, trucks, motorbikes, things around the house. You name it, Bruce could fix it.

Sadly, when it came to his own demons, Bruce couldn’t find a fix and he was reluctant to ask for, or accept help. So needless to say, he was a bit cross at me and Michelle when I showed up that day.

[blockquote]He was also embarrassed and as he told me later, “bloody ashamed”.[/blockquote]

We didn’t speak much at first. I’d share a bit and he’d open up a little bit and after a while the rapport that so often occurs between coppers started to build. Bruce was still wary though. He was also embarrassed and as he told me later, “bloody ashamed”. It’s hard to admit that you’re not ok and it can be even harder to admit that you need help. Eventually though, Bruce started to talk. We talked about his life, his sons, his grandchildren and his love for Michelle (his “Shelle Machine”). We talked about cars, motorbikes and eventually we started to talk about the job. That was hard for Bruce. He had seen and experienced a lot as a police officer. Police see some awful things, but I think Bruce got more than his share.

So, we sat together for hours; hours became days and thankfully, in time Bruce got some help. He entered a treatment program and was placed into the care of some great mental health professionals. Bruce and I became friendly, talking and texting occasionally. He’d often tease me about the day we met and the blue shoes I was wearing that day. He was a funny bugger. He seemed to be doing pretty well and, in the Winter of 2017, he and Michelle came to a Blue HOPE car show to say Hi. We hugged, and I was struck by how well he looked. He had spark and it seemed that the future looked pretty bright.

[blockquote]“It’s too fucking hard”, “It hurts so much”[/blockquote]

Unfortunately, towards the end of 2017, Bruce relapsed after a death in the family. I called in to see him and was shocked to see how much pain he was in. The Bruce I knew was still there, but the demons had resurfaced and taken hold. Everyone who knew and loved Bruce was rallying around him to encourage him to get back into treatment, but he didn’t want to go. “It’s too fucking hard”, “It hurts so much”, he told me. His pain was unfathomable. He wanted to get better. He wanted to beat PTSD. He wanted the nightmares and images to go away. He wanted to help others. Bruce had so much to offer the world but first he needed to get help.

We all had countless conversations about options and eventually, Bruce started to attend his appointments again. After a rough few weeks things were starting to look up. We spoke from time to time, I’d see him on social media and he’s touch base regularly via text, signing off with his traditional gorilla emoji. He seemed ok; but he wasn’t.

During the morning of Saturday 21 April, I received a call from Michelle saying that Bruce was in crisis; asking if I could come. He had somehow come into the possession of an old firearm and was talking about hurting himself. The police were immediately called, and I raced over to offer what assistance I could.

When I arrived, police, ambulance and tactical units were in attendance, all carefully positioned out of Bruce’s view. Thankfully, I was allowed through the cordon to speak with the police in command, provide a briefing to the negotiators and most importantly provide support for Michelle. I did not have the opportunity to speak with Bruce. Sadly, before anybody could make contact with him, Bruce took his life.

It’s important that I thank the members of the Queensland Police and the QLD Ambulance who were present. The QPS negotiation team in particular were incredibly professional, caring and supportive to all present. All emergency services personnel present should be commended for their incredible efforts to save Bruce.

To Bruce… Coops, I’m sad and I’m angry but I’m also thankful that you are no longer in pain. I’m sorry I couldn’t do more. For what it’s worth, I’m a better man for having known you. Rest well mate.

Finally, to everyone who is reading this.

If you are struggling, know this. Recovery starts and ends with you. You might have all the help in the world at your fingertips but unless you accept responsibility for your own recovery and surrender yourself to the healing process, recovery will elude you. It’s not enough to just show up for appointments; you have to get your hands dirty and do the hard work. This can mean going to hospital, accepting psychiatric and psychological treatment, taking the meds and persisting with recovery groups. Don’t just turn up. Engage with it. Your life depends on it.

Yes, it will be a grind. In fact, it will seem unbearable at times but all of the people that I know who are doing well (myself included) know that this is the only path. It’s hard and it’ll take time but it’s worth it. Not only for you, but for your family.

No police officer I have ever met was diagnosed with PTSD as a result of being a coward. If you were strong once, you can be strong again. I promise you that it can be OK.

Blue HOPE stands ready to help.

Thanks for taking the time to read about this terrific man.

Mark Kelly
Director
Blue HOPE
mark@bluehope.org.au

 

Two years on:

Today we remember Bruce Cooper who died by suicide on this day 2 years ago in Brisbane.

Indelibly marked by trauma in his early life, Bruce channelled his life experience into something better; joining the NSW Police Force where he served for 10 years before moving to Queensland where he served a further 10 years with the Queensland Police Service.

I first met Bruce briefly in 2002, when we were both in the job, but our paths didn’t cross again until 14 years later when his wife Michelle re-introduced us during his struggle with trauma, PTSD and alcohol addiction. After a while, we became good friends and the next couple of years were a mix of happiness, hope, sadness and frustration as Bruce improved in clinical programs, only to relapse sometime later. He did his best, but trauma and addiction had their hooks in him. He had so much love and support in his life. Honestly, if love and support alone could have saved him, Bruce would still be alive today.

I wish it was that simple.

Despite the efforts of those who loved him and tried to help, Bruce lost his battle. Many people worked so hard to save Bruce that awful day. We waited nearby, as incredible members from the QPS tried valiantly to reach out to him; we tried to help them with as much information that we could provide …. we prayed and we waited. We honestly thought that he would be recovered safely but that wasn’t to be. We all failed to get through…. and Bruce took his life. The rest is indescribable, so I won’t try. It wasn’t really Bruce in that moment; it was his pain, his trauma and his addiction that took him away. He loved us and we loved him, and we live in hope that he is now in a better, more peaceful place.

Today, Michelle and I visited Bruce at his resting place. We sat and we chatted. We reflected on his life and we thought about the meaning that this tragedy can have for others. What can we learn?

What I know is this. When you are faced with the impossible, the pain and the struggle you have to decide what is important. You have to decide what kind of person you are. All the support and love in the world can be available to you, but you have to make the choice to accept it and engage with it. Taking your life, ultimately robs the world of your potential to be more. You have so much to give, even if you don’t realise that now. Ask yourself, “What will my legacy be?”

Most importantly, suicide leaves a trail of destruction in its wake. When I look at my dear friend Michelle, I see an amazing woman who is trying to rebuild her life as best she can; in her own way, in her own time, and on her terms. Grief permeates every aspect of life, but I know she will prevail. As CS Lewis wrote, “Her loss was like the sky; spread over everything.” I was honoured to climb Mt Kilimanjaro with Michelle late last year so I know she can do anything. She is an incredible person.

I asked Michelle today, what she thought about trying to help someone who is struggling. She said very simply, “reach in and keep reaching in. It will be frustrating. Sometimes you will hate them, and they will often give you the shits, but you’ve got to keep trying.” She is not one to give up and I am immensely proud of her.

I have mixed feelings about Facebook posts about the death of police members. They are often polarising. Some people appreciate them and others dislike them. Today though, I write in the hope that someone, somewhere will draw strength to continue. It’s not too late. Two years ago, when I wrote about Bruce I said, “you have to get your hands dirty and do the hard work”. That remains true. So much help and support is available; you just have to accept it and commit to getting better for yourself and your loved ones. It will be hard and often unbearable, but it is worth it. The decision is yours and yours alone.

I apologise for the lengthy post and I appreciate you taking the time to join me in reflecting on the life of Bruce and all of the brothers and sisters we have lost to suicide. If you know someone who has lost a family member or friend to suicide, reach out to them today and tell them that you are thinking of them.

If you know someone who is struggling, “reach in, and keep reaching in”.

Their life may depend upon it.

Mark Kelly – Blue HOPE
21 April 2020



Edward Vincent CAHILL

| 29/04/2018

Edward Vincent CAHILL

AKA  Ted
Late of  ?

New South Wales Police Force

[alert_yellow]Regd. #  4361[/alert_yellow]

Rank:  Probationary Constable – appointed 3 July 1939

Police Prosecutor – appointed 1948

District Police Prosecutor – Hunter region – appointed 20 June 1952

Sergeant 1st Class – appointed 24 August 1967

Inspector 2nd Class – Retirement

Stations:  ?, North East District, Hunter District – ( Police Prosecutor ), Lochinvar, Maitland, Newcastle, Officer In Charge – ( O.I.C. ) – Cessnock, O.I.C. – Gosford – Retirement

Service:  From  ? ? pre July 1939  to  10 May 1975 = 36 years Service

Awards:   Australian Sports Medal – granted 29 September 2000 for Service to Administration of Lawn Bowls

Born:   11 May 1915

Died on:  Thursday  13 January 2011

Age:  95

Cause:   ?

Event location:   ?

Event date:   ?

Funeral date:   ? ? ?

Funeral location:   ?

Funeral Parlour:  ?

Buried at:   ?

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

Edward Vincent CAHILL

 

[alert_yellow]TED is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow]  *NEED MORE INFO

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 Funeral location:  TBA

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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 Edward (Ted) Cahill served the Police Association as Maitland Branch secretary, conference delegate and Executive member 1952–c1970.
As an associate member he represented retired police in the Newcastle Branch from 1979–1988.
Ted was attested on 3 July 1939. In 1948 he was appointed a police prosecutor and, in 1952, became the district police prosecutor for the Hunter region. Ted was a fine all-round athlete and, in retirement, a keen lawn bowler. He retired on 10 May 1975 with the rank of inspector 2nd class and died on 13 January 2011.
 https://pansw.org.au/about/life-members/life-member-biographies/cahill-edward-vincent-1915-2011
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Scone Advocate (NSW : 1887 – 1954), Friday 20 June 1952, page 1

Personal Pars.

Sergeant E. V. Cahill, a member of the prosecuting staff from the C.I.B., began duty in the Maitland district this week as police prosecutor. His territory includes the Coalfields and extends as far as Scone. Sergeant G. King, who has been appearing as prosecutor, made his last appearance at East Maitland Court on Friday last. He is returning to general duty. Sergeant King appeared as police prosecutor at a recent Scone coronial inquiry.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/160625584

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Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate (NSW : 1876 – 1954), Saturday 12 September 1953, page 8

Warning On Speed At Crossings

The Police Prosecutor ( Sergeant E. V. Cahill ) said at East Maitland Court yesterday that the Commissioner had issued a general circular drawing motorists’ attention to amended regulations providing for a speed limit of 15 miles an hour approaching open level crossings.

Sergeant Cahill said this action had been taken because there had been four fatal accidents in 12 months at the level crossing on the New England Highway at Four Mile Creek each attributable to speed.

More than 70 motorists had been reported for speeding at the crossing since the regulation appeared. ” Unless the position at the crossing improves, I will ask the Court for heavier penalties. ” he said. ” The limit was not introduced to persecute people, but to protect them, and police have been instructed to tighten up supervision of the crossing. ”

Three people charged with having driven at speeds in excess of that provided each stated he was unaware of the 15 mile-an-hour limit. Kenneth Clarke, of Jackson-street, Balgowlah, and Howard Vincent Maughan, of White-street, Gosford, were each fined £2/8/, with 12/ costs. The charge against William Jenkins, of Spencer-street, Cessnock, was dismissed under Section 556A after Mr. W. A. Enright ( for Jenkins ) had said he had been driving for 40 years without a conviction.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/140302122
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Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate (NSW : 1876 – 1954), Wednesday 25 August 1954, page 11

Blood Tests For Drivers Urged Blood tests for drivers charged with driving under the influence were advocated by Sergeant E. V. Cahill, of Maitland, guest speaker at Kurri Kurri Business Men’s Club dinner. He said these tests would be the best for all parties. They would show the amount of alcohol consumed and would prove the capabilities of a driver. This would help the driver and the Court in determining these cases, he added. A vote of thanks was given by Mr. P. Johnson, supported by the President (Mr. R. Dick).

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/134657506
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Many more articles can be found on Trove via’ Sergeant E. V. Cahill ‘
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NSW Fallen Police FB Group:
28 April 2018:

Scott Ellis:   Ted was my Grandfather on my mum’s side. Some of the question marks in red:

He was a Prosecutor at Maitland before making Inspector and was then OIC at Cessnock. Later moved to OIC Gosford where he retired from.

He featured prominently in a couple of big stories around Maitland, firstly the 1955 flood disaster, and a double decapitation murder of a couple, The Shelley’s, which was the subject of a book.
He prosecuted the offender and the investigation was run by his brother, Pat Cahill who was a Det Sgt at Newcastle CIB. They were nicknamed the “brothers in law”.

The solving of the murder pretty much turned on ballistic evidence presented by then expert Barney Ross, after a series of coincidences turned up one of the heads in Newcastle Harbour and a bullet was recovered. Fascinating brief! ( see part of the story below – Cal )

They were interesting blokes and part of our families history of NSW Police Service which includes Ted, Pat ( P.J. Cahill ), my dad Ike, Ted’s nephew Wal Taylor, also a prosecutor and myself.

I will see how many more of the red question marks I can get answered by the family mate and come back to you. Thanks for posting this.

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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Monday 25 April 1960, page 3

POLICE SEEK HEADS AND WEAPON

SYDNEY, Sunday.

Police investigating the ” headless bodies ” murder to-night issued an urgent appeal for help from any motorist who gave a lift to a man carrying a suitcase or sack in Maitland district on Saturday night.

Police think that a psycopathic (sic) killer, who axed the heads off an East Maitland man and his wife in their lonely placed home on Saturday morning, fled from the district carrying the heads and murder weapon with him.

The dead couple, in the most horrifying murder in the annals of N.S.W. crime, were Sydney Sylvester Shelley, 34, and Elva Shelley, 21.

Their baby, eight-month old Louise, was found alive, but suffering from concussion, buried under two blankets and a suitcase in her cot.

Police have a theory that the mother, seeing her husband being murdered, hurriedly hid the baby under the blankets and suitcase to save the baby’s life.

The detectives believe that the killer first shot Mr Shelley and then beheaded him on the front doorstep of the tiny home. They think he then killed Mrs. Shelley.

More than 150 police have been swung into the search for the killer.

Police are making a house to-house check of Maitland, Newcastle and areas further out. They have ” turned over ” all known criminals.

Det. Sgt. R. E. Lendrum ( Regd # 3919 )said, ” Police have spent today scouring the country near the scene of the murder looking for the heads of the murdered couple and the murder weapons.

A coroner’s report to-day disclosed that the Shelleys could not have been murdered before 5 o’clock yesterday morning. .

Maitland police also said that there was now clear evidence that the Shelleys had been shot first and then decapitated.

The Shelleys‘ baby is now in hospital and its condition is satisfactory.

Police have been told that a man visited, the Shelley home late on Friday afternoon and there was an argument. The visitor left.

Police are checking the possibility that the visitor returned later that night, after the Shelleys had retired, and knocked on the front door.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/103077917
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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Friday 20 May 1960, page 3

Charged Man Denied Killing Shelleys MAITLAND,

Thursday.

Police said at an inquest today that a man charged with the murder of a married couple at East Maitland had tried to put the blame on another man when they accused him of the crime.

Det. Sgt. P. J. Cahill said that the charged man, Terence Patrick O’Connor, painter, of Maitland, when accused of the double murder said ‘Jack Russell done this.”

The coroner was inquiring into the deaths of Sidney Sylvester Shelley, 34, and his wife, Elva Shelley, 21, whose beheaded bodies were found in their house on April 23.

Sergeant Cahill said he arranged for O’Connor to confront Russell and repeat his allegation.

O’Connor had said to Russell, according to Sgt. Cahill: ” I think you shot them and cut off their heads.”

Russell had replied, ” You are a liar. Now I know that you done it.”

Sgt. Cahill said O’Connor had admitted to police that he had received from Russell a .32 calibre Colt revolver which Russell had borrowed from Shelley on Easter Monday.

When asked what he had done with the gun, O’Connor said that he had thrown it into the sea off Nobby’s Lighthouse, Sergeant Cahill said.

O’Connor had denied that he had shot the Shelleys with the gun, even after police had told him that bullets fired from the gun for practice into a post in the Shelley‘s back yard matched the bullets taken from Mrs. Shelley‘s head when the head was found.

Det. Sgt Cahill said that when police asked O’Connor why he and Russell wanted the gun from Shelley, O’Connor had replied, ” We only borrowed it. We heard he had one and we wanted to do a job.”

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/103080117
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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Friday 10 June 1960, page 18

OWN PISTOL KILLED SHELLEY POLICE CLAIM

MAITLAND, Thursday.

A detective sergeant said in the Maitland Coroner’s Court to-day that he told a man accused of a double murder that two bullets dug from a post in the yard of a house at East Maitland showed identical firing markings to two bullets taken from the decapitated head of a woman which was found floating in Newcastle Harbour.

Det. Sgt. Jack Bateman, of the Sydney C.I.B., said this when giving evidence in an inquest into the deaths of Sidney Sylvester Shelley, 34, and his wife Elva, 21. Their bodies were found, decapitated, in their East Maitland home on April 23.

Mrs. Shelley’s head was taken from Newcastle Harbour a week later.

Before the court was Terence Patrick O’Connor, 32 married, of Maitland. O’Connor is in custody on charges of murdering the Shelleys.

At the sixth day of the inquest to-day Sgt. Bateman said he put it to O’Connor that police, by comparing the bullets from the post at the Shelley home with the bullets taken from Mrs. Shelley’s head, had established that Shelley and his wife had been killed by a pistol which Shelley had owned.

Sgt. Bateman said he further told O’Connor that police had established that a man named Jack Russell had borrowed the pistol from Shelley and had given it to O’Connor.

O’Connor had replied, ” Yes, he gave it to me, but how do you know it is the one that killed her “? Sgt Bateman said.

The hearing was adjourned to to-morrow. To-morrow all evidence is expected to be completed and the Coroner, Mr. Jenkins, is expected to record a finding.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/174412769
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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Saturday 11 June 1960, page 11

Painter To Stand Trial For Maitland Killings

MAITLAND, Friday .- The Maitland Coroner, Mr. V. R. Jenkins, to-day found that Terence Patrick O’Connor had murdered Elva Shelley, 21. and her husband, Sidney Sylvester Shelley, 34, at their Maitland home on April 23.

Mr. Jenkins committed O’Connor for trial ” I am satisfied beyond any ( reasonable doubt ) that in each instance the killing was done by O’Connor, ” Mr. Jenkins told the court

Mr. Jenkins also found that Elva Shelley died from bullet wounds in the head. Sidney Silvester Shelley had died from some injury inflicted on the head.

The beheaded bodies of the couple were found in their East Maitland home. Mr Jenkins said the head of Elva Shelley had been identified to his complete satisfaction.

” I can find no evidence which implicates either John Vile Russell, or Alan Dawson, ” he said. ( Two counsel earlier said ” two other men ” could be said to have motive for the killings. )

Mr. Jenkins committed O’Connor to stand trial at Central Court, Sydney, on August 22.

://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/137115735

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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Saturday 27 August 1960, page 12

Murder Trial Jury To Visit Cottage

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/136936727
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Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995), Wednesday 31 August 1960, page 3

Man Convicted Of Maitland Headless Murder

NEWCASTLE, Tuesday. – A jury took 75 minutes to-day to find a 33-year-old Maitland painter guilty of the ” Maitland headless murders.”

The accused, Terrence Patrick O’Connor, was sentenced to penal servitude for life.

The jury found O’Connor guilty of having murdered Sidney and Elva Shelley at their home at East Maitland on or about April 23.

The trial started last Tuesday.

The jury retired at 2.25p.m. to consider its verdict and returned at 3.40 p.m.

After the jury delivered its verdict, Mr. Justice Brereton asked O’Connor if he had anything to say.

O’Connor who appeared distressed, said, ” There is nothing I can say Your Honour.”

The judge then delivered his sentence and O’Connor was taken to the cells below the courtroom.

Mr. Justice Brereton said that there was nothing in the case which even faintly suggested justification for the deed.

” The possibilities were that Shelley was shot as he went to the door and that Mrs. Shelley was shot while lying in bed,” he said.

” Then it seemed that Shelley‘s body was dragged out, his head was cut off and put in a bag.”

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/136936995

[divider_dotted]


John McCROHON

| 29/04/2018

John McCROHON

Late of  ?

Grandfather of NSWPF member – Ernest Edward McCrohon – # ‘Q’ 9403

Great Grandfather of NSWPF member – Victor Harry McCROHON – # 5009

Great Great Grandfather of NSWPF member – Vicki McCROHON – Police Woman 0123 who rejoined as Police Woman 0202

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. #  ????

 

Rank:  Chief Constable – appointed 9 March 1836 – Resigned 10 October 1837

Reappointed, in place of Constable James Jordan, in July 1838 & served until May 1839

Chief Constable – appointed 23 July 1838 until 6 May 1839

 

Stations:  ?, Paterson ( 1836 – 1837 ) & ( 1838 – 1839 )

Service 1:  From 9 March 1836  to  10 October 1837 = 19 Months Service

 

Service 2:  From 23 July 1838  to  6 May 1839 = 10 Months Service

Total Service:  2 years 5 months

 

Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

 

Born:   ? ? 1795 – Limerick, Ireland

Died on:   Monday 6 May 1839

Age:  44. ( Other sources have him aged 39 at time of death which makes his birth 1800 )

Cause:   Fall from his horse whilst ON Duty

Event location:   Between Maitland & Paterson, NSW

Event date:  Monday  6 May 1839

 

Funeral date:   ? ? ?

Funeral location:   ?

Funeral Parlour:  ?

 

Buried at:   Unmarked grave, Glebe Cemetery, George St, East Maitland, NSW

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

 

 JOHN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance  * BUT SHOULD BE

 

FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

May they forever Rest In Peace

 The Sydney Herald     Friday  10 May 1839    page 3

At Paterson, on the 6th instant, Mr. John McCrohan, late Chief Constable there, in consequence of a fall from his horse, when proceeding on duty to Maitland, leaving a wife and seven small children, nearly destitute, to deplore his loss.

The deceased, by his vigilance and good conduct, had gained the confidence and respect of the magistracy and settlers of the district, as he previously had done that of the Officers of the 4th of King’s Own Regiment of Foot, from which corps he honorably retired as Quarter-master Serjeant (sic ), in the enjoyment of a pension which ceases with his demise.

 

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/12858096#

John McCROHON

Male 1795 – 1839  (44 years)

Name John McCROHON
Born 1795 Limerick, Ireland Find all individuals with events at this location
Gender Male
Occupation 07 Aug 1838 Paterson, New South Wales, Australia Find all individuals with events at this location
  • Appointed chief constable 1838
Died 06 May 1839 Paterson, New South Wales, Australia Find all individuals with events at this location  [1, 2]
  • The Sydney Herald (NSW : 1831 – 1842), Friday 10 May 1839, page 3http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12858096At Paterson, on the 6th instant, Mr. John McCrohan, late Chief Constable there, in consequence of a fall from his horse, when proceeding on duty to Maitland, leaving a wife and seven small children, nearly destitute, to deplore his loss. The deceased, by his vigilance and good conduct, had gained the confidence and respect of the magistracy and settlers of the district, as he previously had done that of the Officers of the 4th or King’s Own Regiment of Foot, from which corps he honorably retired as Quarter-master Serjeant, in the enjoyment of a pension which ceases with his demise.The Sydney Monitor and Commercial Advertiser (NSW : 1838 – 1841), Monday 13 May 1839, page 3http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article32164046At Paterson, on the 6th instant, Mr. John McCrohan, late Chief Constable there, in consequence of a fall from his horse, when proceeding on duty to Maitland.
Notes 
  • Irishman of the 4th Regiment of Foot in either England, Ireland or France.John was born 1795 Limerick, enlisted at Cueta as a 15 yr old, 25/5/1810. His service was 3 yrs in Portugal & Africa, 2 years in France, 6 yrs 391 days in West Indies (5/4/1819 – 1/4/1826), Married at Chatham in June 1826 and then served 1 year and 3 months in Portugal ( where son John born ) and then 3 years 6 months in NSW. After resigning from the Regiment, John joined the Police Force at Paterson in NSW where he was killed in a horse accident on 6/5/1839.
Person ID I20751 Rossow-Beitzel
Last Modified 9 Oct 2017
 http://www.rossow-beitzel.com/getperson.php?personID=I20751&tree=First
No find on NSW BDM.
The Gympie Researcher
Gympie Family History Society Inc
Nov 2014    No. 77
Researcher Article for November Issue 2014
My name is Jennifer Chantrill. I was born in Adelaide in 1955 ……..
Page 14
My paternal grandmother Veronica Hunt also hailed from interesting stock. She was the great-great granddaughter of Sgt John McCrohon and his wife Amelie Ducroix; John had
served in France and Portugal during the Napoleonic wars, and their first child was born in Portugal. John discharged from the Kings Own 4th Regiment in Sydney and became the Chief Police Constable at Newcastle (NSW).
Their descendent Maxwell McCrohon went to America as a foreign correspondent for the Sydney Morning Herald; he stayed and eventually obtained the post of Chief Editor of the Washington Post in the time of President Ronald Reagan.

 

Death Cert Emily McCROHON 1891
« on: Saturday 25 March 2018 06 07:24 GMT (UK) »

I have an unwanted Death Certificate of Emily McCrohon who was the daughter of Sydney Peter McCrohon NSW and Sarah Tindel of Ireland.  Emily was born in 1868 Rockhampton Qld.

She unfortunately died aged 23 years in 1891 Petersham NSW.

I had been trying to obtain the death cert of her grandmother, also named Emily McCrohon alias Amelia McCrohon nee Du Croix.

http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php?topic=142438.0

View Full Version : John Patrick McCrohon

Ammanda Schutz
26-11-10, 21:33

Name – John Patrick McCrohon

Date and place of birth: May 1795, St John’s Parish, Limerick, Ireland

Names of parents: John McCrohon and Margaret Unknown

Date and place of baptism – Unknown

Details of each of his or her marriages – married Amelia (Emily) du Croix at St Thomas, Winchester Hampshire (Unconfirmed)

Date of marriage: 23/06/1826 (Unconfirmed)

Occupation(s) – Sergeant Major; 4th Regiment of Foot, Lancaster King’s Own Regiment: Served in Portugal and occupied France after Waterloo. Regiment posted to garrison duty in NSW 1832 – 1837  ( Some researchers claim he was a Quartermaster. Not easy to verify as the regimental records were largely destroyed. )
NSW Constabulary: 1837-39. Appointed Chief Constable at Paterson NSW, 23/7/1838

Addresses where they lived: East Maitland, NSW

Date, place and cause of death: May 6, 1839, thrown from his horse on the road between Maitland and Paterson, NSW while on duty.

Date and place of burial. Buried at Glebe Cemetery

Details of will / administration of their estate – Unknown
Memorial inscription – Unknown

tenterfieldjulie
26-11-10, 22:08
Ammanda, I have John’s Military Service Records – he enlisted at Cueta, Africa 25 May 1810 at 15 years of age. His service ended on 8 Feb 1837 in Australia. From 5 April 1819 until 1 April 1826 he served in the West Indies. He was a Sergeant for 8 years and 55 days and Quarter Master Sergeant for 5 years and 106 days.
I was looking for their marriage in Portgual/France, so that information, although unsubstantiated, is news to me. 😀 Thanks Julie
Ammanda Schutz
27-11-10, 13:29
Julie: The information was given to me by a Cantwell researcher. They did not give me any documentation so I cannot verify. According to the researcher John was posted back to England, a base in Hampshire, and he and Emily were married there.
I would be glad of a copy of his service record. Thanks, A
btw did you get my email with the copy of the church register for the Gray/Dillon marriage?
Merry
27-11-10, 16:03

That marriage date would appear to be for this entry, from the FS pilot site:

Groom’s Name: John Mccrohon
Groom’s Birth Date:
Groom’s Birthplace:
Groom’s Age:
Bride’s Name: Emily Banham
Bride’s Birth Date:
Bride’s Birthplace:
Bride’s Age:
Marriage Date: 23 Jun 1826
Marriage Place: Saint Thomas,Winchester,Hampshire,England
Groom’s Father’s Name:
Groom’s Mother’s Name:
Bride’s Father’s Name:
Bride’s Mother’s Name:
Groom’s Race:
Groom’s Marital Status:
Groom’s Previous Wife’s Name:
Bride’s Race:
Bride’s Marital Status:
Bride’s Previous Husband’s Name:
Indexing Project (Batch) Number: M13675-1
System Origin: England-ODM
Source Film Number: 1041222
Reference Number:
Collection: England Marriages, 1538–1973

but the bride has a different surname. Might she have been previously married?

Ammanda Schutz
28-11-10, 00:56
As far as I know Emily was not previously married. It seems to me that the other researcher has made an error. McCrohon is not a common name but one branch of the family moved to England, and still lives there, and this John is probably one of from that group.
Thanks for looking, Merry, and clearing up that question. Back to the drawing board.
tenterfieldjulie
28-11-10, 07:59
Merry, From the marriage reigster, would it be possible to see the original entry, or would you need to buy a certificate, in case there is a mistake with transciption of Emily’s surname?
As he was in the military from age 15, would he have needed Official Permission to marry? Would there be records?
Thanks Ammanda have received the Gray cert I will pm you. Julie
Merry
28-11-10, 11:18

It’s too early for a civil certificate (1837+) but you could get a copy of the Parish Register entry from the Hampshire RO, for a fee!

Otherwise, you should also check the Chaplains Returns marriages (overseas ones and I think they may include some UK army marriages as well) if you haven’t already (they are on FMP 1796-1880, but you’ll need a sub) and bear in mind both their surnames are open to being listed under different letters of the alphabet!!

I’m not sure about the permission bit. Certainly at various times one needed permission from a commanding officer to marry, but I think sometimes it made a difference what rank you were and at what time in history you were marrying. Plus of course, needing permission didn’t mean that permission was always sought!

Merry
28-11-10, 11:21

As he was in the military from age 15, would he have needed Official Permission to marry? Would there be records?

Ammanda, I have John’s Military Service Records

If there was a record of permission, his army papers would be the place to look, so if it’s not there……………..

Ammanda Schutz
28-11-10, 13:05
I found a record of the birth of one child to John McCrohon and Emily
Henry William Mccrohon
11 Apr 1832
St. Mary’s, Chatham, Kent, England
There may be more but it was late when I found this one.
It seems that there was a John and Emily in England and they were still there in 1832.
Thanks for the help. A
Merry
28-11-10, 15:43
I found a record of the birth of one child to John McCrohon and Emily
Henry William Mccrohon
11 Apr 1832
St. Mary’s, Chatham, Kent, England
There may be more but it was late when I found this one.
It seems that there was a John and Emily in England and they were still there in 1832.When did yours go to Australia? I had assumed Henry Wm was theirs, particularly being born in Chatham.Amelia (Emily) du CroixDo you have her birthplace or parentage?
Ammanda Schutz
28-11-10, 21:16
Merry, their first child, John McCrohon Jr, was born in Portugal in 1827.
After that there are two children born, according to one researcher, in England. William Denis McCrohon and Jeremiah Joseph McCrohon. Both of these children are said to have died in 1834. John Sr and his family went with his regiment to NSW in 1832/33.
Therefore the two boys would have died in NSW and I can find no evidence of this in the NSW records after trying all the variations of the spelling of the name McCrohon that I can think of nor can I find any record of their births in England. The next child was born in NSW in 1833, Sidney Peter.
It is possible, I suppose, that the birth of two boys were recorded in some military records.
Seems kind of speculative to me, but once we start looking back in time it is all a bit foggy. Like my brain.
Ammanda Schutz
28-11-10, 21:22
Oh, forgot to respond to the second part of your question. Amelia/Emily du Croix is a bit of a mystery; could be French, maybe from Belguim, no-one knows for certain. No date of birth just a C1798 for the year. Her parents are said to be Sidney Pierre du Croix and Sarah Unknown. That a lot of help, isn’t it?
tenterfieldjulie
28-11-10, 22:02
According to John’s Service Records from the National Archives, it was noted that he served in the West Indies from April 1819 to April 1826. (I think this is noted because in his pension? they were only allocated half pay). The next positive fact is when John Junior is born in Portugal as Ammanda says. John and Emily therefore could have been married in the West Indies, England, Portugal, France or Belgium – if you can find the marriage Merry, you are an absolute genius.
tenterfieldjulie
28-11-10, 22:06
The two boys I believe had headstones in Sydney in an early burial ground , but I think the cemetery has since disappeared. I think someone sent me some details, I’ll email them when I find them Ammanda.
tenterfieldjulie
29-11-10, 06:31
Amanda I will email you.
I found listed in Monumental Inscriptions at Bunnerong (the headstones etc were moved here after the Elizabeth & Devonshire Street Cemeteries were cleared.) Grave No. 1409: William Denis and Jeremiah Joseph McCROHON the sons of Quarter Master Serg’t John & Emily McCROHON of the 4th or Kings Own Reg’t, the former died 18th February 1834 aged 4 years and 10 months, and the latter died 15th June 1834 aged 4 years and 5 days. In 1969 the Headstone was Upright and the Condition Good.
So William was born April 1829 and Jeremiah born June 1830, what a tragedy.
Ammanda Schutz
30-11-10, 02:41
Julie: Thanks for the information. Wonder why there are no records for the deaths. I can’t find their births in England either. More mystery. A
kiterunner
30-11-10, 07:56
Not really a mystery, Ammanda – they were born before civil registration started in the UK and died before civil registration started in NSW, weren’t they?
tenterfieldjulie
30-11-10, 09:12
Yes 1856 in Australia. I compiled a pre-compulsory-registration BDM register for Tenterfield from church records, newspapers, family bibles and family traditions. The earliest being 1844, this area was only opened up in the the late 1830s. Seeing as how the priest/minister carried his notebook in his saddlebag and the areas were huge, it is simply amazing that any records survived. Tenterfield Catholic records were found in Grafton, Armidale and Ipswich.
Ammanda Schutz
01-12-10, 14:24
Now that I have John’s service record (thanks to Julie) and seeing where the Regiment was deployed I have doubts that he met Amelia du Croix in France. He was not at Waterloo and so she probably is not from Belgium. On the other hand there is a prodigious length of time from his deployment with the Army of Occupation in France, 1815 through part of 1818, until his first child is born in 1827.
It seems more likely to me that he met her in the Caribbean where he served for almost seven years; the entire time the Regiment was deployed there. The 4th then came back to England for a short time in 1826 and went straight on to Portugal from December 1826 to July 1827. John Patrick was born there July 27, 1827.
Perhaps we should be looking for Amelia and a marriage in the French West Indies. That covers a lot of islands but at least we can rule out Haiti.
I have given it a go but no joy yet.
tenterfieldjulie
12-03-11, 04:45
Ammanda I was looking through some photos that I took at the Gray reunion at Elsmore. There were printed sheets on the walls on the McCrohons. Some of these sheets were hard to photograph because they were covered in plastic.
Under UK Military Records it had: John McCrohon joined 3rd/East Kent Regt 1806. Lieutenant 1808. Retired injured as captain on half-pay. Father of John & William? Have you heard anything of this? This could explain how John born 1795 Limerick, ended up enlisting at Cueta aged 15, if his father was in the military based in England.
It also had that the second child of John & Emily, William Dennis was born in Scotland April 1829 and third child, Jeremiah Joseph, born England 10 June 1830.
tenterfieldjulie
20-03-11, 08:46
Well you just think you know something and they something else crops up.
Tonight talking to a relie she tells me that she has a record someone gave her from the IGI for John McCrohon’s baptism (from his military records he was born 1795 in Limerick) it is RC Crondon Park, Essex Name John McCrohon (not sure if the surname is spelt like that) parents John and Margaret, baptism 1 March 1807. All I can think is that either he hadn’t been baptised or they didn’t have a record of his baptism for his confirmation. Can anyone view the original record and see if it gives his age?
HarrysMum
20-03-11, 08:53
Is there some way you can connect the Limerick John with Essex John?
tenterfieldjulie
20-03-11, 08:59
Parents names are the same, John and Margaret. There also was a John McCrohon who was in the East Kent Regiment at that time. I haven’t followed through with checking, but I feel this could be why John Junior was enlisting at Cueta aged 15. I just hoped that the baptism register of this John might say his age which the IGI doesn’t.
HarrysMum
20-03-11, 09:00
Do you know what IGI search it was??? I can’t find anything.
tenterfieldjulie
20-03-11, 09:04
No I don’t unfortunately I tried too. M. isn’t computer literate and said it was from the IGI and what did that mean!! The problem with McCrohon is spelt in all sorts of funny ways – I’ve seen McCrone, McCrohan, even Crone and that is in Australia!!
HarrysMum
20-03-11, 09:14
There are 10 people with John McCrohon born 1795 Limerick in ther GR trees. Have you contacted any of them?
tenterfieldjulie
20-03-11, 09:16
No I should but I get a bit wary after what people have said about the unsubstantiated records that people put on there. I think Ammanda has as she has quoted from Allycat.
HarrysMum
20-03-11, 09:19

Some of the same people have Thomas Gray so probably rellies you already know. Any results you get from anyone are unsubstantiated until you’ve found them yourself so that’s not really a problem.

It’s only an issue when you take what others say as gospel without double checking.

That’s from experience….lol

tenterfieldjulie
20-03-11, 09:22
Yo. When I get to the library I will look see. If Jan H. is on there, I was in correspondence with her years ago and she was very good. As are Ian M and Marcel.
HarrysMum
20-03-11, 09:23
I’ll have a look……are you a paid member??? I don’t think you can send messages unless you are.
tenterfieldjulie
20-03-11, 09:26
No I’m not. If I look it at the Library and see what is on there and who is saying it, I can probably get in contact. Especially as there is a reunion at Easter.
HarrysMum
20-03-11, 09:27

One is a McCrohon and one is a Gray who have John McCrohon.

I can send them a message.

tenterfieldjulie
20-03-11, 09:38
Thanks Lib, I will talk to you tomorrow. A bit too tired now to think up what to say lol
kiterunner
20-03-11, 15:58
That baptism on the IGI is an “extracted record” and it gives his age at baptism as 1.
tenterfieldjulie
20-03-11, 20:21
When he enlisted on 24 August 1810 it gave his age as 15 and under age (he officially didn’t get a pension until he turned 18). It gave his date and place of birth 1795 Limerick and this is on the original handwritten records. On the extracted baptism record if he is “our” John McCrohon his age should read 11 not 1?
HarrysMum
20-03-11, 20:40

It does say 1 Julie. You could always order the original from LDS and have a look.

Did I ask before……………..do you know if John had any siblings?

tenterfieldjulie
20-03-11, 20:42
Yes it is worth a try. How did they spell McCrohon please?
How it could be disproved if a marriage could be found in Essex.
HarrysMum
20-03-11, 20:47

McCrohon. There aren’t any others in that batch, but that’s only baptisms and that one could be on the changeover year for that batch…

Have you looked for a marriage in England?

Ammanda Schutz
20-03-11, 21:36
I looked and found nothing.
According to our Brisbane researcher there was a brother William McCrohon, 1807 but no place of birth. It seems that this is a real connection as William also joined the 4th and went to NSW with his family.
There was a John McCrohan born at Colchester 1814, I think. Fairly close by but I don’t know the significance, if there is one. Perhaps the same family and the younger John died.
McCrohan and McCrohon are always being mixed up so the spelling doesn’t signify.
There is a family tree on Ancestry that has a Margaret Manning married to a John McCrohon at about the right time but I can’t link them to us.
Julie, MS gives the marriage for Emily and John at 1818, no documentation.
HarrysMum
20-03-11, 21:52

Oh Ammanda…don’t you just hate it when someone gives you some info and can’t give you the source????? lol

I’ve had so many on my tree particularly from one person who is determined to connect us to royalty I’m sure. She has this beautiful tree without any sources and that’s because they’re aren’t any…………..lol

I think you need to contact the brisbane person and ask for all the sources. Anybody who has done a tree would expect to be asked for that so I can’t see a problem. Then you need to check all their sources yourself.

I’ve been caught badly by not rechecking another person’s work……

Ammanda Schutz
20-03-11, 23:40
Tell me about it. Down the garden path and back again. I am such a believing soul, gullible is probably a better word, that I have had to be burned really badly to learn the lesson.
Julie knows him and he probably will be at the reunion in April so she can talk to him first hand. However, I take your point. If I can find an email address I will whisk one off.
I sound confident but some folk don’t like their research challenged so I have to tread carefully especially as this is the ‘definitive’ work on the McCrohons.
The good thing about the family is that the name is uncommon. The rotten part is that it is spelled in every conceivable way and then some.
HarrysMum
21-03-11, 01:10

Thanks Ammanda……………….not sourced at all really is it???

The index list is just that…I’d like to see some certs and PRs before I’d say anything.

So John and Amelia marry in 1818………..where was that supposed to be??? If John was in the army, why didn’t he need permissiom to marry??? And if he did marry without permission, wasn’t he supposed to re-marry??

Has anyone found his actual records??? That should have exactly where he was and when.

There’s a 9 year gap between the marriage and the first child. Not sure of the significance of that yet….

A lot of the historical parts are general history. I’ve got very similar in my book on the Moores from Ireland.

I’ll print it out and highlight the parts I’m not sure about I think the I might get a better idea.

Ammanda Schutz
21-03-11, 01:56
Well, you have hit upon some of the issues and in short order.
We have his complete military record and can trace him from his earliest date in Ceuta.
I think he chose the 1818 because it was at the end of the time that John was in France with the occupation army. However, the rest doesn’t make any sense to me. Why wouldn’t she go with him to the West Indies? If she was outcast from her family where else would she go?
If the other marriage, Emily Banham, is anything to go by they started having children right away, as any Catholic couple would. Well, not just Catholic at that time. I think Emily had 9 children with John so there was no time to waste.
I had thought that if Emily DuCroix was on one of the French Islands in the Caribbean, after all they French had lost the war and control of their islands, at least nominally, then he could have met and married her there. I found no records to that end.
When the record in Winchester came to light I thought it more than probable. All the elements fit; John was at Chatham after returning from the West Indies and in between being sent back to Portugal. Their first child was born in Portugal in just over a year.
Also, even if Emily Banham was a widow and DuCroix was her maiden name, as the daughter of ‘some high official’ wouldn’t she be educated. She could not sign her name on the register but marked it with an X.
I also wonder how John got to Ceuta? He was obviously educated, could read and write and was a Quarter Master Sergeant. Maybe his father was already in the Military and the reference Julie found to a John McCrohon in the East Kent 3rd Regiment may be right on. The 3rd fought in Spain and Portugal during the war with Napoleon and perhaps his son was with him. Perhaps at Gibraltar just across from Ceuta. Ceuta is still a Spanish enclave in Morocco and was always an occupied military port.
Well, I am raving now. Off to bed.
Thanks for taking a look.
The
tenterfieldjulie
21-03-11, 02:51
Most of “MS” “History of the McCrohon Family in Australia” is I believe based on documentation, but the sources are not quoted. (He refers to study at State Librariers, LDS, State Archives etc) The part about the runaway marriage is I think is a family story, how they supposedly met her in France and had a runaway marriage. We know now that John McCrohon, 4th Foot, married a Emily Banham at St. Thomas Winchester 23 June 1826 (have copy of the marriage registration). Their son John was supposedly born in Portugal 25 July 1827 according to MS, which would fit with the marriage. Whether the birth information was recorded in a Family Bible, we hope to find out. We have the TNA records of John’s Military Records – when, where he joined 4th Foot etc, his ranks and times and places of service, including seven years in West Indies. Some of this MS seems to refer to, but I can see some errors in assumption. I think it would be better to speak to MS privately. I think he is an older person who did this out of respect for an elderly uncle who was related to him by marriage. He has very generously made this information available with no copyright claimed and fair use for non-profit purposes is permitted. His History comprises over 40 pages and so there is a lot of time and effort put into the McCrohon story.
HarrysMum
21-03-11, 03:03

I think talking to him about his sources would be a good idea Julie. Getting info from LDS is a bit dodgy unless you see the actual film. I must admit to not know about submitted entries when i started this lark and that gave me all sorts of trouble.

I’ve also got bad info from the State Library by using others’ trees and stories. One has a bit of wrong info and the next embellishes it and it goes on.

I wonder if the Ducroix story was along the lines of a tryst rather than an actual marriage. Those things can grow legs if people start talking…..lol.

I don’t think Amelia DuCroix and Emily Banham are the same person. Of course I can’t prove that but there are many things pointing that way.

My ggg grandfather’s marriage of 1818 is documented in his records. He was a sergeant at the time. The records also tell when he took leave etc. Although he was in the WI and other places, he managed to get home to ‘pro-create’ every couple of years.

Maybe if you tell him, you’ve been trying to find certain records and ask if he’d help you, at least you’ll know where he got them from.

tenterfieldjulie
21-03-11, 03:35
Well I found my buried records.
Death Registration of John McCrohon 20 June 1900 at Tingha NSW Born Portugal in Aust 58 years, Parents John McCrohon Quartermaster Sergeant in the army, Mother Emily Ducroi (x, more like t, possibly c). When this John’s son (another John died) his obit said he was the son of Mr. & Mrs. Patrick McCrohon who had migrated to Australia from Ireland.
Then the youngest child of John and Emily – Louis Estall died 3 May 1924 parents John McCrohon Miner and Agnes Decrow? (informant his son)
No wonder things are confused…
I.M. another researcher says in 2000: John – Born St. John’s Parish, Limerick July 1795, Brother William born Jan 1807 Crondon Park, Essex. John christened son of John and Margaret Crondon Park Rc 1 March 1807. Military Service – Returned Winchester 1 April 1826. Emily Ducroix Born France ca 1800 Seamstressi n Parish at time of British occupation 1816. First marriage to – Banham? John and Emily married 23 June 1826 at St. Thomas Rc Winchester.
Ammanda Schutz
21-03-11, 12:23
My head is swimming! Lots of information and I wonder where it leads.
Thanks for digging it out of the coffins Julie. lol
http://www.genealogistsforum.co.uk/forum/archive/index.php?t-7228.html
http://www.genealogistsforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=7228


Victor Harry McCROHON

| 29/04/2018

Victor Harry McCROHON

AKA  Vic,  Digger
Grandson to John McCROHON – appointed 1836
Father to Vicki McCrohon – NSWPF – P/W 0123 – Class 120 ( 1964 ) & Rejoinee P/W 0202 – Class 141 ( 1974 )
Nephew to Ernest Edward McCrohon – NSWPF – ‘Q’ 9403
Late of  ?

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. #  5009

 

Rank:  Probationary Constable – appointed 4 February 1946

Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 1 July 1967 ( appears in the 1968 & 1969 Stud Books )

 

Stations:  ?, ‘ R ‘ District, Newcastle, Clarencetown, Griffith ( 1965 – Retirement )

 

Service:  From  ? ? pre February 1946?  to  ? ? 1969 = 23 years Service

 

[blockquote]

World War II

Australian Imperial Force

Regiment:                                         Armed Corps Training Squadron

Enlisted:                                            East Maitland on 4 November 1939

Service #                                            NX661

Rank:                                                  Corporal – 21 May 1937,  Sergeant – from 26 September 1941,   Lieutenant – from 4 August 1942

Prev. Emp:                                        Steam Engine Driver

Age on Enlisting:                              22

Embarkation:                                   18 March 1943

Next of kin:                                       Alexander McCrohon ( Father )

Religion:                                            Presbyterian

Single / Married:                             Single ( Married Edna )

Returned to Australia:  ?

Address:                                           207 Dumaresque St, Armidale

Desc as of 3 Jan 1946:                 Married.  1 child over 16 years.  Victor = 28 yrs 11 mths, 6′ 1.5″, Brown eyes, med complexion, dark brown hair.  Missing 1st joint on right hand index finder.  Appendix scar.

Operational Service:                 Middle East       Embarked from Aust  January 1940.  Disembarked in Aust  17 December 1941

New Guinea    Embarked from Aust  7 November 1942.  Disembarked in Aust  24 April 1943

Served:                                            From 4 November 1939 until 3 January 1946 = 1867 days

464 days in Australia.  876 days overseas

Awards:                                          War Badge.  M.I.D. ( Mentioned in Despatches 23 December 1943)

[/blockquote]

 

 

 

Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal – granted 28 March 1972

 

Born:   Thursday 26 October 1916 – Hillgrove, NSW

Died on:   10 May 1982 ??? ( A.W.G. List) Australian War Graves List

Age:  65 years, 6 months, 14 days

 

Cause:   ?

Event location:   ?

Event date:   ?

 

Funeral date:   ? ? ?

Funeral location:   ?, Griffith, NSW

Funeral Parlour:  ?

Buried at:   ?

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

Victor Harry McCROHON

Victor Harry McCROHON

 

VICTOR is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance  *NEED MORE INFO

 

 Funeral location:  TBA

FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

May they forever Rest In Peace

 

 

Dungog Chronicle : Durham and Gloucester Advertiser (NSW : 1894 – 1954),

Saturday 30 August 1952, page 4

News About People

And What They Are Doing

Constable Vic McCrohon, of Clarence Town, is absent on special duty. He is giving revolver instruction to country police stations.

 

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/140852740

 

Dungog Chronicle : Durham and Gloucester Advertiser (NSW : 1894 – 1954),

Saturday 5 May 1951, page 2

Clarence Town War Memorial Committee

The Annual Meeting of the Clarence Town and District 1939 – 45 War Memorial Committee will be held in the School of Arts Hall, Clarence Town, next Monday night, 7th May, at 8 p.m. Business: Important.

VIC McCROHON,

Secretary

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/140851199

 

 

Dungog Chronicle : Durham and Gloucester Advertiser (NSW : 1894 – 1954),

Saturday 4 March 1950, page 4

CLARENCE TOWN

( From Our Correspondent )

BRIGADIER MACARTHUR ONSLOW’S VISIT.

On Thursday, 16th February, Brigadier D. MacArthur Onslow paid a visit to Clarence Town to carry out an inspection of the area with regard to the formation of a unit of the Citizens Forces in the district. He was very high in his praise of the district and stated that it was ideally suited for the formation of an amphibious unit of the Citizen Forces. However, the lack of a suitable building that could be utilized as a Drill Hall was an obstacle but despite this he felt sure that he could convince the authorities that the expense of erecting one would be justified as it was his considered opinion that it was to the men on the land that this country could depend upon.

The men in the closer settled areas have many distractions whilst the man on the land is a deeper thinker and realises the need for Citizen Military Forces.

The Brigadier was met by Mr. Vic. McCrohon, who served under him during the last war and was later met by Mr. M. W. Dark and various other citizens of the district.

He stated that he thought that Clarence Town had very good prospects of having an industry set up because the Williams River was so well suited to shipping. He would not hesitate in recommending the district to anyone requiring a factory site.

It may be remembered that the Brigadier is a man of many business interests, one such business being the Camden Vale Dairies which is in the process of having a circular dairy installed — the third in the world and the first in the southern hemisphere.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/140855122

 

 

Dungog Chronicle : Durham and Gloucester Advertiser (NSW : 1894 – 1954),

Saturday 4 March 1950, page 4

ANNUAL MEETING OF FOOTBALL CLUB

The annual meeting of the Clarence Town Football Club took place on Saturday, February 18th, when the balance sheet for the year 1949 was presented and the election of officers for 1960 took place.

In opening the meeting the chairman, Mr. J. Moylan, congratulated the club on the performance it had put up last year both on the field of sport and on its splendid financial position for the commencement of a new season. He pointed out that when the club was formed last year that except for approximately three players who had had previous experience the remainder had only the spirit of the game to offer; as the season had progressed and more people became interested in the sport the local lads improved their game and by the end of the season had improved beyond all expectations.

Many older hands had expressed their amazement at the manner in which the team had improved its game. He then complimented Mr. Vic McCrohon on the splendid financial position of the club, which, after having bought 15 complete sets of gear and two footballs ended the season with a credit balance of £66/11/34.

The election of officers tor the coming season then took place and resulted in Mr. J. Moylan being re-elected as President and Mr. V. H. McCrohon being re-elected secretary treasurer.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/140855118

 

Dungog Chronicle : Durham and Gloucester Advertiser (NSW : 1894 – 1954),

Saturday 25 February 1950, page 2

CLARENCE TOWN NEWS

Mr. W. McCrohon is spending the week-end with his brother, Constable Vic McCrohon, and Mrs. McCrohon, after coming out of Army camp at Singleton.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/140847789

 

 

Dungog Chronicle : Durham and Gloucester Advertiser (NSW : 1894 – 1954),

Saturday 11 February 1950, page 5

SECOND SPORTS BALL.

Indications at the moment are that a bumper crowd will be in attendance, as secretary Vic. McCrohon has been approached re running a bus from Maitland. The Pick-a-Box free novelties which proved so popular last ball will again be on and the prizes are really super, some even being to say the least ‘stunning.’

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/140856616

 

 

Dungog Chronicle : Durham and Gloucester Advertiser (NSW : 1894 – 1954),

Wednesday 3 August 1949, page 2

CLARENCE TOWN DEFEATS DUNGOG

On Sunday, a B Grade side from Dungog journeyed to Clarence Town and played a picnic match. After leading 7-niI at half-time, Clarence Town beat Dungog 7 points to 3. Ross Haggarty scored for Dungog. Constable Vic McCrohon is moulding a fine team together in Clarence Town.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/136156278

 

Newcastle Sun (NSW : 1918 – 1954),

Monday 1 July 1946, page 2

Constable Found Man Huddled In Shop At Night

Flashing his torch through the doorway of a Scott Street shop about 11.30 p.m. on June 25, Probationary Constable Victor McCrohon saw a young man huddled in his overcoat against the counter.

Leslie John Cable, 18. soldier, was charged with breaking and entering the lock-up shop of Helen Payzis at 105 Scott Street, Newcastle, on June 25 and stealing £9 8s 11d in money, one fountain pen, six keys, one ring, two tax stamps valued at 5s 9d and a quantity of confectionery to the total value of £12 10s.

He was also charged with having, at Newcastle on June 25, broken and entered a lock-up shop at 5 Wolfe Street with intent to steal.

He was committed for trial at Newcastle Quarter Sessions on July 22.

Constable McCrohon said that whilst on duty in Scott Street about 11.30 on June 25 he noticed the glass of Payzis shop was broken and that the door had been interfered with. Cable was huddled against the counter. Cable was searched and £9 8s 11d was found in his possession. There was a quantity of cigarettes and other articles in his pocket. Questioned, Cable said he was ” broke. ”

He signed a statement admitting he gained entry with a piece of flat steel. Cable was questioned about breaking and entering the premises of Blachford in Wolfe Street. He said he used a flat piece of steel to gain entry.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/157703315

Profile

Name: McCrohon V.H.
Service No: NX661
Rank: Lt.
Unit:6 Div.Cav.

Brief History
This record copied from A.W.M. WW2 NOMINAL ROLLS
Name McCROHON, VICTOR HARRY
Service Australian Army
Service Number NX661
Date of Birth 26 Oct 1916
Place of Birth HILLGROVE, NSW
Date of Enlistment 4 Nov 1939
Locality on Enlistment PAXTON, NSW
Place of Enlistment EAST MAITLAND, NSW
Next of Kin McCROHON, ALEXANDER
Date of Discharge 3 Jan 1946
Rank Lieutenant
Posting at Discharge 2/6 ARMOURED REGIMENT

OBITUARY – VICTOR  “DIGGER” McCROHON

(Cavalry News, No. 28)

It is a well known fact that our Regt in its day contained some extraordinarily talented men within its ranks.  In some cases this talent was not immediately apparent but in due course, the qualities of courage, leadership, downright commonsense etc was to come to the fore, so these individuals could be alluded to as “mighty men”.

Such was the case with Vic McCrohon.

In later years he was known as a “mighty man” both in the Police and the RSL.

Late last year some 300 people attended his funeral at Griffith, NSW, many of this number being Police and ex-servicemen, as Vic had a distinguished military and police record.

He first enlisted at Maitland on November 4, 1939 with the 6th Div Reconnaissance Regt, and saw service in the first middle east desert campaign.  He served with the Long Range desert patrol in the 2nd desert campaign and after serving also in the Syrian campaign, he was promoted to Sgt and mentioned in despatches.  He was mentioned in despatches for the 2nd time in 1942 after the Buna campaign.  Just prior to this he had been an instructor with the 2/6 Armd Regt.

In 1943 he was posted to combined Infantry and tank instruction at Cunnungra.  Later he was posted to Western Australia, and then Richmond where he was promoted to Captain before going to Timor on Special Service.  At Puckapunyal he was promoted to Major in charge of the Tank gunnery wing, till his discharge from the army on Feb 4th, 1946.

On that same day he joined the RSL and the Police Force as a probationary constable.

On July 1, 1967 he was promoted to Sergeant.  He was transferred to Griffith in 1965 where he spent the rest of his service till retirement in 1967.  Throughout his career in the force he took part in many police activities too varied for comment here.  Suffice to say he was presented with the Police Long Service and good conduct medal on 28th March, 1972.  For ten years he was Sec/Treasurer of the Riverina District RSL and was later awarded Honorary Life Membership – so I think you will agree that his “mighty man” title was very well merited.
http://pandora.nla.gov.au/pan/103930/20151116-0000/www.26cavcommando.org.au/index2315f.html

 

after the battle

THE BATTLE FOR BUNA

WARREN FRONT (DECEMBER 23-JANUARY 2)
On Warren front, the second stage of the Australian 18th Brigade’s offensive against Buna was to take place on the inland flank of the 2/9th Battalion, south of Simemi Creek. Lieutenant-Colonel James Dobbs’s 2/10th Battalion, having arrived from Milne Bay, would attack along the old Buna airstrip.
Patrols had already moved along Simemi Creek, and on December 23 Captain Austen Ifould’s B Company had captured the bridge, a goal that had eluded the American infantry for over a month.
The 2/10th then consolidated at the eastern end of the kunai-covered airstrip while the American engineers repaired the bridge.
The Japanese defenders here were some of Captain Yasuda’s crack naval troops.
Seaman Masaji Konagaya wrote:  ‘Although we only had a handful of men, we defended our positions with desperate efforts’.
On the next day, December 24, Brigadier Wootten decided to send four of the Australian Stuart tanks across the bridge to support the attack along the airstrip.
Japanese guns were known to be in the area, but they had been silent for some days, and it was hoped that they had been destroyed by air attacks.
At 0935, after a short barrage, Lieutenant McCrohon’s and Corporal Barnet’s tanks crossed the bridge and headed up the strip.
They advanced some 250 yards in short order, and McCrohon began engaging machine-gun posts. Then, at about 1000, McCrohon saw a flash off to his left front and his tank was hit down low on the body. The wireless was dislodged and the tank slewed into a flooded bomb crater, where it remained bogged. Barnet’s tank was then …….
https://mxdoc.com/after-the-battle-162-pdf.html

 

Newcastle Sun (NSW : 1918 – 1954),

Thursday 19 June 1941, page 3

LUCKY SHOT WITH RIFLE ” GRASSED ” HEINKEL

How a lucky shot put out of action a Heinkel fighter in the Sollum area is described by Sergeant V. McCrohon in a letter to his brother, Mr. A. McCrohon, of Boolaroo School staff.

An armored tank detachment, of which Sergeant McCrohon is attached, was awaiting orders to go into action and was being continually harassed by the German machine.

A private member of the supporting Infantry column casually remarked that he would fix the blighter and, raising his service rifle, fired.

The Heinkel faltered in its course and was obliged to make a forced landing.

An inspection of the machine revealed that the bullet had severed a vital link in the rudder control mechanism. The crew of the Heinkel was taken prisoner.

Sergeant McCrohon was the driver of the first tank to enter Bengazi.

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/167433068

Cessnock Eagle and South Maitland Recorder (NSW : 1913 – 1954),

Friday 5 January 1940, page 5

Presentation At Paxton.

SERGEANT ( A.I.F. ) McCROHON FAREWELLED.

At a brief ceremony held at Paxton Picture Hall last Saturday night, Paxton people assembled to bid farewell to Sergeant Victor McCrohon, who is shortly to go overseas with the 2nd A.I.F., making the fourth local representative to assist in England’s democratic fight.

Handing over a set of hair brushes and fountain pen and pencil, Mr. P. S. McLeish complimented Sergeant McCrohon upon having been accepted to serve with the 2nd A.I.F, and conveyed the good wishes of Paxton people for a safe journey, a clean, victorious fight, and a quick return home.

Speaking in support, Mrs. F. Hindmarsh said that having known Mr. McCrohon all his life, she felt justified in saying he was a worthy son of Paxton and regretted the cause of his departure. However, he had seen fit to answer Australia’s call, and was certain he would do his best for his country.

On behalf of the Great War veterans living in the district, Mr. Ivor Davies expressed the belief that as long as the 2nd A.I.F. was composed of men like Sergeant McCrohon, the old Diggers could rest assured that the spirit of Anzac would never die.

In reply, the guest of the evening thanked all responsible for the present, and said he had been set a hard task to justify the nice things said about him. However, he would always endeavour to do the right thing, and trusted that the people of Paxton would continue to maintain their good faith in the boys of the 2nd A.I.F.

The proceedings were brought to a close with the rendering of “God Save The King.”

 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/104625927


Robert William STAFFORD

| 29/04/2018

Robert William STAFFORD

AKA  Bob
Late of Tallwoods Village, NSW, formerly of Cherrybrook, NSW

NSW Police Cadet # 0870

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. #  7709

Rank:  NSW Police Cadet – commenced 15 May 1950

Probationary Constable – appointed 15 April 1954

Senior Constable – appointed 15 April 1965

Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 3 May 1969

Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 6 April 1977

Chief Inspector – appointed 3 June 1987

Stations:  ?, Kings Cross – Retirement

Service:  From  15 May 1950  to  4 July 1989 = 39+ years Service

Awards:   National Medal – granted 14 December 1988

1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 21 August 1989

Born:   15 April 1935 – Paddington, NSW

Died on:   Thursday  19 April 2018 at Taree

Age:  83 yrs  4 days

Cause:   ?

Event location: Taree, NSW

Event date:   ?

Funeral date:   Thursday  26 April 2018 @ 1pm

Funeral location:   Manning Valley Memorial Gardens, 183 Pampoolah Rd, Pampoolah via Taree

Funeral Parlour:  Becker Family Funerals, 6557 8557

” In lieu of flowers, donations to Police Legacy would be warmly appreciated “

Buried at:   ?

 Memorial located at:   ?

 

Robert William STAFFORD

 

ROBERT is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance  *NEED MORE INFO

 

 Funeral location: 


FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

May they forever Rest In Peace

Service Details
The relatives and friends of the late Bob Stafford are respectfully invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel at Manning Great Lakes Memorial Gardens Crematorium, 183 Pampoolah Road Taree, commencing at 1.00pm on Thursday 26th April. Donations in lieu of flowers to Police Legacy would be warmly appreciated.

STAFFORD, Robert William “Bob”

Late of Cherrybrook.
Passed away peacefully on Thursday 19th April 2018.

Aged 83 Years

Beloved husband of Norma. Loving father of Darren, Linda and Scott. Devoted Pa to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. A special man in the lives of all his extended family and friends.

Norma, it feels like only yesterday when Carla, myself and the kids came to visit you and Bob at Tallwoods Village last December. I sincerely hope the move from Cherrybrook was everything Bob dreamed it would be, I hope he got to fulfill his dreams of playing as many rounds of golf as he possibly could.

My heart goes out to you and your family. I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Wishing you comfort and peace as you remember Bob, he will never be forgotten! R.I.P

I’m here if you need anything…

Love always,
Angelo Lambropoulos

Angelo Lambropoulos lit a candle for Robert William STAFFORD
    Thinking of Norma, Darren, Linda, Scott and families at this very sad time, from Becker Family Funerals.
    Becker Family Funerals lit a candle for Robert William STAFFORD
    • 2 days ago

    https://www.heavenaddress.com/Robert-William-STAFFORD/1835618/filter/candle



    Thomas Richard HANNAN

    | 29/04/2018

    Thomas Richard HANNAN

    Late of  ?

    New South Wales Police Force

    Penrith Police Academy – Class 1 of 1946

    [alert_yellow]Regd. #  4883[/alert_yellow]

    Rank:  Probationary Constable – appointed 7 January 1946

    Detective Constable 1st Class –

    Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 12 December 1966

    Sergeant 1st Class – appointed 13 December 1970

    Stations:  9 Division, 21 Division – Mobile Unit ( 1946 ), 16 Division – CI Duty ( 1948 ), 9 Division ( 1949 ),

    Vice Squad ( 1949 ), Liverpool CI Duties – 22 Division, Bankstown ( 1954 ), 18 Division ( Parramatta – 1962 ),

    Regent St – 2 Division ( 1963 ), Bankstown – 19 Division ( 1963 ), 13 Division ( 1966 ),

    Bankstown – 19 Division ( 1971 – death )

    Service:  From  ? ? pre January 1946?  to  2 February 1972 = 26+ years Service

    [blockquote]

    World War II

    Australian Imperial Force  –  Royal Australian Air Force ( RAAF )

    Regiment:                          1 AGS,  Sale, Victoria.  Aircraft = Anson – 15.4 hours training

                                                   27 OTU ( Operational Training Unit ) – Litchfield – 65.2 hours

                                                   1663 ( Heavy Conversion Unit ) – Dufforth – 42 hours

    Operational Flying:      466 Sqdn.  Bomber at Driffield in a Halifax III.  35 sorties = 217.2 hours

                                                   Commenced  9 October 1944 – 20 March 1945

    Enlisted:                            9 March 1943

    Service #                            433311

    Rank:                                   Pilot Officer – 41 Base ( 23 March 1945 ),  Flying Officer – 2 P.D. ( 23 September 1945 )

    Embarkation:                  From Australia on 26 January 1944 for United Kingdom

    Next of kin:                       Leslie Lawrence HANNAN ( Father ), 98 Arthur St, Homebush, NSW

    Religion:                            Roman Catholic

    Prev. Occupation:          Radio Tester

    Single / Married:             Single

    Returned to Australia:  ?

    Date of Discharge:          25 September 1945

    Post at Discharge:          1652 Communications Unit

    Awards:                              A/G? Badge – 6 January 1944

    Description:                    23 years, 2 months, 5′ 9.5″, 168 lb, 34″ chest – Expanded = 37″, Dark complexion, Brown eyes, dark hair.

    https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=5382014

    [divider_dotted]

    Commonwealth of Australia Gazette    Thursday  25 October 1945    P. 2268

    The following warrant officers and non-commissioned officers ( Air Gunners ) are appointed to commissions on probation with the rank of Pilot Officer with effect from the dates indicated:

    …….

    No. 433311  Thomas Richard HANNAN, 23rd March, 1945 ……

    https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/232765433/25121423

    [/blockquote]


    Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

    Born:  31 December 1919 – Lewisham, NSW

    Died on:   Wednesday  2 February 1972

    Age:  52

    Cause:   ?

    Event location:   ?

    Event date:   ?

    Funeral date:   ? ? ?

    Funeral location:   ?

    Funeral Parlour:  ?

    Buried at:   ?

     Memorial located at:   ?

    Thomas Richard HANNAN


    [alert_yellow]THOMAS is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow]  *NEED MORE INFO

     [divider_dotted]

     

     Funeral location:  TBA

    [divider_dotted]

    FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

    PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

    [divider_dotted]

    May they forever Rest In Peace

    [divider_dotted]

    Nothing further, at this time, is known of this man.
    Cal
    24 April 2018
    [divider_dotted]


    Stephen William SIVEWRIGHT

    | 29/04/2018

    Stephen William SIVEWRIGHT

    Unknown NSW Serving Policeman

    AKA  Sivey
    Late of Ballina, Wagga Wagga, NSW

    Goulburn Police Academy Class # DPP 01 ( CEP 98/2 ) Class 274 )

    New South Wales Police Force

    Regd. #  32691

     

    Rank:   Commenced Training at Goulburn Academy on ? ? ?

    Probationary Constable – appointed 22 December 1998 ( aged 23 years, 1 month, 7 days )

    Constable – appointed ? ? ?

    Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?

    Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?

    Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?

     

    Final Rank:  Sergeant at time of Death

     

    Stations:  ?,  Richmond LAC, Lismore ( SenCon ), Wagga Wagga HWP ( Sgt ) – Death

     

    Service:  From  ? pre December 1998? ?  to  11 April 2018 =  19+? years Service

     

    Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

    although had been Awarded:

    National Medal

    National Police Service Medal

    Police Service Medal

     

    Born:   Saturday  15 November 1975

    Died on:   Wednesday  11 April 2018

    Age:  42 years, 4 months, 27 days

    Cause:   Depression – Suicide – Service Glock

     

    Event location:  Sturt Hwy, near Berry Jerry Rest area, Collingullie, Wagga Wagga, NSW

    Event date:  Wednesday  11 April 2018

     

    Funeral date:   Monday  23 April 2018 @ 11.30am

    Funeral location:   St Andrews Anglican Parish, 10 Zadoc St, Lismore

    Funeral Parlour:  Lismore Funeral Services – 6621 8266

     

    Buried at:   ?

     Memorial located at:   ?

     

     

    SIVEY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance  *NEED MORE INFO ( Last checked 151121 )

     

    FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

    PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

    May they forever Rest In Peace

    Stephen William SIVEWRIGHT, Sivy, Steve SIVERIGHT

    Stephen William SIVEWRIGHT, Sivy, Steve SIVERIGHT

    Stephen William SIVEWRIGHT, Sivy, Steve SIVERIGHT, Police Grave

    Stephen William SIVEWRIGHT, Sivy, Steve SIVERIGHT

    Stephen William Sivewright

    Stephen William Sivewright

    15/11/1975 – 11/4/2018

    42 years

    Today recalls a memory

    Of a loved one gone to rest

    And those who think of him today

    Are those who loved him best.

    The flowers we lay upon his grave

    May wither and decay

    But the love for him who lies beneath

    Will never fade away

    Forever and always remembering with love

    Dad & Mum, Leon, Dylan & Sarah and Kimba

    South Grafton 2460

     

    Date listed: 11/4/2019

    Stephen William Sivewright | Tributes & Condolences | Northern Rivers / Byron | The Advertiser

    Police investigate death of NSW officer

    • Australian Associated Press

     

    A NSW Police critical incident team will investigate the death of one of its own officers after a policeman was found dead near Wagga Wagga.

    Concerns were raised for the male officer’s welfare with colleagues heading to the Sturt Highway about 30km from Wagga Wagga on Wednesday afternoon.

    The officer’s death is non-suspicious circumstances, and a critical incident team has been formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the matter.

    https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/latest-news/police-investigate-death-of-nsw-officer/news-story/52c610f5bd71c516ffc452cd3fa3c8a6

    Critical investigation launched after police death near Wagga

     

    Daisy Huntly

    An internal investigation has been launched after a police officer’s death in the Riverina Police District.

    Emergency services raced to the Sturt Highway, around 30 kilometres from Wagga, around 4.25pm on Wednesday.

    They were responding after concerns were raised to the welfare of a police officer.

    Paramedics from NSW Ambulance also responded to the location, but were unable to revive the officer.

    Police said that there is no evidence the incident is suspicious.

    A critical incident team has been formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death and will be subject to independent review.

    https://www.dailyadvertiser.com.au/story/5337758/critical-investigation-launched-after-police-death-near-wagga/

     

    Police say a critical incident investigation has been launched after the death yesterday of a police officer near the Sturt Highway 30km from Wagga Wagga. “At this time there is no evidence the incident is suspicious.”

    Police Statement:  A critical incident investigation has been launched after the death of a police officer near Wagga Wagga. Police were called to the Sturt Highway about 30km from Wagga Wagga around 4.25pm yesterday (Wednesday 11 April 2018) after concerns were raised for the welfare of an officer. Ambulance paramedics responded to the location but were unable to revive the officer. At this time there is no evidence the incident is suspicious. A critical incident team has been formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the matter.
    That investigation will be subject to independent review.

    www.7News.com.au

    Police say a critical incident investigation has been launched after the death yesterday of a police officer near the…

    Posted by 7NEWS Sydney on Wednesday, 11 April 2018

     

    SIVEWRIGHT, STEPHEN WILLIAM
    Taken suddenly from us on the 11th April 2018.
    Much loved Son to Harold and Eleanor.
    Cherished Partner to Leon.
    Loved Brother to Ian and Jack.
    Adored Uncle to Sarah, William and Jake.
    Funeral details to be advised in later edition.
    https://www.northernstar.com.au/classifieds/ad/2884355/

    Police disappointed at close of Operation Tortoise

    It would have been difficult to escape a random breath test in Wagga across the Easter long weekend.

    It follows a Highway Patrol crack down on fatigue, drink and drug-driving.

    With thousands hitting the roads for the holiday, Riverina police conducted more than 6600 random breath tests across four days.

    These numbers come at the close of Operation Tortoise, with double-demerits in force until midnight on Monday.

    Despite the low number of drivers busted drink driving, acting-Senior Sergeant Stephen Sivewright said the behaviour of drivers across the region had been disappointing.

    “The message isn’t getting out there,” Sergeant Sivewright said. “People are still speeding.”

    He said road users continued to put the lives of their passengers and other people in danger, with more than 200 drivers issued speeding fines.

    A further 25 infringements were issued for not wearing seatbelts and 308 drivers were busted for other traffic offences.

    “People shouldn’t have to die for drivers to listen,”  Sergeant Sivewright said. “This should be a wake-up call.”

    His words follow the tragic death of an elderly driver on a Riverina road, near Jindera, on Monday morning.

    This death brought the number of fatalities on Riverina roads to six this year.

    “That’s ridiculously high,” Sergeant Sivewright said. “Up until March 28, there were 59 fatalities on state roads – a definite increase on last year.”

    The story Shock follows number of speeding drivers busted on Riverina roads first appeared on The Daily Advertiser.

    https://www.theland.com.au/story/5317931/shock-follows-number-of-speeding-drivers-busted-on-riverina-roads/

     

    Ten drivers busted drink driving across Wagga

    • Steff Wills

    Police say the results of this year’s initiative to reduce the holiday road toll are concerning.

    It follows Wagga Highway Patrol’s launch of Operation Safe Arrival on December 22.

    Acting Senior Sergeant Stephen Sivewright on Tuesday said local officers, combined with resources from Sydney, had already performed thousands of random breath tests across Wagga.

    The Highway Patrol chief said of more than 8520 tests, ten drivers had been caught drink driving.

    In addition, Sergeant Sivewright said 225 drivers had been fined for speeding across the region, which was more than half the combined number of traffic-related offences, during that period.

    “We are concerned about the 10 drink driving offences,” Sergeant Sivewright said. “We’d like that to be zero.”

    Double demerits will apply from Friday, December 22 with all Traffic and Highway Patrol Command staff on duty until New Year.

    Sergeant Sivewright urged Riverina drivers to stick to the speed limit, to make a plan-b and to get to their destination safely.

    https://www.dailyadvertiser.com.au/story/5140382/ten-drivers-busted-drink-driving-across-wagga/

     

    Highway Patrol want you to survive the drive home this Christmas | Video

    • Madeleine Clarke

    Wagga’s Highway Patrol force are gearing up for the busy Christmas period with Operation Safe Arrival kicking off today.

    Double demerits will apply from Friday, December 22 with all Traffic and Highway Patrol Command staff on duty until New Year performing random breath tests, mobile drug testing, speed enforcement and vehicle and driver compliance checks.

    Acting Senior Sergeant Stephen Sivewright said the Riverina cluster will be boosted by additional resources from Sydney.

    “We’ll have all our vehicles out on the roads during the day and night time so the public can see us.”

    The Wagga Command is made up of 20 officers and nine vehicles.

    “With more people going away, wanting to get there, they can get distracted by their mobile phones, we’ll be out there trying to deter people from committing offences,” Sergeant Sivewright said.

    “For those travelling long distances we hope they have had at least eight hours sleep before they begin their journey, and stop every two hours or when tired.

    “Personal responsibility is the key to road safety in NSW. We urge those on our roads over the school holidays, Christmas and the New Year to help us keep everyone safe on NSW roads.”

    Last Christmas and New Year period saw 40 people die on Australian roads, up from 34 the year before.

    NSW was the worst state for fatalities, claiming 12 of the dead.

    https://www.dailyadvertiser.com.au/story/5119873/survive-the-drive-home-this-christmas-video/

     

    David Clarke

    Story

    Hi there,

    I have decided to support NSW Police Legacy’s largest annual fundraiser in remembrance of all deceased NSW Police Force Officers.

    I’m raising funds to continue providing essential financial assistance and social programs and experiences to the widows, widowers and dependent children of deceased police officers.

    Through here you can easily support this great cause.

    I would also really appreciate it if you could share my page above or comment below so more people know about it.

    Click ‘Donate Now’ to make a secure online donation.

    Thanks so much for your support!

    .

    Stephen Sivewright

    Donated AUD $53.00 online in support of David Clarke

    Good luck mate. Regards Sivey

    April 26 2017
    https://2017remembrancebikeride.gofundraise.com.au/page/DavidClarke0

    District on display at Sydney Royal Easter Show

    …….

    Best beef

    Stephen Sivewright, from Diddine Brahman Stud at South Lismore, was awarded junior and senior reserve champion bull at the Sydney show, making it three out of four Royal Easter Shows he has entered where he has won reserve champion.

    ………

    https://www.ruralweekly.com.au/news/district-on-display/2592864/

     

     



    William Arthur DELFORCE

    | 29/04/2018

    William Arthur DELFORCE

    Late of Scenic Lodge, formerly of Tea Gardens & Newcastle

    AKA  Bill

    New South Wales Police Force

    [alert_yellow]Regd. #  7664[/alert_yellow]

    Rank:  Probationary Constable – appointed 26 October 1953

    Senior Constable – appointed 26 October 1964

    Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 1 January 1969

    Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 4 February 1977

    Stations:  ?, ‘ Southern District, ‘ D ‘ District,  Cootamundra,

    Service:  From  ? ? pre October 1953?  to  ? ? ? =  ? years Service

    Awards:   No find on It’s An Honour

    Born:   10 November 1928

    Died on:   Thursday  12 April 2018

    Age:  89

    Cause:   ?

    Event location:   ?

    Event date:   ?

    Funeral date:   TODAY – 16 April 2018 @ 2pm

    Funeral location:   St John’s Anglican Church, 1B Parry St, Cooks Hill, NSW

    Funeral Parlour:  Pettigrew Family Funerals

    Buried at:   ?

     Memorial located at:   ?

     

     


    [alert_yellow]WILLIAM 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.

    PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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    May they forever Rest In Peace

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    DELFORCE William Arthur ‘Bill’

    Late of Scenic Lodge formerly of Tea Gardens and Newcastle

    passed peacefully 12th April 2018

    Aged 89 Years

    Dearly loved husband of the late Paula Delforce.

    Devoted father and father-in-law of Karen and Kevin, Denise and Bob, Leone and Jim.
    Adored Pop to Amy, Ben, Kate, Lucy, Ryan, Sam, Dane, and Hugh.
    Treasured ‘G-pop’ to his 20 great grandchildren.
    Also a loved brother, brother-in-law and uncle to the Delforce families.

    Bill was loved by all who knew him – and will be greatly missed.

    Relatives and friends of Bill are invited to attend His funeral to be held in St John’s Anglican Church, Parry Street, Cooks Hill Monday 16th April 2018 commencing at 2:00pm.

    Bill’s family would like to sincerely thank the staff of Scenic Lodge for their loving care of Bill.

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    Published in The Newcastle Herald on Apr. 14, 2018

    April 24, 2018
    I was sad to hear of Bill’s passing.
    He and Paula organised great social get-togethers, including tennis nights for police colleagues and their families when they were stationed in Cootamundra.
    I remember the three girls being bedded down in the back of the car while we played tennis late into the night.
    My late husband Brian and I attended Bill’s 80th birthday party.
    Marie Holt Cootamundra
    Marie Holt,
    Cootamundra, New South Wales
    April 16, 2018
    May you forever Rest In Peace.

    https://police.freom.com/william-arthur-delforce/

    Greg Callander,
    Goulburn, New South Wales
    April 16, 2018

    Dear Uncle Bill

    We will miss you greatly and now you are with Paula and mum Joan xx

    Peter Delforce, Queensland

    http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/theherald-au/william-arthur-delforce-condolences/188733595

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    Nothing further, at this time, is known about this man.
    Cal
    160418
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