Australian Police

Australian Police

The Thin Blue Line – Australian Police

The Stock Squad

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On the 15th January, 1947, the then Commissioner of Police, Mr. W. J. Mackay, approved the formation of a Central Stock Squad. Prior to that time, investigations associated with stock thefts in the Metropolitan Area and the supervision of the old Homebush State Abattoirs were carried out by Police attached to the Burwood Police Station.

In the late 1970’s the Stock Squad comprised of two Detective Sergeants and four Detective Constables who operated out of the Flemington Police Station. These men, in addition to being trained in all phases of Criminal Investigation word, had to have a sound knowledge of animal husbandry, veterinary science, wool classing and stock and station management. They had to be capable horsemen and also be able to handle all classes of livestock.

Duties of the Squad Members were to handle investigations of thefts of livestock, wool and grain in the Metropolitan area. They also supervised all stock sales throughout the Metropolitan Area with the view to detecting stolen livestock and other offences under the various Acts related to the smooth running of the Rural Industry, such as The Swine Branding Act, Pastures Protection Act, and many others not coming within the normal scope of ordinary Police work.

Members of the Squad were in regular attendance at the Flemington, Parramatta, and Camden stock sales. At an average daily Flemington sale in the mid to late 1960’s, some 2,500 cattle and 30,000 sheep would be disposed of, and Stock Squad members would be present to detect any illegal disposal of stock or any offences of cruelty. The Squad was also responsible for the protection of the Australian Wheat Board’s wheat silos that were in the grounds of the Homebush Abattoirs. The Squad effected many arrests for the theft of wheat, and wheat bags from the area.

In addition to the duties mentioned above, Squad members were also required to assist Country Police in the investigation of Stock, Wool and Grain thefts when required.

8 thoughts on “The Stock Squad

  • Shawn Williams

    We have been told the stock squad can assist to find the owner / farmer of a black cow we hit on the Cunningham highway in Qld . We have a photo of an ear tag . The insurance company require the details.
    There doesn’t seem to be a contact on this website

    Reply
    • Hi Shawn,

      If you contact the Police Assistance Line on 131444, they will be able to take your report and / or put you in contact with the local Stock Squad unit.

      Cal

      Reply
  • Matthew Green

    Hi My name is Matthew green and I live at 5 Rose st Killarney!! I’m having troubles with the neighbours bull it keeps jumping into my place and breaking the fences !! I’ve told the owners about it and they haven’t done anything about it . I’ve had to move it 4 times now and I’m getting sick of it …. + I’ve just been talking with the owner and he keeps saying it’s not his bull , but I know it is ! And I told him if I see it my place again I’ll put a bullet in it . So could u guys kindly do something about this please as I don’t want to have to shoot it!! As it has cost me my time and hard work of trying to keep it out and I’m feed up with it !! Kind regards Matt green

    Reply
    • Hi Matt,
      This website is not directly affiliated with NSWPF.
      In any case, your issue is not Police related but rather Council related.
      If you speak with your local Pound Keeper or Ranger at Council, they will be able to assist with your issue.

      regards

      Cal

      Reply
  • Who do we contact to join the stock squad in our area -booyal qld

    Reply
  • would like to be in the stock Squad but don’t no where to go to find out how. I live in qld I am finishing grade 12 this year

    Reply
    • Hi Ellery,

      You would need to contact Police Recruitment in the State of your preference.

      Cal

      Reply
    • I live police

      Would get some life xp first. They value that here in VIC. I am sure its the same in NSW.

      Reply

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