About 10pm on 24 May, 1958 Constable McInerney, the lockup-keeper at Bombala, was asleep at his residence. He was awakened by the telephone and when he arose to answer the call he heard a noise coming from the street. Looking out his bedroom window he saw Constable Southam and a member of the public struggling with an offender who, he later learned, had been arrested for offensive behaviour. Constable McInerney quickly dressed and went to assist. When the offender was subdued he was taken into the police station to be charged. When he had settled down his handcuffs were removed, however he then attacked Constable McInerney, punching him in the solar plexus. Later that night the constable began to experience difficulty breathing and a doctor was called. Unfortunately he died before receiving medical attention. The cause of death was found to have been acute heart failure caused by an effect on his nervous system from the punch delivered by the offender.
The constable was born in 1922 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 18 October, 1948. At the time of his death he was stationed at Bombala.
The Constable also Served in the Australian Army. Service number NX160638 (N218191). Born 8 May 1922 at Bronte, NSW. He enlisted ( enlist meaning the place he nominated as residing at the time of enlistment ) on the 21 January 1943 at Bondi, NSW and the ‘place’ he Enlisted ( where he signed up with the Army ), was Katherine, N.T.
He nominated Simon McInerney as his next of kin. Stanley was discharged from the Army on 30 May 1946 as a Corporal and was Posted at 55 Dental Unit at the time of his Discharge. He was NOT a Prisoner of War nor did he receive any Honours.
Constable Harman sustained fatal injuries when the Police Special Traffic Patrol Cycle he was riding was involved in a collision with a motor car. At the time the constable was riding the motorcycle from home to work at the Parramatta Police Station.
The constable was born in 1931 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 19 April, 1953. At the time of his death he was stationed at Parramatta.
Trevor William DODDS
26/10/2012
Trevor William DODDS
New South Wales Police Force
Joined NSW Police via the NSW Police Cadet System on 15 November 1943
Cadet # 423
Regd. # ?
Rank: Joined NSW Police Cadets – 15 November 1943
Probationary Constable – appointed 12 November 1946
Constable 1st Class – death
Stations: Yass, Goulburn S.T.P.
Service: From 15 November 1943 to 16 May 1957 = 13+ years Service
Awards: ? No find on It’s an honour
Born: ? ? 1925
Died on: Thursday 16 May 1957
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident – motor cycle
Location: Hume Hwy, Paddy’s River, Nth Marulan
Age: 31
Funeral date: Friday 17 May 1957
Funeral location: St Saviour’s Cathedral, Goulburn
Buried at: Cremated at Nth Sydney Crematorium on Saturday 18 May 1957. Ashes scattered at Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens.
[alert_green]TREVOR is mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
TOUCH PLATE FOR CONSTABLE 1st CLASS TREVOR WILLIAM DODDS, CANBERRA WALL OF REMEMBRANCE
On 16 May, 1957 Constable Dodds was riding a Police Special Traffic Patrol solo motor cycle from Goulburn to Bowral Court. On the Hume Highway at Paddy’s River, just north of Marulan, the cycle hit a patch of oil and water, skidded and left the roadway, colliding with trees. As a result the constable sustained fatal injuries.
The constable was born in 1925, joined the New South Wales Police Force as a cadet on 15 November, 1943 and was sworn in on 12 November, 1946. At the time of his death he was stationed at Goulburn.
L-R: Kevin McMahon, Trevor Dodds, standing ?, Kevin Stewart, Ron Gardener, standing ?. Goulburn Evening Post. possibly near Goulburn Gasworks
The Canberra Times 17 May, 1957
CONSTABLE IN FATAL CRASH
A young Goulburn traffic constable was killed instantly yesterday morning when he was thrown from his motor cycle on the Hume Highway near Paddy’s River. He was Trevor William Dodds, 31, a first class constable with the Traffic Department. He leaves a widow and four-month-old son. Police believe Dodds’ cycle skidded on a patch of oil and water on the road. The cycle struck a guidepost, throwing the rider, who died from severe head injuries. He was on his way to court at Bowral when the accident occurred.
Goulburn police said Constable Dodds was one of the best-known police men in the Southern Districts. He had been at Goulburn since 1949, and earlier had served for some years at Yass. He had been in the force since 1943.
the Canberra Times Saturday 18 May 1957 page 14 of 16
Crowds Witness Policeman’s Funeral March
Crowds of Goulburn people lined Auburn Streetyesterday to watch the funeral procession for a young Goulburn police motor cyclist, who was killed on Thursday.
First Class Constable Trevor William Dodds, 31, will be cremated at the North Sydney Crematorium to-day.
He was killed when his motor cycle skidded and crashed on the Hume Highway on Thursday.
Conducting the funeral service in St. Saviour’s Cathedral, the Very Rev. D. King said that Constable Dodds had given his life in service to the community.
Among police represented was Inspector J. Courtney, who accompanied a party of eight Canberra policemen. Sgt, H. Luton represented the A.C.T. Police Association.
The chief of the Police Safety Bureau, Inspector J. Agnew, was present at the funeral.
Goulburn Evening Post Monday 6 March 1950 page 5 of 8
Insulting Words Bring Fine Kezsel Webb was fined £4 in the Goulburn Court of Petty Sessions this morning for using insulting words to Constable Trevor William Dodds, of Goulburn Police.
Mr. A. J. Paton, S. M., was told that in answer to a complaint, Constable Dodds had visited a hotel and found Webb, who was under the influence, trying to buy liquor.
Constable Dodds told him that he would not be able to buy any more liquor. On the footpath outside the the hotel, Webb had used insulting words. A slip of paper with the words allegedly used written on it was handed to Mr. Paton. Webb pleaded guilty. He was allowed seven days to pay.
Rank: Senior Constable – posthumously promoted to Sergeant 3rd Class
Service: From 3 July 1939 to 22 August 1956 = 17+ years Service
Stations: ?, Pt Kembla – Death
Awards: Queen’s Police Medal for Gallantry – granted 28 December 1956
Peter Mitchell Trophy and the George Lewis Trophy
Cause: Shot – Murdered
Event location: Primbee, NSW
Born: ? ? 1916
Age: 40
Date of Event: Thursday 16 August 1956
Date of Death: Wednesday 22 August, 1956 at 5.25pm in Wollongong Hospital, NSW
Funeral date: Saturday 25 August 1956 – Wagga Wagga
Allen is buried in the Wagga Wagga Cemetery, Kooringal Rd, Kooringal, NSW.
His grave is located in the Anglican Section K – 5-0077
Allen IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
Senior Constable ( Sergeant 3rd Class ) Allen William NASH, Shot at Primbee on 16 August 1956 and died on 22 August 1956. 1939 Police Academy class photo with NASH being first on the left in second row from front ( circled ).
Allen William NASH
Allen William NASH
On 16 August, 1956 Senior Constable Nash was on duty at the Port Kembla Police Station. Following the receipt of a message of shots fired at a Primbee dwelling occupied by a woman and two children, Senior Constable Nash left to attend to the complaint.
On arrival he found the offender Russinnear the back verandah of the house and spoke to him. Russin, however simply raised the rifle he was carrying and shot the constable. The bullet unfortunately passed through Nash’s abdomen, damaging his spine and causing him to drop his pistol. With his right arm paralysed, Nash picked up the pistol with his left hand and, although in great pain, managed to fire two shots. One shot hit the offender in the hands, and the other penetrated the heart, killing him.
Senior Constable Nash was posthumously awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for Gallantry, the Peter Mitchell Trophy, and the George Lewis Trophy.
Commissioner Delaney also promoted him sergeant 3rd class on the day before he died from his wounds.
The sergeant was born in 1916 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 3 July, 1939. At the time of his death he was stationed at Port Kembla.
THURSDAY 4 SEPTEMBER 2014 RETIRED POLICE DAY HELD AT LAKE ILLAWARRA POLICE STATION, OAK FLATS.
THURSDAY 4 SEPTEMBER 2014 RETIRED POLICE DAY HELD AT LAKE ILLAWARRA POLICE STATION, OAK FLATS.
THURSDAY 4 SEPTEMBER 2014 THE 3RD RETIRED POLICE DAY – LAKE ILLAWARRA POLICE STATION, OAK FLATS. THURSDAY 4 SEPTEMBER 2014 LAKE ILLAWARRA POLICE STATION, OAK FLATS. MEMORIAL WALL PLATES FOR THE 8 IDENTIFIED POLICE ( INCLUDING STUDENT POLICE OFFICER ROBERT BROTHERSON ) WHO HAVE DIED, ‘ON DUTY’ WHO HAVE BEEN STATIONED IN THE WARILLA / LILAC LOCAL AREA COMMAND OVER THE YEARS.
Police Remembrance Day: Lake Illawarra sergeant Allen William Nash honoured
JOSHUA BUTLER
Kenneth Nash (left) at the Police Remembrance Day ceremony on Monday. Picture: ANDY ZAKELI.
Almost 60 years on, Kenneth Nash still misses his uncle Allen.
Sergeant Allen William Nash, aged 40, was killed in the line of duty by a gun-wielding offender at Primbee in 1956.
Sgt Nash was one of eight officers stationed in the Lake Illawarra local area command who were recognised with memorial plaques on a wall of honour outside Lake Illawarra police station on Monday, as part of Police Remembrance Day commemorations.
Dozens of current and retired officers, families, friends, politicians, councillors and members of the public gathered at Oak Flats for a ceremony to unveil the memorial wall, and honour past and present officers.
Kenneth Nash travelled from Brisbane for the ceremony, laying a wreath below his uncle’s name.
‘‘We came to Port Kembla some time ago to see where he was, and they had a plaque on the wall at the station,’’ Mr Nash said.
‘‘They called us and asked if we could come for the ceremony.’’
On August 16, 1956, Sgt Nash, stationed at Port Kembla, responded to shots fired at a Primbee house.
Finding a man on the verandah, Sgt Nash attempted to speak to the man but was shot through the abdomen, the bullet piercing his spine and paralysing his right arm.
Sgt Nash then shot the offender with his left hand. He died not long after.
Sgt Nash was posthumously awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for Gallantry, the Peter Mitchell Trophy, and the George Lewis Trophy.
‘‘He wasn’t even supposed to be on duty that day, he was covering for someone else,’’ Mr Nash said.
‘‘Having a recognition like this, it’s everything for us. He had a lot of siblings but only one or two are left. This plaque means people won’t forget about him.’’
Mr Nash carries with him a cigarette case Sgt Nash had in his jacket on the day he died, and counts a cutlery set sent to his uncle by Queen Elizabeth herself as a prized family heirloom.
Since 1862, more than 250 NSW Police officers have died in the line of duty.
WOLLONGONG, Thursday. — A critically wounded police constable shot dead his beserk attacker in a gun duel at Wollongong early to-day.
Doctors at Wollongong Hospital are fighting to save the life of the policeman, Allen Nash, 40, of Wentworth Street, Port Kembla, who was shot through the groin by a .22 bullet.
The bullet pierced his liver and lodged near his spine.
Doctors said to-night they had performed an emergency operation on Constable Nash, but his condition was still critical. The dead man is Czech migrant, Nokolaj Russin, steelworker, of Shellharbour Rd, Primbee.
As Constable Nash lay wounded he shot Russin through the heart.
Police described Russin as a woman-basher.
Before Constable Nash fought the duel with him, Russin had terrorised a housewife and her family for an hour.
The woman is Mrs. Mildred Pearce, who lives with her husband and two children aged three and six in Allowra Crescent, Primbee.
She said that shortly before midnight Russin forced attentions on her.
When she refused him admission to the house he went berserk and fired a fusillade of shots, which shattered a window of her bedroom.
Residents said to-day they knew Russin as a gun happy lover who had approached many women in the Primbee area, but had been rejected.
Police said he was estranged from his wife, who lives in Trundle with her 10 year old son.
They believe Russin watched the Pearce home until Mr. Pearce went to work. When Mrs. Pearce was alone, he went to the rear of the house and tried to enter.
Just after midnight Mrs. Pearce was awakened by rifle shots and heard Russin‘s voice as he called out. As she went to open the back door, a bullet whizzed past her head. She went back to the bedroom and locked her children in the bathroom.
“I shouted to neighbours, but they didn’t hear me and when I heard a couple more shots I ran out of the front door to Mr. Stanton‘s shop opposite,” she said.
Mr. B. Stanton rang Port Kembla police and when Constable Nash arrived in a police truck, Mrs. Pearce said she went back into the house.
She heard more shots and Constable Nash called out “Mrs. Pearce, get me help. He’s shot me“.
Then Nash said “I’ve got him“.
A few minutes later Detective Sergeant Davenport and Detectives Marrott, Knott and Morgan, of Wollongong, arrived.
They found Russin dead. He was still clutching a .22 repeating rifle, on the small back verandah below the bullet-perforated back door.
Russin had been shot through the heart by one bullet from Nash‘s service pistol and a second shot had passed through both of his hands.
Nash told police that as he walked to the back verandah he saw Russin firing shots into the back door.
Russin turned and at a range of only a few feet, shot him in the stomach. Nash fired two shots and then his pistol jammed.
An examination of the house showed ten shots had been fired into the back door and bullets were buried into the wall inches from where Mrs. Pearce had been standing.
WOLLONGONG, Sunday,— The Police Commissioner, Mr. C. J. Delaney, to-day visited wounded police hero, Allan Nash, and promoted him from the rank of senior constable to third-class sergeant.
Sergeant Nash, 40, was promoted for bravery and devotion to duty.
He was wounded before he shot dead a beserk Czech migrant at Primbee last Thursday.
The migrant, Nokolaj Russin, had fired shots at a woman and her children and had terrorised them, for an hour before Nash tackled him.
Doctors at Wollongong Hospital said to-night that although Nash was still in a critical condition he had a fighting chance.
Mr. Delaney and several high police officers visited sergeant Nash to-day.
About 16 friends and relatives of Sergeant Nash including his parents, who came from Wagga waited outside the hospital but were not allowed to see him.
Mr. Delaney read a letter to Nash telling him of his promotion.
Part of the letter read: “Your conduct has been hailed by colleagues and the public alike as a magnificent effort.
“We of the police force are proud of you.”
Sergeant, Nash thanked Mr. Delaney for the tributes.
WOLLONGONG. Wednesday. — Sergeant Allan Nash, 40, of Port Kembla, died in Wollongong Hospital this afternoon, a week after a beserk Czech migrant critically wounded him with a .22 rifle.
Sergeant Nash had a relapse at 3 pm. and died at 5.25 pm.
When he was admitted to hospital, he was suffering from a bullet wound in his liver.
He rallied soon after admittance and doctors yesterday said his condition, although still critical, was improved.
The Police Commissioner, Mr. Delaney, visited Sergeant Nash on Sunday and promoted him from a Senior Constable to Sergeant Third Class.
Mr Delaney told Nash the Police Force and the public regarded him as a hero after shooting dead the man who shot him.
The man, Nojolsi Russin, 40, of Port Kembla, had terrorised a woman and her family at Primbee with a .22 rifle before Sergeant Nash challenged him.
SYDNEY. August 22. – Sergeant Allen Nash, 40, police hero in a gun duel with a crazed Czech gunman near Port Kembla last week, died this afternoon in the Wollongong Hospital, after nearly a week fighting for his life.
He was critically wounded by the gunman before he shot him dead.
The gun duel was mentioned in the Wollongong Court to-day, when a 33-year-old man was freed of a charge of occasioning bodily harm.
Ladeus Skora, labourer, of Primbee, near Port Kembla, was charged with occasioning actual bodily harm to Nikolaj Russin, the gunman whom Nash shot dead.
It was alleged that during an argument at a Port Kembla hotel, on July 23, Skora had jabbed Russin in the face and neck with a broken beer glass.
Detective J. Gudgeon told the court he knew Russin as a violent man before Nash had shot him.
GEORGE MEDAL?
The Police Commissioner ( Mr. C. J. Delaney ), said tonight the late Sgt Nash would probably be recommended for the George Medal – the highest civilian award for gallantry.
A doctor at the Wollongong Hospital said tonight that Sgt Nash had displayed ” magnificent courage ” in his fight for life.
SYDNEY, August 16. -Port Kembla police hero, Constable Allen Nash, would almost certainly be recommend for the George Medal, a senior police official said to-day.
Nash is in hospital critically wounded after shooting dead crazed Czech gunman. Nikolaj Russin, in gun duel on Thursday.
The police official said the Police Department was waiting until Constable Nash was off the danger list before interviewing him about the shooting.
Until Constable Nash gave a report on the shooting, the question of an award could not be considered.
Doctors at Wollongong Hospital said today Nash had rallied slightly during the night, but it would be several days before they could know if he would survive.
PROMOTED
Nash was yesterday promoted from senior-constable to sergeant, 3rd class.
The Police Commissioner (Mr Delaney) told him of his promotion when he visited his bedside today.
Mr Delaney told him that the promotion was in recognition of his courage and devotion to duty.
Nash smiled at the news and said weakly: “Thank you, sir!” He was very weak and could not say anything more.
SYDNEY, Wednesday: Police hero Sergeant Alan Nash died in Wollongong Hospital at 5.30 p.m. to-day.
Sergeant Nash was critically wounded last Thursday in a gun battle at Primbee with crazed Czech migrant Nicholaj Russin, whom he shot dead. Mr. Delaney, Police Commissioner,
promoted him from senior constable last Saturday in recognition of his bravery.
Mr. Delaney said to night: “It was with profound regret that I learned of the death of Sergeant Nash. “He gave his life in the service of the community, and was a classic example of a courageous police officer.”
CURTAIN FALLS IN GUN DUEL DRAMA SYDNEY, Wednesday:
A migrant was discharged in Wollongong Court today on a charge of assaulting Nicholaj Russin, who was shot dead last week in a gun duel with Sergeant Nash, who died today.
He was Ladeus Skora, 35, laborer.
Police said he jabbed a broken beer glass in Russin’s face in a Port Kembla hotel on July 23.
‘Beer glass’
Constable J. M. Gudgeon said Skora told him: “I lent Russin £30, but when I asked him for the money: he said, ‘You will not get a penny,’ and abused me.”
Skora denied he had broken a glass and jabbed Russin with it. He said he hit Russin with a full glass of beer.
Gudgeon said Russin had been known to him as a man given to violence.
Commenting, “No jury on earth would convict on the evidence,” Mr. Lake, S.M., discharged Skora.
WOLLONGONG, Friday; -More than 130 police to-day escorted a coffin bearing the body of police hero; Sergeant Allen Nash, 40, to Wollongong Railway station to-day.
Sergeant Nash’s body will be taken to Wagga and buried there with full police honours to-morrow.
Sergeant Nash was wounded in a gun duel with Czech migrant Nikolai Russin near Port Kembla last week and died in Wollongong Hospital two days ago.
Although critically wounded Nash shot Russin dead.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. George Smith, represented the Commissioner, Mr. Delaney, at the funeral, service to-day.
The Minister without portfolio, Mr. Gollan, represented the Premier, Mr, Cahill.
Sergeant Nash’s father, Mr. Albert Nash, of Wagga and other relatives also attended the service.
SYDNEY, Friday: More than 15,000 people attended the funeral at Wollongong today of police hero, Sergeant Alan Nash.
Members of Parliament marched in the funeral procession, which was given full police honors. [ Sergeant Nash was shot last week in a gun battle with a crazed man, whom he shot dead. ]
His body was taken today to Wollongong railway station.
SYDNEY, Friday: Police sergeant Nash’s pistol jammed during a duel with a Ukrainian migrant, Wollongong coroner was told today.
Mr. W. Musgrave, Coroner, was conducting an inquest on Sergeant Allan William Nash, 39, of Port Kembla, and Nikolaj Russin, 34, of Primbee.
Both were fatally shot in a gun duel at Wollongong on August 15.
Detective-constable W. Ross, C.I.B, ballistics expert, told the coroner that 50% of N.S.W. police used the same type of pistol Nash used, which was obsolete.
He said Nash’s pistol had failed to fire four times in a test when 50 shots were fired.
Mr. Musgrave said this type of pistol should be re placed.
He said most Australians respected the police force, who rarely had to draw their batons or pistols.
“A few quiet words is all that is necessary at most times,” he said.
“Some recent arrivals in Australia, unfortunately, carry life cheaply, and although they are in the minority, it is a matter members of the force should keep in mind.”
Mr. Musgrave found Sgt. Nash died as the result of complications following gun shot wounds inflicted by Russin.
He said Sgt. Nash had “upheld the valor and tradition of the N.S.W. police force.”
He found Russin died when justifiably shot by Sgt. Nash in self-defence.
Det.-sgt. J. Davenport said when, with Det. V. Marrott, he interviewed Nash in hospital soon after the shooting Nash told him he had been called to the home of Mrs. Mildred Pearce, at Primbee, where Russin was firing shots at the back door.
Sergeant Allan Nash, formerly of Wagga, has been posthumously awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for gallantry.
Sgt. Nash, 40, who was stationed at Port Kembla, was fatally wounded in a gun battle with a beserk Czech, Nokolaj Russin, at Primbee, near Port Kembla, early on August 16, after the man had terrorised a married women and her family with a rifle.
Sgt. Nash, although shot in the stomach, shot the .22 rifle from Russin’s hand and then shot him through the heart.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Saturday 28 December 1963, page 6
Police Seek New Pistol
SYDNEY, Friday. -The Police Association of N.S.W. will press the Police Department to replace all Webley and Scott issue automatic pistols following the death last week of Constable Cyril Howe at Oaklands.
The secretary of the association, Mr. F. C. Laut, said today his organisation had been pressing for a replacement of this type of pistol “for many years”.
Two police officers had lost their lives in recent years when using these pistols, he said.
Both had fired their pistols twice and the mechanisms had jammed at the third shot. They were Constable Howe and Sergeant Nash, who lost his life several years ago at Wollongong.
Mr. Laut emphasised that the failure of the pistols could not necessarily be claimed to have been the cause of the officer’s deaths.
The department, however, apparently admitted a flaw in the issue type of pistol when it permitted officers to arrange for “personal replacements” of weapons.
Mr. Laut said the association had “pinned its hopes” on an Italian made .38 calibre automatic pistol.
Officers had to carry pistols when on duty and could be called to use them at any time.
BERNARD IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
On 26 February, 1955 Constable Orrock of the Sydney Water Police was performing flood rescue duties in the Maitland area during the horrendous 1955 floods. While travelling with Army and Air Force personnel in an Army Duck toward the Louth Park area, the wireless aerial on the Duck struck live high tension power lines. As a result, Constable Orrock and two Army Signallers, Sergeant William McGrath and Signaller Eric Chard, were killed. The cause of death was asphyxiation caused by electrocution.
He was posthumously awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for Gallantry and a Bronze Medal from the Royal Shipwreck and Humane Society for his actions in the floods that ultimately led to his death.
The constable was born in 1930 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 22 January, 1951. At the time of his death he was attached to the Sydney Water Police.
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Tuesday 22 November 1955, page 5
AWARDS FOR GALLANTRY IN N.S.W. FLOODS
SYDNEY, Monday.
The Queen has conferred awards for services during the floods of last February and March.
The awards were announced by the Governor, Sir John Northcott, and the Prime Minister, Mr.Menzies, yesterday.
……….The Superintendent of Newcastle Police, Peter F. McLouglin or McLachlan, and Mr Ian Stuart Black, of Denman, receive the British Empire Medal.
The Queen’s Police Medal for gallantry was awarded posthumously to Constable Bernard Alfred Orrock, of the Sydney Water Police who was killed during rescue operations.
The Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct was awarded to four policemen and four civilians.
Inspector Peter McLachlan, of Newcastle, who was awarded the British Empire Medal, personally took part in more than 100 rescues in the Singleton district.
He was without sleep for four days and nights directing dozens of other rescue operations, including the organisation of an aerial flood lift into Singleton, and emergency accommodation for hundreds of homeless people.
Constable Bernard Alfred Orrock, 24, of Alpha Rd, Willoughby, who was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for Gallantry ( posthumous award ) was attached to the Water Police when he was electrocuted on an Army duck at Maitland on February 26.
The duck on which Orrock was travelling hit a 66,000 volt high tension wire near the Maitland railway bridge while trying to reach 100 people who were stranded there.
Before he was killed he assisted in the rescue and evacuation of about 70 people.
Constable Marius Joseph William John Bourke, Rudolph Luvaine Munns and Svend Aage Ivarsson, awarded the Queen’s Commendation for brave conduct, are all of the Sydney Water Police.
Washed Over Dam In Boats
There were in two police flood boats, which were washed over a dam, near Singleton, while trying to get Inspector McLachlan into Singleton at night.
Constables Bourke and Ivarsson later in Singleton, took part in scored of rescues under Inspector McLachlan.
Constable Munns worked with Constable Orrock at Maitland and took part in more than 100 rescues.
Wash from a ship’s propeller swept a man to death beneath a wharf at Walsh Bay yesterday.
A wharf foreman, who plunged fully clothed into the water to rescue him, received cuts and bruises when he was buffeted against the wharf.
Drowned was John Allan Mitchell, 57, of Nicholson Street, Balmain.
Mitchell, a welder, was working on the stern of the motor vessel Braeside, moored at No. 7 wharf.
He was standing on scaffolding on a raft floating between the ship’s stern and the wharf, when wash from another ship, Muliama, rocked the raft, overturned the scaffolding, and sent him tumbling into the water.
A wharf foreman, James Curry, of Cascade Street, Paddington, dived into the water and supported Mitchell until Maritime Services Board employees Stewart Dutton, of Herne Bay, and Leslie Lindwall, of Seaview Street, Dulwich Hill, reached them in a launch.
Mitchell was given artificial respiration before the arrival of the police launch Typhon, with Constables B. Orrock and W. Atkins aboard.
Central District Ambulance took Mitchell to Sydney Hospital, but he was dead on arrival.
Water Police yesterday rescued a man clinging to a pylon in three feet of water under a wharf at Walsh Bay.
The man, William McCormack, 60, of Victoria, told police he did not know how he got into the water, but must have been there for hours.
He was blue with cold, and on the point of collapse when rescued by Constable B. Orrock, assisted by Sergeant D. Lechleitner and Constable J. Nicholson.
McCormack was admitted to Sydney Hospital suffering from immersion.
Service: From 18 October 1948 to 21 October 1954 = 6 years Service
Awards: ?
Born: ? ? 1926
Died on: 21 October 1954
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident – ejected
Location of Event: north of the Hopefield Silose, Hopefiled Rd, Corowa
Age: 28
Funeral date: Monday 25 October 1954 @ 3pm
Funeral location: Woronora Crematorium
Buried at: Cremated at Woronora Cemetery
National Police Wall of Remembrance touch pad for Constable Edward Henry DILKS.
About 5.15pm on 21 October, 1954 Constable Dilks and District Licensing Inspector Sergeant Michael Joseph Whelan were returning to Corowa from an inspection at Brocklesby. Just north of the Hopefield Silos the rear, offside tyre on their vehicle blew out, causing the vehicle to swerve, leave the roadway and overturn several times. Both occupants were thrown from the vehicle. Constable Dilks was killed instantly while Sergeant Whelan sustained severe injuries. The constable left a wife and two children behind.
The constable was born in 1926 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 18 October, 1948. At the time of his death he was stationed at Corowa.
South Coast Times & Wollongong Argus Thursday 29 April 1948 page 9 of 20
WEDDINGS
PHIPPS — DILKS
On Saturday, 28th February, at Wollongong Methodist – Church, the marriage was solemnised by the Rev. D. F. Almond between Lorna Ellen, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. V.B. Dilks of Wollongong, and Henry Thomas, only son of the late Mr.R. Phipps and Mrs Phipps, also of Wollongong.
The bride entered the church on the arm of her father wearing a classical cut gown of white crepe featuring a sweetheart neckline daintily hand embroidered and set in train with embroidery similar to that of the gown. The effect was enhanced by the two-tiered veil of tulle worn over an embroidered veil which was kindly lent by a friend of the bride, held in place by a coronet of orange blossoms while white carnations, tuber roses and stephanotis made up the charming bouquet.
The Matron of Honour, Mrs. Doug Williams (of Nowra) and the bridesmaid, Miss Jean Phipps, sister of the groom, wore identical frocks of shell pink and silver matching picture hats of crinolin straw. The bouquets consisted of blue delphiniums and pink carnations which toned in beautifully with the colour scheme.
Mr. Doug Williams, of Nowra, was bestman, and Mr. Edward Dilks, brother of the bride, groomsman.
The church had been tastefully decorated by friends.
During the signing of the register, Miss Olive Waters rendered “I Did Not Know” and “Because”; Mrs E. Tripp presided at the organ.
The reception held at the Methodist School Hall was attended by over seventy guests who were received by the bride’s mother wearing a suit of burgundy crepe with black accessories and a shoulder spray of pink carnations, assisted by the bridegroom’s mother wearing a royal blue dress with navy accessories and a shoulder spray of red roses.
With Mr. Les Redman presiding the customary toasts were honoured. Then the bride assisted by the groom, cut the beautifully decorated three tier cake made by the bride’s mother. The young couple received numerous telegrams of good wishes and congratulations.
The happy couple left for the Blue Mountains with the bride looking charming in cinamon crepe and matching accessories.
The future home of Mr. and Mrs. Phipps will be at Wollongong.
Newcastle Morning Herald & Miners’ Advocate Saturday 23 October 1954 page 2 of 20
DILKS. – The Relatives and Friends of Mr. and Mrs. V. B. DILKS, HARRY, LORNA and FAMILY, and GRAN are invited to attend the Funeral of their son, brother, Uncle and grandson, EDWARD HENRY DILKS, to take place at the Woronora Crematorium at 3 p.m. Monday.
Illawarra Daily Mercury ( Wollongong ) Monday 25 October 1954 page 4 of 12
Funeral Notices DILKS. — The officers and brethren of Lodge Aubrey Holloran No. 643 U.G.L. of N.S.W. and sister lodges are requested to attend the funeral service of their esteemed brother Edward Henry Dilks at Woronora Crematorium this Monday at 3 p.m. Regalia.
A bus for brethren will leave Parsons’ Funeral Parlour, Wollongong, at 1.15 p.m. J. S. Skillen, W.M. and E. L. Boyle, Secretary.
The Riverine Grazier ( Hay ) Tuesday 26 October 1954 page 2 of 4
SGT. WHELAN INJURED
Former police prosecutor for this district, Sgt. 1st Class, M. Whelan, was injured in an accident near Corowa last week. He was a passenger in a police car which skidded and overturned after a tyre had blown. The car’s driver, Const. Edward Henry Dilks, of Corowa police (formerly of Narrandera), was killed. Sgt. Whelan who has a broken arm, is at present in Corowa District Hospital.
Area: Zone F, Sect: Independent General K, Grave 2643
Memorial located at: ?
at the base of Cecils grave
Here are some amazing photos for you,
I have attached some photos of dad in uniform also a few of funeral procession that I found. Dad was also one of the officers who escorted the Queen on her Coronation Tour in Sydney May 1954. I think that might be the photo of him on his bike. After Sydney tour he was to escort the Queen & Duke to Canberra but his bike broke down at Liverpool. A couple of weeks later he lost his life.
Thanks again.
Ron
Cecil SEWELL
Cecil SEWELL funeral
Cecil SEWELL funeral
Cecil SEWELL funeral
Cecil SEWELL funeral
CECIL is mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
( NEED TO OBTAIN PHOTO OF TOUCH PLATE IN CANBERRA )
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
On 1 June, 1954 Constable Sewell was riding a police solo motor cycle in Woodville Road, Merrylands.
About 4.45pm the constable became involved in the pursuit of a motor vehicle. As the pursuit neared the intersection of Farnell Street, an elderly man alighted from a bus, ran out onto the roadway and was struck by Constable Sewell’s motor cycle.
Both men sustained severe injuries and were conveyed to the Parramatta District Hospital.
The pedestrian was found to be dead on arrival and Constable Sewell died the following morning.
The constable was born in 1927 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 3 August, 1948.
At the time of his death he was stationed at Parramatta.
Alone in his patrol car, Chris Thornton had the police siren flashing as he chased a white sedan through Woy Woy.
Thornton, 35, a highway patrolman, had been in the force for 15 years. He was, his mother says, “the best driver I have ever seen”.
The reason for the chase that night in April 2002 is unknown. Both cars were seen travelling at high speed. Thornton was about 50 metres behind.
Meanwhile, Leonard Rowley, 56, an unlicensed driver, was driving to his local KFC to pick up dinner. He saw the first car flash past and judged – wrongly – that he had time to turn out in front of the patrol car. Thornton tried to avoid Rowley’s car but clipped the back, veered onto the wrong side of the road and hit a power pole.
Thornton died on the spot, which is marked by a permanent stainless-steel cross. Rowley later received a suspended two-year sentence.
“His life from the age of 12 was about helping people,” says Thornton’s mother, Freada Thornton. “He was in the surf club and he was there to rescue people and then he went into the force and he was doing the same thing.” His father, Barry Thornton, says: “He loved life. He had been in Gosford for 15 years and was so popular with the community there.”
Police pursuits are, says Barry, a necessary evil: “If they don’t catch the criminals there will be more deaths on the roads. The ones that they’re in pursuit of are the idiots that have done the wrong thing to start with.”
But pursuits have come at a cost to the NSW Police Department. Fifteen officers have died as a result of high-speed chases, beginning with the death of Constable George Boore in 1937.
Details provided by the NSW Police Association show a steady stream of fatalities involving cars and motorcycles. The full list of casualties is as follows:
More than 200 plain-clothes and uniformed police attended the funeral yesterday of Constable Cecil Sewell, 27, of the Public Safety Bureau.
Constable Sewell was fatally injured on Tuesday when his police motor cycle crashed after hitting and killing a pedestrian in Woodville Road, Merrylands.
Constable Sewell was chasing a speeding motor cyclist when he hit the pedestrian – John Thomas Nivens, 60, of Paton Street, Merrylands.
The Police Pipe Band led the funeral procession to Rookwood Cemetery after a service at the Baptist Church, Harrow Road, Auburn.
Constable Cecil Edwin SEWELL
Parramatta Police
Motor Vehicle Pursuit
2 June, 1954
Resting Place – Rookwood Cemetery, Rookwood
On 1 June, 1954 Constable Sewell was riding a police solo motor cycle in Woodville Road, Merrylands. About 4.45pm the constable became involved in the pursuit of a motor vehicle. As the pursuit neared the intersection of Farnell Street, an elderly man alighted from a bus, ran out onto the roadway and was struck by Constable Sewell’s motor cycle. Both men sustained severe injuries and were conveyed to the Parramatta District Hospital. The pedestrian was found to be dead on arrival and Constable Sewell died the following morning. The Sydney Morning Herald of 3 June, 1954 printed the following article, and funeral notices.
CONSTABLE’S DEATH FROM INJURIES IN CYCLE CHASE CRASH
Constable Cecil Sewell, 27, of the Public Safety Bureau, who knocked down and fatally injured a civilian while chasing a speeding motor cyclist on Tuesday, died yesterday from injuries he received in the accident. He will be buried at Rookwood Cemetery today with full police honours. Constable Sewell was chasing the motor cyclist along Woodville Road, Merrylands, at 70 m.p.h. about 4.45 p.m. when he struck John Thomas Nivens, 60, who had stepped from a bus. Nivens, of Patons Street, Merrylands, died later from his injuries. Constable Sewell, who was thrown from the cycle after it had skidded along the road for 60 yards, died in Parramatta Hospital at 6.30 a.m. yesterday without regaining consciousness. He suffered a fractured skull and internal injuries. Doctors said his condition was too serious to operate. He was married with two children.
FUNERAL TO-DAY
Constable Sewell’s funeral will leave for Rookwood after, a service at the Baptist Church, Harrow Road, Auburn, at 1.30 p.m. The Police Pipe Band will lead the cortege, and Public Safety Bureau motor cyclists will escort the funeral. The Superintendent of Traffic, Mr. H. E. Snowden, will represent the Commissioner of Police, Mr. C. J. Delaney. Among other police officers present will be the officer in charge of the Public Safety Bureau, Inspector J. J. Agnew, and the officer in charge of Parramatta Division, Inspector C. S. Jardine. Police are making a wide search for the speeding motor cyclist, whom they blame for the deaths of Nivens and Constable Sewell. A senior police officer said yesterday that the cyclist, if arrested, faced charges of manslaughter.
“FINE OFFICER”.
Mr. Snowden said last night: “Constable Sewell was an outstanding young policeman with a particularly fine character. He was a policeman the public and the Police Force could ill afford to lose. His workmates in the Public Safety Bureau are stunned by his death.” Mr. Snowden said that police would not treat reckless and thoughtless motorists and drunken drivers and speedsters with “kid glove methods”. “We are determined to exert every means at our disposal to make the roads safe for everybody,” he said.
SEWELL – Masonic Lodge Auburn No 404 U G L of N S W, The Officers and Members of the above Lodge are fraternally Invited to attend the Funeral of their late esteemed Brother C E SEWELL. For particulars see family notice. Regalia.”
The constable was born in 1927 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 3 August, 1948. At the time of his death he was stationed at Parramatta. He is listed in the official New South Wales Police Honour Roll.
A police constable who killed a man when chasing a speeding motor cyclist last night, died at 6.30 am today. Police are now making an intensive search for the speedster who caused two deaths.
Dead as a result of the chase are Constable Cecil Sewell, 27, married with two children and John Thomas Nivens, 60, of Paton St., Merrylands.
At 4.45 pm yesterday Constable Sewell was chasing a motor cyclist along Woodville Rd., Merrylands, at about 70 mph ( 180kph ).
Siren’s scream
His cycle siren was screaming but Nivens stepped out on to the road from behind a bus. The police bike crashed into Nivens, who was killed instantly.
With Nivens draped across the handlebars, the motor cycle skidded for 60 yards before Nivens and Constable Sewell were catapulted from it.
Sewell, of Wycombe Rd., Yagoona, and attached to Parramatta traffic squad, was rushed to hospital. He was admitted with a fractured skull and facial injuries. Sewell was too badly hurt for doctors to operate on him and he died without regaining consciousness.
At present there is no clue as to the identity of the cyclist responsible for the crash.
Constable Sewell was a member of Yagoona Baptist Church. His two children are ; boys — Ron, 5, and Noel, 2.
Mrs. Sewell. 25, was with her parents in Lidcombe during the night.
Constable Sewell’s father, Mr. J. Sewell, of Alice St., Auburn, said today his son had been in the police force for six years.
“No gloves”
Traffic Supt. H. Snowden said, “Our drive throughout the State for road safety is going to be enforced with the gloves off. “Reckless motorists and road users who have no regard for the rights of other road users can expect no mercy. “Since police squads have been operating in plain-clothes and ordinary cars, there has been a noticeable decrease in the number of traffic breaches.”
THOMAS IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
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Nothing is so far known of the death of Sergeant Rea, other than a brief article in the Sydney Morning Herald dated 28 April, 1954 which reported that “ Detective Sergeant Thomas Gordon Rea, 46, of the Vice Squad, collapsed and died on duty yesterday. Rea had been in the police force for 26 years and had been with the Vice Squad since 1947. His is survived by a widow and two daughters. ”
The sergeant apparently joined the New South Wales Police Force about 1928 and at the time of his death was attached to the Vice Squad, Sydney Criminal Investigation Bureau.
The Newcastle Sun Wednesday 28 April 1954 p12
Detective’s Death
SYDNEY. — Det.-Sgt. Thomas Gordon Rea, 46, of the Vice Squad, collapsed and died on duty yesterday. He had been in the police force for 26 years and is survived by a widow and two daughters.
In the 1932 Electoral Rolls, Thomas Gordon REA resided at 6 Tait St, Five Dock, District: Martin, Sub District: Abbotsford, State: NSW. Occupation Police Constable.
In the 1935 Electoral Rolls, Thomas Gordon REA resided at 18 Leige St, Five Dock, District: Martin, Sub District: Abbotsford, State: NSW. Occupation Police Constable.
Up until the 1949 Electoral Roll, he was still living in the same District – Martin but with no street address.
In the 1954 Electoral Roll he was living in the District of Kingsford Smith, Sub District: Coogee West with no street address or occupation recorded.
NSW Police Gazettes: Constable Thomas Gordon REA. Event Type: Police Business. Publication date: 11 July 1928. Page: 453
NSWBDM: Birth: No find in NSW. No Marriage details located for Thomas & Mona.
Death: 7377/1954. Father = David Nelson. No mother details recorded.
The Sydney Morning Herald Wednesday 13 August 1930 p10
DISTRICT COURT.
(Before Judge Thomson and a jury of four.)
ACTION AGAINST CONSTABLE
Henry v Rea
Alfred Henry, of Catherine-street, Leichhardt, sued Thomas Gordon Rea, of Macquarie-terrace, Birchgrove, for £400 damages. Plaintiff alleged that he was knocked down in Weston-road, Rozelle, on July 5, 1929, by a bicycle, negligently ridden by defendant, and received injuries. Defendant, who is a police constable, was riding behind a lorry as escort to a number of volunteer timber workers when the accident happened, it was stated. Defendant denied the allegation of negligence. The matter is part heard. Mr. Creer ( instructed by Mr. H. J. Bartier ) appeared for plaintiff, and defendant was represented by Mr. Hardwick ( instructed by Mr. J. V. Tillett, Crown Solicitor ).
The Sydney Morning Herald Thursday 14 August 1930 p6
DISTRICT COURT.
(Before Judge Thomson and a jury of four.)
ACTION AGAINST CONSTABLE
Henry v Rea
The hearing was continued of an action brought by Alfred Henry, of Catherine-street, Leichhardt, against Thomas Gordon Rea, of Macquarie-terrace, Birchgrove, for £400 damages. Plaintiff alleged that he was knocked down in Weston-road, Rozelle, on July 6, 1929, by a bicycle negligently ridden by defendant, who is a police constable, and received injuries. Defendant, it was stated, was riding behind a lorry as escort to a number of volunteer timber workers when the accident happened. Defendant denied the allegation of negligence. The jury awarded plaintiff £80. Mr Creer ( instructed by Mr. H J. Bartier ) appeared for plaintiff, and defendant was represented by Mr. Hardwick ( instructed by Mr J V Tillett, Crown Solicitor ).
On the evening of the 26 November, 1953 Constables Martin and Bacon were returning to the Belmont Police Station after attending the Newcastle Court. Constable Morris Bacon ( 27 old ) of Robert St, Strathfield, was driving his private car and Constable Martin was asleep in the front passenger seat. On the Pacific Highway at South Belmont the vehicle skidded, left the road and overturned. As a result both were taken to the Royal Newcastle Hospital however Constable Martin had sustained severe head injuries and died later that night.
The constable was born in 1921 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 16 April, 1950. At the time of his death he was stationed at Burwood.
National Police Remembrance Day ceremony in Lake Macquarie
David Stewart
September 29 2017 – 4:27PM
POLICE from Lake Macquarie Local Area Command have unveiled plans for a memorial wall at Belmont to honour the seven local officerskilled in the line of duty since 1863.
Plaques commemorating the seven officers were dedicated to the wall in a ceremony at Belmont police stationthis afternoon, National Police Remembrance Day.
Chief Inspector Murray Lundberg of Lake Macquarie LAC presided over a private ceremony attended by police, local high school students, and the families of the fallen officers.
“This is a time for reflection on the ultimate sacrifice that police officers can give in the execution of their duty,” Chief Inspector Lundberg said.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Brett Greentree, the Northern Region Commander, said the wall of remembrance, to be created on the distinctive blue wall at the entrance to the police station, would be striking.
“It will be a sight to treasure,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Greentree said.
“I want the officers, as they are walking out the front doors of this police station, to stop and reflect on the names, stop and reflect on the sacrifice.”
He said he hoped that the inaugural plaques to be installed on the wall were also the last.
“My dream is that we never, ever, add another name to this wall. I hope and pray that our wall is now complete.”
Acting Assistant Commissioner Greentree reached out to the families of the fallen officers.
“No commemoration or recognition can make good the loss that is unfairly carried by family members,” he said.
“I can only offer you my heartfelt condolences. Please know that your loved ones, who are no longer with us, will always be remembered.”
Across NSW, ceremonies were held to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the 269 officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, and through injury or illness, since the formation of the NSW Police Force in 1862.
Evan Clyde WILLIAMS
26/10/2012
Evan Clyde WILLIAMS
Late of Macquarie St, South Windsor
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # ????
Rank: Constable
Stations: Riverstone
Service: From 28 March 1949 to 10 August 1953 = 4+ years Service
Cause: Motor Vehicle Accident – Police Bike – Rider
Event location: Riverstone Rd, Riverstone
Event date: 9 August 1953
Death location: Prince Henry Hospital
Funeral date: 12 August 1953
Funeral location: ?
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: McGraths Hill Cemetery, Charles St
Row 11, Plot 2
Memorial located at: ?
Gunner, Evan Clyde WILLIAMS
Evan Clyde WILLIAMS is buried with Ian Gary WILLIAMS – son – 1952 – 1957
[Half headstone missing] …Memory of / …OUR FOND FATHER / …WILLIAMS / …AGED 30 YEARS / …o / …WILLIAMS / …AGED 5 YEARS / …ISSED. [Note: Earlier transcriptions have Evan Clyde Williams died 11th August 1953 aged 30 years & Ian Gary Williams died 23rd November 1957 aged 5 years]
[alert_green]EVAN is mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
Grave location: TBA
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
On the evening of 9 August, 1953Constable Williams was riding a police motor cycle outfit along Riverstone Road, Riverstone when the cycle collided with another vehicle which had been travelling in the opposite direction. The constable was treated at the scene before being conveyed to the Hawkesbury District Hospital suffering from severe injuries including a fractured skull. He was transferred to the Prince Henry Hospital that night, where he was operated on, however he died on 11 10 August, 1953 without regaining consciousness.
The constable was on his way home from duty when the accident occurred.
The constable was born in 1923 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 28 March, 1949. At the time of his death he was stationed at Riverstone.
Residents of Merungle Hill were shocked to learn of the death of Constable Evan Williams, who died on Monday night as the result of injuries sustained in a motor cycle accident.
The late Mr. Williams was a member of the Police Force, and while riding a motor cycle between Parramatta and Windsor on Sunday night his machine came into collision with a motor car. He sustained a fractured skull, and a broken leg. He was taken by Ambulance to the Coast Hospital where doctors performed an operation in an effort to save his life. Despite the best medical skill however, he died from his injuries. The late Mr. Williams’ parents who reside at Merungle Hill, did not learn of the accident until told about it by a neighbor on Monday morning who had heard it In a news bulletin broadcast over the air. Mr. Williams immediately got into touch with the police who informed him that they had been endeavouring to locate him. Mr. and Mrs. Williams caught Monday night’s train for Sydney, but when they arrived at the Hospital the sad news had to be broken to them that their son had passed away during the night. The late Evan Clyde Williams was born at his parents home which is situated opposite the Merungle Hill School where he received his first schooling. He later attended the Leeton Intermediate High School. He was a returned soldier of the second World War and saw service In the Middle East and New Guinea. He was about 31 years of age, and is survived by his wife and two children. The funeral was held at the Windsor Cemetery on Wednesday. Mrs. Eckley, a next door neighbor of the Williams family, who had known the deceased ever since he was a little boy, said that the news of his untimely death came as a great shock to the people of Merungle Hill where he was so well-known and the shock was all the greater because of the fact that the announcement came so suddenly and unexpectedly over the air.
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 – 1954), Wednesday 12 August 1953, page 28
WILLIAMS, Evan Clyde.— August 10, 1953 (suddenly), late police constable, dearly loved husband of Pyhllis Williams of Macquarie street, South Windsor, and dear father of Graham and Ian, aged 30 years.
Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 – 1954), Tuesday 11 August 1953, page 21
POLICEMAN DIES
Constable Evan Clyde Williams, 30, of Riverstone, who was seriously hurt when his motorcycle outfit collided with a car near Vineyards railway station, Windsor, on Sunday night, died in Prince Henry Hospital early today.
Corporal Evan Williams, a Digger of the last war, who is now serving with the Hay Garrison, was seen in Leeton during the week-end with his son, Gunner Evan Clyde Williams, also in khaki. The latter has enlisted for service abroad, and is attached to the anti-tank reinforcements. Mr. Williams senior arranged his leave to be home with his son, and also to attend the 21st birthday party given in honor of his daughter, Joy, last night. She was the first baby born on Merungle Hill soldier settlement.
GUNNER EVAN CLYDE WILLIAMS as been wounded in action. Gunner Williams, who served in the Middle East, was in action in New Guinea. His father Cpl. Evan Williams, is attached to the garrison force at Hay. The wounded soldier’s mother, who resides at Merungle Hill, is at present a patient in the District Hospital, where she underwent an operation. The telegram containing the notification read as follows: ‘I regret to inform you that Gunner Evan Clyde Williams has been wounded in action. The Minister for the Army extends his sincere sympathy.’
Relatives of killed officer Evan Clyde Williams being sought
Krystyna Pollard
Relatives of a local police officer killed on duty more than 60 years ago are being sought as plans for his grave to be restored in an historic Hawkesbury cemetery forge ahead.
Constable Evan Clyde Williams, a resident of South Windsor, was killed on duty on August 9, 1953 while stationed at Riverstone. Constable Williams had been riding a police motorcycle along Riverstone Road when it collided with another vehicle travelling in the opposite direction.
He was treated at the scene before being taken to Hawkesbury Hospital suffering from severe injuries, and was later transferred to Prince Henry Hospital to be operated on. He died without regaining consciousness two days later.
The Narrandera Argus and Riverina Advertiser stated on August 17, 1953, that Constable Williams had only just returned to duty after an earlier injury.
“He had resumed duty only a fortnight after having received injuries when he chased a stolen motor car, the driver of which ran his machine against an electric light pole,” the article stated.
Constable Williams was buried at historic McGraths Hill cemetery, where his grave is currently in a state of disrepair. The NSW Police Memorial and Historical Society is working to restore his grave, and society member Ian Colless is asking descendants to come forward.
“We are seeking anyone who may have known or know the Williams family, or has any contacts in the Hawkesbury district, who could assist,” he explained. “McGraths Hill cemetery is heritage listed and any application for work normally requires permission of an ancestor or heir of the burial rights.”
Born in 1923 at Leeton, Constable Williams served in WWII where he was injured while serving as a gunner in the 2/4 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment of the AIF. He joined the NSW Police Force in 1949.
Constable Williams’ wife Phyllis stayed in the area for a time after his death and the couple had two sons, Graham and Ian. Ian died as a child and is buried in the same location. Anyone with information should contact coll2ian@gmail.com.
![[Half headstone missing] …Memory of / …OUR FOND FATHER / …WILLIAMS / …AGED 30 YEARS / …o / …WILLIAMS / …AGED 5 YEARS / …ISSED. [Note: Earlier transcriptions have Evan Clyde Williams died 11th August 1953 aged 30 years & Ian Gary Willilams died 23rd November 1957 aged 5 years]](https://www.australianpolice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Evan-Clyde-WILLIAMS-02-NSWPF-Died-11-Aug-1953.jpg "http://www.hawkesbury.net.au/cemetery/mcgraths_hill/mhmc010.html")
