Constable Keith Anthony Smith, 57, is being remembered by his Tasmania Police colleagues as “a respected and committed officer”.
Constable Smith was fatally shot while serving a court-issued warrant for the repossession of a house in the state’s north-west on Monday. His death marks Tasmania’s first active-duty fatal police shooting in more than 100 years.
What’s next?
The 46-year-old alleged offender remains in Launceston General Hospital, under police guard, having undergone surgery for non life-threatening injuries. An investigation into the incident continues.
Tasmania’s police commissioner has named the officer fatally shot on Monday while on duty as Constable Keith Anthony Smith, a 25-year veteran of the police service.
Constable Smith, 57, was shot dead while taking part in “routine duties” at a rural property at North Motton in the state’s north-west.
“Keith was a respected and committed officer, and his loss will be deeply felt across our policing family and the wider community,”
Commissioner Donna Adams said.
“My heart goes out to Keith’s wife and family. We will be supporting them in every way we can during this incredibly difficult time.”
Constable Smith was shot as he approached a house on Allison Road with another officer to execute a court-ordered warrant to repossess the home.
Special Operations Group (SOG) police who were in attendance shot the occupant of the residence in the hand, after which he surrendered, police said.
Constable Smith died at the scene.
The 46-year-old alleged offender remains in Launceston General Hospital, under police guard, having undergone surgery for non life-threatening injuries.
No charges have yet been laid.
An investigation into the incident is underway.
Fallen officer ‘admired by colleagues’
Wreaths are being laid outside the Ulverstone Police Station where Constable Smith was stationed.
Commissioner Adams said Constable Smith was “highly regarded and admired by his colleagues”.
She said Constable Smith had a distinguished career and received the Commissioner’s Medal in 2011 and 20-year clasp in 2021, as well as the National Police Service Medal for 15 years of service in 2016.
Constable Smith joined the police force in September 2000.
He served in the Northern District in the Northern Crime Management Unit and uniform roles until 2020, when he transferred to Ulverstone and served in uniform until his death on Monday.
Smith ‘told me to keep my head high’
Nineteen-year-old Jyron Flannery was among the many community members who dropped off flowers outside the station on Tuesday morning — with Tuesday also being the inaugural National Police Legacy Day honouring the legacies of police families left behind by tragedy.
Mr Flannery said he had great “respect” for the Constable Smith, who had looked after him over the years.
“When I was growing up, I was a little bit naughty,” Mr Flannery said.
“I got myself into a little bit of trouble and he always kept me out of it. Always told me to steer clear and keep my head high.
“He was always a good officer and looked out for us people in the community and us young people.”
Floral tributes, including one by Premier Jeremy Rockliff, pictured outside the Ulverstone Police Station where Constable Smith was stationed. (ABC News: Mackenzie Heard)
Constable Smith has also been remembered for his love for cycling, with him participating in charity rides including the 2011 Charity Trust bike ride.
“Today we remember a customer Keith, always with a smile and up for a chat,” bike store Ulverstone Bicycles wrote in a social media post.
“We send condolences to all his family, friends and the whole emergency service family,” the store wrote.
Police Association of Tasmania president Shane Tilley said he had met with Constable Smith’s family, which has asked for privacy.
“His wife is distraught, they’re in a space they never expected to be in,” Mr Tilley said.
Mr Tilley said Constable Smith had also left behind a “young daughter”.
“We’ll wrap our arms around them and support them as much as we can going forward,” he said.
He said the surviving officer who attended the North Motton property with Constable Smith was “devastated”.
“He turned up to that job with his colleague and he didn’t leave the address with him.”
A floral tribute was left outside Devonport Police station after Constable Smith’s death. (ABC News: Meg Fergusson)
‘One of the best of us’, police minister says
Tasmania’s political parties, at the start of a five-week state election campaign, have suspended campaigning for the day in light of the tragedy.
Police Minister Felix Ellis, who lives in the state’s north-west, said he had met Constable Smith “on a couple of occasions” and spoke with his family on Tuesday morning.
“Here in Ulverstone, we’re a close-knit community and this has affected so many people, so deeply,” Mr Ellis said during a press conference at Ulverstone on Tuesday.
“He’s one of the best of us and that’s a reminder of what we’ve lost today.
“An extraordinary Tasmanian who’s serving his community, serving with humility and with distinction. We just grieve for his loved ones and families.”
Questions remain around why SOG officers, who were at the residence to support Constable Smith and the other uniform officer in executing the court-ordered warrant, were waiting at the end of the property’s long driveway.
Mr Ellis was asked why the SOG officers didn’t have the lead on executing the warrant.
“Investigations are underway and I’m not going to pre-empt them,” he said.
“An event like this is incredibly rare.
“Our police do some of the most dangerous and difficult jobs in our community, but for something like this to happen to a serving police officer, is just so out of the blue. That’s partly what makes this tragedy so unimaginable.
“I want to thank all of our police officers who run towards the danger while others are going away.
“I think all of us who have police in our families will be hugging them a little tighter tonight because this is just so incomprehensible.”
Encouraging those impacted to ‘reach out’
Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who also lives in the state’s north-west, reiterated that the Tasmanian government stood ready to provide any support needed.
“Tasmania Police is just not a service,” Mr Rockliff said.
“As the commissioner said last night, it is indeed a family and when one of their own is injured or falls, there is a ripple right throughout the entire Tasmania police service through every rank and every station.
“To every serving police man and woman who knew and served alongside your friend and colleague, the love and the support of our entire state of Tasmania is with you.
“We stand ready to provide any support possible. Any support needed to our Tasmania Police and our entire community at this very sad and tragic time.”
Central Coast Mayor Cheryl Fuller said the council worked regularly with Western District officers and “we thank them for their service”.
“They provide service above and beyond, and we’re thinking of them all today,” she said.
“I encourage those who are impacted or seeing that impact in others to reach out to support services and take care of themselves and each other at this time.”
By chance, Tuesday marks the inaugural National Police Legacy Day.
The day of remembrance will recognise and acknowledge the eight police legacy charities in Australia that provide care to the families of fallen officers.
To mark the first Legacy Day, the sails of the Sydney Opera House will be lit up on Tuesday night with images of the flower of St Michael, the patron saint of police.
Investigations continue today into the tragic shooting death of a Tasmania Police officer in the state’s North-West on Monday.
With the permission of the officer’s family, Tasmania Police Commissioner Donna Adams has confirmed the officer is Constable Keith Anthony Smith, a 25-year veteran of the police service.
Constable Smith, 57, was shot and killed at a rural property in North Motton on Monday morning as he and a fellow officer attended the premises to serve a court-ordered warrant to repossess the home.
Commissioner Adams said Constable Smith was a dedicated officer over a distinguished career with Tasmania Police, who was highly regarded and admired by his colleagues.
Constable Smith had worked in communities across the North and North-West and, for the past five years, was an officer working at Ulverstone police station.
“Keith was a respected and committed officer, and his loss will be deeply felt across our policing family and the wider community,” Commissioner Adams said.
“My heart goes out to Keith’s wife and family. We will be supporting them in every way we can during this incredibly difficult time.
“The Blue Family will come together today, and over the next days and weeks, and will support the family and each other.”
The family of Constable Smith has asked for privacy at this time.
Constable Smith joined Tasmania Police on September 25, 2000, graduating on May 11, 2001, as part of Course 3/2000, and was a passionate cyclist, participating in the 2011 Charity Trust bike ride.
Constable Smith served in Northern District in both the Northern Crime Management Unit and uniform roles until 2020, when he transferred to Ulverstone uniform. He received the Commissioner’s Medal in 2011 and 20-year clasp in 2021, as well as the National Police Service Medal (15 years) in 2016.
Commissioner Adams acknowledged emergency services who responded to the incident and assisted at the scene on Monday.
She praised investigators and forensics officers who examined the scene and worked late into the night, through difficult weather conditions, gathering evidence.
“While no other staff have been injured in this terrible incident, all will be impacted by their involvement in such a tragic event,” Commissioner Adams said.
A 46-year-old North Motton man remains in Launceston General Hospital, under police guard, having undergone surgery for non life-threatening injuries.
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Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services
26 December 2024:
Media statement from Northern Territory Police Commissioner Michael Murphy APM
The Northern Territory Police Force is today mourning the loss of one of its serving members.
Yesterday, Christmas Day, one of our Darwin based officers passed away while on leave at Daly River.
This is a deeply distressing time for the officer’s family and colleagues, and in accordance with the wishes of the member’s family, we will not be releasing the officer’s name.
On behalf of the Northern Territory Police Force, I extend our deepest condolences to the officer’s family, friends, and loved ones.
Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate this difficult time.
We also wish to reassure the community that the death is not being treated as suspicious and we ask that the media respect the family’s privacy and allow them the space they need to grieve.
Support services are being provided to those within the Northern Territory Police family who have been impacted by this loss.
* Story behind any Nickname:
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Today ( Wednesday 10 Sept. 2025 ), they begin the 1,000km journey carrying his ashes to Canberra – they’ll be among thousands of riders joining the annual “ride for the fallen”
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Senior Sergeant Brendan Wiblen, a valued member of the Queensland Police Service. Brendan tragically lost his life in a motorbike accident near Glen Innes while participating in the Wall to Wall Ride, a charity event honouring fallen officers across Australia.
With 28 years of dedicated service, Brendan was a District Duty Officer on the Gold Coast and previously the Operations Leader of Central Patrol Group. Known for his leadership, quick wit, and unwavering commitment to the community, he was deeply respected by his colleagues and loved ones.
Our thoughts are with Brendan’s family, friends, and fellow officers during this incredibly difficult time. We will continue to honour his service and legacy, and as his family has requested, the Wall to Wall Ride will continue in his memory.
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is deeply saddened to confirm the death of Senior Sergeant Brendan Wiblen, 58, following a single-vehicle motorbike crash near Glen Innes in New South Wales yesterday.
Senior Sergeant Wiblen was participating in the annual Wall to Wall Ride charity event, which honours fallen police officers across Australia, at the time of the tragic incident.
With a distinguished career spanning 28 years after joining the Queensland Police on March 11, 1996, Senior Sergeant Wiblen served as a District Duty Officer stationed at the Gold Coast. Prior to this, he held several key roles within the Service, including Operations Leader of Central Patrol Group, where he was known for his leadership and commitment to the community.
South Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner Brian Swan expressed his deepest sympathies to Senior Sergeant Wiblen’s loved ones and colleagues.
“Our thoughts are with Brendan’s loved ones, who are dealing with this tragic loss. The police family stands together in grief and will continue to support Brendan’s family during this unimaginable time.
“Brendan was a dedicated officer who served with distinction throughout his career. He was highly thought of by his colleagues and was known for his attention to detail and quick wit. His service to the community will not be forgotten, and our thoughts are with all those who knew Brendan during this incredibly difficult time,” Assistant Commissioner Swan said.
Commissioner Steve Gollschewski offered his condolences to all who have been impacted by Senior Sergeant Wiblen’s tragic loss.
“The Service stands in solidarity with Brendan’s family, friends and colleagues to provide support during this time of grief,” Commissioner Gollschewski said.
“It is absolutely devastating that Brendan lost his life during an event honouring our fallen members.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our entire Service, particularly for Brendan’s colleagues on the Gold Coast, who worked closely with him day in and day out. His passing will have a significant impact on officers who not only valued his leadership but also considered him as a dear friend.”
Senior Sergeant Wiblen’s family has indicated they wish for the officers to continue the ride to completion.
Gold Coast police officer dies near Glen Innes during motorcycle Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance
By Alexandria Utting
ABC Gold Coast
Topic:Road Accidents and Incidents
A veteran Gold Coast police officer has been killed in a crash on an annual police remembrance ride for members who have died in the line of duty.
Gold Coast district duty officer Brendan Wiblen was an avid motorcyclist and had served with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) since 1996.
Senior Sergeant Wiblen died in the single vehicle crash on the Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance near Glen Innes in New South Wales on Wednesday.
Senior Sergeant Wiblen’s family say they wish for the officers to finish the ride.
The Queensland group left from Brisbane for Canberra on Wednesday.
New South Wales Police said the crash happened about 3:20pm on the Gwydir Highway as the 58-year-old motorcyclist attempted to overtake another rider, lost control and went down an embankment.
“Members of the public administered CPR until NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived, however, the man died at the scene,” they said.
Top brass pay tribute
QPS said in a statement Senior Sergeant Wiblen had a distinguished career holding roles including officer in charge at Southport Station.
South Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner Brian Swan expressed his deepest sympathies to Senior Sergeant Wiblen’s loved ones and colleagues.
“The police family stands together in grief and will continue to support Brendan’s family during this unimaginable time,” he said.
“Brendan was a dedicated officer who served with distinction throughout his career. He was highly thought of by his colleagues and was known for his attention to detail and quick wit.
“His service to the community will not be forgotten, and our thoughts are with all those who knew Brendan during this incredibly difficult time.”
Queensland Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski offered his condolences to all who have been affected by Senior Sergeant Wiblen’s loss.
“The Service stands in solidarity with Brendan’s family, friends and colleagues to provide support during this time of grief,” he said.
“It is absolutely devastating that Brendan lost his life during an event honouring our fallen members.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our entire Service, particularly for Brendan’s colleagues on the Gold Coast, who worked closely with him day in and day out.
“His passing will have a significant impact on officers who not only valued his leadership but also considered him as a dear friend.”
Tributes in Queensland parliament
The Queensland Premier Steven Miles has expressed his condolences to the family of the officer in parliament today.
Police Minister Mark Ryan also told parliament “life can be cruel in the most shockingly unexpected ways”.
“This morning like so many Queenslanders I’m struggling to come to terms with the loss of a much-loved member of the QPS,” he said.
“It is almost beyond comprehension that this off-duty officer should lose his life just as he is engaged in a memorial event in honour of other fallen police officers.
“For the officer’s family, this must be the most extraordinarily difficult time.
“I know that the police family will offer them every support and I know too that there will be every support for the officer’s colleagues and friends who were riding with him.
“This is a tragedy on so many levels. A family has lost a loved one, police have lost a colleague, and Queensland has lost a dedicated police officer.”
Union says healing will ‘take time’
Queensland Police Union President Shane Prior was on the memorial ride.
He said the loss was being felt deeply across the state.
“Today our hearts are heavy,” Mr Prior said.
“All of our colleagues are devastated, the colleagues on the Wall to Wall but also our colleagues around the state. This is going to take a long time to heal.
“Our pain, however, is really insignificant when we think about his family today.
He said NSW police will investigate.
A report will be prepared for the NSW coroner and officers from New England Police District have begun an investigation into what happened.
“It is so sad that one of our colleagues has lost his life, but we know that everything that could’ve been done to save his life was done,” Mr Prior said.
From Ron DeLord 5 May 2015 Nathan Robnett and I split at Johnson City with the Aussies who continued on to Candlelight service with Rick Van Houten and Rene. To Mick Barnes Liam Wiblen Brendan Wiblen and Les Murphy you are always welcome in the Republic.
From Ron DeLord 3 May 2015 – Fredericksburg, TX, United States · Ride for the Fallen crowd after nice day riding headed to Kerrville — with Liam Wiblen, Brendan Wiblen and 6 others at Fredericksburg Brewing Company.
from Mick Barnes 15 September 2021 – Brisbane, QLD · Brendan WIBLEN — with Andrew Frick and 2 others at Queensland Police Service Wall of Remembrance.
Queensland Police identified the officer as Senior Sergeant Brendan Wiblen, 58, who had served for 28 years before his death on Wednesday. Picture: David Clark/News Limited
Brendan Wiblen 13 October 2020
* Story behind any Nickname:
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On September 27, at the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance, and all around the nation, National Police Remembrance Day was celebrated. Before the ceremony, our Chair Det Supt Donna McCarthy held a private Touchstone Ceremony, where members of the Zucchetti, Burns, and Schell families were presented with the Touchstones of their loved one.
At the service we honoured the names of NSW Police Force’s Sergeant Peter Thomas Stone, and SA Police’s Brevet Sergeant Jason Christopher Doig, who died while on duty, as well as the serving members of NSW Police who have passed away in the last 12 months:
General Administrative Support Officer Tammy Leigh Nagle
After the ceremony, three of our young Police Legatees – Oscar, Max, and Bronte – were presented with the Commissioner’s Scholarship. This award has the personal endorsement of the Commissioner, and each young Legatee receives money to support them in their chosen studies and endeavours.
A day of love and remembrance, a day of sadness and of promise.
Auburn Police Area Command regretfully inform the community that one of our beloved employees, passed away on Friday, 7 June 2024.
Fiona Taylor joined the NSW Police in 1995 as a civilian Administration Officer. Fiona progressed to her current role of a Senior Intelligence Analyst with the Auburn Police Area Command, where she worked for over 26 years. Fiona was 68 years of age.
Fiona will be greatly missed.
Our thoughts and prayers of the New South Wales Police Force are extended to the Taylor family and friends at this sad time.
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“The far north police community has been deeply impacted by this loss, particularly those who knew and worked with Scott during his many years as a highly regarded police officer,” Assistant Commissioner Brett Schafferius said in a statement.
“Our officers are being provided with a range of support services as they come to terms with this terrible news.”
Duff was last seen walking in Edmonton on the afternoon of April 8.
Police launched an appeal for public assistance in the search, asking people to check their dashcam and CCTV footage in Edmonton on the day Duff went missing.
His disappearance was described as “out of character”.
The precise location of the discovery of his body has not been revealed.
Police are preparing a report for the coroner.
In a statement confirming “with great sadness” the death of Duff late on Tuesday, the Queensland Police Service urged people to contact mental health support services Lifeline or Beyond Blue “if you need help”.
“Our thoughts are with the senior constable’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time,” the statement read.
The Queensland Police Union posted that officers playing in the Queensland Police Service Rugby League State Championship in Mackay have worn black armbands and “paused in sacred silence to honour” their colleague.
The union been contacted for comment by 7NEWS.com.au.
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.
Drones and rescue helicopters were also involved in the search.
Police launched an appeal for public assistance in the search, asking people to check their dashcam and CCTV footage in Edmonton on the day Duff went missing.
“His disappearance is out of character and his family have concerns for his welfare,” police said in an alert.
His body was found on Monday, with police not revealing the location of the discovery.
It has also not been revealed if his death is being considered as suspicious.
“Police will prepare a report for the coroner,” police said in a statement.
“The public and the media are thanked for their assistance.
“The QPS would also like to thank State Emergency Service volunteers and officers from other districts who supported the search effort.”
Police have released new images of the missing officer as investigators continue to appeal for information regarding his whereabouts.
Detectives are investigating unconfirmed sightings across the southern corridor area and are encouraging anyone with relevant CCTV in the Edmonton and Bentley Park areas on Monday April 8 to come forward, especially households and businesses backing onto bushland and creek reserves.
The officer was last seen wearing a dark blue-grey t-shirt, grey shorts, khaki shoes and a grey baseball cap.
His disappearance is out of character and his family have concerns for his welfare.
Search efforts are continuing, with ongoing support from police aerial assets, the State Emergency Service, and officers from Townsville and the south-east corner travelling to Cairns to assist.
Police are grateful for the community’s continued cooperation during the search, however are urging members of the public not to undertake searches of bushland for their own safety.
Police are appealing for anyone with CCTV or dashcam vision near Walker Road, Timberlea Drive and Fitzmaurice Drive between 1pm and 4pm yesterday, April 8.
Officers continue to search for a 50-year-old man reported missing from Edmonton.
He was last seen wearing a dark blue-grey t-shirt, grey shorts, khaki shoes and a grey baseball cap.
Police are appealing to anyone with information or relevant vision to come forward.
Police have resumed the search for a 50-year-old man missing from Edmonton yesterday, April 8.
Several crews including the Tactical Crime Squad, State Emergency Services volunteers and assets including drones and the Rescue 510 helicopter conducted an extensive search of the Edmonton area, before resuming early this morning.
He was last seen wearing a dark grey t-shirt, grey shorts, khaki shoes and a grey baseball cap.
Officers are appealing to the man, or anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward.
Earlier: Police are seeking public assistance to locate a 50-year-old man missing from Edmonton.
He was last seen at a Slipper Street, Edmonton address at approximately midday today, April 8.
Police and family have concerns for his welfare as his disappearance is out of character.
He was last seen wearing a light blue t-shirt and light coloured shorts.
Anyone with information about his whereabouts, or CCTV footage of the area from today, is urged to contact police.
* Story behind any Nickname: Duff Man, Duffy: Play on surname.
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Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Coroner urges six-monthly welfare checks after inquest into four police suicide deaths
Posted
In short: A Hobart coroner who investigated the deaths of four police officers who took their own lives has recommended Tasmania Police conduct mandatory half-yearly well-being screenings for PTSD.
What’s next? The Police commissioner says work will continue with the police association to implement changes
The family of one of four Tasmanian police officers who died by suicide between 2016 and 2020 say they hope the findings of a coronial inquest may prevent a similar tragedy in the future.
Coroner Simon Cooper has handed down his findings into the deaths of Constable Paul Hunt, Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds, Constable Simon Darke and Sergeant Robert Cooke, recommending a swathe of welfare supports be implemented.
WARNING: This story touches on themes of depression and suicide.
During last year’s hearings, the court was told how overworked officers were self-medicating with alcohol and drugs, and of significant shortfalls in welfare support — particularly in areas such as fatigue management and protocols around interactions with the Professional Standards Command.
In his findings, Coroner Cooper, acknowledged the fact that these men were all serving police officers was “only part of the whole picture” of their lives, but he said he had “no doubt” that “Sergeant Cooke‘s police service was the direct cause of his death“.
But he said the provision of welfare support and whether it was adequate was a “central consideration at the inquest.”
He called for Tasmania Police to immediately develop and implement a fatigue management policy saying it was essential it was “addressed urgently”.
The inquest heard Robert Cooke had reportedly worked “16-hour continuous shifts for four weeks” during the Central Highlands bushfires in 2019.
This had left him “exhausted and barely functioning towards the end of the third week”.
“Tasmania Police had no fatigue management policy at any time, up to and including as recently as when the evidence at the inquest was publicly taken at the end of 2022,” he said.
“The absence of any fatigue management policy was, I consider, a direct factor in Sergeant Cooke’s death.”
Tasmania Police officers salute at Robert Cooke’s funeral in 2020 .(ABC News: Luke Bowden)
The coroner also recommended six-monthly screenings of all operation police officers for post-traumatic stress disorder.
“Sergeant Cooke obviously suffered from the effects of PTSD for a long time before it was diagnosed,” he said.
“Every health care professional who gave evidence … unanimously agreed that his PTSD was entirely attributable to his service as a police officer.
“Every health care professional also agreed that earlier detection of PTSD increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.”
Tasmania Police investigating the feasibility of “introducing a points system”, whereby an officer’s exposure to severe incidents would be tracked, was also recommended.
When a “critical points threshold” was reached, an automatic referral to a psychologist should be triggered, Coroner Cooper said.
The coroner also called for better support for officers under investigation for misconduct — including ensuring that those who had their phone seized by Professional Standards be given a replacement mobile pre-programmed with well-being support numbers.
“The death of any member of the community by suicide is a tragedy,” Coroner Cooper said.
“The suicide of serving police officers, whatever their individual circumstances, is particularly tragic for serving members of the police force and the community at large.
“My sincere hope is that some improvements and learnings can emerge from the deaths of Constable Hunt, Senior Sergeant Reynolds, Constable Darke and Sergeant Cooke.”
Sergeant Robert “Cookie” Cooke was well-regarded among his Tasmania Police colleagues.(ABC News: Luke Bowden)
Families welcome findings
In a statement, Robert Cooke‘s mother Lyn and sister Michelle said they were satisfied with the findings, particularly the recommendations for a fatigue management policy and screenings for PTSD stress disorder.
“The family miss Rob terribly and hope the findings and increased support for mental health may prevent similar events in the future,” they said.
“[Our] thoughts are with all the families involved in this inquest.”
Commissioner committed to ‘safe model of policing’
Police Commissioner Donna Adams acknowledged it was a difficult time for the families and colleagues impacted by the coronial report.
She said improvements had already been made within Tasmania Police.
Strategies included “a strong peer support group, and a critical stress program” to ensure officers could access the help they needed.
But she said changes wouldn’t end there — and that Tasmania Police would work with the Police Association to examine the coroner’s recommendations.
Police Minister Felix Ellis said the government had allocated funding to “Tasmania Police and the Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management’s nation-leading wellbeing program”.
“Police officers, by the nature of the job, are exposed to some pretty difficult and extraordinary circumstances, so providing that support is important,” he said.
“We want to work to make sure that policing continues to be a career or choice, and that we’re supporting our officers if they do find themselves facing challenging circumstances.”
A 32-year-old Tasmanian policeman who took his own life in 2016 has been described as “gentle, kind and popular” with a “deep love for animals and his family” — and whose struggles with depression weren’t “a secret”.
WARNING: This story touches on themes of suicide, depression and substance abuse; reader discretion is advised
Constable Paul Hunt is one of four policemen whose death is being investigated as part of a coronial inquest in the Launceston Magistrates Court.
The deaths of Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds, Constable Simon Darke and Sergeant Robert Cooke will also form part of the inquest.
All four men took their own lives in the period between 2016 and 2020.
Council assisting the coroner, Cameron Lee, said the inquest will look at the circumstances surrounding the deaths, the policy and procedures of Tasmania Police and the nature of welfare and fatigue management.
“The life of a police officer is a very dangerous one, they’re often exposed to dangerous and traumatic events,” he said.
“It’s very much the luck of the draw, one cannot unsee what they have seen.”
Constable Hunt was found dead on the July 8, 2016 at his father’s property at Mount Direction, near Launceston.
His father, Matthew Hunt gave evidence during the inquest and told the court his son battled for years with anxiety and depression and was in and out of hospital.
He told the court he first noticed signs of his son’s depression when he was visiting him for Christmas one year while Paul was working as a policeman on King Island, off Tasmania’s north-west coast.
“I believe he was first diagnosed there,” he said.
“We went over there quite regularly to visit … he met his wife Jess there.”
Questioned over drug purchases
The court heard on the day Constable Hunt died he was called in for an unannounced meeting with officers from the Professional Standards Command.
The meeting was regarding allegations he had been using his Tasmania Police badge and fake driver’s licence numbers for several years to obtain codeine-based and pseudoephedrine-based medications from a number of pharmacies in Hobart.
In early 2014, the court heard he was identified through Project STOP, which is a tool pharmacists use to track purchases, as being in the top four purchasers in Tasmania between January and August.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia said the tool is aimed at preventing the use of pseudoephedrine-based products to manufacture methamphetamine.
He was spoken to by senior police following this — and was flagged again the following September.
On 13 November 2015, he was interviewed by Professional Standards about the allegations.
On the day he died, his work station and locker were also searched and his personal phone was confiscated. He was also officially stood down from his role.
He then withdrew $600 from his joint bank account with his wife and took a taxi to Launceston, and then another taxi to his father’s property in Mount Direction.
His father Matthew Hunt was travelling at the time and wasn’t home.
Constable Hunt then sent his wife a message on Facebook on his dad’s computer saying goodbye.
“Paul had always wanted to be a policeman, and he had depression, it wasn’t a secret,” Matthew Hunt told the court.
He said his son’s wife or another person who could have offered support should have been included at the meeting with his police superiors.
“It was a pretty significant event for him,” Mr Hunt said.
The inquest also heard in the days after his death, Matthew Hunt was told by a Tasmania Police officer that “it wasn’t a compensable issue” which he said he felt was a strange thing to say.
“I checked with other family members afterwards that I had heard that correctly and they said yes,” he said.
“It was very strange … this was before the funeral.”
When asked if other members of Tasmania Police visited him afterwards, he said three had.
The inquest is continuing.
Key points:
A coroner is investigating the deaths of four Tasmania Police officers between 2016 and 2020
Paul Hunt, a constable, died by suicide in 2016 at his father’s property
The inquest heard he had been called in by the Professional Standards Unit on the day he died
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Deepest condolences to Randalls wife – Janean, family and friends.
My husband Sergeant Randal Moulden was one of those officers that tragically took his own life on Tuesday 29th June 2021.
He couldn’t carry the pain of the trauma of what he had experienced over the 30yrs as a serving Police officer.
He was one of a kind, Professional, Caring, Empathetic, Understanding, Passionate. These traits that not only I as a wife, but his children, his friends, his colleagues are what we loved about him.
Regardless of what he had seen, experienced and witnessed.
Every day that he put on his uniform he wore it with pride, dignity and grace, ultimately it was these traits as a serving officer that made him suffer.
To EVERYONE I can not stress this enough, PLEASE, PLEAS,E PLEASE, get help.
There is ABSOLUTELY no shame in reaching out.
As partners we are here to support, to love and to comfort those suffering. Your burden is our burden to share.
Don’t let this tragedy be in vain, lets learn from it and try to change it as death is never the answer.
To all the people that have shared their respect and Grief, there are not enough words to thank you.
This is an Audio file by Janean MOULDEN – wife of Randall MOULDEN, about the impact that his suicide has had on her, the family and Policing families.
MOULDEN (Randall Phillip):
The Commissioner of Police and all Members of the Western Australia Police Force regret the passing of our colleague, serving Police Officer, Randall Phillip Moulden, Registered Number…
Randall Moulden: Wife of cop who took own life says WA Police, State Govt still not providing enough support
Daryna Zadvirna The West Australian
Randall Moulden was a larrikin, the “fun” parent and so dedicated to his job as a WA Police officer, he literally gave his life to the role, according to his widow Janean.
She recently commemorated one year since her husband died by suicide on June 29 by spreading his ashes across the desert in Morocco.
“I had coppers ring me the next day to tell me how graphic and horrendous it was out there.
“He became very withdrawn. I just couldn’t help him.”
Finding helpful support
It was not until January 2016 that Mr Moulden realised he needed help and started seeing a counsellor employed by WA Police.
“Then in the August, the counsellor said, ‘I can’t help you. You need medication,'” Ms Moulden said.
“He just felt like it was just a horrible thing to say, you know?
“So then he was just sort of left stranded.”
It wasn’t until he found Soldiers and Sirens, a free not-for-profit service for veterans and first-responders, that Mr Moulden’s health began to improve.
The service was co-founded by Danielle Baldock, a psychologist and former police officer who felt there was a gap in support for police and other emergency services staff.
“There was no service for first responders that was independent and external and confidential,” Ms Baldock said.
“One of the big concerns that officers have is that if they go to their internal support it might limit their career in some way.
“That’s not a reality, it’s more of a perception. The WA Police psych unit is amazing — they do great work.”
Ms Baldock said because police officers were often hesitant to seek counselling through their workplace she was motivated to provide external support.
“We wanted to provide this separate space where they could come together and be a community,” she said.
‘A massive improvement’
Ms Moulden said the counselling Soldiers and Sirens provided to both her and her husband was a godsend.
“He was doing amazing, he really was. Every time he saw Danielle he walked out with bounce in his step, a smile on his face,” she said.
“He had made such a massive change this year.”
Ms Moulden said the key difference was that the service was independent and staffed by people who had lived experience in emergency services.
“It’s the essential ingredient. You cannot speak to someone who does not have a clue about trauma,” she said.
“And there is a genuine fear out there.
“I’ve spoken to many police officers and they all say the same thing, that they would not go to the police psychiatrist or the police doctor — not when the commissioner is in the same building. You can’t be honest.”
Funding discontinued
Soldiers and Sirens received initial start-up funding from the federal Department of Communities as well as bulk-billing fees from Medicare and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
However, at the end of June the federal funding ended and has not been renewed.
“We were hoping in the time that we could fundraise, that we could apply for the grants and get some funding from somewhere,” Ms Baldock said.
“But unfortunately, with the COVID situation, we just haven’t been able to secure any further funding.
“So on the first of August we shut our doors.”
Service closure ‘daunting’
Ms Moulden said the news that the service was closing devastated her husband as he faced the prospect of having to re-tell his story to a new psychologist.
“He had built a rapport with Danielle and that’s half the key,” she said.
“The thought of going to another psychologist is daunting; you’ve got to keep reliving it. It’s cruel.”
In June, Mr Moulden died by suicide.
His death has motivated his wife to fight for funding for the Soldiers and Sirens service.
“I know that he would want me to speak up [and] speak about my own experience,” Ms Moulden said.
“Not just for me, but for anyone suffering. He would want me to be their voice.”
Request for state funding
Soldiers and Sirens is now hoping the WA state government will provide the additional funding needed for the service to remain accessible.
“We want there to be no barriers to entry,” Ms Baldock said.
“[So] that you can ring up and get an appointment straight away within a couple of weeks without lots of triage barriers in the way, and we really wanted it to be free.
“WA Police are amazing. They paid for all of the sessions for their officers. We were also cost-recovering from Medicare and DVA and the places that we could, but unfortunately, it just wasn’t enough to sustain us.”
In a statement, Minister for Police Paul Papalia said the WA government provided funding to the WA Police Force for “a range of wraparound services through the Health and Welfare Division”.
“In addition to internal outreach services which include 24/7 access to on-call clinical psychologists and chaplains, officers are able to access private psychological and psychiatric support services from a network of external providers,” the statement said.
“Soldiers and Sirens is one of a number of those approved external providers which police officers are able to access.”
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Cop refused to seek WA Police force’s help before taking own life
By Aaron Bunch
A WA Police officer who took his own life after becoming disillusioned with his job had refused to undertake mental health counselling with the force for fear his reputation would be tarnished, an inquest has heard.
Main image: Cameron FYFE. Inset right – Randall MOULDEN
Senior Constable Cameron Fyfe died at home on June 20, 2021 after drinking heavily amid bouts of depression following a series of on-the-job incidents that threatened his safety.
The 27-year-old was prescribed antidepressant medication, which he took irregularly, and his family and friends had made numerous pleas for him to seek mental health support after he told his father he was having suicidal thoughts.
“Mr Fyfe made it clear to his loved ones that he did not want to involve the police force in pursuing any mental health assistance,” counsel assisting Sarah Tyler told the Coroner’s Court of Western Australia on Tuesday.
Fyfe’s father suggested reaching out to the police employee assistance program. Fyfe refused, saying there was a stigma attached to doing so.
The constable did, however, tell his family that he was seeing a psychologist, who diagnosed him with major depression.
It came after a series of incidents that left Fyfe questioning whether he wanted to remain a member of the force, including responding to the death of a baby, and a family violence incident where he was hit in the face.
“The person said to have struck Mr Fyfe was found not guilty after trial,” Tyler told State Coroner Rosalinda Fogliani.
In November 2020, the officer was spat on as he attempted to arrest an offender.
“Saliva entered Mr Fyfe’s mouth,” Tyler said.
He was forced to undergo blood screen testing and quarantined for two weeks due to COVID-19 laws amid the global pandemic.
“While quarantined, Mr Fyfe (again) expressed to his family his disillusionment with the police force,” Tyler said.
On the evening of June 19, 2021, Fyfe drank whiskey alone at his home while exchanging text messages with his parents, his girlfriend and ex-partner.
In the early hours of the next morning, he told his father that he’d stopped taking his antidepressant medication because it impacted his libido.
Fyfe then sent a message to his mother saying he couldn’t live his life on medication.
The next morning, his parents and partner sent messages to Fyfe, but he did not respond.
By the afternoon, Fyfe’s parents drove to their son’s home address, and his father used his key to go inside.
He found Fyfe’s lifeless body in his computer gaming chair in his study.
A post-mortem showed very high levels of alcohol in Fyfe’s system.
A police investigation did not identify any evidence to suggest another person was involved in the death.
During that investigation, it became apparent that the police force did not hold any information about the officer’s reported mental health issues.
The inquest continues.
AAP
Crisis support is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14. Support is also available from Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
A coronial inquest into the suicide of a young first class constable is examining the WA Police force’s off-duty firearm access rules as well as mental health safety and support for officers.
Key points:
WA Police first class constable Cameron Fyfe took his own life in June 2021
A coronial inquest into his death is underway in Perth
His father, sister and uncle were in the coroner’s court for the hearing
WARNING: The following story contains details that may distress some readers.
Cameron Fyfe was 27 when he killed himself at his home in June 2021.
A coronial inquest into his death has heard Mr Fyfe had been struggling with his mental health for some time, and while he was getting support privately – including being medicated at times — he appeared to have hidden his situation from his workplace, telling his father there was a stigma attached to seeking support internally.
State Coroner ( W.A. ) Ros Fogliani is heading up the inquest at Perth Coroner’s Court, exploring specific issues including:
Why Mr Fyfe had access to his police issue firearm within his home while off duty, and
Safety considerations in the context of mental health, in relation to serving police officers having access to police issue firearms in their homes while off duty.
Counsel assisting the coroner Sarah Lynton began by giving a brief overview of Mr Fyfe‘s life, with his father Brett — who discovered his son’s body — his sister Anna and his uncle sitting in court.
Ms Lynton mentioned several incidents throughout the later years of Mr Fyfe‘s life where he had shared with family members he was struggling with his mental health.
Jobs affected wellbeing
She told the court Mr Fyfe attended confronting jobs throughout his work, one of significance being the death of a baby and another where he was struck in the face when attending a family violence incident.
The court was told that in 2017, Mr Fyfe told his then partner and his father he had gone to The Gap in Albany, where he was working at the time, and contemplated taking his own life.
A number of further red flags were noticed by Mr Fyfe‘s family and loved ones, including that he was experiencing sleeping difficulties and mood swings, and was drinking alcohol heavily on his rostered days off.
In 2018, when he mentioned to his partner he was considering leaving the police force, his loved ones again suggested he seek mental health support.
Ms Lynton told the court Mr Fyfe made it clear he did not want to involve his work in pursuing any mental health assistance, later telling his father there was a stigma attached.
In 2019, Mr Fyfe was assessed by his GP and prescribed antidepressant medication, which he soon stopped taking.
Then in 2020, a person spat on Mr Fyfe while he was attempting to arrest them, at which point some saliva entered his mouth.
The COVID pandemic was well underway at that time and Mr Fyfe was quarantined for two weeks, telling his family he was feeling disillusioned with the police force.
Ms Lynton said Mr Fyfe‘s father had understood that his son’s reluctance to seek assistance through the police force’s mental health support unit was due to his concerns it could see him taken off operational duties, which could affect his pay and impact his ability to cover his mortgage.
At this time, towards the end of 2020, Mr Fyfe told his dad he had been seeing a private psychologist who had diagnosed him with major depression. Medical records show he had a mental health care plan and was on medication, which he took irregularly.
Police gun taken home
In 2021, Mr Fyfe started with the Traffic Motorcycle Group, which allowed him to take his own police motorcycle home — as well as his police-issued firearm.
Ms Lynton told the court officers are occasionally allowed to keep their police-issued firearm, ammunition and other accoutrements at their home address.
She said Mr Fyfe had been drinking and communicating with friends and family on the evening of June 20, 2021 at his home.
The next day, when no-one had heard from him, his parents went to his house and discovered his body.
Toxicology analysis showed very high levels of alcohol in Mr Fyfe’s system and the forensic pathologist determined the cause of his death was a self-inflicted gunshot injury.
Stigma in seeking help
A number of police investigations have taken place since his death, including an external review into allegations Mr Fyfe might have been bullied, but nothing was substantiated.
Ms Lynton said it appeared Mr Fyfe had hidden his mental health issues from work, with no evidence of him seeking help identified in the system.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
Female constable in her 20s takes her own life in regional WA
Support is being provided to the devastated family and colleagues following the tragedy.
less than 2 min read
February 22, 2024 – 7:54AM
NCA NewsWire
A police officer in her 20s has taken her own life in regional Western Australia.
The young female constable was found dead in her Albany home on Wednesday, about 400km south east of Perth.
She has not yet been named.
Support is being provided to the devastated family by the WA Police Union and said they extend their “sincerest condolences to the constable’s family, friends and colleagues at this time”.
“It is with overwhelming sadness that we mourn the loss of a member of the blue family today,” the statement read.
“A serving police constable passed away this morning.”
Acting WA Police Chief Commissioner Kylie Whiteley said the death of the young officer was a “tragedy”.
“Family members and staff within the Great Southern Police District are in the process of being provided with support during this tragic time,” she wrote in a statement.
“I ask you to reach out if you need help… keep an eye on those around you and offer your personal support where needed.”
A report will be prepared by the coroner and the death is not being treated as suspicious.
A police officer aged in her 20s has taken her own life in regional Western Australia.
The female constable, who has not yet been named, was found dead at her home in Albany, 418km south-east of Perth, on Wednesday
The WA Police Union is providing support to the officer’s heartbroken family, colleagues and friends.
‘It is with overwhelming sadness that we mourn the loss of a member of the blue family today,’ a statement read.
‘A serving police constable passed away this morning.
‘The WA Police Union extend our sincerest condolences to the constable’s family, friends and colleagues during this time.’
In a message to police officers, Acting WA Police Commissioner Kylie Whiteley said the officer’s passing was a tragedy.
‘Family members and staff within the Great Southern Police District are in the process of being provided with support during this tragic time,’ she wrote.
‘I ask you to reach out if you need help … keep an eye on those around you and offer your personal support where needed.’
The death of the young officer is not being treated as suspicious.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Several WA Police officers have taken their own lives in recent years, the West Australian reported.
In 2019, 53-year-old Senior Constable Dave Curtis took his own life.
Two years later, in mid-2021, two officers, including a sergeant who ran his own station, committed suicide within two weeks of each other.
One of those was Constable Cameron Fyfe, who was 27.
An inquest into his death held in 2023 heard that Const Fyfe hid his mental health problems from his bosses because he feared there would be repercussions if he spoke about it.
His death, and that of Sergeant Randall Moulden, led to then-police commissioner Chris Dawson to convene the first-ever police mental health forum in WA.
If you or someone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
* Story behind any Nickname:
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
