On the afternoon of Wednesday, 3 March 1976, about 4.50pm, when Sen Const Laube was performing a motorcycle patrol north along Coolart Road, Somerville, and collided with a car which had pulled out into his path from Eramosa Road.
Sadly, he received fatal injuries and died at the accident scene. He was 31.
Sen Const Laube joined Victoria Police on 21 February, 1964 and worked at various police stations during his career including Bourke Street West, St Kilda and Mentone before transferring to the Mobile Traffic Section in 1972.
He was survived by his wife Eve and son Steven.
Geoffrey Leigh BOWEN
05/03/2016
Geoffrey Leigh BOWEN
Western Australia Police Force
on secondment to National Crime Authority, Adelaide, S.A.
Regd. # ?
Rank: Detective Sergeant
Stations: ?, Geralton, C.I.B., Drug Squad – W.A., National Crime Authority – Adelaide – death
Service: From 30 August 1976to 2 March 1994 = 17+ years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 28 May 1992
Born: ?
Died on: 2 March 1994
Cause: Murdered – parcel bomb
Event location: Former NCA Office, 124 Waymouth St, Adelaide, S.A.
Age: 36
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: ?
[alert_green]GEOFF IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
Funeral location: ?
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Plans for new medal to recognise slain, seriously injured WA police
Nicole Cox
EXCLUSIVE
Every slain and seriously injured WA police officer would be automatically honoured with a special commendation medal to mark their selfless community sacrifice, under a new plan to be mooted at the WA Police Union conference today.
The idea, which is modelled on an award offered by Victoria Police, has been raised by outgoing union deputy vice-president Jon Groves and has won support from the state opposition and families of officers killed in the line of duty.
Opposition Leader Mark McGowan will unveil a proposal at the police union’s annual conference on Monday for a WA medal, similar to the Victoria Police Star and the US military decoration the Purple Heart, to acknowledge officers killed or seriously injured while on duty.
Under the concept, fallen officers including Constable Damien Murphy, who was run down and killed by a drunk and drugged driver in Craigie in 2007, would be posthumously awarded the medal, along with those who sustain life-changing injuries – like Senior Constable Matt Butcher, who was left partially paralysed by a “flying headbutt” during a brawl in Joondalup in February 2008.
It would apply to all work-related injuries, including psychological illnesses, regardless of whether the conditions first manifestedon or off-duty.
“The Victorian Government has struck a medal for police officers who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty and it recognises the sacrifice, valour and contribution of those police officers,” Mr McGowan told Fairfax Media.
“It’s only awarded rarely, but it is an appropriate recognition and certainly gives families of those who have died in the line of duty some additional recognition of their mother or father, husband or wife.
“It’s also for those who are seriously injured in the line of duty – so officers who put their lives on the line and get injured as a consequence…that they are appropriately recognised for that.
“It is rare recognition, but appropriate recognition and I think that should happen here in WA.”
Mr Groves said a medal that acknowledged officers killed and maimed in the line of duty – and not only acts of bravery – was needed to highlight their community sacrifice and the risks that police officers come up against every day of their working lives.
“We need a medal that recognises the police officers in this state who have paid the ultimate price – either with their lives or their health – in serving the community,” he said.
“It’s something tangible for those who have been kicked out the door of WA Police, due to work-related illness or injury, to have in their hands to remind them of the good times and the good work they did for the community.”
WA policeman Simon Bowen was five years old when his father WA Detective Sergeant Geoff Bowen was killed by a parcel bomb at the National Crime Authority in Adelaide in 1994.
Detective First Class Constable Bowen, who has served with WA Police for seven years, welcomed the idea saying a special medal would validate the ultimate sacrifice his father made.
“I think it’s a great concept in not only is it a keepsake, but it’s something else in the present that will identify the sacrifice and the memory,” he said.
“It’s a small token that you can just marvel at and look at it and say, for my situation, the memory of Dad is never going to be forgotten not only by me but by the blokes that he used to work with and generations to come.
“It’s a small bit of recognition. It would be humbling.”
Tracey Ball, who was widowed when her husband Constable Peter Ball was run down by a car and killed while chasing a suspected car thief in Cannington in August 1998, welcomed the police medal proposal.
The couple’s daughter, Brianna, now 17, was only 18 months old when her father died in the line of duty.
“Brianna was just 18 months old so she really has no memories of her dad,” Ms Ball said.
“She’s very proud of him but she never really knew him, she never got the chance. So to have something physical and tangible that links who he was as a police officer, I think would be extremely important to her.
“My granddad served in World War I and we have his medals. Having those medals, we used to do the Anzac Day parade and we were so proud and patriotic. To have chance to have that for someone in the police force, I think would be awesome.
“I know the defence forces award medals posthumously and with Legacy the kids go on camps with the armed forces kids who talk about their dads’ medals whereas the police kids don’t have that, they don’t have anything.”
A WA Police spokesman said the force already offered several Police Commissioner’s awards for bravery and conduct including the Cross for Bravery, commendations and a group citation for conduct.
In addition, there is also the WA Police Medal for diligent and ethical service, service medals, the Commissioner’s Medal for Excellence, a Certificate of Outstanding Performance and a WA Police Cadet Medal.
The spokesman said the Western Australia Police Cross for Bravery could be awarded to officers killed or seriously injured after a specific act of bravery and members killed in the line of duty were also recognised on the WA Police Memorial Honour Roll and the National Memorial Honour Roll.
He said the “existing awards and medals are quite comprehensive” but declined to comment about the proposal for a medal for officers killed or seriously injured in the line of duty.
“I am unaware of any proposals for new medals and the department does not make a habit of commenting on speculation or possible proposals,” he said.
Comments:
les bassednean,
that is all well and good, but what do those officers who put their body on the line for their state, and then get arrested, interrogated, humiliated, insulted and shamed get?
Mrs Elliott Watt (9038)
I wonder if the medal will be awarded to officers with psychological injuries who have died from these injuries like PTSD, depression and anxiety? My husband died on duty from depression after 15+ years service….surely he, and other officers like him deserve to be recognized too?
Long overdue Perth,
This issues has been raised for quite literally decades that I have been aware of, and yet the Dep’t has chosen to ignore the injured in the hope they will leave. It is only if you suddenly become high-profile media interest then they cannot ignore you.
The embarrassing fact is as things stand, all the officers who came to Matt Butcher’s aid can be recognised, but there is literally nothing that can be given in acknowledgement to Matt himself as there was no “clever act” they can use for a special commendation. And not even Toxic Tony could spin a believable one for the actions of an unconscious man. This has been raised at the highest levels in emails that were ignored and not replied to.
If they finally come to the table on this one, great! Allow retrospectivity, even better. The men and women who put their life on the line so you can be safe deserve nothing less!
I remember my husband spending 3 nearly whole days in 45*C + heat scrubbing a farmers ute to give back to his widow. It had sat in full sun for nearly a week and as the OIC in a country town you do it yourself – and he wouldn’t let me help, he always wanted to protect me from the nasty side of the job. 3 days stressing it was pristine, immaculate; nothing left to distress the farmers family further. He didn’t realise the toll it took on himself. He was Beginning to realise he was battling inside his own mind with these thoughts….I still remember him saying to me ” Everyday. Everyday I get kitted up and think how easy it would be. “
It will be 8 years this year. And still no closer to acknowledging those already lost, and helping, saving, those suffering.
So sad….Everyday I think, how easy it would be. Easy it would be to stop talking and start doing. Helping. Acknowledging. Remembering. Sharing. Supporting. And stop this waste!
The Perth Coroner’s Court has heard that exposure to a number of critical incidents, including fatalities, could have contributed to a police officer’s suicide.
The Coroner has begun an inquiry into the death of Elliot Peter Watt, 36, at the Collie police station in 2008.
Sergeant Watt, who was the acting officer-in-charge of the station, had four sons.
His body was discovered in the station’s armoury alongside his police-issue firearm.
The Coroner is investigating what impact the daily access to firearms had on the sergeant and whether WA police had adequate mental health safety checks in place.
His wife, Emma Watt, told the court her husband was deeply affected by his work.
Mrs Watt told the inquiry her husband’s mental health started to deteriorate when he was stationed in Kondinin and he had to attend a number of critical incidents with limited or no back up.
She said these included a serious car accident involving children, a farmer’s suicide and an unsuccessful attempt to resuscitate a footballer.
Mrs Watt said he was never offered counselling by WA Police and bottled up his emotions.
Earlier today, the court was told Internal Affairs investigated Sergeant Watt’s death and found there was no single work related incident that triggered his death.
The family’s lawyer said the critical incidents were just as likely to contribute to the suicide as any family problems.
The inquiry also heard Sergeant Watt was depressed in the the years leading up to his death and was looking for another job.
The wife of a policeman who shot himself while on duty at a WA country police station has described how he broke down the night before crying and said he had enough of work but didn’t know what was wrong.
Elliott Peter Watt, 36, took his own life with a police pistol in the armoury of Collie police station on December 22, 2008 – his first day back after a three week break.
An inquest is now examining the tragedy and whether strategies can be used to avoid a repeat of the police suicide.
Today, Emma Watt described how her husband, a father of four, had displayed a dramatic change in his behaviour in the days leading up to his return to work, showing feelings of agitation, withdrawal, and finding a lack of pleasure in the things he used to enjoy.
She said his dislike of going to work had reached the point where she had to wake him up for work, prompt him to shower and lay out his uniform with the belt through the loops and items in his pockets so that he would attend.
The night before he killed himself, she had asked him what was wrong, she told the inquest today.
“He just looked at me and said ‘I just don’t know’,” she said.
“He said that just everything was getting to him… he said he had enough as far as work went…. (but) he didn’t want to leave us financially with no income.”
Mrs Watt said he had eventually withdrawn from her again, prompting her to call Lifeline in hysterics.
The inquest has heard earlier evidence that Acting Sen. Sgt Watt had dealt with “critical incidents” during one stint at a country police station including the failed resuscitation of a young man.
He had also attended a serious car crash in which a child was badly injured and the suicide of a farmer in his car after which he had to clean the blood-stained ute and return it to the farmer’s wife.
The inquest heard Acting Sen. Sgt Watt, who had 15 years experience in the police force, worked by himself for extended periods while stationed at country towns and had $35,000 worth of annual leave owing when he died – the equivalent of about five months’ leave.
Mrs Watt today said she had believed her husband was depressed. But she rejected suggestions his state could have been solely due to the domestic pressures of having young children and a relatively new and senior job.
She said she had not called a doctor because her husband, who she described as quiet and private, had been angry when she once suggested he could be depressed.
However, after her call to Lifeline on December 21, 2008 she had made plans to visit a GP with her concerns – a visit she had unfortunately scheduled for two days after her husband shot himself.
Mrs Watt said she had assumed the police force looked after its officers and that annual checks would be conducted on their mental health.
She told the inquest she would have contacted the police force’s health and welfare division earlier in the year with her concerns about his increasing mood swings but that she had been unaware of the division.
Mrs Watt said her husband was unlikely to ask for assistance from within the police force, but she believed information about the health and welfare division should also be provided to partners of police officers.
The inquest has heard an internal police investigation found there was “no one specific incident” that seemed to prompt Acting Sen. Sgt Watt’s suicide, though the investigator agreed his involvement in critical incidents could have affected him.
The report instead suggested non-work issues could be to blame.
The inquest heard training and education about stress management was required for police but they were also expected to ask for assistance.
Det-Sgt Judith Seivwright, who conducted the internal police report on the suicide, denied suggestions that officers feared asking for counselling or assistance would be viewed negatively by senior officers.
The inquest continues.
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14
COUNTRY policeman Elliott Watt cleaned up after a farmer’s suicide, tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate a young footballer and was brought to tears by a child’s injuries from a car crash in the months before he told his wife he did not want to go to work anymore.
The senior sergeant shot himself at the Collie police station in Western Australia’s southwest after telling his wife everything was getting to him.
In an inquest that is throwing a spotlight on the difficult work of police in isolated rural stations, Watt’s widow, Emma, said her husband killed himself because he did not want his moods affecting their three children. He took his life three days before Christmas 2008.
The night before, Watt broke down and told his wife everything was getting to him and he had had enough of work.
Giving evidence yesterday, Mrs Watt said she had to get her husband out of bed each morning, make sure he had a shower and make him get dressed and go to the station.
She had earlier told the court about three critical incidents her husband had been involved in while he was the officer in charge at Kondinin, a town of 300 people 275km southeast of Perth.
She said she had found her husband crying after attending a car accident in which a child was injured. He had tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate a young football player, and he had to clean the ute of a farmer who had killed himself in it with a shotgun.
She said her husband had become withdrawn after the transfer to Collie.
She said he had expressed feelings of “nothingness”, played less with the children and could not sleep or concentrate.
The next morning, Watt showered and dressed himself. “That’s why the day he died was so unusual,” she said.
Later that day, he took a gun from the station’s armoury and shot himself.
If you are depressed or contemplating suicide, help is available at Lifeline on 131 114.
The Police Union says it is unfortunate the suicide of a police officer had to be the catalyst for reform in WA’s police service.
The coronial inquest into the death of Acting Senior Sergeant Elliott Watt concluded yesterday.
Sergeant Watt shot himself at the Collie Police Station in 2008.
Coroner Alistair Hope has recommended WA police conduct annual health and wellness reviews on every police officer in the State.
The President of the Police Union Russell Armstrong says more resources are needed.
“Not enough staff within health and welfare, four clinical psychologists for nearly 6000 people and we’re dealing with 24/7 critical incidents,” he said.
“And that is not enough staff, so it’ll have to be resourced and resourced very quickly.
“It’s long overdue and should have been put in place a long time ago,” he said.
Office of the State Coroner, Western Australia – Annual report – 2011 – 2012
Elliott Peter WATT
The State Coroner conducted an inquest into the death of Elliott Peter Watt (the deceased) with an Inquest held at Perth Coroner’s Court on 13‐16 February 2012. The State Coroner found that death occurred on 22 December 2008 at Collie Police Station, Collie, as a result of gunshot wound to the head in the following circumstances ‐
The deceased was an acting Senior Sergeant of police with Western Australian Police (WA Police) at the time of his death on 22 December 2008. The deceased was born on 31 July 1972 and so was 36 years of age at the time of his death.
The deceased died at the Collie Police Station as a result of a self inflicted gunshot wound. At the time he was the relieving Officer in Charge of the Collie Police Station, the day of his death
was his first day back at work after a period of three weeks long service leave.
On the day of his death the deceased worked from 8am and had been conducting his normal duties as the Officer in Charge of the Police Station throughout the day. It appears that he was last seen at about 3:45pm.
The deceased was discovered in the armoury at 4:25pm having died of a gunshot wound to the head.
The deceased used the Glock pistol which had been allocated for his own use to shoot himself while alone in the armoury of the Collie Police Station.
None of the police officers on duty at the Collie Police Station heard the shot being fired and none were alert to the possibility that the deceased might be about to take his own life prior to his doing so.
The State Coroner found that the death arose by way of Suicide.
The State Coroner observed that it was important that families of serving members are alert to the available services as it is often family members who are most aware of changes in a person suffering from mental health problems.
In that context the State Coroner made the following recommendation –
I recommend that WA Police take action to better promote information in relation to available services to families of serving members.
The State Coroner observed that the deceased’s colleagues were not alert to his deteriorating mental condition. This was in large part because the deceased concealed his condition from them, but it is also clear that they had received little training in the management or identification of persons suffering from depression.
Evidence at the inquest revealed that for officers taking on senior management roles, while training in respect of these issues is available, it is at present not a mandatory requirement.
The State Coroner made the following recommendation –
I recommend that training in respect of the identification and management of officers suffering from stress or depression should form part of the training for police officers entering management roles.
The State Coroner made the following recommendation in respect to improving the recording of conversation with the Health and Welfare Branch of WA Police in the context of evidence relating to contacts which had not been recorded or filed –
I recommend that WA Police ensure that there is in place appropriate computer software which will enable the recording of all contacts to the Health and Welfare Branch relating to individual officers where concerns have been expressed as to the welfare of those officers.
The State Coroner observed that the evidence in this case has highlighted the fact that policing can be a demanding and stressful occupation.
The deceased was described as a very good officer who was generally highly regarded and yet none of his work colleagues had any real appreciation of his deteriorating mental health.
In the State Coroner’s view there needs to be some form of regular health review or wellness review of every police officer in WA Police.
In this context the State Coroner made the following recommendation –
I recommend that WA Police put in place a system which would ensure that in respect of every member there is some form of wellness review conducted or at least offered each year which will identify significant changes in physical and mental health.
A letter dated 20 March 2012 addressed to the Minister for Police invited the Minister to respond to the State Coroner’s recommendations. At the time of publishing the annual report a response had not been received from the Minister’s office. http://www.coronerscourt.wa.gov.au/_files/Coroners_Court_Annual_report_12.pdf
I remember my husband spending 3 nearly whole days in 45*C + heat scrubbing a farmers ute to give back to his widow. It had sat in full sun for nearly a week and as the OIC in a country town you do it yourself – and he wouldn’t let me help, he always wanted to protect me from the nasty side of the job. 3 days stressing it was pristine, immaculate; nothing left to distress the farmers family further. He didn’t realise the toll it took on himself. He was Beginning to realise he was battling inside his own mind with these thoughts….I still remember him saying to me ” Everyday. Everyday I get kitted up and think how easy it would be. ”
It will be 8 years this year. And still no closer to acknowledging those already lost, and helping, saving, those suffering.
So sad….Everyday I think, how easy it would be. Easy it would be to stop talking and start doing. Helping. Acknowledging. Remembering. Sharing. Supporting. And stop this waste!
Retired WA policewoman seeks compensation
AAP
A POLICEWOMAN and mother-of-four who fell into financial ruin after the accumulated psychological trauma of her work forced her to medically retire has appealed to Queen Elizabeth II in her bid to seek redress.
Wendy Kennedy, 49, served in the West Australian force for 15 years, seeing horrendous crimes such as a woman who had been stabbed and thrown through a window by her partner.
She saved people from ending their own lives, but other times, nothing could be done.
The images are burnt into her mind and still haunt her.
She lists off the many times she was in mortal danger – a broken bottle attack while working pregnant as Katanning’s first female police officer, running from a man who came at her with a machete, seeing an axe about to fall on her before her partner jumped on the assailant.
It still rattles her to recount the time a car ploughed into her mounted police colleague as they patrolled a dark Perth highway at 2am.
“I watched him go over the car,” Ms Kennedy told AAP.
“We didn’t wear hard hats. There was no requirement – our uniform was an Akubra hat.”
His head hit the cement. He was convulsing, his head in blood, his horse was hurt.
“I thought ‘my partner’s dying’.”
She rushed to his aid and he thankfully pulled through, but no-one asked her if she was okay and she was sent straight back to work.
Ms Kennedy, who suffers post-traumatic stress disorder, says the mental health of officers is not properly monitored, and she’s backing the Medically Retired WA Police Officers Association in calling for regular wellness checks, particularly after traumatic jobs.
Such checks were a key finding from an inquest into the death of Collie policeman Elliott Watt, 36, who fatally shot himself in the station’s armoury in December 2008 on his first day back from long service leave.
For Ms Kennedy, her psychological health is turning a corner thanks to the support of the association and her psychologist Joseph Presti.
And after not being well enough to work for the past 12 years, she’s now managing four hours a week as a personal trainer.
Her clients, who have become friends, understand if she has to reschedule because some days are better than others when you suffer from PTSD.
But she’s so broke, she’s on the brink of being evicted.
Even her superannuation fund was closed after fees ate up all that was in there.Sick of asking for help from Centrelink, Ms Kennedy has gathered strength to fight for the recognition and financial redress she feels she deserves after all of her public service.
“I put on my life on the line and I’ve seen the most gruesome stuff,” she said.
“I shouldn’t have to live like this.”
She’s preparing her first application for an ex-gratia payment from the state government, with the WA Police Union officially declaring her case has merit.
The rare act-of-grace payments are currently the only way medically retired officers are financially acknowledged, although they are usually for physical injury, and while a worker’s compensation scheme is now finally on the cards for police, it won’t be retrospective.
Like all WA police, she’s not considered an employee of the state, so Ms Kennedy has written to the woman she promised to serve – the Queen.
Australian readers seeking support and information about depression can contact the Depression Helpline (from 8am to midnight) on 0800 111 757.
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
An inquest into the death of Sergeant Elliott Peter Watt (who, at the time of his death in December 2008, was a serving WA police officer) was undertaken in February 2012. The Watt Inquest outlined that Sergeant Watt had deteriorating mental health, characterised by:
Irritable moods, generally quite snappy and grumpy;
Pushing his wife away, threatening separation;
Expressing unhappiness in areas of his work and life;
Isolation;
No motivation;
Being short-tempered and moody; and
Becoming completely absorbed in computer games
109
.
It was noted that Sergeant Watt had experienced three specific traumatic incidents in his career, being: the attendance at a car accident that had involved young children; the attendance at a suicide by a farmer in which Sergeant Watt had to clean the utility involved before returning it to the family; and the prolonged, attempted resuscitation of a young footballer, who later died
110
.
It appeared that as Sergeant Watt’s job responsibilities increased, his stress levels increased and his mental health declined. Despite an informal mental health assessment by his senior management
111
,
none of Sergeant Watt’s colleagues “had any real appreciation of his deteriorating mental health”
112
.
The coroner made several very important comments regarding police officer health and safety as it was noted that “serving police officers can be
vulnerable to serious mental health problems as a result of their work”
113
. The coroner noted that:
Being transferred to certain locations can place pressures on police officers;
Police officers “face regular exposure to stressful situations including violence inflicted on them and others, trauma and death scenes”
114
;
109
Coroner’s Court of Western Australia,
Inquest into the death of Elliott Peter Watt
, Government of Western
Australia, Perth, 2012.
110
Ibid, p. 10.
111
Ibid, p. 17.
112
Ibid, p. 36.
113
Ibid, p. 29.
114
Ibid.
33
“The health and welfare of serving police officers requires ongoing monitoring and support”
115
;
“It is the responsibility of the Health and Welfare Services of WA Police to educate and train personnel in the management of stress, and in particular, post-trauma stress”
116
;
“Officers involved in critical incidents may suffer problems months or even years after those incidents and so there is an ongoing need to monitor [police officer] health and wellbeing”
117
; and
It is vital that “families of serving members are alert to the available services as it is often family members who are most aware of changes in a person suffering from mental health problems”
118
.
The inquest outlined four recommendations:
1.
WA Police must take action to better promote information in relation to available [mental health] services to families of serving Members
119
;
2.
Training for police officers entering management roles should include identification and management of officers suffering from stress or depression
120
;
3.
WA Police is to ensure that appropriate computer software is in place to enable the recording of all contacts to the Health and Welfare Services relating to individual officers where concerns have been expressed about the welfare of those officers
121
; and
4.
WA Police must put in place a system which would ensure a wellness review be conducted (or at least offered) to every member, in order to identify significant changes in physical and mental health
122
.
The coroner was adamant that there needed to be some mechanism within WA Police to regularly review the mental and physical health and wellbeing of every WA Police officer
123
. Significant changes such as “an increase or decrease of over 10kg in weight over a 12 month period, significant deterioration in fitness, unexplained mood changes or an officer becoming more isolated from his or her colleagues” were flagged as being important to note within these welfare checks
124
. The coroner also acknowledged, to some extent, the stigma associated with admitting to suffering from stress or from mental health problems and the likelihood this declaration has on promotional opportunities.
The recommendations outlined in the Watt Inquest were also referred to within the Toll of Trauma Inquiry
Stations: Hendra Police Station before transferring to South Brisbane Traffic as a Senior Constable.
2007 Dan was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and transferred to the Oxley District Division Traffic Branch, working out of Mount Ommaney Police Station – HWP Cyclist
Service: From? ? 2002to 1 December 2010
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 32276
” Possibly ” in PREP Class 272
Rank: Constable
Stations: ?, Bankstown ( late 1990’s ),
Service: From? ? 1997to14 July 2001= 4 years Service with NSW Police force
Awards: Queensland Police Service medal – posthumously
Queensland Police Service Award for Meritorious Service – posthumously
Born: 6 January1977
Died on: Wednesday 1 December 2010
Death location: Bruce Hwy, approximately 15km south of Mt Larcom, Qld
Cause: Motor cycle collision – rider -v- jacknifing semi trailer
Age: 33
Funeral date: Thursday 9 December 2010 @ 10.30a,
Funeral location: St Peter Chanel Catholic Church, Chaprowe Roadn The Gap
Buried at: Settlement Road, and on to a private interment
Memorial at: Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve, Heathwood, 4110. Stapylton, Johnson & Paradise Rd & Logan Motorway, Qld
Lat: -27.6425
Long: 152.986389 Note: GPS Coordinates are approximate.
Sergeant Dan Stiller died when his motorcycle was struck by a truck.
[alert_green]DAN IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]
Details of Death:
On 30th November 2010 Sergeant Stiller departed Brisbane on escort duty with another officer, escorting an oversized load from Brisbane, destined for Rockhampton in central Queensland. Sergeant Stiller was riding a Qld Police Service motorcycle and the other officer was in a marked police sedan. That afternoon they rested at Miriam Vale over night and recommenced at 6am on 1st December 2010. In this escort, Sergeant Stiller was the lead escort, behind a pilot vehicle which was approximately 500 metres in front, and the police sedan was to the rear of Sergeant Stiller. Approximately 15 kilometres south of Mt Larcom on the Bruce Highway, in heavy rain, at 7am on 1st December 2010 three articulated vehicles were travelling south and were advised by the pilot of the load travelling north that there was an oversized load ahead, and to pull to the side of the road to make room. In doing so one of the articulated vehicles, whilst braking, lost control of the vehicle, causing it to ‘jack knife’, and travel onto the incorrect side of the road. The articulated vehicle collided head on with Sergeant Stiller, who was travelling in the centre of the northbound lane. Sergeant Stiller was killed instantly as a result of the impact. Sergeant Stiller has been posthumously awarded the Queensland Police Service Medal and the QPS Award for Meritorious Service.
Funeral location: ?
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
A police officer has been killed while escorting an oversized truck along the Bruce Highway in central Queensland.
Sergeant Dan Stiller, 33, was killed when the motorcycle he was riding was struck by a truck on the highway about 15 kilometres south of Mount Larcom at about 7am.
The crash closed the highway in both directions near Mount Larcom for more than five hours.
Deputy Commissioner Ross Barnett said it appeared the truck jack-knifed before it hit Sergeant Stiller, who was escorting a wide load and convoy along the Bruce Highway.
‘‘The tragic loss of a young promising officer of Sergeant Stiller’s calibre will be felt right throughout the organisation, particularly among those who were fortunate enough to work with him,’’ he said.
Mr Barnett said another police officer, in a police sedan, was also involved in the wide load escort but that officer was not injured.
Sergeant Stiller’s wife, also a police officer, was ‘‘naturally devastated’’ and was receiving the support of her colleagues and close friends, Mr Barnett said.
Premier Anna Bligh said Sergeant Stiller’s death was a ‘‘tragic reminder’’ that police put their lives on the line every day.
“Our thoughts, my thoughts, and think those of all Queenslanders are with his family. This is a very sad day for them,’’ she said.
“It’s also a very sad day for the police service. It’s been almost four years … since we’ve seen a Queensland police officer lose their life in the course of their duties.
Opposition leader John-Paul Langbroek also paid tribute to Sergeant Stiller.“This is a very sad day for our state’s police service and our greater Queensland community,” he said.
“I know each day that every one of Queensland’s 10,702 police officers go to work, they work in challenging and sometimes dangerous situations.’’
Police will prepare a report for the coroner.
The 33-year-old sergeant, originally from New South Wales, was an officer with the Oxley District Traffic Branch. Police are investigating the death of their colleague.
The investigating will be overviewed by the Ethical Standards Command.
11 comments so far
To my mate Dan,
You were a great guy, an excellent policeman and will be truly missed.
My condolences to your lovely wife Julie and your family.
Commenter
Ben G
Location
Sydney
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 2:06PM
My deepest condolences to his family. I am very very sorry for your loss.
Commenter
Marie
Location
Brisbane
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 2:22PM
My deepest sympathies go out to this young man’s family and friends. My respect and condolences go to all his brothers and sisters in the force.
Commenter
Roy
Location
Brisbane
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 2:56PM
Dan. Incredibly sad to hear this news, you were a great guy and I will always remember your smile. Condolences to Julie and Dans family.
Commenter
Steven Cooper
Location
Melbourne
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 3:18PM
Proud to have served with Dan in NSWPF, a friendly, lovely, smiling man taken from this world too soon. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. xoxo
Commenter
Kate Y
Location
Sydney
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 4:10PM
My Deepest sympathies to those who have lost a loved one, while serving the community.
Something must be done about the way these extra wide loads are allowed to travel at high speed along the highways. The escort system and rules are NOW Broken and Inadequate. Attitude seems to be anything goes as long as there is an escort. As a regular car driver on the Burnett and D’Aguilar highways, I have often seen very close calls several times as the escorts often do not give enough warning to oncoming vehicles for a heavy load that now often spreads across the two lanes , travelling at maximum legal speed. The loads seem to be getting wider and larger and more frequent with all the huge mining plant being shipped to and from Central Qld mines.
I was almost unable to pull up recently travelling north at Collinton, almost running into the bridge as I tried to avoid a large load, with an escort barely 100m in front of it. If I had been in a semi, I or the escort most likely would not be here. The wide load was simply going too fast downhill to be safe.
Most escorts do a fine job, but the loads are just getting too big and fast to be safely controlled, in all circumstances. Cars can pull up safely, but heavy vehicles coming in opposite direction must often have difficulty stopping and getting off the road.
Commenter
Vini Vidi
Location
Queensland
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 4:57PM
Such a tragic loss of a great police officer and all round good bloke. Dan, I’m proud to have called you a colleague and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends. You will live on in our hearts.
Commenter
Refidex
Location
Queensland
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 5:22PM
The military and emergency services are two of few workplaces in this country where families and colleagues send their loved ones and mates out to the job with a greater fear that they will not return safely than most of us can understand. You have my profound thanks and my deepest respect.
Commenter
Les Hawken
Location
Melbourne
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 6:36PM
a terrible loss that should have been avoided. why was a motorcycle doing this duty with the poor weather we have been experiencing lately. these wide load escorts are normally two pilot vehicles and three patrol cars. also in this weather the shoulder on most central queensland roads is far too soft to move a semi trailer off the bitumen onto grass where they get stuck as has happened on the beef road recently and had to get towed back onto the road by the prime mover pulling the wide load. not really an acceptable situation. who would have accepted responsibility if the the semi had tipped over in the mud.
Commenter
andrew
Location
brisbane
Date and time
December 01, 2010, 7:47PM
The Police Force has lost another great Officer. Dan, you gave us plenty of laughs and you will be missed. NSW Police Force Class 272 – Delta (PREP of 1997) will always remember you. Our thoughts are with your wife, family, and friends. Rest easy now mate, your shift is done. We’ll take it from here.
Commenter
Rebecca C
Location
Wollongong NSW
Date and time
December 02, 2010, 8:53PM
Rest in Peace my mate Sgt Dan Stiller. You will never ever be forgotten. A great Police Officer. A great Highway Patrol Officer. A true professional in every way. A loving husband that will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Julie, both families, your QPS mates and your NSWPF mates. I am shattered. Till we meet again.
This has been issued to all media on behalf of Sergeant Dan Stiller’s wife, Julie;
A born and bred Brisbane-boy, Dan Stiller grew up knowing one day he would be able to combine his love of motorbikes with his job. In 2007, after 10 years as a police officer, he did just that when he was promoted to a Sergeant at the Oxley District Traffic branch.
On Wednesday December 1, Sergeant Dan Stiller paid the ultimate sacrifice doing what he loved.
Dan Stiller was born on January 6, 1977 in Brisbane to a large family.
An exceptional swimmer, Dan still holds the swimming record at Nundah Primary School – something he continued to boast about even as an adult – and received a scholarship to Nudgee College because of his swimming talents.
Growing up, Dan knew he wanted to become a police officer, and in 1997 he was accepted by the New South Wales Police Force, where he served for four years before applying and being accepted to the Queensland Police Service.
On graduating into the QPS in 2002, Dan served at the Hendra Police Station before transferring to South Brisbane Traffic. In 2007 Dan was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and transferred to the Oxley District Division Traffic Branch, working out of Mount Ommaney Police Station.
I can still recall the first time we met, which was during orientation at the Hendra Police Station. I saw him across the room and I was immediately attracted to him.
It wasn’t long after that we were sharing our first motorbike together, and we have been inseparable since. We married on August 9 2008. Coming from a large family, Dan was ecstatic on hearing that he was going to be a dad.
No words aptly describe Dan. He was a fun person, extremely loving and caring and had a fabulous sense of humour.
His quirks and comments made me laugh. He was capable of making anyone laugh or feel better on a down day, and I learnt very early in our relationship that he was just as beautiful on the inside as he was on the outside.
Queensland Police ServiceOur apologies to those who commented on this previously. We’ve had a technical hitch, and had to repost it, which means your comments were lost.
Gary Anthony HilesAs a member of the Oxley District Traffic Branch, I am very proud to say that I knew Dan and can say that he was an outstanding Police Officer. He was professional, knowledgeable and helpful. He died doing what he loved and has left a hole in our office. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace mate.
Miche MaraeaI have a large family myself, so I can acutely imagine their loss and how it is to be without one of your own, especially during this festive season! I wish his entire family peace and love!
John MarksI am a Police Officer too and will never forget that feeling when I knew what I was heading out to that morning. My sincerest heartfelt condolences go out to Dan’s family, friends & colleagues. RIP Sgt Dan STILLER.
Jenelle ReghenzaniSo so sad what a fine young man to loose his life at such a young age…….RIP and my sincere condolences to his family. May god look over you and protect you in this sad time! I have so much respect for the QPS they have helped me over the years in some very hard times and I truly appreciate their dedication and hard work!
Barbara Ann JohnstonMy heartfelt sympathy to Dan Stillers family and loved ones and work mates. Carry on and live with the pride and happy memories of life shared with him…. as i am sure he would want you to do. Sometimes a loved one is taken from us way too early, but the love in our hearts and the happy memories, nothing or no one can ever take away. RIP young man…. another QPS HERO
David WicksMy thoughts are with his family. Yet another life lost doing a thankless motorcycle officers job. RIP. To the others still riding – be safe.
Vicki Leethe tears in your eyes can be wiped away but may the love in your hearts always stay…sincerest condolences to all Dan’s family, friends and colleagues, a special heartfelt one to his wife and unborn child. xo
Lisa RichardsHeart breaking for all involved. reading those beautiful words you can feel the love they shared for each other. im sure their child will bring joy and love to sgt stillers wife and their family. Taken way to soon. RIP SGT DAN STILLER
Lisa RosierHeartfelt condolences to Dan’s wife and his family both personal and professional. Dan has crossed over to the other side where he watches over his loved ones and waits to guide them on their journey to the other side.
Cheryl Wkit is always heart breaking when we lose one of our finest.
Julie, you will be able to tell your little one that their daddy was the best. Condolences to you and Sgt Stiller’s family,his friends and colleagues.
Barbara StoneSgt Dan Stiller will always be remembered with pride and love. He was certainly taken too soon. My thoughts and prayers are with the Stiller family, their colleagues and friends at this very sad time.
Carrie DavidsonJulie…words cannot describe how sorry I am for your loss. My thoughts are with you and Dan’s family, friends and collegues. The Police service will not be the same without him.
Elle OzDan – The Man!!!! Remember……..Oh I really couldn’t believe it when I turned on the TV that day, I still can’t believe it. You were always the life of the class with that smile that lighted up any room. I am so proud to have gone through the NSWPOL Academy with you it is yet another tragedy where a great Police Officer was once again taken from us. I will be thinking of you this Thursday as I attend the Remembreance Day Parade here in Townsville I will be thinking of you, Glen and Pete xo
Tim RobThe Dan Stiller Reserve is a fitting monument to this man. If you don’t know where it is, Google it and visit it! If you love bird watching, 105 species have been seen there in the last year or so. No facilities and unfortunately the reserve is over-run by morons on trail bikes during the weekend, but it is one of the special places of Brisbane, wild yet accessible.
Tim RobSome complete moron(s) has/have destroyed the memorial. I dont have words – well polite ones anyway – to describe what I think about these idiots. This is a senseless act of vandalism that demonstrates just how moronic they are. If you destroyed the memorial and are reading this then please know that any reasonable person thinks that you are a complete f-wit.
Jillian OliverI had the honour to work with Dan when he first started. He was a great officer and great person. It was a highlight to be working the truck with him. I valued his friendship and think of him often. My prayers and thoughts are with his family.
Wildlife corridor to be named after fallen policeman Dan Stiller, killed by jack-knife truck on highway
Sarah Vogler and James O’Loan
The Courier-Mail
December 07, 20109:27PM
A FALLEN policeman will have a wildlife corridor in Brisbane’s southwest named after him.
Sergeant Dan Stiller, 33, died on duty last Wednesday while leading a police escort along the Bruce Hwy in central Queensland.
He was killed when a semi-trailer jack-knifed and collided with him, becoming the first officer in over three years to die on the job.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Campbell Newman today bestowed on Stiller the rare honour.
“Sergeant Dan Stiller coordinated combined police and council enforcement operations against illegal trail biking while working at the Oxley Traffic Branch,” Cr Newman said.
“It is therefore fitting that we name the 122 hectares we’ve protected against illegal trail biking the Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve.
“It will be a place not just to remember Sergeant Stiller, but other members of the police force who have been killed on duty.”
The reserve lies at Larapinta, near Parkinson, and is bounded by the Logan Mwy, Johnson Rd and Paradise Rd.
Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said Stiller’s wife Julie and the entire police service appreciated the honour.
“The QPS is very appreciative of this recognition by the Brisbane City Council,” Mr Atkinson said.
“It is a fine and fitting tribute to a very professional and dedicated officer and will help in terms of his colleagues dealing with his loss.
“Having discussed this with Dan’s wife Julie, I believe she is also very grateful for this initiative.”
Cr Newman said the bushland would be transformed into a valuable environmental and wildlife corridor and is currently being fenced and marked as bushland reserve.
The land was acquired by council over the past two years, primarily to protect it against illegal trail bikers.
The land grab was part of the Bushland Acquisition Program, which protects vital wildlife corridors in some of Brisbane’s most environmentally sensitive areas from future development.
Council expressed its sympathy to Stiller’s wife Julie, his family and to his colleagues in the police force, particularly the Oxley Traffic Branch.
The funeral for Sgt Stiller will be marked by a motorcade and mounted police this Thursday.
His death sent shockwaves through the Queensland Police Service.
This Thursday’s funeral will be at St Peter Chanel Catholic Church, The Gap, at 10.30am.
“The cortege, including the QPS Pipes and Drums, the Mounted Police Unit and a procession of motorcycle police, will proceed from the church on Chaprowe Road to Settlement Road, and on to a private interment,” police said today.
The interment is for close friends and family only.
Sgt Stiller is survived by his wife Julie, also a police officer, who is pregnant with their first child.
Mr Atkinson has previously described Stiller as ” a dedicated traffic officer, committed to the safety and security of all Queenslanders”.
Dan Stiller was so determined to become a police officer that he didn’t let an initial knock-back extinguish his dreams, mourners in Brisbane have been told.
Hundreds of people, including his pregnant wife Julie, gathered today to farewell Sergeant Stiller, who died when a truck jackknifed and hit him as he escorted a wide load south of Rockhampton last week.
He was the first Queensland police officer killed on the job in more than three years.
Queensland Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson told mourners of the 33-year-old’s efforts to join the service.
‘‘His initial knock-back from the police service only hardened his resolve, and extra study saw his future guaranteed,’’ Mr Atkinson said.
‘‘In the words of his wife Julie: ‘As a boy, Dan always wanted to grow up and be a police officer. This, mixed with his ultimate love of motorcycles, made the traffic branch the place he was destined to be’.’’
Sgt Stiller met his future wife, a police detective, during a posting at Hendra police station in Brisbane’s inner north in 2002.
‘‘She remembers well the first motorcycle ride they shared soon after (meeting) and they were inseparable ever since,’’ Mr Atkinson said.
The couple married on August 9, 2008 and only recently announced they were expecting their first child.
Sgt Stiller was overjoyed about becoming a father and wasn’t shy about showing his love for his wife, Mr Atkinson said.
‘‘His love for Julie was complete and total,’’ he told mourners.
Mr Atkinson described Sgt Stiller as a dedicated, competent traffic officer whose work helped lower the road toll.
Sgt Stiller started his career with the NSW police service in 1997.
He moved back to his home state of Queensland in 2001 and joined the service as a recruit.
He was sworn in in early 2002 and two years later was transferred to the south Brisbane traffic branch where he was promoted to senior constable.
‘‘He achieved his destiny when he passed the police motorcycle course and became a full-time police motorcyclist in the traffic branch,’’ Mr Atkinson said.
‘‘His outstanding policing skills and leadership were rewarded in 2007 when he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and transferred to the Oxley District Traffic Branch.’’
REMEMBERED: A monument dedicated to Sergeant Dan Stiller, who died last December, was unveiled at a ceremony attended by his wife Julie Stiller last Wednesday. Sgt Stiller’s family and friends also planted trees as a living memorial.
AN environmental corridor in Pallara has been named in honour of fallen policeman Sergeant Dan Stiller in a moving ceremony held last week.
Sgt Stiller’s wife Julie, along with his family, friends and colleagues gathered for the official naming of the 122 hectare Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve on Wednesday afternoon, which also included the unveiling of a memorial.
Sgt Stiller’s brother, John Stiller addressed the crowd and said his family were truly honoured by the mark of respect the memorial offered.
“If you knew Dan you’d know that whatever he put his mind to he committed to it 110 per cent,” he said.
“I am extremely proud of my brother, and this reserve will serve as a lasting tribute.
“It will also serve as a place for friends and family to visit and share quiet thoughts.”
The memorial was unveiled by Lord Mayor Campbell Newman and Parkinson Councillor Angela Owen-Taylor.
The Lord Mayor said Dan had been instrumental in working with council to deal with illegal trail biking while working at the Oxley Traffic Branch.
“Sergeant Dan Stiller co-ordinated combined police and council enforcement operations against illegal trail biking while working at the Oxley Traffic Branch,” he said.
“It is therefore fitting that the 122 hectares we’ve protected against illegal trail biking be named the Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve.
“It will now be a place not just to remember Sergeant Stiller, but also other members of the police force who have been killed on duty.”
Cr Owen-Taylor said she had worked closely with Sgt Stiller on road safety and illegal trail biking and she felt this was a fitting tribute.
“The dedication of this bushland to Sergeant Dan Stiller is significant as it is the place where Operation Trailblazer started in July 2008,” she said.
Sgt Stiller was killed on December 1, 2010, by a jack-knifing truck while escorting a wide load on the Bruce Highway near Mount Larcom.
The Police Remembrance Day march and ceremony held at Browns Park in North Ipswich on Thursday.
IPSWICH police paid tribute to fallen detectiveDamian Leeding and Sergeant Daniel Stiller in a moving Police Remembrance Day ceremony yesterday.
A strong contingent of about 100 uniformed, plain-clothed and dog-squad officers gathered at the North Ipswich Reserve from about 9.45am, marching to the beat of the Salvation Army drummers along The Terrace, past Riverlink Shopping Centre, then up Downs St to Browns Park.
Ipswich’s Police Remembrance Day ceremony is held each year at the James Sangster Memorial, which was built in honour of the police officer who died in an attempt to rescue members of the Jackson family from floods in 1893.
There are now 139 names on the Queensland remembrance list – dating back to Laidley Constable Matthew Connolly in 1861 – all of whom died in the line of duty.
However, it was the two most recent additions to that list that drew special mention at the ceremony, led by Southern Region police chaplain Malcolm Twine.
The chaplain began with a prayer for all the men and women who have given their lives while serving the community.
Detective Senior Constable Damian Leeding was shot in the face with a shotgun after responding to an armed robbery at the Gold Coast suburb of Pacific Pines, on May 29 this year.
Family members turned off his life support three days later.
Sergeant Daniel Stiller was killed in a traffic crash while assisting in an oversized-vehicle escort near Rockhampton on December 1, 2010.
The 33-year-old’s wife was pregnant with their first child at the time. Superintendent Garth Pitman said the rain which persisted through the ceremony could not drown police pride.
“We’ll march in the rain if we have to,” he said while delivering the commissioner’s address.
Representatives of Ipswich City Council, the Ipswich RSL, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service and Neighbourhood Watch joined retired police and members of the community in laying wreathes next to the Sangster monument
Policeman Dan Stiller memorial vandalised at Pallara
Kate Kyriacou
The Courier-Mail
August 08, 20121:26PM
Sgt Dan Stiller, tragically killed on duty in a traffic accident, and his wife Julie.
A MEMORIAL commemorating a police officer killed in the line of duty has been vandalised.
Oxley detectives are investigating after the memorial to Sergeant Dan Stiller, located in a reserve on Wadeville Rd, Pallara, was damaged late Tuesday.
Sergeant Stiller, 33, killed in 2010 at Mt Larcom when the wide load truck he was escorting crashed and hit his police motorcycle.
Police said the statue was damaged shortly after 5pm, when a thick glass panel covering a photograph of Sgt Stiller was smashed.
Investigators are now looking to identify three teenaged boys who were seen in the area at the time. Two of the boys were on scooters and the third on a skateboard.
They were last seen walking towards Lillypilly St, Heathwood.
In 2010, the park was renamed Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve in tribute to the well-respected traffic officer.
A memorial dedication and bushland reserve naming of 122 hectares bordered by Paradise Road, Johnson Road, Stapylton Road and Wadeville Street occurred on 9 March 2011 in honour of fallen Police Officer, Sergeant Dan Stiller.
A number of Dan’s colleagues turned up in honour of the occasion
Lord Mayor Campbell Newman and I unveiled the memorial in Dan’s honour.
Unveiling the Bushland Reserve Sign, named after Sgt Dan Stiller
The bushland reserve dedication and naming was commemorated with a planting
A 17 year old male has been ordered to pay full restitution to restore the Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial at Heathwood.
The Brisbane City Council memorial in honour of Sergeant Dan Stiller was unveiled in March 2011.
It was an absolutely despicable act by vandals to destroy a public memorial, let alone a memorial dedicated to a Police officer who put his life on the line for our community each day he stepped out in uniform.
I worked closely with Sgt Dan Stiller to tackle illegal trail bike riding in Parkinson Ward and the Oxley Police District, and our community owes him for the service and care he provided us.
Residents have indicated to me they have supported the public appeal to assist Police.
Further to a thorough investigation by Queensland Police, the offender was brought to justice in the Richlands Magistrates Court on Tuesday 28 August, and ordered to pay full restitution.
I conveyed to Police the full cost of the damage and now the offender is being made to face the full consequences under law for his disgraceful behaviour.
I assure residents and Dan’s family, friends and work colleagues, we are working is to ensure restoration of the memorial occurs as quickly as possible and it will be as protected as much as possible.
Brisbane City Council dedicated the 122 hectares of bushland within the reserve in recognition of Sgt Dan Stiller’s commitment to the community in reducing illegal trail bike riding which was impacting severely on residents’ peaceful enjoyment of their own homes.
I met on site with Police Superintendent Maurice Poiner and stonemason Pete Macfarlane ahead of the photo of Sgt Dan Stiller being reinstalled into the memorial.
The Sergeant Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve is bordered by Wadeville Street, Paradise Road, Johnson Road and Stapylton Road.
THE State Coroner has begun investigating a fatal crash involving a police officer escorting a wide load on the Bruce Highway at Mount Larcom.
Coroner Michael Barnes began hearing evidence in Brisbane on Wednesday into the adequacy of police investigations into the collision which killed Dan Arthur Stiller.
Sgt Stiller, who was escorting a wide load carrying a large piece of mining equipment, died when a prime mover jack-knifed about 7am on December 1, 2010, on the highway between Gladstone and Rockhampton.
Mr Barnes will examine the “adequacy and appropriateness” of regulations and guidelines surrounding wide-load transports within Queensland.
He will also investigate whether police motorcycles should be used as wide-load escorts.
John Edward Dodd, the truck driver involved in the crash, was found not guilty of careless driving by a Brisbane magistrate handed last month.
Magistrate Jacqueline Payne found Dodd had reacted as any reasonable and prudent driver would have.
THE State Coroner has recommended a raft of reforms on how wide loads are escorted on busy Queensland roads following two fatal crashes within six months involving oversized escorts.
Queensland Police Sergeant Daniel Stiller was escorting a wide load on the Bruce Hwy at Mount Larcom when a prime mover jack knifed and crashed into his motorbike.
The 33-year-old died at the scene on December 1, 2010.
About six months later on May 17, 2011, Kenneth Roland Owens was travelling on a single lane section of the Bruce Hwy at Glenorchy, near Maryborough, with his wife and two friends.
A prime mover was travelling in the opposite direction and carrying a miner’s hut, which was so wide it protruded into the southbound lane.
Mr Owens hit the corner of the hut and was killed.
Following an inquest into the deaths, State Coroner Michael Barnes handed down his findings on Friday.
He was satisfied in Mr Owen’s case the driver transporting the wide load was safe and the oversized load satisfied guidelines.
Mr Barnes said while it was likely the lights and markers on the wide load could have distracted Mr Owens, there was no evidence to show why he did not avoid the corner of the miner’s hut.
But in Mr Stiller’s death, Mr Barnes found the blame for fatal accident could be partially contributed to how the wide load escort was carried out.
He found radio communications from the lead escort to other trucks approaching the wide load was confusing and trucks were not given clear instructions.
“Those escorting the wide load gave insufficient regard to the need for other vehicles to get completely off the road when the highway was only of two lanes and the difficulty this would pose for heavy vehicles,” Mr Barnes states.
Mr Barnes also found the driver behind the wheel of the truck which crashed into Sergeant Stiller did not slow sufficiently as he approached the wide load.
The State Coroner recommended wide load grants should not be issued if other transport is available, such as shipping to Gladstone and Mackay ports.
He has also recommended a review of placing police on motorcycles for wide escorts because of the increased risk of death or injury.
Mr Barnes also recommended a public awareness campaign about dealing with wide loads and more explicit signage.
A new section has been added to Dan Stiller Memorial Reserve in Parkinson to the south of Brisbane. It is well worth a look as it has good tracks and an interesting lagoon in the north-eastern corner. We recommend a weekend walk as there is quite high road noise from Logan Motorway in places.
“Dan” is a very interesting reserve that we have visited numerous times, and currently 152 bird species have been recorded there. Interested people may like to download our (updated today) birders guide from:
My wife Marg and I will be leading a BQ walk to “Dan” on May 10th, and will be delighted to meet you.
Tim
Quote from BQ website
” This will be the fist BQ visit to Dan Stiller Reserve for 2015. Meet at 7 am at the gate near the end of Axis Place (UBD 239, E6). This section of the reserve is relatively new and until recently had no good tracks. BCC has made a loop track that includes a section with close proximity to a lagoon on a minor tributary of Oxley Creek. It is also possible, time permitting, to see a large ex-sandmining lake that apparently will become part of an expanded reserve in the future. The track is well made and an easy walk. Boots are recommended for safe access to the edge of the lagoon. There are no toilet facilities in this reserve.
We will meet for morning tea at the park on Lincoln Green Drive (UBD 238, H16) where toilets are available.”
28 July 1903, Page 7
* Taking their Lives in their Hands
Long List of Fatalities.
The execution of Digby Grand and Henry Jones in Sydney the other day for the murder of Constable Long at Auburn a few months previously gives a sad interest to the subjoined list of New South Wales policemen who have either been killed or seriously wounded by desperate criminals while endeavouring to preserve the public peace. When bushranging was rife many constables lost their lives in endeavouring to rid the country of its human pest.
Sergeant MaGinnity was shot dead by Morgan at Tumberumba on June 24, 1864;
Senior-sergeant Smyth was shot dead by the same miscreant on September , 1864, near Kyambra;
Sergeant Parry was killed by bushrangers who had stuck up the mail from Gundagai to Yass, on November 15, 1864;
Constable McHale was seriously wounded by Dunn when the bushranger was captured at Marthaguy Creek, on December 14, 1865.
Morgan was himself shot near Wangaratta (Victoria), while Dunn was executed at Sydney on March 19, 1866.
A particularly brave single-handed attack upon its party of bushrangers at Nerringundah on April 9, 1866 by a young constable named Miles O’Grady, led to the policeman being shot dead by Clark and Connell, two of the gang.
Constable Raymond on April 14, 1866 was shot dead by James Crookwell, a prisoner of Berrima Gaol, who with 10 others made a desperate attempt to escape. Crookwell was hanged at Sydney on the following July 2.
At Binnie Creek, a few miles from Cowra, Sergeant Sutherland was shot dead by two armed men on May 1, 1872.
In the Warren district, on September 20, 1878Senior-sergeant Thomas Wallings was shot by Thomas Law, alias “Midnight,” who was himself pursued and shot by Constables Hatton and Gray.
Constable Bowen was shot dead by an armed gang, which stuck up the Wantabadgery Inn on November 16, 1879.
On March 12, 1885, two prisoners named Angel and Thurston, in Coonamble gaol shot Constable John Mitchell, the gaoler, and effected their escape. The offenders stuck up a store Slashers Flat, near Gulong in which Constables McKinlay and Day were awaiting them. They shot Charles Stewart, the storekeeper dead, but were themselves both shot by the police.
On August 13, 1885, Constable William Hird stopped two men at Canterbury, near Sydney early in the morning and interrogated them as to the contents of a parcel they were carrying. One of the men struck Hird with an axe and killed him. One of the pair was sentenced to imprisonment for life and the other to 15 years.
Sergeant Beatty of Penrith was stabbed to death in February, 1890 by a native of India. He also stabbed John Zahnliter who endevoured to apprehend him and save Beatty. The Indian was shot by Constable Mosdey.
On August 6, 1898, Constable McLean of Liverpool, had two men in custody; one of them, George Peisley, fired at the policeman (shooting him) and escaped, but was recaptured after a prolonged hunt in the bush, and sentenced to a term of imprisonment. ( Pursued by Police around Oatley, Mortdale and shooting to avoid apprehension. Eventually arrested at Arncliffe ).
Among the more important of recent cases are those of the late Constable David Sutherland shot by a burglar named James Morrison, in Rockwall Street, Potts Point, early on June 3, 1889;
Constable Slater, shot in the shoulder and thigh by burglar three weeks later;
Constable Pearce, shot in the shoulder while endeavouring to arrest a man in the grounds of Mr Oxbenham’s residence at Randwick on June 7, 1897;
Constable (now Detective) E.G. Ward, shot in the head by a man whose object, was to rescue a prisoner in Oxford Street, city, on October 22, 1900;
and the brutal murder by George Shaw, the coiner, in Shepherd Street Redfern, on July 19, 1902 of Constable Denis Guilfoyle, which occasioned a great sensation, owing to the escape of Shaw and his companion.
Constable Sutherland, who was only 28 years of age, was on duty in Rockwell Street at about 2.30 on the morning of June 3, 1883 ( 1889? ), when he saw Morrison, a noted burglar, slip out of a yard and walk hurriedly away. The constable, as Morrison would not stop, caught hold of him and the two fell to the ground. As they were struggling, the criminal drew a revolver and shot Sutherland in the groin. The dying constable struck him over the eye with his baton, inflicting a serious wound ; but Morrison, after firing another shot escaped, and throwing the weapon into a garden, ran down to Victoria Street where blood-stained and excited, he attracted the attention of Sergeant Hogan (now of Burwood) and Senior-constable Robinson, who arrested him. Constable Sutherland died some hours later in Sydney Hospital and Morrison was subsequently executed at Darlinghurst Gaol.
Mr Justice Stephen was awakened between 1 and 2 a.m. on June 25, 1889, by hearing two shots fired in his garden at Paddington. The judge ran out and discovered Constable Henry A Slater in his garden in the pouring rain, fainting from weakness and shot in two places, the shoulder and the thigh. Slater had seen a man entering the place, and endeavoured to arrest him, when two other men sprang out of the darkness, one of whom struck him on the head with a tomahawk, and the other fired at him. A tomahawk was found with a revolver, of which two chambers had recently been discharged. Slater recovered. Two men were arrested, and twice tried in connection with the affair, but they were not convicted.
The man who shot Constable Pearce was never discovered ;
but the assailant of Constable Ward received a sentence of seven years hard labour for his crime. Ward recovered, the bullet having only grazed his skull. This officer (says the Sydney Evening News) was one of the party that arrested Digby Grand.
Victoria Police is reeling after a police officer took her own life at a station in Melbourne’s south.
The leading senior constable died at the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre about 3pm on Monday.
Victoria Police spokesman Leading Senior Constable Adam West would not confirm a report that she shot herself with her service weapon. He said there were no suspicious circumstances regarding the incident.
“As this incident is before the coroner, it would be inappropriate for us to say any further,” he said.
The leading senior constable’s death is the latest in a series of police suicides, with the coroner already investigating four deaths in recent years. More than 40 Victoria Police officers have reportedly committed suicide since 1990.
The latest comes after Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton last month ordered a comprehensive investigation into how to improve the mental health of officers.
According to the Victorian Department of Human Services, Seaford is one of the four centres across the state which provides support and services for adults and children who have experienced sexual assault.
Police Association secretary Ron Iddles told radio station 3AW that, on top of everyday pressures, officers had to deal with confronting work issues.
“One in five of the general community will suffer depression, and if you overlay police work, which has got relatively harder and more stressing over the last couple of years . . . the statistics are in excess of 200 members in the last 12 months are going off sick with mental illness.”
For help or information on mental health issues call Lifeline 131 114
Force to review police suicides after death of Victorian officer
Victoria Police will review police suicides around Australia after an officer used her gun to take her own life at work.
The incident occurred at 3:00pm on Monday at the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre, a facility providing support for victims of sexual assault in Melbourne’s south-east.
Officers at the centre have been offered counselling, Police Association secretary Ron Iddles said.
“Any incident like this that takes place likes this amongst work colleagues is very traumatic for them,” he said.
“Those also who are suffering, might be depression or anxiety, need to reach out to your friends and get professional help.”
It is believed four officers took their lives last year.
Mr Iddles said the force was looking at ways to try to prevent any more deaths.
“I know it’s of concern to the current Chief Commissioner and he’s going to do a review of police suicides around Australia,” he said.
“Then [we’ll] see if we can do something to develop a strategy that will hopefully prevent it.”
An investigation will look at the circumstances surrounding the death of the leading senior constable.
Professor Sam Harvey from the Black Dog Institute said the death was a reminder of the mental health consequences of emergency service work.
“With the police I guess there’s a particular problem, while a lot of them are having mental health problems, they’re also carrying a weapon around,” he told 774 ABC Melbourne.
“This is thankfully still a relatively rare end point.”
About one in 10 emergency services workers show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Prof Harvey said.
He said that meant there were lessons to be learnt from the 90 per cent of workers in the field who are more resilient to mental health issues.
“So we’re trying to learn from that and trying to test whether we can train all new emergency workers to learn new resilience techniques,” Professor Harvey said.
A POLICE officer used her service-issue weapon to take her life yesterday, sparking Victoria Police to consider a review of suicide in the force.
Police confirmed the death of a female leading senior constable, believed to be a mother, at the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre. It is understood she died about 3pm.
“There are no suspicious circumstances,” a spokeswoman said last night.
Staff at the centre handle some of the state’s toughest crimes, including domestic violence, sex abuse and child abuse cases.
Police Association Secretary Ron Iddles told the Herald Sun he understood the woman used a firearm to end her life.
Sen-Sgt Iddles said police officers faced traumatic jobs.
“One in five of the general community will suffer depression, and if you overlay police work, which has got relatively harder and more stressing over the last couple of years, the statistics are in excess of 200 members in the last 12 months are going off sick with mental illness,” he told 3AW.
Mr Iddles said Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton was considering a review of police suicides in a bid to prevent the deaths.
“He will undertake a review of police suicides around Australia and come up with a strategy to deal with it,” Mr Iddles said.
“He will, as I understand, undertake a review of police suicides around Australia and come up with a strategy to deal with it.
“Policing is a very tough job. We have more police officers now than probably ever before suffering from depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress.
“Over the last two or three years, there is a whole range of factors — dealing with family violence every day, dealing with ice every day — that can create secondary trauma.
“It is about being aware — if you are struggling, accept that, put your hand up and say you need help.”
Last year the coroner investigated the death of four members who had taken their own lives.
Another officer died in June when he turned his gun on himself at a north eastern suburbs primary school.
Police Minister Wade Noonan last night said: “Our thoughts are with the officer’s family, friends and colleagues at this time.”
Shocked colleagues remembered the officer as a “beautiful lady, friend and devoted mother”.
“Rest in peace angel in blue,” one online tribute said.
It is understood the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre was partially closed last night while investigations began.
Beyondblue is completing a “major” review of how Australian emergency services, including Victoria Police, support their members with mental health issues.
Chairman Jeff Kennett said last night that police officers taking their own lives was “all too frequent”.
“Beyondblue has recognised for some time that we are having some severe challenges among our first responders — the police, SES, ambos, fireys and those coming back from overseas service,” he said.
“We want to develop a service for all first responders that will help to change the culture of those organisations to enable people suffering from depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress to seek help without fearing for their careers or that they have failed.”
Victoria Police said staff at Seaford would be supported while the incident was investigated by the homicide squad.
Mr Kennett said emergency service officers needed ongoing counselling and support “after every (traumatising) incident”.
The woman’s family has been notified.
IF YOU or someone you know may be at risk of suicide or self harm, contact Lifeline (13 11 14) or BeyondBlue (1300 22 46 36)
Victorian police officer’s suicide casts spotlight on mental health toll in force
The suicide of a Victorian policewoman has highlighted the heavy toll emergency services work takes on officers and prompted calls for better suicide prevention measures.
The senior constable took her own life while on duty at a centre which helps victims of sexual assault in Melbourne’s south-east, on Monday.
She was a mother in her mid-30s and had been a policewoman for more than 12 years.
Her colleagues have been offered counselling, Police Association secretary Ron Iddles said.
“I think it’s always sad when we actually lose a member, but when a member takes their own life I think it’s far, far more tragic,” he said.
Mr Iddles said 220 police officers had taken sick leave for psychological problems like depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress in the last year.
A Police Association survey of 3,500 members found 77 per cent had trouble sleeping because of their work, and 8 per cent had been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder over the past three years.
Mr Iddles said the policewoman’s death demonstrated the importance of cultural change, so people could seek help without fearing the consequences.
“I think in the past there has been a stigma in relation to putting your hand up and saying, ‘I’m not coping’, for fear that you might lose your job,” he said.
Four police suicides in recent years prompted Victoria Police to launched a nationwide review.
It is also working on a smartphone app to help officers suffering from mental illness.
Police suicide ‘relatively rare end point’
An investigation will look at the circumstances surrounding the death of the leading senior constable.
Professor Sam Harvey from the Black Dog Institute said the death was a reminder of the mental health consequences of emergency service work.
“With the police I guess there’s a particular problem, while a lot of them are having mental health problems, they’re also carrying a weapon around,” he told 774 ABC Melbourne.
“This is thankfully still a relatively rare end point.”
About one in 10 emergency services workers show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Professor Harvey said.
He said that meant there were lessons to be learnt from the 90 per cent of workers in the field who are more resilient to mental health issues.
“So we’re trying to learn from that and trying to test whether we can train all new emergency workers to learn new resilience techniques,” Professor Harvey said.
Victoria’s Mental Health Minister Martin Foley said the State Government would work closely with police to examine how the mental health of officers could be improved.
“We look forward to working with police command about understanding what it is that drives our frontline emergency services workers to take such a sad step,” he said.
CARROLL. Simone Maree. Leading Senior Constable Victoria Police
25.4.1979 – 12.10.2015
Treasured and devoted mother of 3 wonderful boys; Luke, Max and Ned.
Adored daughter of Jan and the late Peter Twining.
Loving sister of Ingrid, Angela, Peter (dec. ), Rita and Will.
Loved stepdaughter of John.
Simone will always be Loved and Honoured May she enjoy Everlasting Peace
CARROLL. Simone.
Leading Senior Constable 33923
Acting Superintendent Drew Morgan, Officers and employees of the Southern Metro Region Division 4 sincerely regret the tragic passing of our friend and colleague; we stand together to offer our deepest sympathy to her family and friends.
Station Command, Sergeants and all Members at Frankston Police Station mourn the tragic loss of our workmate and friend. Our sincerest sympathy is extended to Simone’s family and friends.
The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Senior Constable Carroll and extend their deepest sympathy to her family. At Rest
Members of the Frankston SOCIT and Frankston SOR are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our friend and colleague. You will always be in our hearts and never forgotten
The Assistant Commissioner and Staff of Crime Command express their heartfelt condolences to Simone’s family, friends and colleagues on her tragic passing.
Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill, Commander Dean Stevenson, Officers and employees of the Southern Metro Region sincerely regret the untimely and tragic passing of our colleague and offer our deepest sympathy to her family and friends.
The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force regret the sudden passing of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to her family.
Fiancee of bullied police officer who took his own life sues the state
PETER MICKEL BUROUGH, Herald Sun
EXCLUSIVE: THE fiancée of a bullied police officer who shot himself with his service firearm is suing the state.
Sarah Fleming, 32, says that prior to his suicide, her fiance, Robert John Smith, was in “emotional turmoil” and had made a complaint of workplace bullying, harassment and other stressors.
Ms Fleming says Mr Smith’s decision to take his life was due to the negligence of the force, which was responsible for the training and action of its employees.
Mr Smith died of a gunshot wound to the head while on duty at the Boronia Police station on June 29, 2013.
In a writ filed in the County Court Ms Fleming claims unspecified damages for the injuries she suffered as a result of Mr Smith’s death.
Since 2000, five Victoria Police officers have died in the line of duty, but 16 more have died by their own hand.
Last October, a policewoman ( Simone CARROLL ) and mother of three, who had previously been on mental health leave and had reported her struggles to Victoria Police, turned her police-issued gun on herself while she was on duty at the Seaford Multi-Disciplinary Centre.
That suicide prompted Police Association boss Ron Iddles — who had previously criticised the force’s efforts to tackle bullying — to call for more to be done to improve welfare of police.
Mr Iddles called for early identification programs in police training programs and at the workplace and for more police to talk about problems and show their colleagues help is available.
The association declined to comment yesterday on what progress was being made or whether there needed to be, or had been, a review of the provision of weapons to officers who have lodged mental health claims.
Ms Fleming’s legal action comes as police and ambulance unions campaign to change how mental health claims are treated, and in the case of post-traumatic stress disorder claims, reverse the onus on emergency workers to prove their condition was caused by work, which can sometimes delay much-needed treatment for years.
Between July 2010 and June last year, WorkCover accepted 482 mental injury claims from Victoria Police (and rejected 500), including 241 resulting from harassment and bullying, 252 for work pressure, 167 sparked by traumatic events and 54 due to occupational violence.
And police were hit harder by bullying than stress and trauma, according to members’ claims in 2014-15.
A National Coronial Information System report on Intentional self-harm among emergency service personnel last year revealed that of the 62 police suicides in Australia between July 1, 2000, and December 2012, 25 shot themselves — 23 with their service-issued firearm.
A Victorian Coroners Prevention Unit report into suicide rates among workers in key professions last year found the annual suicide rate among Victoria police was 10 per 100,000.
Police spokeswoman Sophie Jennings said in the past year the force had improved its complaints handling and completely reformed the way it responds to conflict, claims of bullying and harassment.
DO YOU NEED HELP? If this article causes you distress or if you require more information, police employees can call Welfare Services confidentially 24 hours 7 days a week on 9247 3344, and other members of the community can call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyondblue 1300 224 636
Awards: awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal. The U.N. Secretary-General established the Dag Hammarskjöld medal for posthumous award to members of peacekeeping operations who lost their lives during service with a peacekeeping operation under the operational control and authority of the United Nations.
Dag Hammarskjold Medal
Born: ?
Died on: 12 February 2012
Place of death: East Timor
Cause: Heart attack
Age: ?
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: ?
BRETT is NOT mentioned on the National Police Wall of Remembrance * NOT JOB RELATED
Funeral location: ?
Timor-Leste
The AFP participated in UN operations in Timor-Leste (then known as East Timor) from 1999. It has provided members to every mission in Timor-Leste since. AFP peacekeepers have strengthened the Policia Nacional de Timor-Leste. They’ve helped build leadership and policing skills.
In February 2012, Sergeant Brett Kinloch of the AFP died while serving with the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT).
Today, the Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans’ Association (APPVA) solemnly commemorates the 12th anniversary of the passing of Sergeant Brett Kinloch, an esteemed member of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) who died while serving with the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) in February 2012.
Brett’s untimely death from a heart attack not only left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but also reminded us of the perilous nature of peacekeeping missions and the bravery of those who embark on them.
Sergeant Kinloch’s dedication to international peace and security was posthumously honoured with the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal, a prestigious recognition by the United Nations for peacekeepers who have fallen in the line of duty. This medal symbolizes the highest level of commitment and sacrifice in the quest for peace, a testament to Brett’s unwavering dedication and valour.
Peacekeeping is a noble calling, extending beyond the Australian Defence Force to include our courageous police force members who have served in challenging operations worldwide since 1964. From Cyprus to Cambodia, Haiti to Mozambique, Bougainville to Timor-Leste, Australian police officers have been integral to the success of these missions. They have contributed to these regions’ stability and have been instrumental in strengthening local law enforcement agencies, such as the Policia Nacional de Timor-Leste, enhancing leadership and policing skills crucial for sustaining peace and justice.
As we remember Brett today, we also pay tribute to all Australian police officers who have served in United Nations peacekeeping roles and lost their lives in the line of duty. Their sacrifices in places like Cyprus, the Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste exemplify the highest form of service to global peace and humanity.
The Australian Federal Police’s participation in UN operations, particularly in Timor-Leste since 1999, underscores the importance of international cooperation and solidarity in nation-building and peacekeeping efforts. These missions, often in times of instability, highlight the critical role of police peacekeepers in fostering secure environments where communities can thrive.
On this poignant day, the APPVA honours the memory of Sergeant Brett Kinloch and all fallen peacekeepers. Their legacy inspires current and future generations of peacekeepers to continue the noble quest for peace and security across the globe.
The Detectives office being on the ground floor of the 3 storey building on the left – looking down the ( then ) driveway, from Smart St, which went between both buildings.
When Mick arrived at work in the morning, he complained of a tooth ache / pain in his jaw. He was sitting at his desk and said he did not feel good and collapsed to the floor. His workmates were later told that he was gone before he hit the ground. He was survived by a wife and two young daughters.
Mick was a nice bloke and always approachable.
First published 8 September 2015
Updated 5 August 2025 with Class photo and attached links.
Lyncon Robert Dix WILLIAMS
05/03/2016
Lyncon Robert Dix WILLIAMS
aka Lync
( late of Medindie Gardens )
South Australia Police Force
Regd. # ?
Rank: Constable 1st Class
Stations: ?, Region B, Holden Hill Police Station
Service: From ? to ?
Awards: ?
Born: ?
Died on: 29 August 1985
Cause: Murdered in his police car
Event location: Ross Ave, Blair Athol, S.A.
Event location: [codepeople-post-map]
Age: 30
Funeral date: 3 September 1985
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: Centennial Park Cemetery, 760 Goodwood Rd, Pasadena, S.A.
August 29th, 1985, Police Officer Lyncon Robert Dix Williams from Holden Hill police was murdered at Blair Athol. First Class Constable Lyncon (Lync.) Williams Aged 30 years, of Holden Hill Patrol Base, died in his patrol car after he responded with his junior partner to reports of gunfire at Ross Avenue Blair Athol. A 17-year-old shot him as he arrived on the scene. He had not even had the chance to step out of his car ahead of the fatal shot.
Police arrested and charged the shooter with murder. He was convicted and sentenced to imprisonment at the Governor’s pleasure. A non-parole period was later fixed at 13-and-a-half years.
Police Association President Peter Alexander reflected on William’s death as he laid a wreath at a Police Remembrance Day memorial service. “I didn’t know Lync Williams personally but, I’ll always remember the circumstances of that murder”, he said.
’I remember the shock of it and the grief for his family and workmates. It was a tragedy that was reflected right across the job.’
Robert S. DAVIS
05/03/2016
Robert S. DAVIS
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # ?
Rank: Constable
Stations: ?, Lock Up Keeper at Wingham
Service: From ? to Monday 21 January 1867
Awards: ?
Born: ?
Died on: ?
Cause: Drowned
Event location: Manning River
Body found: Wednesday 23 January 1867
Age: 32
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ?
[alert_yellow]ROBERT is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
Funeral location: ?
We Remember…
Constable Robert DAVIS
Drowned
Wingham
21 January, 1867
This recently unearthed police death on duty is now the subject of research. The following newspaper articles tell part of the constable’s story.
The Maitland Mercury and Hunter River General Advertiser 31 January, 1867:
“Robert Davis, police constable and lock-up keeper at Wingham, while out collecting the electoral roll, was drowned in the Manning, near Wingham, on the 21st January. He was seen riding near the river on that day, and was not seen afterwards alive; but no one appears to have seen him crossing the river. Not returning home in the evening, his wife sent out messengers in search of him. Next day his horse was found near the river, and it was then surmised that he had been drowned. The police and others dragged the river, and found the body a short distance above the crossing place. ‘The deceased has left a wife and several children unprovided for; the inhabitants of the locality are raising subscriptions for them.”
The Empire – 31 January 1867:
“A sad affair, which cost the life of a very decent man, occurred at Wingham on Monday last. It seems that Robert Davis, who was one of the police-constables, and lockup-keeper at Wingham, was recently appointed to assist in collecting the electoral roll of the Manning, and that in the discharge of his duty he crossed over to the Bight on Monday last. He was absent but a very short time when he was seen returning home but he failed to arrive. His wife, alarmed as the evening wore on at his non-appearance, sent out messengers in search of her missing husband, but it was only on the following morning that certain tidings were heard of him. Then the horse on which he had been mounted was found riderless in a paddock on the opposite side of the river; the saddle – covered with mud, and one of the stirrups missing. It was then conjectured that he must have been drowned, and the river was dragged for the body. It was found on Wednesday; and after a magisterial inquiry, all that remained of poor Davis was buried on the same day. How he became unhorsed will probably never be known; and the matter is all the more mysterious from the fact that he knew the ford well, had crossed it before on the same day, and was riding an animal to which he had been accustomed. The man thus lost in the discharge of his duty has left a wife and a number of small children. He had resided in the district several years, and was universally regarded as a sober, unassuming, kind hearted, and efficient public servant. Great sympathy is felt for his wife, who is said to be near her confinement. – Manning River News.”
The Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser 9 February, 1867:
“The ‘Manning River News’ of 26th says:—Robert Davis, who was one of the police constables and the lock-up keeper at Wingham, was recently appointed to assist collecting the electoral roll of the Manning, and in the discharge of his duty he crossed over to the Bight on Monday last. Subsequently his horse was found, on the opposite side of the river, the saddle being covered with mud and one of the stirrups missing. A search resulted in the discovery of Davis’s body in the river. He had been drowned by some mischance in crossing the ford. He leaves a wife and number of small children.”
At the time of his death the constable was aged 32 years and was stationed at Wingham, where he was the lockup keeper.
Clarence and Richmond Examiner & New England Advertiser ( NSW ) Tuesday 12 February 1867 page 3 of 8
A police constable named Robert Davis stationed at Wingham, on the Manning River, was drowned on Monday, when attempting to ford the Bight. He was assisting to collect the names for the electoral roll. He was a man much respected in the district, and has left a widow and a number of small children.
FATAL ACCIDENT AT THE MANNING RIVER. – A sad affair, which cost the life of a very decent man, occurred at Wingham, on Monday, 21st instant. It seems that Robert Davis, lock up keeper at Wingham, was collecting the electoral roll of the Manning, and that in the discharge of his duty he crossed over to the Bight on Monday last. He was absent but a very short time when he was seen returning home – but did not arrive. His wife, alarmed as the evening wore on at his non-appearance, sent out messengers in search of her missing husband, but it was only on the following morning that certain tidings were heard of him. Then, the horse on which he had been mounted was found riderless in a paddock on the opposite side of the river the saddle was covered with mud, and one of the stirrups missing. It was conjectured that he must have been drowned and the river was dragged for the body. It was found on Wednesday ; and after a magisterial inquiry, was buried on the same day. How he became unhorsed will probably never be known, and the matter is all the more mysterious from the fact that he knew the ford well and had crossed it before on the same day, and was riding an animal to which he had been accustomed. The man thus lost in the discharge of his duty has left a wife and a number of small children – News
