Police Training College – Penrith Class # 029 – 039
NSW Police Cadet # 1016
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 7975
Rank: Commenced Training as Police Cadet on 30 July 1952 ( aged 16 years, 6 months, 8 days )
Probationary Constable- appointed Saturday 22 January 1955 ( aged 19 years )( most probably was ‘Sworn In’ on Monday 23 Jan 1955 due to his birthday being on the weekend. )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed 22 January 1966
Does appear in the 1968 Stud Book
Does NOT appear in the 1969 Stud Book
Final Rank = Senior Constable
Stations: ?, Police Recruitment Office – Police HQ – College St Sydney ( 1954 ), ?, South Coast District ( 1966 ) – Bega – Retirement / Resignation
Service: From 30 July 1952 to? ? 1968? = 16 years Service
Awards: No Find on the Australian Honours system
Born: Wednesday 22 January 1936
Died on: Wednesday 18 March 2015
Age: 70 years, 1 month, 24 days
Cause: Heart attack ( 5 previously over 25 years )
Event location: Gosford Hospital, NSW
Event date: admitted to Hospital on Tuesday 17 March 2015
Funeral date: Thursday 26 March 2015
Funeral location: Greenways Chapel & Memorial Gardens, 460 Avoca Dve, Green Point, NSW
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: Cremated
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( October 2020 )
JOHN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
John was working at the Police Recruitment Office, Police HQ in 1954 when his brother, Don Avery ( NSWPF # 7893 ), applied to join the NSWPF.
After transferring to, and working from, Bega Police Station, John left the employ of NSWPF ( Resigned / Retired ? ) and then became an Insurance Broker in late 1970s, or possibly early 1980s and later moved to Griffith, NSW.
Survived by his wife Noreen, and children Christoper, Alison, and Joanne, 5 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.
Noreen subsequently died in Griffith in June 2018.
Her memorial service was 13 June 2018 at Griffith Ex Servicemans Club following private cremation.
…The Eulogy for John Edward Avery…
Welcomed into the world on 22nd January, 1936, in Chatswood,
NSW, John Edward Avery was the youngest child born to Francis
Daniel and May Columbia Avery (nee Barnes). There was Joan,
Edna, Don, Frank and John and John is now survived by his brother,
Don. Their father’s occupation was given as a “coal
lumper”…….
…A family friend, Alan Elworthy, to commence the Eulogy… ************
…Memories of John from his grandchildren… ************
John has had heart problems for many years. At the age of forty-
seven, he underwent quintuple by-pass surgery and then thirty years
later had a triple by-pass operation. John was one of those people
very attuned to his physical health and he managed his health
problems very well. His outlook was always positive, modest, stoical
and he never told anyone of any problems he had or suffered with.
Towards midday, on Tuesday, nine days ago, John realised that he
had a problem and so he called the ambulance to take him to the
Gosford District Hospital. Sadly, in spite of the best efforts of the
medicos, he was not able to recover and it was there at Gosford, John
Edward Avery, aged seventy-nine years, very suddenly and un-
expectedly departed this life on Wednesday, 18th March, 2015.
He will be very sadly missed by all those who knew and loved him. It
is a great debt we owe to men like John Avery for he was a man who
volunteered and was prepared to sacrifice his life in the military
services of this country. John also good and faithfully served the
citizens of NSW in the NSW Police Force for a period of sixteen years.
John was also one of those people who managed other people very well, for he was very, very organised with everybody and that included his family. It is his family who declare that John liked to do things his way.
Having said that though, John liked people, appreciated them and he was always quick to acknowledge those who had achieved something positive or good or performed admirably.
Those sorts of attributes are absolutely necessary to anyone with John’s aptitude for volunteering to do things for his fellow-man and society.
As an ex-president of two country Lions’ Clubs, a Life Member of the Sydney Adventist Hospital, a former Probus Club member, as well as being the current president of Terrigal Senior Citizens Association, John was always volunteering for something.
He was one of those people who was always busy, he could not sit still nor stop his mind from working, generally for the betterment of others.
John thought quietly and acted frankly, without fear or favour and, his penchant for organisation helped him to achieve what he wanted and better outcomes for the various organisations he supported. I am told that paperwork has been instituted more than twelve months ago, of which John was completely unaware, seeking to invest him with an Order of Australia Medal for his services to the community.
There is a saying, “we should build bridges, not barricades, stepping stones, not stumbling blocks.” John really did that and he didn’t do it in a serious or grim manner either.
He was known for his jokes or story-telling ability and John liked to laugh.
John also enjoyed travelling and, throughout his life, has been just about everywhere on this planet. More recently, he had discovered ocean cruising and had only returned from one such adventure, a couple of days before his passing. Above all else, the love of John’s life was his wife Noreen and he was a beloved husband of fifty-seven years, a much-loved and proud father of three, an adored and proud grandfather of five and great- grandfather of two, as well as a loved brother and a good friend.
Passed out 1958 left police 1966 to become a Ordinance Inspector at Wollongong City Council later to become Administrative officer.
Worked in Wollongong General Duties, Highway Patrol and then Court Officer Wollongong Court.
PATMORE, Noel
of Keiraville ( NSW )
Passed away peacefully on January 29, 2015.
Beloved husband of Joan.
Dearly loved father of Ian.
Devoted Pa of Sam, Kip.
Son of the late Edna and Fred.
Loved brother and brother in law of Naomi (dec) and Alan Walton (dec).
Aged 78 Years
Always in our Hearts
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Noel’s funeral service to be held at Lakeside Memorial Park Chapel, Kanahooka Road Kanahooka on Monday at 10am.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time.”
John Burton Gibbs # 9060 (right) riding Police cycle EV-915, with Noel Patmore, riding Police cycle ES-575, at Figtree Oval in 1961… the photo is captioned “Escorting Mr Maloney” to Wollongong.
John Burton GIBBS ( NSWPF # 9060 ) DoB: 20 June 1939, was a Probationary Constable on 30 June 1958 and a Constable 1/c on 22 September 1964 – working in the North East District.
Appears in the 1988 ‘Stud Book’ as a Sgt 3/c but does NOT appear in the 1989 issue.
Matt FOKI
| 09/10/2020
Matt FOKI
Victoria Police Force
Regd. # ?
Rank: Probationary Constable – 2012
Constable – appointed 2013
First Constable – death
Stations: ?, Traralgon ( April 2012 – )
Service: From? ? ? to 16 September 2015= ? years Service
Awards: ?
Born: ?
Died on: 16 September 2015
Cause: ?
Age: 39
Funeral date: 2 October 2015 @ 2pm
Funeral location: ?, Kernot Hall, Morwell, Victoria
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: ?
[alert_yellow]MATT is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
[divider_dotted]
Funeral location: ?
[divider_dotted]
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
The family of Traralgon Police First Constable Matt Foki have been “overwhelmed” by community support following his unexpected death.
The 39 year-old died on 16 September to an unknown cause, with investigations still ongoing.
More than $27,000 has been donated to his wife and two sons, three and nine years old, via a ‘My Cause’ page.
Funds will provide ongoing support as well as financial assistance to his New Zealand relatives to attend a funeral in Morwell tomorrow.
Constable Foki started at Traralgon police in April 2012 and was made a constable in 2013.
His brother Dave Foki on the ‘My Cause’ page said: “Matt would probably shy away from all of the attention and love being directed his way right now.
“But there are so many who want to show our love and support for his family, we wanted to make this as easy as possible,” Dave said.
His sister-in-law, who wished not to be named, said on behalf of the family they were overwhelmed by the support and the community’s stories shared about Matt.
“It’s amazing the impact he had on the people he met. He was pretty special to a lot of people,” she said.
Traralgon Police Sergeant Brent Muir, who will be among 200 members to attend the police funeral including a guard of honour, said Matt was highly regarded among his peers and the community.
Sergeant Muir said the station was mourning the fit, strong and happy man that everyone wanted to work with.
“His peers felt safe working with him and he spoke to people well. He was always happy, with a big smile on his face,” he said.
Matt Foki’s service will be held from 2pm at Kernot Hall in Morwell tomorrow.
To donate to his family, visit www.mycause.com.au/page/111445/inmemoryofmattfoki
Hundreds to turn out to farewell Traralgon police officer Matt Foki
By Priscilla MocaOctober 2, 2015, 1:25 pm
Hundreds of Latrobe Valley locals are expected to turn out to farewell Traralgon police officer Matt Foki, following his shock death.
Investigations are still underway into the death of the 39-year-old Constable, who died on September 16th from an unknown cause.
Constable Foki’s family say they’ve been overwhelmed by the support they’ve received, with generous people chipping in $27,000 to help his young family via a ‘My Cause’ page.
He has left behind a wife and two sons, aged three and nine.
Donations have also helped his relatives from New Zealand fly out to his funeral in Morwell this afternoon.
His funeral is at Kernot Hall from 2pm.
Constable Foki started with Traralgon police in April 2012, and was made a constable in 2013.
His brother Dave wrote on the ‘My Cause’ page, “Matt would probably shy away from all of the attention and love being directed his way right now.”
“But there are so many who want to show our love and support for his family, we wanted to make this as easy as possible.”
Morwell Sergeant Jeff Robertson said most officers planned to attend the funeral.
To donate: www.mycause.com.au/page/111445/inmemoryofmattfoki
Hundreds of locals and police officers packed Kernot Hall today for the funeral of Traralgon Constable Matt Foki, who died suddenly in his sleep last month.
Morwell Sergeant Graham Maiden said the 39-year-old was wonderful, and fiercely loyal.
[divider_dotted]
Noel Richard DAWSON
| 09/10/2020
Noel Richard DAWSON
( late of Stratton )
Western Australia Police Force
Regd. # 2588
Rank: ?
Stations: ?
Service: From? ? ? to? ? ? = ? years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: 25 December 1930 at Carnarvon
Died on: Thursday 21 July 2016 in Midland, WA
Cause: ?
Age: 85
Funeral date: Wednesday 3 August 2016 @ 11am
Funeral location: PINNAROO Valley Memorial Park, ( West Chapel ) Whitfords Ave & Gibson Ave, Padbury, W.A., 6025
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: ?
[alert_yellow]NOEL is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
[divider_dotted]
Funeral location:
[divider_dotted]
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
DAWSON:
WA POLICE UNION
Members are invited to attend the Funeral Service for our late retired member Noel Richard Dawson 2588 at PINNAROO Valley Memorial Park on WEDNESDAY (03.08.2016) at 11.00am.
DAWSON (Noel Richard):
The members of Guildford Bassendean Lodge No. 16 WAC extend their condolences to the family on the passing of Noel, an esteemed member of the Lodge.
DAWSON (Noel Richard):
Noel Richard Dawson Passed away on 21st July 2016.
Forever in our hearts.
I love you my beautiful Granddaddy and i miss you every second of every day.
Lavinia Dawson lit a candle
Sydney, Australia
5 days ago via mobile
Part of my hart is now forever gone, but know you are back with Gran and Mum waiting till we all meet again. Miss you so much Granddad love you always.
Miss Sue-Ann Patricia Dawson lit a candle
STRATTON, Australia
7 days ago
Will always remember my ‘extra Dad’ who took me for my driving test, and arranged a pony for me to ride for a wonderful fun-filled Pony Club day. I always felt so loved and accepted by Noel and Pat. Lots of love always, Jane
Troubled police database blamed for officer’s death
THE force’s trouble-plagued LEAP database has been blamed for the death of a senior officer in a damages claim against the state lodged on behalf of his two young sons by their mother.
After 21 years on the force Sergeant Martin “Marty” Veal, 46, took his own life on June 1, 2015, using a police gun obtained a day before against force protocols.
Good Afternoon, my name is Damian Downie ( Sen Sgt ) and today I would like to take you through the service history of Sergeant Martin Veal or as we all knew him, Marty.
Firstly I would like to say that it was an honour and a privilege to manage and work with Marty over the last 2 and half years.
In April 1994 Marty began his career as a recruit at the Victoria Police Academy.
From August 1994 through to 2002 Marty worked in the Coburg area as a Constable performing general duties. In that time the Superintendents comments on Marty’s work performance were:
“A team player who will be an asset to his next station.” and
“A professional, conscientious, effective and efficient member who is an asset to the Force and displays potential for promotion”
The reasons behind these comments were Marty’s excellent work ethic and his tenacious nature. In May 2000 while working at Coburg Police Station, Commander Peter Graham commended Marty for his good work in that:
“After an armed robbery on Pascoe Vale Road Marty used his local knowledge of the area to predict in advance the escape route of the offenders in which Marty arrested both of the offenders, recovered the knife used in the armed robbery and the victims cash.”
In July 2002, Marty transferred to Melbourne City Police Station as a Senior Constable performing general duties. In that time the Superintendents comment on Marty’s work performance was:
“A well conducted member whose work performance was above satisfactory.”
In March 2007 Marty transferred to Heidelberg Uniform performing general duties. In that time the Superintendents comment on Marty’s work performance was:
“An efficient, mature and hard working member whose work performance was above average.”
Testament to this:
In May 2007 while at Heidelberg Marty was recognised for his good work in arresting a rapist and preserving the crime scene that supported the conviction of the offender, and showing the diversity of Marty’s skills.
In that same month Marty was at the scene of an accident where one of the drivers forwarded a letter of thanks to the Officer in Charge of Heidelberg. The lady involved in the car accident wanted to thank Marty for his professionalism and support.
In June 2009 Marty was promoted to Sergeant and transferred to one of the most innovate IT projects at the time, being the Criminal Justice Enhancement Program. Marty was an asset to the project with his extensive operational knowledge and problem solving skills. Marty’s efforts helped to deliver enhancements to the way Victoria Police managed offenders and communicated with other government departments.
In December 2010 Marty transferred to the Operations Response Unit where he performed specialist duties such as assisting local police with public safety, road policing and crime reduction.
In September 2011 Marty had the opportunity and transferred to the Victoria Police Air wing. Marty was involved in a range of specialist activities including:
Aerial observation and tactical assistance for ground units.
Crime prevention and detection with regular patrols of metropolitan Melbourne.
Supporting ground units involved in pursuits
Search and Rescue missions
In March 2013 Marty transferred to what was then the LEAP Management Unit, and then on to the Business Readiness and Transition Unit. When Marty transferred we identified that he had an extensive operational, IT and specialist services knowledge. As a result of this knowledge Marty was assigned to the LEDR Mk2 Project. I met Marty when he commenced at the LEDR Mk2 Project and over the next 2 and half years it was my pleasure to work with him.
In his role on the LEDR Mk2 Project Marty was instrumental in delivering an IT system that benefits operational members and people in the Victorian Community. I was always impressed with Marty’s work ethic, his problem solving skills and dedication to supporting operational members.
Marty has been awarded the Victoria Police Service Medal with 20 year clasp, National Medal and the National Police Medal of which he will be awarded posthumously today.
Marty was a team player and he will be missed by me, people in our office and the Victoria Police community.
On behalf of Victoria Police and the Information, Systems and Security Command we’d like to express our deepest condolences and sympathy to the Veal family and their loved ones.
A Service to celebrate the life of Martin James Veal will be held in the Great Hall, The Centre Ivanhoe, 275 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe, on TUESDAY (June 9, 2015) commencing at 2.00 p. m.
VEAL. Martin. It is with heavy hearts the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians Football Club family record the tragic passing of our dear friend and life member Marty. Premiership captain, coach and administration secretary.
Always there for his mates and willing to do whatever was asked of him.
Sadly missed.
All at OIGFC offer our deepest sympathy to the family.
Rest in Peace Marty. You will always be a respected and loved member of the OIGFC family.
VEAL. Marty. A much admired team mate, mentor and a loyal and treasured friend of our family. We are deeply saddened by your unexpected and tragic loss. You will be greatly missed.
Our heartfelt sympathies to the entire Veal family.
Assistant Commissioner Wendy Steendam, Officers and Employees of the Information, System and Security Command Victoria Police Force, regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
VEAL. Martin. The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Sergeant Veal and extend their deepest sympathy to his family.
VEAL. Martin. The Committee, Members and Supporters of the Banyule Cricket Club are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our friend and member, Martin Veal.
A talent unequaled on the field matched by your incredible passion and love for the club. In recent years your leadership of our 3rd X1 premiership team was inspirational and a generation of juniors call the Banyule Cricket Club home thanks to your dedication as our Junior Manager.
Our love and prayers are with Michelle, Cooper and Spencer. Deepest condolences to our Life Members John, Dorothy, David and Tim together with Chris and all families.
Rest in Peace Marty Your memory will remain always
VEAL. Martin. I wouldn’t have got through Chem without your help, Marty and I will never forget your comment “Just like toothpaste, Moz” all those years later when you were on the beat in Coburg.
The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family
VEAL. Martin. We are deeply saddened by your passing. Loving thoughts and deepest sympathy to Michelle, Cooper and Spencer, Dorothy and John, Chris, David and Tim and families.
Our love
Uncle Russell (dec. ), Lorraine, Matt, Emily and Amy and families.
Banyule Cricket Club wishes to express its condolences in the very sad passing of Marty Veal. Our thoughts are prayer’s are with Marty’s family and friends during this sad time. A valued member, friend and mentor to many. He will be sadly missed by all.
Greg RussellTo say I was shocked to hear the news this morning is an understatement. Our thoughts are with Martins immediate family, particularly his children. RIP Martin Veal. Greg, Deanna, Blake and Taylah Russell. Sadly missed.
Banyule Cricket ClubThis morning a son, brother, father, team mate, friend and colleague was lost. Marty was one of the most genuine men I’ve come to know. He was a loving, caring, passionate, hard working man who would go above and beyond to help out off his own bat. I am absolutely shattered, and wish to share my sincerest condolences with the entire Veal family whom are so heavily in our thoughts on this incredibly sad day. To Marty, I say thank you for being a mentor, a team mate whom shared my love for Banyule and for being a friend to celebrate with and confine in whenever I needed. You’ll be forever remembered and cherished.
Tim LowerJust heard of this. My condolences to the Veal family and the broader BCC community.
I’m sure I can pass on condolences on behalf of the GCC as many have played against. RIP Marty.
We regret to advise that Marty Veal died tragically in the early hours this morning.
We are opening the Chelsworth Club rooms tomorrow (Tuesday) night at 6.30pm for any past players, supporters, members who wish to have a chat and drink following this devastating news.
All are welcome.
Kevin McLean
OIGFC President
Joanne TollSuch sad, sad news. Deepest sympathy to the Veal family.
Hem PaTerrible, terrible news. Appears his last post was a call for help but alas too late. He was a good player, great captain, friend and colleague. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest in peace Vealy.
Dean CrakerVery sad news RIP Vealy a legend of the club and great gifted footballer, one of the best team mates a club could wish for. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Veal family at this very sad time…
Peter ParkerAn incredibly sad, tragic and sensitive time for all concerned. Sympathies to all and time to reflect on a wonderful contributor to the community in both his work and leisure.
Patricia WoodsIt’s never easy to lose anyone but so much harder when a life has been cut short. Deepest sympathy to the Veal family our thoughts and prayers are with you. Graeme and Tricia
Scott KentVale skipper. Marty absolute champion of OIGFC just numb at the moment. Great player but even more importantly one of the best club man RIP thinking of the whole Veal family.
Catherine JonesVealy…a lifelong friend to Dirk and family gone far too soon. No words for the shock. Sincere sympathies and prayers to the Veal family.
Matt PowerA tragic end for a man I was mates with from the age of 10. Absolutely shattered. Get down to chelsworth and toast a man who was talented beyond how he saw himself. A unique individual who will be sorely missed. Vale my friend Marty.
Zac KeaneMarty, I have fond memories of our 2005 season together. You were a leader of young men. Your legacy won’t be forgotten at OIGFC. Rest In Peace mate
Joel MathewMarty you lived and breathed OIGFC. You were a great mentor to me when I came to the club in 2005 and always gave your all for brown and white. Sad to hear the news
Paul NortheyThe class of 86 is devastated by this news and there have been many messages shared today between our crew. A few of us were lucky to catch up with him at the OIG centenary dinner a month or so ago and I was lucky enough to sit next to him, something I will always be grateful for. A freak of an athlete, fantastic teammate (1st XIII, 1st XI and OIGFC), always interested in how you were going and always with a smile on his face. We are grieving today for our mate who was blessed with incredible talent and intelligence who followed his own path in life, sometimes the road less travelled. I was able to sneak a final year of footy in 98 back at OIGFC and my only teammates left from the 1st XVIII of 86 were AP and Marty. I was blessed to play that year with the great MV, sweeping across half back like a quarterback controlling the ground as if it were his own…..and it was! He was so proud of his boys and our hearts ache for them and the rest of the Veal family who are in our thoughts. Rest peacefully MV!
George Gabriel HarosVealy, no words but plenty of premiership memories. A question though: Why mate? Please boys if anyone else is feeling shit….. TALK! Talk to me. Talk to your mates. Talk to someone. Gx
John William StevensI loved playing with you because you had a calming influence over the team. If it was a tight game I always felt safe when you were there and knew we’d win and most of the time we did. You were a fantastic player and a wonderful clubman. You bled brown and white and the brown and white community is feeling your pain tonight. My thoughts and love go out to the whole Veal family who have given so much to our great club. I will always picture you sweeping across half back and pushing forward to kick one of your legendary goals in front of the pavilion. We will honour you at our 20 year reunion, a year in which you won the B and F and dominated in the GF. Here’s a picture of 2 of our greats sharing a beer with you tonight from the other side of the world. The third beer is for you mate. RIP
Glen DouglasAbsolutely gutted hearing about this tragic loss..Vealy you had a massive heart on and off the ground..I can still hear you screaming at me to “Switch it” and watch you take off..farewell skipper. RIP #10.
Our thoughts and condolences to the Veal Family.
Chanz CrowleyMy thoughts are with his family and friends. His influence on many young men (including myself) at the club will be my lasting memory. Welcoming and caring. Gone too soon. #10
Dale HawkesMarty, you were a legend at the footy club. Such a selfless person as a player, coach and administrator over so many years. I’ll always have great memories of playing with you in your ever reliable “sweeper” role in defence, bailing us out on so many occasions. Very sad news. Thoughts are with your friends and family. RIP mate.
Ryan ColemanTotally unbelievable. Such a great man who was so great to so many of us. Vealy always cared and was so supportive. Very sad news. Thoughts are with his family.
John SmartOnly played 2 seasons of seconds footy in the late 90s for old ivanhoe. Marty used to prop up the back line when we were short on numbers. It was easy to see Marty was a class above. In my minimal dealings with him he was a lovely fellow and made me feel welcome. I bumped into him last year nearly 15 years later and he remembered me and was exactly the same. Rip marty.
Dan VanWinkelLoved my time at OIGFC and I remember Marty as a very helpful, passionate and highly respected man with a wicked sense of humour. Hope everyone at the club is holding up.
Sam PearceMarty Veal (MV), club legend, leader of men, an inspiration as a player and a great example of a true clubman! We’re thankful to have known you mate and our thoughts and prayers are with the family, close friends and all who knew you! What a great man!
Steve SmithI had the pleasure of knowing Marty and his family through Banyule football and cricket clubs. Saddened by the news. My thoughts are with the whole Veal family. R.I.P. Marty
My team mate. My committee mate. My confidant. My friend.
I can’t understand why and you, you strong stubborn headstrong bastard can’t explain it to me now.
A great man who we both know always told me there is a reason for the mad world we live in but I’m struggling to believe that right now.
You were more than a mate. More than a friend. You shed light when there was sometimes only dark.
You shook my hand on a wing one day (playing for Banyule) and told me I wouldn’t see you again. And your 35 possessions and 4 goals summed that up. I was banished to the seconds at OI almost never to return
I shared so many moments. Watched you determined to conquer what the world put before you. I am at a loss to figure this one.
I love you. I pay my respects to your family. I will always be indebted to you for how you made my life better.
I’m not religious but I trust you are at peace with yourself.
Robbie ChalkleyMarty .. That twinkle you got in your eyes .. The smile you gave when talking of your passions .. You gave your heart and hand to so many .. Steve, Jaimee and I were so fortunate to have you in our lives ..
Rest now .. Thoughts and love to all the family xxx
James M Wooster Marty. We went to the same Primary School – and played footy together all those years ago. We attended at the same Grammar School – and played footy together there as well. In 1992 I joined OIGFC and again we played footy there together and won three premierships with you patrolling the backline like a panther protecting his own. I followed you and other great mates into the same career pathway. And I’m glad I did. And we share the same first name. You were a leader and were damn good at it. You inspired many and guided others. I’m finding it hard to accept what has happened; I can’t believe the tragedy. My thoughts and prayers go out to the VEAL family and to the OIGFC family. Spiritually you are in a much more calmer and peaceful place. RIP mate. From a fellow BIG 7 member.
Belinda HillWords cannot describe how much this is effecting those touched by Marty at some point in there lives… From all the Tolley Family – Mark, Craig, Allan, Robyn and myself, we pass on our deepest sympathy’s to all the Veal‘s at this difficult time. RIP xo…
On Tuesday night I attended a gathering at Chelsworth Park, home of the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians’ Football Club.
It was an impromptu gathering called by the President Kevin McLean. At very short notice, the Club came together to honour a former Captain and leader of the club, Martin (Marty) Veal.
Married for some fourteen years, with two young sons, Martin, a Policemen, his life ended tragically on Monday morning, the first day of a very cold winter.
Upon hearing this tragic news, the Club decided to invite all associated with it to meet at Chelsworth Park; come together and try to work out how such a tragedy could occur and how best to deal with the human emotions. A committee man, Dan Bodycoat, himself a Police officer and grief/trauma counsellor addressed all present.
Why you might ask am I relating this sad event to you?
For many years whilst privileged to be part of the VAFA Board I stressed on many occasions our Association was more than a football competition. We are a mixture of clubs; men and women, who by their association are uniquely placed to embrace each other in circumstances that I have described where we can support, console, show concern, and offer our help and love to those most in need of it.
I know Management and Board are across many of the issues, such as depression, confronting people in our clubs . In your position you are able to “strengthen our arm” in dealing with such issues and showing leadership.
Last evenings’ experience whilst sad was uplifting, to see over ninety young men and women embrace each other and share a sad burden that had befallen them and their club and to find comfort in each other’s company. I urge you all Management and Board, players and supporters, as you steer the future, to even further cement links and ties with everyone in the VAFA; embrace them, hear their story and always be there for them.
If you or anyone you know need to talk, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14. The VAFA and the player led initiative Thick and Thin encourage all in the VAFA community to #StartTheConvo if you or anyone in your circle need to talk.
Two Victoria Police officers take their own lives in a week
Nino Bucci and Cameron Houston
Victoria Police is grappling with the suicides of two officers in a week, as it awaits a high-level review of mental health issues within the force that is expected to recommend an overhaul of support services.
As Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton described the challenge of mental health issues among police as “one of the most important issues” he had to face, the families of the two officers were mourning the sudden losses.
In 41 days this year, two officers and a police employee have taken their lives. It has been almost 10 years since a Victoria Police officer died on duty, according to the Police Association honour roll.
The first officer who died this week was from Echuca police station, but ended his life at a house in Tocumwal, a small town in NSW about 110 kilometres to the north-east.
The other officer( SenCon Paul Anthony BRENNAN ) was from Mordialloc station, and is understood to have taken his own life after being involved in a minor traffic incident in the bayside suburbs on Wednesday night.
Neither officer was on duty at the time of their deaths.
“The death by suicide of a police member is always cause for enormous concern at Victoria Police. Looking after our people is one of our highest priorities,” police spokeswoman Acting Sergeant Melissa Seach said.
“We are heavily committed to improving the mental health support available to all our staff.
“We know that anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress can all be triggered by the stressful situations our people can find themselves in.”
Acting Sergeant Seach said the Victoria Police Mental Health Review would be completed in late March. Mental health experts have been consulted as part of the review.
“Suicide has long been a problem for Victoria Police as it has been across the population in general.
“Victoria Police understands that with improvements in recognising and addressing mental health issues, the incidence of suicide can be reduced and we are committed to doing this.
“The organisation will continue to work … [with] partners such as the Police Association, beyondblue and independent universities to improve our services and ability to break down barriers and help those at risk.”
In October, The Age reported that an officer had taken her own life at a police station, soon after she was deemed fit to carry a service firearm, despite suffering from mental illness.
It was also reported that a senior police officer who was charged with murder suffered mental health issues for almost a decade before he allegedly shot and killed a man during a routine intercept in Windsor in 2013.
He is believed to have an extensive history of psychiatric problems, raising further concerns about Victoria Police’s handling of mental illness and its policies surrounding access to firearms.
Mr Baker took extended leave on several occasions because of his illness, and was only allowed to resume work after approval from a Victoria Police psychiatrist.
But less than a year before the shooting, it is believed Mr Baker was involved in a serious altercation with another officer that should have set off alarms, according to colleagues of the accused man.
The coroner is also set to investigate the death of a sergeant( Sergeant Martin James VEAL ) who took his own life last June.
It is believed at least five officer deaths are before the coroner. More than 40Victoria Police officers have reportedly committed suicide since 1990.
The force said they would not comment on the circumstances of the officers’ deaths while they were the subject of coronial investigations, including whether they were reviewing access to service weapons.
BROADBENT, SHARON
Late of Blacksmiths
Passed away at home Surrounded by Her loving family
12th May 2015
Aged 71 Years
Dearly loved wife of BOB, much loved mother and mother-in-law of SCOTT & JO, JON & JACKI, loving Gran of ZAC, MITCH, LISA, DANIEL and JASON.
The Family and Friends of SHARON are warmly invited to attend a Celebration of her Life to be held in the New Belmont Chapel, 444 Pacific Hwy Belmont (parking via Henry St) this TUESDAY 19/05/15 Service commencing at 10 am.
In lieu of flowers Donations to NSW Guide Dogs Association may be made at the service.
Stations: ? Prosecution, Criminal Investigation Department ( C.I.D. ), Flying / Jungle Squad, O.I.C. of Police District ( OCPD ), Officer Superintending of Police Circle
Service: From? ? 1932to? ? 1969 = 37 years Service
Awards: ?
Born: 13 February 1913 Gaggarwal near Morinda in Punjab
Died on: Wednesday 31 December 2015 peacefully @ 3.30pm
Cause: ?
Age: 102
Funeral date: 6 January 2016 from 2.30pm – 4pm
Funeral location: Chapel of Reflection at Springvale Botanical Cemetery, 600 Princes Highway, Springvale, Victoria
Buried at: ?
Memorial at: ?
[divider_dotted]
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Passed away peacefully at 3.30 p. m. on Dec. 31, 2015 aged 102.
Beloved husband of Harbajan Kaur and much loved father of Gerry, Sukhvinder and Jagdeep.
An officer and a gentleman. The quintessential man who served his country (Royal Malaysian Police 1932 – 1969), the community, and God.
A dedicated family man who was one of a kind.
A special soul that no one can replace. He was deeply loved by all who had the pleasure to meet him and he will never leave the minds and hearts of those he came across. A smiling face, a gentle nature and a heart of gold.
SENIOR CITIZEN DIARY Reflections From A Melburnian Centenarian Didar Singh
14 February 2013
This February, Sardar Didar Singh will turn 100 years old, a notable milestone few of us are able to achieve. We walk down memory lane with a man whose life has spanned three countries – India, Malaysia and now Australia.
Born in the village of Gaggarwal, near Morinda, in Punjab on 13 February 1913, it was the time when the British ruled India giving it independence in as late as 1947. So, war and peace were very much part of the social fabric Didar Singh grew up in. Singh was just four when his mother passed away, the First World War had begun and his father Harnam Singh was serving in the Middle East as he was in the private army of the Maharaja of Patiala, the Patiala Lancers. Singh was left in the care of his elder sister, Tej Kaur. Upon his father’s return, he was back living with him and his brothers. When his father retired, he went back to farming.
Singh received his initial education at the village school in Gaggarwal. “We walked ten km everyday rain, hail or shine,” says Singh. The pursuit of education saw him shift to Middle school in Khant, then to Kainor Khalsa College, Chamkaur Sahib Khalsa College, and finally City High School in Patiala. After completing high school in Patiala, Didar Singh returned to his village and briefly helped his father with the farming and planting an orchard.
Singh’s memory of his father is that of a strict disciplinarian given his military background. “It was military discipline at home too and everything had to be done a certain way, if not we would get a caning,” he recalls. The children took part in all the domestic chores including looking after the animals, cleaning the cow dung in the sheds, milking the buffalos, drawing the plough across the fields with the oxen and extracting water from the well. Far from the days of electricity, running water or automobiles, says Singh.
It was also during this time when he had completed high school that a person from the village had come back home on leave from overseas. This person convinced Singh that he could get a job as an office clerk as he was now well versed in Punjabi, Urdu and English. The person also persuaded Singh’s friend Amar Singh who had not gone to school that he could work in the mines. They were both assured of jobs in the east. Colloquially, the east was known as ‘Chine’ – anything past Calcutta or Kolkata as is now known.
It was a decision that would herald another journey in his long life. With his father’s blessings and financial help, Didar Singh took a train from Punjab to Calcutta. From there he boarded a steamer with the best room on the ship – on the deck and open to the elements. Few days later, he arrived in the Island of Penang in Malaysia. After being in quarantine for a few days, he learnt from the Punjabis living in Penang that the state of Kedah were recruiting people for their police force. Each State in Malaysia had its own police force.
Not wanting to lose any opportunity, Singh travelled to Alor Setar, the capital of Kedah and found himself among a queue of 30-40 Punjabis hopefuls. He had already passed the medical and physical tests. He remembers vividly how the recruiting officer Commissioner J.P. Pennefather-Evans walked up and down the line scrutinising the next batch of police officers. Singh took the opportunity to hand him a letter written in English at which the Commissioner asked in Punjabi ‘who had written this letter’. When Singh replied that he had written it himself, Commissioner Evans proceeded to look at his hands. Fortunately for Singh, his hands were very rough from the agricultural work he had done back home and, thus on this basis, he was recruited. Out of the hopefuls, only 10 were selected.
Singh’s initial duties were to guard members of the Royal family of Kedah. “They preferred Sikh guards as they would not interfere with their women and were excellent guards,” he says. During his night shifts, he used to study under the street lamps. He had a pocket dictionary and used to read books and newspapers to better his English. He also studied and learnt Malay. Clearly, a self-made and self-taught man, it was his drive to excel that would see him rise to the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police during the British times.
Singh went on to serve in different divisions in the police, including prosecution (where he had to learn Criminal Procedure Act, Evidence Law and other legal subjects); the Criminal Investigation Department (CID); Flying/Jungle Squad (after WWII there was a problem with communists in Malaya. The Flying squads were the first ones sent in at any sign of trouble and they had to conduct jungle warfare with the communists). Singh rose through ranks. He not only became a gazetted officer, a Deputy Superintendent of Police but was also Officer In Charge of Police District (OCPD) and Officer Superintending of Police Circle (which included several districts) in various states of Malaysia, gaining fame and respect in not just Malaysia but Singapore and India as well.
Singh retired from the services in 1969 and spent time in India. By then Malaysia was also undergoing its own transition in history. The government was heading towards racial bias and non-Malays were beginning to be treated as second class citizens.
Moving to Australia in 1986 was a decision based on giving his children a better education and future. And while he enjoys life in Australia, he reminisces about life in Malaysia fondly as he was at the prime of his career and had it all – a good life, fame and challenges.
“The times have changed, of course,” says Singh, adding, “Compared to the hard life we had to endure, the lifestyles of people have changed, children enjoy comforts and many things are taken for granted. But it is a progress that we take in our stride and I am always amazed by the rapid change and progress mankind is making.”
A strong believer of Waheguru, Singh has lived life according to its diktats especially in the true style of a Sikh “rehat maryada”. Hard-work (kirat karni), prayer (naam japna), voluntary service (seva), communal life, and daswand (donating 10 per cent of your earnings), have been the principles of his life. He has served in Gurudwara committees across Malaysia and has been integral part of the Sikh Community in Melbourne as well. He was Chairperson of the Blackburn Gurudwara Committee, during 1999-2000 at the age of 86.
For all his time in Malaysia or Australia, Singh has never forgotten his roots and never misses a chance to pay homage to his village whenever he is in India. He also built a school and funded generously towards the building of a Gurudwara in his village.
Singh’s knowledge, humility and integrity shine through his personality. Little wonder, why he is such a respected member of the Indian community. “To be able to live in harmony, we have to treat everyone equally no matter who you are,” he says. Pearls of wisdom from a centenarian.
By Indira Laisram
NIXON, Betty Margaret.
5.8.1924 – 29.12.2015
Aged 91 years.
Loved wife of Ross for 65 years and wonderful mother to Len, Christine and Mark. Grandmother to Emma, Amy, Sam, Brady and to new grandchild Matilda. Mother-in-law of Karen, John and Sarah.
Betty survived the Depression, served in the Australian Army Nursing Service 1945, was *Allambie Heights Brown Owl for 21 years, and secretary and member of the Methodist-Uniting Church Allambie Heights for 40 years. Betty worked for many years at Coles and Avon. She gave great support to her family, friends and the community and is greatly missed.
Betty like many others never deserved to be struck down by the incurable disease of dementia. The Nixon family pay special tribute to Alexander Nursing Home Brookvale for their outstanding care of Betty over the last 4 years.
Deeply missed, may Betty rest in peace.
A Celebration of Betty’s Life will be held in the South Chapel of Northern Suburbs Crematorium, 199 Delhi Rd, North Ryde on Wednesday, January 6, 2016 at 12pm.
The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the the Victoria Police Force regret the passing of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Protective Services Officer Bist and extend their deepest sympathy to his family.
