It took up 451 hearing days, heard from 902 public witnesses and cost an estimated $64 million. Malcolm Brown reports on the Wood royal commission, 10 years on.
It began on June 15, 1995, when an unnamed Annandale detective jumped to his death from the seventh floor of a building, apparently through fear of the Wood royal commission. The detective’s suicide was followed by those of Ray Jenkins, a dog trainer (July 10), and Inspector Robert Tait, the acting patrol commander at Narrabri ( March 29, 1996 ). Nineteen days later a former Wollongong alderman, Brian Tobin, gassed himself.
On May 8 the same year, Peter Foretic gassed himself the day after giving evidence about paedophilia. On September 23, Detective Senior Constable Wayne Johnson shot himselfand his estranged wife after being adversely named in the royal commission. On November 4, David Yeldham, a retired judge about to face the royal commission on questions of sexual impropriety, killed himself. A month later Danny Caines, a plumber and police confidant, committed suicide at Forster, on the North Coast.
Altogether, 12 people enmeshed in the Wood royal commission took their own lives. Scores of others were so profoundly affected by proceedings that their supporters and families believe it shortened their lives. A former detective, Greg Jensen, suffered a recurrence of the stomach cancer that ultimately ended his life, while another former detective, Ray McDougall, who faced the threat that commission investigators might expose his extramarital affair if he did not co-operate, succumbed to motor neurone disease.
There is no doubt that the Royal Commission into the NSW Police Service, headed by the Supreme Court judge James Wood, purged the force of a rollcall of rotters. A total of 284 police officers were adversely named, 46 briefs of evidence were sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions and by 2001 nine officers had pleaded guilty to corruption offences and three not guilty. Seven police officers received jail sentences, including the former Gosford drug squad chief Wayne Eade and a former chief of detectives, Graham “Chook” Fowler.
Several high-profile police ended their careers in disgrace, including Ray Donaldson, an assistant commissioner, whose contract was not renewed, and Bob Lysaught, the commissioner’s chief of staff, whose contract was torn up. Charges against 14 officers were dismissed because of irregularities in search warrants and their execution.
That left the question of what to do with police who were on the nose but who could not be brought to account by normal means. The solution was the creation of section 181B of the Police Service Act, under which the police commissioner could dismiss an officer on the basis of what had come out of the royal commission. Section 181D allowed the police commissioner to serve an officer with a notice indicating that he “does not have confidence in the police officer’s suitability to continue as a police officer”. The officer could show cause as to why he should be retained, and if dismissed could appeal to the Industrial Relations Tribunal.
In the wake of the two legislative changes, 380 officers were targeted for dismissal or internal investigation. By March 1998, 19 police officers had been dismissed under section 181B and three under 181D. Another had been dismissed under a separate provision of the act, 14 had resigned, four had been medically discharged and 15 had been given performance warning notices. Others were under consideration, and as the Police Integrity Commission – a legacy of the royal commission which became a permanent watchdog – has demonstrated, even officers who had been corrupt many years before were not necessarily in the clear.The former independent MP John Hatton, who was instrumental in setting up the royal commission, said he thought the Police Integrity Commission was the royal commission’s “greatest achievement”. The Child Protection Enforcement Agency, which launched a purge of sex offenders, is another positive legacy of the royal commission.But 10 years on, was the exercise worth it?To some there were considerable benefits. Some appalling malpractice – known as “process” or “noble cause” corruption – prompted Wood to wonder at one point about the quality of a lot of police evidence he had accepted over the years.Despite this, many officers still believe the royal commission was too puritanical. They claim the investigators, not able to grapple with the really big issues, jumped on anything they could: “They had to have runs on the board,” says Michael McGann, who as a policeman in 1984 participated in the so-called Kareela Cat Burglar case, in which police used mace on an unco-operative thief and sex offender. To some critics this treatment did no serious harm and only required a word of caution. But under the spotlight of the royal commission 12 years later, it ended the careers of high-flying police such as John Garvey, Brian Harding and Steve York.A decade later, Harding works in corporate security but insists that the real sting was that the investigators had fabricated evidence. When that finally came out, he says, the group received a confidential settlement, but it did little to redress the feelings of outrage.
Another former policeman, Dr Michael Kennedy, says the commission was a political response to the police commissioner, Tony Lauer, bringing about the downfall of the then police minister, Ted Pickering.
The attorney-general, ministry and judiciary took little responsibility for the state of the force, Kennedy says, while the responsibility of the police rank-and-file grew to “the size of a Pacific driftnet”. “I don’t think the royal commission contributed anything to the reform process except to provide a template for double standards,” he says.
“Chook Fowler put $200 into his pocket from Louis Bayeh. Chook was a lazy, good-for-nothing drunk. But he was put into the same category as Ray Williams and HIH.”McGann says that against the string of petty corrupt activities uncovered, “you have to look at what the government did and did not do with gambling and vice, over the decades. There have been direct links to Parliament for 50 or 60 years. That is hypocrisy.”The critics’ view is that the royal commission has left a demoralised police force, tarnished and rudderless, with limited operational effectiveness and the problem of corruption unsolved. Seven police officers have taken their lives since 2001, including two this year.”It highlights the fact that the structure no longer takes in the needs of the NSW police force,” says Mike Gallacher, the Opposition police spokesman, and a former internal affairs police officer.Gallacher believes, as does the NSW Police Commissioner, Ken Moroney, that the tentacles of corruption no longer spread to embrace entire squads or larger units. But it does not prevent low-level incidents of corruption and there are continuing nests of corruption.In its most recent report, the Police Integrity Commission said it had undertaken 21 major investigations in 2005-06. These dealt with extortion, theft, unauthorised disclosure of confidential government information and perverting the course of justice, police brutality and the handling of $250,000 stolen from automatic teller machines. The then police integrity commissioner, Terry Griffin, said there had been 51 investigations in the 12 months, compared with 44 in 2004-05, and the 1141 written complaints represented a 15 per cent increase.Moroney says all these reports are disappointing, but one of the significant statistics was the number of police who were reporting on other police. “You go back a decade and the number of informants who were police was 5 to 10 per cent,” he says. “In the Ombudsman’s last report, that figure was 49 per cent.”The mechanism for dealing with internal complaints has been expedited: “I have not been afraid to use a section 181D notice,” Moroney says.He believes there is a different mentality in the force. A video of the royal commission had been shown at a recent reunion dinner of the old criminal investigation branch. “It is part of our history. But the interesting thing is that when Chookie came onto the screen, everyone booed. That was a signal to the Fowlers and the Eades that those found to have acted corruptly would not be accepted.”
However, Moroney accepts that corruption is not a thing of the past. “In the contemporary period, there are huge monies to be made from the illicit drug environment. You are talking in some cases of millions of dollars. It is the greatest menace in society today. And the greatest menace to officers is drug money. That is why rotation of officers out of specialist squads on a regular basis is important.”Taking over as commissioner five years ago, he had brought a low-key “Uncle Ken” influence, sorely needed, and had had to balance the principles of police accountability against the public demand for law and order, and the task has been awkward.A senior counsel told the Heraldthis week that the focus on integrity, scrutiny of professional standards and attacks by defence lawyers meant that talented police prepared to do the dirty work were deterred. “In the old days the best and the brightest went into plain-clothes,” he said. “But when the police perceive that when they have to go the extra yard [to get convictions], they are crucified – ‘Why should I go to plain-clothes when I can just get some uniform job with a 12-hour shift, and a second job?”‘Clive Small, a former assistant commissioner who set up crime agencies and established the child protection unit, says that after so many detectives were disgraced in the royal commission, the police force sought to take the spotlight off detectives and put more of the onus of responsibility for crime control onto local area commands. Crime agencies had a continual battle to keep up to strength. Regionalising responsibility for crime control reflected a lack of understanding. “A lot of crime spreads through the metropolitan area, across the state and across the nation,” he says.Kennedy, now a university lecturer, says the “business model” approach is incompatible with good police work. “We cannot expect police to behave like they are in the private sector, where competence is measured in terms of productivity,” he says.Kennedy attended the recent CIB reunion dinner and sat at a table with former drug squad detectives who remained friends of Wayne Eade. He takes issue with Moroney‘s claim that people at the dinner made catcalls when Fowler came on screen. “No one supported Chook,” he says. “But the animosity of the crowd was directed straight at Justice Wood and his commission.”Clive Small, who was also at the dinner, says: “I think it is really a matter of interpretation who they were booing. There were things the royal commission did not take care about. There was a lot of collateral damage. And the implementation [of its recommendations] has been pretty ordinary.”
CRUSADER WHO MADE THE CALL
JOHN HATTON well remembers the audience on May 11, 1994, when he made his speech calling for a royal commission into the NSW Police Service. MPs were listening, of course, but it was a gallery above him, packed with the “top brass of the police force – the commissioner himself, the deputy commissioner, superintendents – they were an intimidating force on the Parliament”.
“They thought they could stare down the Labor Party support for my motion,” Hatton, now retired, says. “It was probably the best indicator of the way in which the police force thought they could control the agenda.”
Hatton won the day, putting paid to a claim by then police commissioner, Tony Lauer, that “systemic corruption” was “a figment of the political imagination”. Hearings started on November 24, 1994, and Justice James Wood delivered his final report on August 26, 1997.
Ten years later, Hatton believes he was vindicated. He says Wood was “the right man” to head the commission and the recruitment of interstate police was crucial, along with the decision to use phone taps and surveillance.
The 11 volumes of material Hatton gave the royal commission had been accumulated over 14 years, he says, from the time he had first spoken up. He had received information on illegal gambling, drug trafficking and police involvement with the mafia.
There had been earlier moves to address police corruption, including inquiries by the Independent Commission Against Corruption, but these had only scratched the surface. “I can remember on one occasion I reported a death threat which had to do with the McKay murder in Griffith and 48 hours later the bloke who had given the information was threatened by a shotgun at his door in Queensland,” Hatton says.
The royal commission came into being because Hatton and other independent MPs held the balance of power in Parliament. The Labor Party may have had high public motives, but also saw a chance to attack the Fahey government. Labor stipulated that an inquiry into police protection of paedophiles, previously in the hands of the ICAC, become part of the royal commission.
The process of gathering information was helped greatly by Trevor Haken, a detective who became an informer and covert investigator as part of a deal to avoid being prosecuted himself.
Hatton says Haken‘s entry was “out of the blue”. Though useful, in the long term it had had a detrimental effect on the fight against corruption. Living in fear and watching his back, Haken had provided “the greatest disincentive for someone coming forward to finger corruption in the system”.
Malcolm Brown
Policing Family – unknown stories of the past
| 04/12/2014
A woman named Elizabeth ALBERTS has been arrested for the alleged manslaughter of Mrs. Moore, aged 33, wife of Constable Moore, of Grenfell.
Deceased went to Sydney, and is alleged to have died in a hospital under suspicious circumstance.
The Richmond River Herald & Northern Districts Advertiser ( NSW )
POLICE Commissioner Andrew Scipione has inherited a range of troubles among his senior ranks.
Three weeks after taking on the top job, Mr Scipione is trying to contain potential fallout from:
■ The investigation of two of his trusted senior commanders – Superintendent Rex Little and Superintendent Adam Purcell – by the Police Integrity Commission.
■ The medical discharge of Paul Nolan, a superintendent, who attempted suicide after being placed on notice by the PIC over an alleged gambling debt.
■ The specialist promotion to senior sergeant at internal affairs of Sergeant Damian Goodfellow, an officer with criminal convictions for assault and drink-driving.
■ Lingering questions surrounding the force’s top anti-corruption fighter, Assistant Commissioner Catherine Burn, who was among several officers involved in an eavesdropping fiasco.
Mr Scipione acknowledged the problems on Friday in response to questions from The Sun-Herald.
He confirmed Superintendent Little, who heads the Ku-ring-gai command, was one of two officers who remained under the PIC’s microscope.
It is understood he was stood down on non-performance grounds in May following complaints he had been absent from his Hornsby office. Similar allegations about Superintendent Little failing to report for duty had previously surfaced at Parramatta.
He had then been shifted to Hornsby to stand in for veteran commander Superintendent Paul Nolan, who was found unconscious in a Newcastle hotel room after overdosing on alcohol and sedatives, also in May. Superintendent Nolan had been suspended several weeks earlier, following a PIC inquiry.
At the time, the corruption watchdog’s concerns were unclear. However, The Sun-Herald understands they were focused on allegations concerning a gambling debt of about $100,000. Mr Scipione would only say Superintendent Nolan had since been released from the force on medical grounds.
Superintendent Purcell, the popular Hurstville commander, was also relieved of duty in June after it was revealed his phone had been tapped as part of a PIC probe into whether footballer Bryan Fletcher had been tipped off about a gang-rape complaint. Colleagues say the case against him amounts to a witch-hunt.
Mr Scipione said he was obliged to await the PIC’s findings before commenting on the Purcell case.
Asked about the force’s ability to police its own misconduct, he was more forthcoming.
He rejected “any suggestion of any unresolved concerns” over Ms Burn, the commander of the force’s Professional Standards branch.
Asked by The Sun-Herald if she was among several officers caught up in a wrongful-bugging investigation that sent shock waves through the ranks several years ago, he confirmed she was. But he insisted she had since passed several integrity tests in order to reach her current position.
More than 100 fellow police, criminals, lawyers and others were swept up as money laundering and corruption suspects during the affair.
Ms Burn was involved in conducting the sting rather than wrongfully tainted by it. Many of those who were targeted later received apologies but no one has ever been called to account.
In the case of Sergeant Goodfellow, Mr Scipione said that, following certain indiscretions, he had demonstrated his suitability to work in the same specialist area.
Sergeant Goodfellow pleaded guilty to assault after a drunken punch-up at a cricket match in 1999.
In 2002 he was arrested at gunpoint on suspicion of stealing and crashing an unmarked police car. He had rightful access to the vehicle but was fined and suspended for being drunk at the wheel. In 2003 he was among four off-duty officers hospitalised after a violent brawl at a Kings Cross strip club.
Mr Scipione said Sergeant Goodfellow’s promotion had been open and transparent.
Sacred to the memory of Alfred Essex BALDOCK late Chief Constable of the Island. who was unfortunately drowned by the upsetting of a boat in crossing the bar on the 12th April 1848 aged 27.
Therefore be ye also ready for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh Matt. XXIV II.
” ‘Tis His Supreme prerogative Our subject kings to reign. ‘Tis just that He should rule the world Who does the world sustain.
Way back in 2002 we went on a holiday to Norfolk Island. I can’t believe that was ten years ago. How time flies when you get old. Anyway back to the story.
Norfolk Island is a small island in the Pacific Ocean between Australia and New Zealand. It has a very colourful history. It was colonised by the British as part of Australia in 1788. It served as a penal colony for the worst convicts until 1794. From 1856 it was settled by free settlers and in1901 it became a territory of Australia and it still is today. It is also a tax haven. Today the island’s primary economic activity is tourism due to its historical buildings and colourful history including the Pitcairn Islanders and the Mutiny on the Bounty. So we did our bit for their economy and joined in the many tourist activities that they provide. (photos have been scanned from photo album)
One of the activities was a Murder Mystery Dinner, where you become a character in a murder mystery story. You have to ask questions of the other characters and try to find out who is the murderer. At this party the murder mystery was based on a true event that happened in Norfolk Island’s past. We were given a booklet that gave us some background information on the characters and the crime. We had to dress up as the character we were given.
I was the Commandant’s wife and Bill was the Chief Constable, Alfred Baldock. He was detested by most on the island, he was a former convict but now mistreated the rest of the unfortunates. He was a homosexual which was against the law then. As you can tell we had loads of fun trying to find out which one of us was the murderer.
The next day we went exploring and visited the Norfolk Island Cemetery and Bill found the grave stone of his character Alfred Essex Baldcock.
Alfred Essex Baldock late Chief Constable of the island, who was unfortunately drowned by the upsetting of a boat in crossing the bar on 12 th April 1848 aged 27. (click on pic to enlarge). The right hand pic is from the web and the headstone has been restored and so have many of the others. This cemetery dates back to 1825 but there is evidence of earlier burial grounds on the island.
Stations: Country NSW, Gloucester & Lord Howe Island 1999 – ?
Born: 1948 – 49
Died Thursday 13 November 2014
66 old
late of Foster
Funeral: Tuesday 18th November 2014 commencing at 11.00am
Tuncurry Catholic Church, Foster.
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FUNERAL NOTICE
GERITS, Johannes A.P.M.
Better known as John
Late of Forster
Passed away at home comforted by his loving family on the 13th November 2014.
Aged 66 years.
Much Loved husband of Carmel.
Loving father and father in-law of Michael & Kate, Cindy (dec), Fiona & Terry.
Proud and adoring POP to Molly, Lloyd, Jessie and Jack.
Cherished brother and brother in-law of Carolina & Henry, Anne & Neil, Yvonne & John (dec), Trish & Don, Barbara & Kevin, Maree & Robert.
Loving uncle to his No 1 favourite nieces and nephews.
“A Proud family man who loved his career in the police services”
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend John’s funeral service to be held at The Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, Forster on Tuesday 18th November 2014 commencing at 11.00am, Prior to a private cremation.
“Forever in our Hearts”
ATTENTION: Funeral location has now changed to Tuncurry Catholic Church, Foster, same time.
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Sadly we have lost another colleague formerly in blue. Johannes (John) Gerits passed away this morning at home after a battle with cancer.
John worked almost all of his service in NSW country locations with his last two being Gloucester and Lord Howe Island.
He will be sadly missed. A Good man.
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Policeman helps destroyer
By TIM BISHOP
THE local knowledge of a Port Macquarie senior constable may have been responsible for saving the British destroyer HMS Nottingham from a major catastrophe.
Senior Constable John Gerits, who heads the one-man police unit on Lord Howe Island, was the first person to come to the ailing ship’s assistance after it ran aground on Wolf Rocks, several kilometres off the East coast of the island.
After receiving the ship’s distress call at 9.50pm on Sunday night, Sen Constable Gerits immediately coordinated a rapid emergency response which may have prevented the 3500-tonne navy vessel with a crew of 250 from sinking.
“I just got on the phone and called anyone on the island who I thought would have a pump which could be used by the ship’s crew,” Sen Constable Gerits said.
“I arranged for the pumps to be delivered to the airport where the Nottingham’s chopper collected them and took them out to the ship.”
Until the four pumps arrived on the ship, crew aboard the Nottingham only had access to buckets as they desperately tried to empty several flooded compartments.
The pumps, which collectively siphoned 5000 litres an hour, managed to keep the ship afloat for more than seven hours until the Royal Australian Air Force arrived with heavy-duty pumps on Monday morning.
“When we first responded to the distress call we truly didn’t know if the ship was going to sink. It was absolutely frightening,” Sen Constable Gerits said.
“You just don’t think this sort of thing is going to happen in a quiet place like Lord Howe. I was preparing to watch the Wimbledon final when I got the call!”
Sen Constable Gerits said the department of defence had taken over rescue efforts but he and other Lord Howe residents were still helping by providing the ship’s crew with fresh water and clean laundry.
British salvage experts are currently examining the HMS Nottingham, which is anchored at Lord Howe’s Middle Beach.
Commander Richard Farrington, who was in charge of the ship at the time of the accident, said the accident occurred as the ship maneuvered to put a helicopter into its hangar.
The president of Coffs Harbour Community Transport, John Ruth, is among the people recognised in today’s Queen’s birthday honours.
Mr Ruth of Sandy Beach has been given a Medal of the Order of Australia for services to the community, particularly those with disabilities.
But he says the award recognises a contribution by the community for a service that is desperately needed.
“Government services especially. People in DOCS [Department of Community Services] and other agencies who have really given enormous support to the activities of volunteers. We’re still very much in our infancy in organising services to support people with a disability,” he said.
[blockquote]The state’s most remotely located police officer has been nominated for an Australian Police Medal as part of the Queen’s honours list.
Lord Howe Island’s only policeman, Johannes Gerits, is one of eight officers who have served 25 years or more to get the nomination.
Senior Constable Gerits has been a policeman since 1971, and took up the posting at Lord Howe in 1999.
[/blockquote]
Other recipients of the Order of Australia Medal include Anne Bornstein of Harrington, who will receive her medal for her community service through the Franciscan Missionary Union.
Joyce Davey of Taree is being honoured for her cancer action group work in the Manning.
Husband and wife team Kevin and Mary Dunkley’s service to the north coast through the Trial Bay Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol is being recognised, along with William Radford from Taree for his service to veterans and their families in the Manning.
The late William Wright, of Nambucca Heads, is being recognised for a range of community deeds in the Kempsey community.
A special OAM was presented by Governor Marie Bashir to Bellingen councillor Sue Dethridge at a bedside ceremony in a Sydney hospital during the week.
About 4pm on 2 November, 1911 the sergeant was on duty carrying out inspections of pawn shops. At the intersection of Campbell and Castlereagh Streets he failed to hear a tram coming in his direction (he was suffering from diminished hearing) and he was struck by the tram and knocked to the roadway. He was quickly conveyed to the Sydney Hospital suffering from a fractured skull and other head injuries; however he passed away the following day.
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The Evening News of 3 November, 1911 carried quite a lengthy report of the tragedy.
“SERGEANT JEFFES KILLED. KNOCKED DOWN BY A TRAM. AN OLD SYDNEY POLICEMAN
Sergeant George Jeffes died in Sydney Hospital early this morning as the result of a city tram accident. He was on duty delivering pawn slips and inspecting pawn shops in the No. 2 (Regent-street) Police District yesterday afternoon, and while crossing Castlereagh-street, at the corner of Campbell-street, he was knocked down by tram No.81 proceeding from the railway station to Circular Quay. Senior-constable Young spoke to Jeffes at the corner of Campbell and Liverpool streets, and a few seconds later on seeing a crowd collect he went to the scene and found his comrade badly injured. He secured the Civil Ambulance, which conveyed the injured man to the hospital where he was admitted with a fractured skull. He was operated on and a lot of blood removed from his brain, but he never rallied. He will be given a police funeral tomorrow afternoon, the cortege leaving the corner of Elsternwick-street and Allen-street, Leichhardt at 1.30 p.m. for Rookwood Cemetery.
Sergeant Jeffes, who was 58 years of age, was an Englishman, and served as a bluejacket till 1882, when he came to Australia, and joined the New South Wales force. He was made a first class constable in 1885, senior-constable in 1889, and sergeant in 1895. He had thus 30 years’ service and could have retired two months ago, taking six months’ leave, but being still strong, he was, at his own desire, allowed to continue in harness, and was working in plain clothes on light duty among the pawn shops.
” THE GOOD SHEPHERD. ” Sergeant Jeffes was for many years known as, the good shepherd, and he did great work reclaiming white girls from the Chinese dens, and children from the slums and from parental hurt to their care. He was associated with Mr. Sherwood in the famous Botany poisoning case, in 1888, when Louisa Collins was hanged.
Senior-constable Sherwood ( now Metropolitan Superintendent of Police ), and Jeffes, then a constable, had charge of the cases. Superintendent Mitchell, who is acting, said this morning that Sergeant Jeffes was a good and capable officer who had the interests of the service and the community at heart, and was most energetic in the discharge of his duties. A daughter of Sergeant Jeffes was murdered in George-street a little over twelve months ago, being shot by a young man.”
With regard to the death of the sergeant’s daughter, the Evening News of 3 July, 1909 reported that “Miss Kate Jeffes, 21, the young woman who was shot in the arm and breast by a French Canadian, named Felix Perrier, in George-street on the night of June 21, died at the Sydney Hospital at 3.30 this morning from the effects of the wounds, accentuated by the shock. She was the daughter of Sergeant Jeffes, of No. 2 Police Station”.
Evening News ( Sydney ) Friday 3 November 1911 Page 9 of 16
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The sergeant was born about 1853 and joined the New South Wales Police Force in 1882. At the time of his death he was stationed at Regent Street Police Station. He is buried at Rookwood Cemetery.
[alert_red]He is NOTincluded in the NSW Police Honour Roll.[/alert_red]
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SERGEANT JEFFES’ DEATH.
CORONER’S INQUIRY.
The Coroner, Mr. Murphy, yesterday held an
inquiry Into the death of Sergeant George Jeffes, who was knocked down by a tram at the intersection of Castlereagh and Campbell streets, on Thursday afternoon last.
Evidence was tendered to the effect that the deceased was crossing the street at the intersection of Castlereagh and Campbell streets at about 4 pm. As the car approached, a witness called out to him, and the driver sounded the gong, cut off the current, and applied the emergency brake. The car moved on a couple of yards after striking deceased, who was carried along by the cow-catcher. Deceased’s hearing, it was stated, had been defective of late.
The Coroner found that death had resulted from injuries accidentally received through being knocked over by a tram.
The Sydney Morning Herald Tuesday 7 November 1911page 11 of 14
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DEATH OF SERGEANT JEFFES.
The ” Good Shepherd. ” A RESPECTED MEMBER OF THE SYDNEY POLICE FORCE.
As the result of a tram accident on Thursday afternoon last, the death occurred on Friday of a well-known figure in the Sydney police force, and a much-respected and admired officer – Sergeant George Jeffes, at the age of 58 years.
Born at Northwich, Cheshire, young Jeffes was apprenticed to the ironworking trade, beginning work when but 8 years of age, in a foundry in Salford, Manchester. At 15 he was seized with the adventurous spirit, and ran away to sea, completing a term of service in the Imperial Navy. Returning to Salford, he joined the fire brigade, and in this capacity had his first experience as a police officer, for in those days the fire-fighter did dual duty. Soon he was again seized by the wanderlust, and landed in Victoria in 1879. A year later Mr. Jeffes arrived in New South Wales, shortly afterwards joining the police.
He was first stationed at Darlinghurst, but subsequently was transferred to Botany, where he was instrumental in bringing to justice Louisa Collins, the last woman who suffered the extreme penalty of the law in New South Wales. In 1889, he was again stationed at Darlinghurst, and promoted to the rank of senior-constable. He was next promoted to Sergeant, when, in 1896, he was attached to Regent-street Police Station, where he ended his career.
To a large extent the suppression of opium traffic, rampant in Sydney a few years back, was the work of Sergeant Jeffes, who, while engaged in this duty, was responsible for saving countless unfortunate women from infamy, earning for himself the sobriquet of the ” Good Shepherd ” for the splendid success attending his efforts. Although stern with Chinese law-breakers, Sergeant Jeffes had the confidence of the whole Chinese quarter. He was regarded in the slums as one whose inclination was more to assist that portion of humanity generally regarded as homeless, than to treat them with the harshness which is generally their lot. His knowledge of the back streets and the opium trade was vast ; and Sergeant Jeffes could always openly enter houses and places that might prove dangerous indeed to any other officer.
His untimely death is greatly deplored in the police force, and by many whom he succeeded in setting on the right path again. The later Sergeant Jeffes was a staunch and practical Catholic, and a member of the Sacred Heart Confraternity. He leaves a widow and two children — a daughter and a son. The Rev. Father Darby was in attendance at the last, and administered spiritual consolation.
The funeral took place on Saturday afternoon, and the cortege conveyed an idea of the esteem in which the late sergeant was held. The Police Band played the ” Dead March in Saul ” and the ” FuneralMarch, ” and 70 uniformed policemen accompanied the hearse from deceased’s residence in Leichhardt to Petersham Railway Station, where the remains were entrained for Rookwood. There was a large gathering at the graveside, and among the mourners were his widow, Thomas Jeffes (son), Sarah Grace Jeffes (daughter), Messrs. Mark Anthony Jeffes and Charles Jeffes (brothers), Robert, Steve and Mark Jeffes (nephews), Mr. and Mrs. James Ryan ; Mr. and Mrs. Peter Ryan, Mr. and Mrs. James Paxton, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ryan ; Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Ryan, Mr. and Mrs. Denis Ryan, Mrs. Tyler, Misses Tyler (2), Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Landrigan and Miss Mary Landrigan, Mrs. Thomas O’Toole, and Mrs. Wm. O’Toole, Mrs. J. O’Toole, Mr. and Mrs. James O’Toole, Mrs. Coghlan, Mrs. Crooks, Mr. Murphy, Mr. McQuirk, Mrs. Kembo, Mrs. Byrom, Mrs. Moran, Mrs. Hayes, Miss Vaughan, Mrs. Danhy, Mr. and Mrs. Sheedy, Miss L. Murphy, Miss Vera Jeffes, Mr. Fitzgerald, Mrs. Keating, Mrs. Angles, Mrs, Corcoran, Mr, Kilcoyne. Six brother-sergeants acted as pall-bearers, their names being Sergeants Curry, J. Hogg, Sherwood, Curtis, Corcoran and Walker. Others present were: Superintendent Mitchell ( representing the Inspector-General ) Sub- Inspectors Kelly, Brookes and Davis, ex-Inspectors Collins and Broderick, Senior Sergeant O’Dea, Sergeant Meahan, Detective Pauling ( representing the Detective Office ), Senior-Constable’s Young, Meadth, Gambold, Neary, and Mr. Twiss ( ex-senior-constable ), There were also representatives of the different branches of the police, and the Chinese community, and a number of retired officers and friends of Mr. Jeffes’s. The Rev. Father J. Peoples, assisted by the Rev. Father M. Kirby, said the last prayers. The Police Band then played ” The Long Day Closes ”
. ” – R.I.P.
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A City Sensation.
A YOUNG WOMAN SHOT. SUICIDE OF HER ASSAILANT.
A sensational shooting affray took place in George-street, near Goulburn-street, city, about half-past 9 o’clock on Monday night, during which Kate Jeffes, 21, a daughter of Sergeant Jeffes, a well-known officer connected with the Regent-street Police Station, was wounded twice, while her assailant committed suicide.
Some weeks ago, Miss Jeffes took a situation in a Pitt-street cafe, where Felix Perrier, a French-Canadian, 35 years of age, was employed as cook. Perrier, it appears, conceived a strong attachment for the young woman, but his attentions were not encouraged, although he occasionally accompanied her to the tram of an evening, at the close of the day’s work. Perrier became so persistent in his attentions that Miss Jeffes decided to leave, and she secured a situation in dining rooms in George-street.
Eventually Perrier found out where she was employed, and called there on Monday, but she refused to see him, and he went away. On ceasing work a little after 9 o’clock, Miss Jeffes started for home, and on reaching the corner of George and Goulburn streets, saw Perrier on the footpath. He addressed her, but she refused to have anything to say to him, upon which the man drew a revolver, and at close quarters fired two shots at her. The first bullet penetrated the cartilage of the left arm and spent itself in a brown paper parcel, which contained her apron and a blouse, and which she was carrying under her arm at the time. The second bullet had a more serious effect striking her beneath the right breast. The bullet did not penetrate very deeply, however, but struck the breast-bone, which caused it to deflect, and travel around a rib under the left arm, eventually embedding itself in the back portion of her left side. She fell bleeding to the footpath, and Perrier, evidently believing that his second shot had taken fatal effect, placed the muzzle of the revolver in his own mouth, and fired.
Naturally a crowd soon gathered, and Miss Jeffes was placed in a Cab, and taken to the Sydney Hospital. The Civil Ambulance was sent for and took Perrier to the Sydney Hospital, where life was pronounced extinct, and the body was conveyed to the Morgue, at Circular Quay. The bullet in Perrier’s case had entered at the mouth, and travelled upwards towards the brain. Dr. Parry extracted the bullet from Miss Jeffes’ side, and she was admitted to the hospital, where she is progressing satisfactorily, the wounds not being regarded as serious.
Evening News ( Sydney ) Tuesday 22 June 1909page 6 of 8
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A Cook’s Terrible Crime
ATTEMPTED MURDER AND SUICIDE SENSATION IN SYDNEY
Sydney. Monday
A cook named Felix Perrier, 35, employed at the Glenrock Cafe, Pitt Street and residing at Druitt Street, City, created a sensation to night by attempting to murder Kate Jeffes, 21, daughter of Sergeant Jeffes, of the Metropolitan police, by shooting her with a revolver, and afterwards shooting himself.
The affair took place in George Street, Perrier had been keeping company with Miss Jeffes, but she resented his intentions. To night when he met her in George Street near Druitt Street, he spoke to her and she refused to answer. He then drew a revolver and fired two shots. One bullet entered the young lady’s left arm and the other the side of the right breast. Neither wound is serious. Perrier then fired another shot and put an end to his own life.
National Advocate ( Bathurst, NSW ) Tuesday 22 June 1909page 2 of 4
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A GEORGE-ST. TRAGEDY.
ATTEMPTED MURDER AND SUICIDE.
A DISAPPOINTED LOVER TRIES TO MURDER A YOUNG WOMAN.
THEN BLOWS HIS BRAINS OUT.
Felix Perrier, 35, lately living in Druitt-street, city, attempted to murder a young woman named Kate Jeffes, 21, in George-street, near Goulburn-street, at about 9.30 last night. He fired two shots at her at a range of less than a couple of feet, both of which took effect, and then put the muzzle of the revolver into his own mouth and blow his brains out.
Perrier, who was apparently a foreigner, has been employed as a cook at a cafe in Pitt-street for some time, and the young woman, who is a daughter of Sergeant Jeffes, at the No. 2 police station, met him at the cafe some nine weeks ago, when she took a situation there as a waitress. Perrier conceived a strong affection for the young woman, but she refused to encourage him. She, however, occasionally allowed him to see her to the tram of a night when work was over. He eventually became so persistent in his attentions that the young woman was compelled to leave her situation at the cafe and seek employment elsewhere. She afterwards obtained work as a waitress at some dining rooms in George-street, and her troubles with Perrier ceased for a while. But he eventually found out where she was, and, yesterday afternoon, he called at the premises in George-street, and asked to be allowed to see her. Miss Jeffes refused to see him, and in order to be free of him, she asked one of the girls in the cafe to inform Perrier that she had left the place. Perrier, on receiving this information, took his departure. After work Miss Jeffes started for home shortly before 9.30, and was walking down George-street. On nearing Goulburn-street she noticed Perrier standing on the footpath. She tried to evade him, but he stepped up to her and said: “Good night.” The young woman turned her head away, and refused to speak to him, whereupon he drew a five-chambered Belgian revolver, and fired two shots point blank at her. The first bullet penetrated the cartilage of the left arm, and spent itself in a brown paper parcel, which contained her apron and a blouse, and which she was carrying under her arm at the time. The second bullet had a more serious affect, striking her beneath the right breast. The bullet did not penetrate very deeply, however, and luckily struck the breast-bone, which caused it to deflect and travel around a rib under the left arm, eventually embedding itself in the back portion of her left side. She fell bleeding to the footpath, and Perrier, evidently believing that his second shot had taken fatal effect, placed the muzzle of the revolver in his own mouth and fired. The shots had been fired at such short range that the sleeve of the young woman’s blouse was burned with powder, and powder marks were visible on the front of her dress.
There were a number of people about, and a large crowd soon gathered. A woman named Eliza O’Connor, living in Francis street, Hyde Park, who was close by at the time, put Miss Jeffes in a cab, and took her to the hospital, while a traffic constable rang up the Civil Ambulance, which was speedily in attendance, and removed Perrier to the hospital, where Dr. Parry pronounced life extinct. The body was then removed to the Morgue.
The bullet in Perrier’s case had entered at the mouth, and travelled upwards towards the brain. Dr. Parry extracted the bullet from Miss Jeffes’ side, and she was admitted to the hospital; where she made a statement to the police. Her injuries are not considered serious.
The revolver which Perrier used was a Belgium make, and contained four cartridges, three of which had been discharged.
Edward Crampton, a tobacconist, of 48 Druitt-street, who identified the body, and with whom Perrier had lately been living, stated that Perrier bought a revolver on Saturday last, and said that a young woman had been “pulling his leg.” His French blood would get the better of him,’ he said, and he would shoot her. The revolver was taken from him, together with a number of cartridges, but he appears to have regained possession of it. On the body were found Perrier’s discharge papers from the South African Light Horse, dated 1902. These show that he was a French Canadian by birth.
The Sydney Morning Herald Tuesday 22 June 1909page 7 of 12
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ATTEMPTED MURDER AND SUICIDE
PERRIER’S FRENCH BLOOD. MUST SHOOT THE GIRL
Sydney, June 22.
Felix Perrier, who last night shot at Kate Jeffs and then committed suicide, was a French-Canadian and had served in the South African light horse. Edward Crampton, with whom Perrier resided, told the police that Perrier bought a revolver on Saturday last. He told Crampton that a young lady had been ‘pulling his leg’ and that his French blood would ‘ get the better of him and he would shoot her ‘. Crampton took the revolver and cartridges from him, but Perrier, however, again got possession of them.
Miss Jeffs is not seriously hurt.
Kalgoorlie Miner ( W.A. ) Wednesday 23 June 1909page 5 of 10
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George-street Tragedy.
DEATH OF THE VICTIM.
Miss Kate Jeffes, 21, the young woman who was shot in the arm and breast by a French Canadian, named Felix Perrier, in George-street on the night of June 21, died at the Sydney Hospital at 3.30 this morning from the effects of the wounds, accentuated by the shock. She was the daughter of Sergeant Jeffes, of No. 2 Police Station.
Evening News ( Sydney ) Saturday 3 July 1909page 8 of 16
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THE GEORGE-STREET TRAGEDY.
MISS JEFFES’ DEATH.
Kate Jeffes, 21, the young woman who was shot in the arm and breast by Felix Perrier, a French Canadian in George-street near Goulburn-street, on the night of June 21 last, died at the Sydney Hospital early on Saturday morning from the effects of the wounds and the subsequent shock. She was the daughter of Sergeant Jeffes of No 2 Police Station.
The wound in Miss Jeffes’s breast proved more serious than was at first believed but it was not anticipated that it would cause death. While in hospital, however, deceased suffered considerably from shock and was unable to sleep. On Wednesday and Thursday last she was in a low state but rallied on Friday morning. At 11 o’clock on Friday night she became worse and gradually sank, death taking place at about 3.30 a.m. on Saturday.
The Sydney Morning Herald Monday 5 July 1909page 7 of 12
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THE GEORGE-ST. TRAGEDY.
SHOOTING OF MISS JEFFES. EVIDENCE AT THE INQUEST. VERDICT OF MURDER AND SUICIDE.
Mr.. H. Hawkins, P.M., at the City Coroner’s Court yesterday, held an inquiry into the deaths of Felix Perrier, 35, a cook, and Catherine Margaret Jeffes, 21 a waitress, the principals in the tragedy on the night of June 21, when Perrier mortally wounded Miss Jeffes and afterwards took his own life by firing two shots into his head, in George-street, near Goulburn street, City.
Edward Crampton, hairdresser and tobacconist, carrying on business in Druitt-street, City, said he had known Perrier for some time. He was a French-Canadian by birth, and a native of Montreal. Perrier came to lodge at his place on June 19, and told witness he was employed at a cafe in Pitt-street. Next day Perrier brought a revolver to the house, and witness asked him what he wanted it for. He replied, ‘I want to fight a duel.’ Witness, however, obtained the weapon. On June 21 Perrier asked.; him for it, saying that the man he was going to fight with had disappeared, and he wanted to raise a few shillings on the gun. Witness gave it to him.
George Jeffes, sergeant of police, stationed at the Regent-street Police Station, and living at 135 Rose-street, Darlington, said Catherine Jeffes was his daughter. He last saw her alive about half past 7 on the morning of June 21, in George-street. She was then going to work at a cafe in Pitt-street. Witness did not know his daughter was acquainted with Perrier. Catherine came home one night not long ago, and said she wasn’t going to business the next morning. Witness asked why, and his daughter replied, ‘A man is pestering me, and has made appointments to meet me.’ Witness then said, ‘You stay at home. I don’t want you to work’
Dr. Edmund Pauling said Perrier was dead when taken into Sydney Hospital. Miss Jeffes was admitted, a bullet having passed through the cartilage of the left arm, and one having entered the body below the right breast. She died on Thursday night last. Dr. Palmer, who made a post-mortem examination, said the cause of death was a bullet wound in the head.
Maria Webber, living in Lewis-street, Redfern, said she was in George-street on the night of June 21. When near Goulburn-street she saw a man accost a girl, and say, ‘Good night.’ The girl did not take any notice, and the man put his hand to his hip pocket. He fired a revolver at the girl, and she screamed, and cried out, ‘My God!’ The man fired again, and the girl dropped to the ground insensible. Perrier then shot himself twice in the head, and dropped. Witness heard no quarrel.
Sarah Williamson, a resident of Glebe, corroborated the previous witness’ evidence.
Traffic Constable Wilson searched Perrier’s body at the Morgue. He found military discharge papers in one of the pockets. Eliza O’Connor, living at 32 Francis-street, Hyde Park, deposed she was outside Messrs. Anthony Hordern and Son’s business premises, George-street, about 9.30 on the night of June 21. Witness heard three revolver shots, and rushed round into Goulburn-street. A young woman was lying on the ground. She told witness she had been shot by a man, and asked to be taken home. Witness took her to Sydney Hospital.
Senior-constable Leary had a conversation with Catherine Jeffes at Sydney Hospital on the night of June 21. She told him she went to work at the Glenrock Cafe, in Pitt-street, about four months ago. She stayed there for some time, and made the acquaintance of a man named Perrier, who was employed as a cook at the same place. They exchanged letters. She soon afterwards left the Pitt-street cafe, and went to one in King-street. Perrier pestered her there, and she had tried to avoid him.
Mark Anthony Jeffes, uncle of the deceased girl, narrated a conversation he had had with his niece two days after the shooting. She told him that she did not want to have any thing to do with Perrier.
The Coroner found that Catherine Jeffes was murdered by Felix Perrier, and that Perrier committed suicide.
Evening News ( Sydney ) Friday 9 July 1909page 3 of 12
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Nigel John ATKINS
| 04/12/2014
Nigel John ATKINS
aka ‘ Daisy ‘
Victoria Police
Sergeant
Regd. # 21187
Commenced with VicPol 1978
Stations: Hastings Traffic Management Unit,
Cardinia TMU, Pakenham TMU
Born: ?
Died on: ??
Illness: Suicide
Funeral: Victoria Police Academy Chapel,
Viewmount Rd, Glen Waverley on
MONDAY (Mar. 24, 2013) at 1.00 p. m.
Buried / Cremated at: ?
[alert_red]Nigel is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_red]
DETECTIVES have taken more than 100 statements as part of an investigation into an officer’s suicide.
The wife of veteran traffic officer Nigel Atkins has alleged workplace bullying was a factor in her husband’s death.
Sgt Atkins’ is one of four police suicides — three of which involve bullying allegations — which are the subject of an inquiry by the Coroner.
Sylvia Atkins has been told her husband’s death is the subject of an active Victoria Police investigation being directed by a steering committee chaired by Deputy Commissioner Tim Cartwright. The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission, WorkSafe and the force’s professional standards command will oversee the probe.
Investigators have taken 120 statements from colleagues and others as part of the probe into Sgt Atkins’ death on March 7 this year.
Mrs Atkins said his troubles began in 2007 when he received an email from a senior officer over his booking of a motorist who was aggrieved at getting a number of vehicle infringements.
The officer, who knew the man charged, questioned whether it was necessary to give him a “hamburger” (charges amounting to “the lot”).
Mrs Atkins said this led to friction with the superior when he stood his ground in a reply.
“Nigel took great umbrage to that. Nigel treated everyone equally,” Mrs Atkins said.
She said there was further trouble the next year when he was the subject of “scurrilous” allegations of misconduct by three colleagues. Sgt Atkins was later exonerated, but he was relieved of his officer-in-charge responsibilities at the traffic unit.
“How humiliating. It was against the principle of natural justice,” Mrs Atkins said.
Mrs Atkins said her husband had said his preparedness to book colleagues for speeding made him a target.
She said he told her of becoming the subject of nasty pranks around the station.
A police pursuit which was the subject of internal scrutiny dogged Sgt Atkins in his final months.
His gold class licence was removed after a review of the chase found he had failed to undertake risk assessments, did not communicate having driven at 160km/h in an 80km/h zone, failed to provide ongoing and adequate information during the pursuit, may have continued travelling at high speed after the pursuit was terminated and that he did not support the force’s pursuit and urgent duty driving policy.
Sgt Atkins agreed in response there were things that could have been done better but that he had conducted the pursuit safely and made the “sound and definitive” decision to terminate it.
A police statement said: “Victoria Police take all allegations of bullying seriously and conduct a thorough investigation into any complaint.”
The force was like his second family
POLICING was a huge part of Sgt Nigel Atkins’ life.
A treasured photograph shows him shaking the hand of respected former Chief Commissioner Mick Miller on the day of his graduation in 1978.
He started off on foot patrols and worked his way through a vast range of the force’s roles.
But his most recent years were spent as a road traffic cop, succeeding in reducing road trauma rates in the areas in which he was put in charge.
Commendations and letters of appreciation from his superiors and community groups were among his prized possessions.
His wife Sylvia speaks with pain and pride when she tells of the things she would never forget about her husband.
“I will always be proud of his leadership, loyalty and dedication to Victoria Police,” she said.
“More importantly, because he did it with great strength and honour.
“He was a great protector. My best friend.” Mrs Atkins said it was her husband’s aim to reach 40 years of service.
Despite having his problems in recent years, he was always eager to get to work, often turning up hours early to prepare.
“It was his second family. Sometimes, you’d think it was his first family,” she said.
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW NEEDS HELP, CONTACT LIFELINE ON 13 11 14.
ATKINS. The Funeral Service for Nigel John Atkins will be held at the Victoria Police Academy Chapel, Viewmount Rd, Glen Waverley on MONDAY (Mar. 24, 2013) at 1.00 p. m. A Private Family Committal Service will then follow. Family and friends of Nigel are invited to join the family for refreshments in the Reflection Room at Springvale Botanical Cemetery, Princes Hwy, Springvale from 2.30 – 5.00 p. m. In lieu of flowers, a donation towards the creation of a Sacred Memorial Garden in memory of Nigel would be appreciated. Envelopes will be available at the Chapel.
ATKINS Nigel John My Loving Husband I am comforted knowing that you have entered the mansions of The Lord to enjoy eternal life. I know you will patiently wait for me; watching over me, protecting me from above. When you entered my life you also entered my heart and soul. Nothing can break that. I understand, respect and always have and always will love you.
ATKINS. Nigel. All staff at work areas within the Cardinia Police Service Area mourn the sudden passing of a well respected and dedicated work colleague.
ATKINS. Nigel John. Sergeant 21187 You were more than my mentor, you were also a great friend. I am honoured that I saw the “real you. I know in my heart you will be watching over us all and protecting us. You will be forever missed. My deepest sympathies to Sylvia and the Atkins family. Strength and Honour
ATKINS. Nigel. Fond memories of a compassionate, loyal and a respected member at the Chelsea Police Station. For everyone, he did his best. Eternal Rest
ATKINS Nigel Nigel, you were a boss, a mentor and a true friend. You lived your life to the fullest and you were loved by those who knew the real you. Nigel, you gave all you had until there was nothing left to give. Angels will forever be safe on the highways of Heaven. A hole in our hearts that can never be filled. “Strength and honour
ATKINS. Nigel. The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Sergeant Atkins and extend their deepest sympathy to his family. At Rest
ATKINS. Nigel John. Sergeant 21187 The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of Victoria Police regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Police Academy on ? ? ?
Probationary Constable – appointed 17 August 1964
Constable – appointed 17 August 1965
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( NO )
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed 26 August 1973 ( loss of Seniority )
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 9 October 1980
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 7 December 1986
Final Rank: Sergeant
Stations: ?, ‘R’ District ( 1965 )( Newcastle? ), Newtown circa 1968, Newtown PCYC (Police Citizens Youth Club ), Redfern Police Academy, ?
Awards: National Medal – granted 2 March 1961( Det SenCon )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 7 October 1991 ( Det SenCon )
Retired: April 1993 – 29 years Service
Cause of Death: Illness from long time heart problems
Born: Wednesday 19 April 1944
Died: Sunday 26 October 2014
Age: 70 years, 6 months, 7 days
Time with NSWPF: 29 years,
Age at Retirement: 48 years, 11 months
Time in Retirement: 21 years, 6 months, 25 days
Funeral: Friday 31 October 2014, 10.30am
Eastern Suburbs Crematorium,
Military Rd, Matraville.
Funeral location
Wake: The Henson ( formerly Henson Park Hotel ), Illawarra Rd, Marrickville.
rugby league lost a great player and a true gentleman of the game over night. Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore. One of Newtown Jets Immortals and an ambassador for our great game
Chicka Moore RIP
The Newtown Jets have lost one of the most iconic figures of their 108-year history following the passing of former player, coach and Team of the Century member, Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore.Mr Moore passed away from a long illness yesterday aged 70. Newtown Jets director and media manager Glen Dwyer says Moore will forever be remembered by the Henson Park faithful for his significant contribution to the foundation club.”For the baby-boomer generation, Chicka Moore was the living definition of Newtown,” Dwyer tells RLW.”He never had the privilege of being in a premiership winning first-grade side or playing in a Test match, yet no one who saw him in his prime would deny that he was one of the best centres of the period.”He was a tall, long striding, majestic running centre. In the days where men were starting to grow their hair longer Chicka with his bald head was a landmark at Henson Park.”His combination with fellow centre Bob Keyes was marvellous and I’ve heard lots of judges say that if Reg Gasnier and Graeme Langlands weren’t around, Brian Moore and Bob Keyes would have been the Australian Test centres without doubt.”Moore played for Newtown during a difficult period, with the Bluebags only making the finals three times during his 11-year career. However, there were a couple of highlights to savour.Arguably the finest moment of his career came in 1973 when he almost single-handedly helped Newtown to a remarkable comeback win over St George in the final of the 1973 Wills Pre-Season Cup.
“Newtown were down 15-2 at halftime and the heat was horrendous,” says respected rugby league historian Terry Williams.
“They won 17-15 and that was largely on the back of Chicka. He basically took St George on on his own. In attack he cut the Dragons to pieces out wide and when they had the ball he became a road block.
“In that form he could match any centre in the world.”
Moore represented NSW on three occasions between 1963 and 1970 and was Australia’s top tryscorer during the 1967-68 Kangaroo tour, despite not playing in any Tests.
Unfortunately, he had the misfortune of coming through in the same era as RLW Immortals Bob Fulton, Reg Gasnier and Graeme Langlands and probably didn’t represent Australia as much as he should have.
A Newtown man through and through, Moore also held the distinction of being the Jets’ last-ever first grade coach taking the reins for the 1983 season following Warren Ryan’s resignation.
A respected police officer, in 2008, Moore was inducted into the NSW police Team of the Century while in 2009 he was awarded the NSW Police Medal for diligent and ethical service during his 29-year career in uniform.
“For all his footballing achievements he probably affected more people’s lives in his role as a physical instruction trainer at the police academy,” Williams says.
“There’s a whole generation of young coppers for one or two decades who were put through their paces by Chicka.
“He used to wipe the floor with all these young blokes who were 20 years younger than him.”
“He was just a really memorable character,” Dwyer continues.
“He was a marvellous personality and a great ambassador for the Newtown club.”
BRIAN ‘CHICKA’ MOORE (1944-2004)
* 173 games for Newtown (90 tries, 270 points)
* Four games for NSW (2 tries, 6 points)
* 11 tour games for Australia (10 tries, 30 points)
Newtown Jets legend Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore dies after long battle
October 27, 20146:18PM AAP
ONE of the Newtown Jets’ rugby league players of the century, Brian `Chicka’ Moore has died following a long battle with illness.
Moore was a great of the now defunct NRL club, playing with the blue bags from 1962 until 1973 and also coaching the Jets in 1983.
Six years after he was named at centre in Newtown’s Team of the Century, Kangaroos international Moore passed away aged 70 over the weekend.
“Chicka was a player with an incredible try-scoring record,” said the NRL’s head of football, Todd Greenberg.
“In his 173 matches for Newtown, he scored 90 tries; that highlights what a player he was. In full flight, he was simply magnificent to watch.
“He was also a Kangaroo tourist and represented NSW, and then coached Newtown during its final year in the NSWRL.
“In 2008, he deservedly found a home at centre in Newtown’s Team of the Century. He will be missed by the game which he served so magnificently.”
Brian “Chicka” Moore (19 April 1944 – 26 October 2014) is an Australian former rugby league footballer and coach.
He played in the New South Wales Rugby Football League premiership for the Newtown “Bluebags” from 1962 to 1973 – scoring 90 tries during his long and successful career. He later coached the club for its final season, the 1983 Winfield Cup Premiership. He represented New South Wales in 1963, 1965 and 1970. He also represented Australia, touring Great Britain and France with the 1967/68 Kangaroos, playing 11 minor tour matches but no tests.[1] During the 1970s Moore captain-coached in the Newcastle Rugby League with the Macquarie club.[2] While playing football, Moore also served in the New South Wales Police Force and in 2008, rugby league’s centenary year in Australia, he was named at centre in a NSW Police team of the century.
In 2008 Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore was named in the Newtown Jets team of the century. He died following a long illness on 26 October 2014.[3][4]
Captain R. Zouch, Superintendent of Police in the Goulburn district, is dangerously ill.
The Gundagai Times Tuesday 23 October 1883page 2 of 4
DEATH OF CAPTAIN ZOUCH.
THE people of Goulburn heard with sad surprise on Monday morning that death had claimed for his own one of the oldest residents of the city – Captain Henry Zouch. For some two or three weeks the deceased gentleman had been ill ; but as it was circulated that his condition was improving fears for him were allayed, and his recovery was generally looked for. This being so, the news of his death came with a greater shock. It was on Saturday morning that the deceased gentleman became worse, and throughout the day he remained in a dangerous state, being hardly conscious. Sunday saw no improvement, but on the contrary he became lower, and was unconscious the greater part of the day ; and in the evening at 6 o’clock he breathed his last. His illness was brought on by exposure to the sun, which he experienced last Friday fortnight whilst tending to his garden, of which occupation the Captain was very fond. To the effects of that exposure, and to decay of the system, his death is attributed. The Captain was in his 73rd year, and has resided in New South Wales for about 50 years.
The following, which is taken from Mr. J. Henniker Heaton’s “Australian Dictionary of Dates, and Men of the Time,” gives an outline of his career :
Zouch, Captain Henry, son of Colonel Zouch, commander of a British regiment during the last American war of 1812-14, was born in Quebec, where his father was for some time commandant. When a young man, Mr. Henry Zouch repaired to England, and received his education in the military college at Sandhurst. In 1826 he obtained a commission as Ensign in the fourth or ” King’s Own Regiment.” After serving in several garrison towns in England, he came out to the colony of New South Wales with his regiment. In those days every convict ship was conducted and guarded hither by a detachment of troops. Captain Zouch was appointed in 1834 to the first division of the military mounted police, stationed at Bathurst. There were then three divisions, one at Bathurst, one at Goulburn, and one at Maitland. He was despatched to the Bogan to find the remains of Richard Cunningham, the botanist, and succeeded in doing so, and a tablet was erected on the spot. On the fourth regiment proceeding to India Captain Zouch sold out. He was for some years engaged in pastoral pursuits at Ashly, Lake George. On the discovery of gold at Ophir, and the consequent rush thither, he received the appointment as Gold Commissioner at the town, where he remained until 1853, in which year he accepted the post of Superintendent of Mounted Patrol for Main Roads. This position he retained until the mounted patrol was amalgamated with the general police under Police Act of 1862. Since then Captain Zouch has remained in charge as General Superintendent of Police for the Southern Districts. He has the excellent qualification of always obtaining the confidence and esteem of the men under his control. During the bushranging era and on many other occasions Captain Zouch was distinguished for his courage, foresight, and ability. He has at various times during the absence of Mr. Fosbery fulfilled the duties of Inspector-General of Police.
The captain was a man universally respected and liked. Actuated partly perhaps by disinclination for it, and prevented maybe by pressure of official duties, he never figured prominently as a public man. For some years he occupied the honorable position of president of the Goulburn Hospital, and he was also for a great length of time a warden of St. Nicholas’ Church. With all classes of the community he has always been a favorite, rendered so by his gentlemanly demeanour and his quiet mode of life ; for, meddling not with things which did not concern him, he was one of those of whom it might be said –
[blockquote]Along the cool sequestc’d vale of life He kept the noiseless tenor of his way. [/blockquote]
He was of a most benevolent disposition, and was full of a charity that loves to exercise itself in unostentatious acts of benevolence. To the appeal of suffering he never turned a deaf ear, but was ever ready to relieve those who came to him in genuine distress. To that no doubt is to be attributed his great popularity amongst the poorer classes, who lose in him a friend they will find it hard to replace.
As an officer the captain was one of the most efficient in the public service. His career was one of honor, and he has never had one of his decisions questioned. To the men under him he was at once just and considerate; and in their great respect for him is one of the strongest proofs of his worth as a man and a superior.
Captain Zouch’s near surviving relatives are a widow, four sons, and three daughters.
Before opening the business of the Police Court yesterday, the Police Magistrate said he regretted to learn-last night the death of Captain Zouch, a late member of the Goulburn bench of justices, and an officer of the crown for 50 years in this colony. It was usual, he believed, to show respect to the memory of deceased gentlemen in such cases, by adjourning courts with which they had been connected, but on the present occasion this custom could not be well adhered to, as it would prove detrimental to the public business. Be could only therefore express the regret of the bench to learn of the deceased’s death.
The funeral takes place this afternoon at four o’clock.
Goulburn Evening Penny Post Tuesday 30 October 1883 page 2 of 4
Grave location:
Police Dog CARTS
| 04/12/2014
Police Dog CARTS
New South Wales Police Force
Died 9 December 2007
Murdered – stabbed
5 years old
4th NSWPF Dog to be killed ‘ on duty ‘ since formation of the Squad in 1932.
The fourth Police Dog killed ‘ on duty ‘ was Police Dog Carts, who died after being stabbed during a police operation at Corrimal Surf Life Saving Club on December 9 last year. Last Wednesday, 18-year-old Nemanja Vukadinovic, of Balgownie, was sentenced to 18 months’ jail for fatally stabbing Carts.
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Location of Event: Corrimal Surf Life Saving Club
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Like his namesake, hero police dog ‘Carts’ slain on duty
By Gemma Jones
The Daily Telegraph
December 10, 200712:00AM
A POLICE dog named after a slain officer was stabbed to death yesterday morning after successfully cornering a fleeing suspect.
Senior police yesterday paid tribute to veteran Police Dog Carts, who was raised by police and named after murdered officer Constable David Carty.
Carts and his handler Senior Constable Brett Williams, were called to Corrimal Surf Life Saving Club north of Wollongong just after 3am yesterday following reports of a break in. Two offenders allegedly fled the scene when police arrived, with officers apprehending one of the men. The second alleged offender, an 18-year-old Balgownie man, fled and was chased by Carts into nearby bushes and cornered.”It will be alleged Police Dog Carts was stabbed with a sharp implement and later died in a veterinary hospital from his wounds,” a police spokesman said yesterday. “On this occasion, Carts was not wearing a vest as there was no indication of those people on the premises having any weapons.”
Special stab proof vests were brought in after Police Dog Titan was stabbed to death three years ago but Carts was not wearing one because it was believed the alleged offenders were unarmed.
Titan was the first police dog to be stabbed in the line of duty. His killer Luke Graham Curtis was last year sentenced to seven years jail over the killing.
Chief Superintendent Wayne Benson said Carts had served NSW Police with honour and in his final act had secured the arrest of an alleged offender.
“Without doubt he served with honour, he has performed his task, that was what he was trained for and tragically he has died,” Supt Benson said.
He said Carts death also highlighted the terrible loss of Constable Carty who was murdered at Fairfield in 1997.
“The death of David Carty still lives on in all our memories and whether it is this incident or any other, it is just the nature of police work,” Supt Benson said.
Carts’ first handler Sen-Constable David Williamson last year paid tribute to the special connection between his charge and Constable Carty when he took Carts to a memorial service.
Both alleged offenders were charged with aggravated break and enter and take conveyance without consent of owner.
Carts‘ alleged killer was also charged with kill or seriously injure animal used for law enforcement and use weapon to resist arrest. He was refused bail and will face court today.