operation gradient reaching new heights - Queensland Police Union

MARCH 2010
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE QUEENSLAND POLICE UNION
OPERATION GRADIENT
REACHING NEW HEIGHTS
FIGHTING YOUTH CRIME AND GANG VIOLENCE
ON THE CITY STREETS
Kokoda Mick’s CHALLENGE BLIGH’S BUDGET BLUES Peter Thomas Profile

CONTENTS
cover story Page 21
Operation Gradient Reaching New Heights
Her attackers were a gang of teenage girls. They allegedly
beat her and threw her into the Brisbane River. Not one of
them stopped to think whether their victim could swim,
not one of them thought about the consequences.
General President
General Secretary
Asst General Secretary
EXECUTIVE MEMBERS
General Vice President and
Northern Region
Far Northern Region
Central Region
North Coast Region
South Eastern Region
Southern Region
Metro North Region
Metro South Region
HQ & COC Region
UNION STAFF
Industrial
Industrial Support
Executive Secretary
Finance
Legal
Solicitor
Legal
Barrister (Retained)
Editorial Coordinator and
Media/Government Relations
Journal Editor
IT Admin
Membership
Reception
COMMITTEES
Executive Committees and
Committee Members
Legal
WPH&S
Rules
Conference
Training
Communications
Ian LEAVERS
Mick BARNES
Denis SYCZ
Mick Gerrard
Denis FITZPATRICK
Bill FELDMAN
Des HANSSON
Bob SMITHSON
Darren Lees
Shayne Maxwell
Tony COLLINS
Paul MULLEN
Geoff SIMPSON
Stephen MAHONEY
Chris STEPHENS
Rosemary FEATHERSTONE
Janice GADEN
Allan SUTTON
Calvin GNECH
Wendy MACDONALD
Donna BLACK
Troy SCHMIDT
Ross MUSGROVE
Paula Doneman
James JOHNSTON
Kaye ELLIS
Carly Beutel
Melissa LindNer
D. Fitzpatrick (Chair)
M. Gerard
B. Feldman
T. Collins
T. Collins
B. Smithson
D. Fitzpatrick
S. Maxwell
B. Smithson (Chair)
T. Collins
P. Mullen
S. Maxwell
B. Smithson
M. Gerard
P. Mullen
D. Fitzpatrick
B. Feldman
D. Hanson
T. Collins
D. Fitzpatrick
M. Gerard
D. Hanson
T. Collins
They were allegedly following the orders of their
17-year-old leader who ran the City Bums street gang.
Regional Roundups
2 General President‘s Message
3 General Secretary’s Message
4 Assistant General Secretary’s Message
6 Metro South Region
7 North Coast Region
8 Far Northern Region
9 Central Region
10 Southern Region
12 South East Region
Features
15 EBA6 – Update
16 It’s Official
19 Kokoda Mick’s Walk
25 AO Reminder
26 Butcher
27 Gold Coast Police Race Day
28 Behind The Spin
31 Beyond Reasonable Doubt
33 The WHSR - Your Safety Champions
35 Sidebar
37 Duty Of Care To Undercover Police Officers
Regulars
38 Correspondence
40 Q.R.P.A.
It must be distinctly understood that any expressions of opinion by correspondents in our columns must not be
considered the opinion of the Editor, and no responsibility arising from there can be accepted.
The Editor of the Police Journal reserves the right to grant permission to reproduce articles from this magazine.
Such permission is hereby granted to any Police Association or Police Union in Australia and to the Police
Association of New Zealand. Permission is also granted to any Police Association, Police Union or organisation
representing police employees in any other country.
Acknowledgement of the source must be contained in any reprint. Where an article indicated that copyrighting is
claimed by the author, then permission to reproduce is withdrawn unless permission from the author is granted.
Membership Services
Finance
B. Feldman
D. Fitzpatrick
D. Hansson (Treasurer)
D. Fitzpatrick
(Assistant Treasurer)
S. Maxwell
(Assistant Treasurer)
General President, General Secretary and Assistant
General Secretary are ex-officio members of all
committees.
Queensland Police Union
PO Box 13008 George Street Brisbane Qld 4003
Phone 07 3259 1900 Fax 07 3259 1950
Advertising (07) 3259 1989
Letters and articles for inclusion in the Queensland Police Union Journal should be addressed to:
The Editor
Queensland Police Union Journal
PO Box 13008 George Street Brisbane QLD 4003
TEL: (07) 3259 1900 FAX: (07) 3259 1950
EMAIL: journal@qpu.asn.au
Deadline: Editorial Copy - typed or on disk to be submitted by the 12th day of the month prior to publication.
WEBSITE: www.qpu.asn.au
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 • 1

2 • General President’s Message
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
go to work night after night in these areas and behave
professionally.
Terrific work done night after night
There has been a bit of argy bargy in the media
regarding isolated instances of excessive use of
force. I think that most people appreciate that the
police who work in these nightclub areas have to
put up with a lot in terms of abuse, violence and
the refusal of some people to behave in a civilized
way.
Our officers are only human; they’re not drones, clones
or robots, and occasionally you can lose your cool with
people - especially if it’s your twentieth violent drunk for
the night.
“ I’m proud of our officers and
quite frankly I don’t know how
they maintain their cool as often
as they do ”
Police are not perfect, nobody is, and I reckon the police
who work in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane City and Surfers
Paradise do a terrific job.
Every regional centre - Cairns, Townsville and Airlie
Beach – have their own hotspots too.
The statistics prove that there is relatively few
complaints about police being heavy handed in
Queensland.
Figures from last year
IAN LEAVERS
• 2,736 assaults on police
• More than 20,000 resist, hinder or obstruct arrests
• 5.2 million contacts with the public - that equates to
more than 14,000 contacts with the public everyday
• Out of 5.2 million contacts with the public there were
only 659 complaints about excessive use of force.
Those complaints were all investigated and in the
majority of cases, the officers were found to have
acted appropriately in the circumstances.
“ Many of these nightclub areas
resemble a zoo after midnight -
that’s one of the reasons I’ve been
pushing the government to wind
back closing times to 2am ”
Occasionally someone might make a mistake in these
very trying circumstances. However, I believe we should
be backing these people up, not pointing the finger at
them.
Many of these nightclub areas resemble a zoo after
midnight - that’s one of the reasons I’ve been pushing
the government to wind back closing times to 2am.
Earlier closing times for licensed premises would make a
huge difference for our police in these areas.
“ I think the QPS has an obligation
to provide all of us with as safe
a working environment as
is possible ”
We also desperately need more officers and it was
proved with recent operations what can be achieved
with adequate numbers on shift for a change. I think the
QPS has an obligation to provide all of us with as safe a
working environment as is possible.
In other words, enough staff to safely cope with the
hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of inebriated,
often drug-afflicted people who have lost whatever
common sense they previously possessed.
Gold Coast investigation
There is not much I can say about this other than at this
stage an early conclusion is very unlikely.
Naturally, the union is providing legal assistance to many
members.
Ian LEAVERS
General President
0419 786 381
I’m proud of our officers and quite frankly I don’t know
how they maintain their cool as often as they do. They’re
constantly harassed, provoked, assaulted and yet they

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 General Secretary’s Message • 3
MICK BARNES
You’re at Risk
Make no mistake, all Queensland Police are under
threat and facing attacks on many fronts where
you’d least expect it. As a Queenslander and
former serving officer for more than 25 years I am
disgusted at the treatment of police in this state.
Serious Assault
Police have become the victims of serious assault in
every corner of Queensland, regardless of the time
of day or night. The perpetrators of these offences
know too well that the government and judiciary do not
support harsh penalties against them, and that their acts
of violence upon the very ones who maintain peace and
good order in Queensland communities will have very
little consequence.
Criminal Compensation
What other profession can you think of where you’re
under constant threat of being a victim of crime just by
going to work and doing your job? It’s not acceptable
and thanks to recent changes to criminal compensation
legislation, police officers cannot access previous levels
of compensation and must only reply upon assistance
afforded to any worker by WorkCover.
WorkCover
WorkCover is the statutory insurer that provides
coverage for workers including police should they be
injured in either the execution of their duty or travelling
to or from work. This system works on a “no fault”
basis, so regardless of who may be responsible for the
act or omission that led to the injury, police officers are
covered to have any injuries treated to the stage of full
recovery, or to a point where the condition is stable and
stationary.
The fund is no different from any other insurance body
in that it relies upon premiums paid by employers. To
remain financially viable the WorkCover fund must have
assets that will cover expenses for injuries sustained
one year, and the treatment of those injuries for what
may be many years to follow. Along comes the Global
Financial Crisis (GFC) and those assets disappear. One
would have to question the wisdom of the investment
strategies.
It is anticipated that unless there are immediate
changes, the fund will cease to exist within the next
decade. The only options are to reduce workers’
compensation entitlements or increase premiums. I’m
yet to hear any mention by the relevant parties that an
increase in premiums is being considered. So who
loses? You the worker.
Common Law Action
One forum that is currently available to officers is to
seek compensation by preferring Common Law action
through the courts for injuries sustained within the
workplace. As the name suggests, this option has
always been available in various forms, and like statutory
claims, is currently financed by the fund administered
by WorkCover. That’s the problem. Remember the
WorkCover fund is in trouble and requires some
immediate action. The proposed option being touted
by the government is to stop access to Common Law
actions where the level of incapacity is between 0% and
10% and even up to 15%. The ramifications of this alone
are huge and will prevent members from accessing
compensation to assist them in dealing with the ongoing
treatment of their injuries.
Currently anyone assessed with impairment up to 20%
must choose between whether to accept a lump sum
for the management of their injury or condition or a
Common Law action. Once you hit 20% you are able
to accept the lump sum and commence Common Law
action.
Private Prosecution
As I reported in the February journal, members are now
facing private prosecution for assault under the Criminal
Code. When prosecution matters fall over for whatever
reason, does that then mean that any level of physical
touching occurring in that initial arrest process does not
pass the test of being lawful i.e. authorised, justified or
excused by law. As with this matter previously reported
on, the Queensland Police Service wiped the officer
like a dirty rag and he is now being represented by this
union. This is despite the whole matter being the subject
of investigation and overview by ESC and the CMC
and the matter previously being upheld by the initial
Magistrate and District Court Judge in its appellant
jurisdiction.
Commissioner’s Support
Whilst I’m sure our Commissioner will always tell you
he supports his officers, a recent Courier-Mail story
left many members questioning just how much support
there is for them night after night when they have to
deal with the drug and alcohol-fuelled clients who do
not respond to reason. Many members commented that
perhaps it has been too long since many of the senior
management have faced an angry man on the streets.
Regardless of the level of support by the Commissioner,
is it any wonder that officers are left questioning
the support they have of the Government and the
Queensland Police Service when you consider all of
these factors as a whole. The Premier, Minister for Police
and the Commissioner need to address all of these
matters and not just provide some form of lip service
and patronise police in this state.
Stay Safe
Mick Barnes
General Secretary
0411 453 335
mbarnes@qpu.asn.au

4 • Assistant General Secretary’s Message
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
certificate and Statutory Declaration (signed and
witnessed by a Justice of the Peace or solicitor), and
complete a signed consent for records. The application
will be assessed by VAQ assessors and case managers.
This process is free of any charges.
DENIS SYCZ
The introduction of the new Victim of Crime
Assistance Act 2009 (VOCA) and the repealing of
the old Criminal Offence Victims Act 1995 (COVA)
in December 2009 has paved a whole new way for
handling future claims of victims of crime.
Gone is the need for police to obtain an award from
a superior court in relation to injuries sustained in the
course of their duties and with that, the general need for
legal assistance in completing the accompanying long
and complicated process. Be aware though that this
process is complimentary to Workcover and as such,
members must first apply to Workcover for assistance
and then, when finalised, may apply to VOCA for
assistance.
“ Victims can claim for financial
assistance when it can be
established on the balance of
probability, an act of violence
and an injury (physical or
psychological) as described under
the Act has occurred ”
The implementation of the new act sees the introduction
of Victims Assistance Queensland (VAQ), a new body
that will “support victims to access services and assist
recovery” in relation to their claims. Victims can claim
for financial assistance when it can be established on
the balance of probability, an act of violence and an
injury (physical or psychological) as described under the
Act has occurred.
“ It should be stressed though,
that VOCA is not a compensation
scheme and will only provide
special assistance ie a lump sum
of up to $10,000 as a symbolic
gesture from the state in
recognition of the crime
committed against them ”
It should be stressed though, that VOCA is not a
compensation scheme and will only provide special
assistance ie a lump sum of up to $10,000 as a symbolic
gesture from the state in recognition of the crime
committed against them.
All other claims may be considered such as reasonable
counselling, medical, incidental travel and report
expenses, up to $500 legal fees (only for assistance from
a lawyer to complete the application), loss of earnings
up to $20,000 up to two years after the act, expenses
for loss of or damage to clothing and if exceptional
circumstances exist, for any other expenses to help the
victim recover. Also, up to $6,000 will be paid for a victim
who has died.
“ A victim has three years
from the date of the act to
make an application and may
seek extensions in certain
circumstances ”
VAQ also offers a Victims LinkUp (information and
referral service), training and development unit and a
Victim Service Co-ordination Unit including a Regional
Co-ordination program and a Court Support program.
A victim has three years from the date of the act to
make an application and may seek extensions in certain
circumstances.
These changes are a significant move from the old
system and will limit the amount of recompense that
members may receive as a victim of crime. This, coupled
with mooted changes by the Attorney-General to the
Workers’ Compensation Scheme in limiting third party
damages for workplace injuries, will mean that payments
in the future may be severely restricted.
Should you wish to make a claim it is recommended that
members contact VAQ directly on 1300546587 or check
their website at www.justice.qld.gov.au
The scheme is only in its early stages and as such, the
QPUE is trying to stay on top of things as they develop.
Should you require any assistance feel free to contact the
QPUE on 3259 1900.
Denis SYCZ
Assistant General Secretary
Under the new scheme, members can now make an
application directly to VAQ. Members will be required
to complete an application form, obtain a medical

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
Assistant General Secretary’s Message • 5
Queensland Police Service
Deputy Commissioner
(Specialist Operations)
Mr D Sycz
Assistant General Secretary
Queensland Police Union of Employees
Dear Mr Sycz
I write regarding the Assistant General Secretary’s Message appearing in the November 2009 edition of the Queensland Police
Union Journal regarding Queensland Police Service (QPS) legal representation to its members.
The members of the Senior Executive of the QPS support and will continue to support our members when involved in actions
arising from the performance of their duties on behalf of the QPS. Members of the QPS should not be constrained in the proper
performance of their duties and functions by fear of financial or other loss through engaging legal representation in defending their
positions in court or other proceedings. The Service has an obligation to support its members with legal advice and representation
when officers act in the execution of their duty.
Applications for legal representation for officers will continue to be approved however, I am aware that officers are entitled to
consider alternate representation in circumstances where they think it is appropriate, be that through their Union, privately or
otherwise. In approving legal support there are a range of means by which that may and is provided for example, through Crown
Law in appropriate civil matters, through the QPS Solicitor’s Office, through use of our Prosecution Corp or through other legal
sources.
In response to the matters raised in your article, there seems to be long held concerns by our members regarding court requests
(through disclosure or by summons) of QPS discipline files. Your article suggests the first time prosecutors are aware discipline
records have been summonsed is when defence counsel commences their cross examination. In 2008 the Office of the QPS
Solicitor (through the Legal Liaison Unit) was directed to forward a copy of any summons served upon the QPS requesting Ethical
Standards Command (ESC) discipline files of a member to the Officer-in-Charge of the relevant Prosecution Corp. That practice has
been in place since October 2008.
Prosecutors should be aware that ESC files had been summonsed in a criminal matter, and also be aware of the approach taken to
their production (e.g. objections). Prosecutors have the ability to search the court records or ask the court for access to the material
at the commencement of court. Should an objection be made to the production of such material, a representative from the QPS
Solicitor’s Office or the Police Prosecution Corp will appear. Where the material has been requested as part of the Criminal Code
disclosure process more often than not, the police prosecutor as “prosecuting authority” will submit on any objections to assist the
court. However, QPS Solicitor’s Office can also assist with appearances, submissions and advice.
Specific to your article regarding the Peace and Good Behaviour Act application served upon a member, approval was given for
the QPS Solicitor’s Office to represent the member in that matter. The QPS Solicitor’s Office was unaware the member had also
approached the Queensland Police Union of Employees (QPUE) for representation. Through discussions with the Union Solicitors
an agreement was reached for legal representation to be provided by the QPS Solicitor’s office. I note your concern that a local
prosecutor dealt with the matter notwithstanding the availability of the QPS Solicitor’s Office.
Contrary to your article, the QPS Solicitor’s representatives were not in town on that day but rather in Hervey Bay engaged in
another matter. However in making arrangements to attend court, contact was made with the local prosecutor (who was handling
the criminal matter from which this application arose) who advised the application was listed for mention and would be adjourned.
The local prosecutor was ready, willing and able to assist at the mention for the adjournment. In all other aspects, the QPS
Solicitor’s office handled the matter, including liaison with Crown Law representatives and the court resulting in the application
being dismissed. At all stages, the Service represented its member, including utilising the most appropriate resources to deal with
each stage of the process.
Regarding the private prosecution complaint, the members appropriately made an application pursuant to s.1 0.7 Police Service
Administration Act for Service representation. However at the time of their application, advice indicated that an urgently convened
QPUE Legal Defence Assistance Meeting had been convened for the officers concerned resulting in legal defence funding
and assistance being authorised for the members. This then led to concerns that any QPS representation would have been a
duplication. It is not the case the members would otherwise have been left unrepresented or unsupported as a clear indication had
been provided that the QPUE had approved funding and organised representation.
Neither the QPS nor the Senior Executive Members have shirked their responsibility by dealing with this matter in this way. It is
certainly not the case that the Service cannot be bothered to provide assistance to members where appropriate.
The QPS will continue to assist our members where-ever they confront litigation and other action for which they need
representation and indemnification. However, there may be occasions (e.g. conflict with the Service’s position) when it is more
appropriate for the QPUE to consider legal representation or members may prefer legal representation by the QPUE. Members are
also supported through access to documentation and advice to ensure they are able to respond appropriately.
IAN STEWART
DEPUTY COMMISSIONER
(SPECIALIST OPERATIONS)
NOTE from Assistant General Secretary Denis Sycz
• They were in the Bundaberg court that morning and in fact, sat in front of union officials at an
inquest that commenced after the proceedings.
• QPUE legal meeting has a local branch meeting and findings had not been conveyed to the
union office. There was no advice they had cancelled.
• My article has had the desired effect as the QPS solicitors’ office seems more inclined to assist.

6 • Metro South Region
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
The following organisations found it necessary to furnish
submissions:
TONY COLLINS
Moynihan Review
As I have previously mentioned in my journal
articles the Moynihan Review and subsequent Civil
and Criminal Jurisdiction Reform and Modernisation
Amendment Bill 2009 will potentially cause a
number of significant headaches for police officers.
These headaches include how the court process
operates but more importantly, a police officer’s liability
for criminal charges if they fail to disclose material.
Don’t get me wrong, there are some good things about
the proposed changes. But there is no doubt this review
and proposed bill will significantly change criminal law
in this state. The greatest change will fall upon police.
One would have thought the QPS would have been
very interested to contribute to this review but this was
not the case initially, and we are yet to hear if the QPS
prepared a submission for this final round of public
comment.
“ Did the QPS somehow think they
were not an interested party? Mr
Moynihan himself made comment
about the lack of a QPS submission
on page 37 of his review report ”
For a complete understanding of this review:
On 14 July 2008, the then Attorney - General Kerry Shine
appointed The Honourable Martin Moynihan, former
Supreme Court judge, to conduct a review of the Civil
and Criminal Justices Systems in Queensland.
On the 9 August 2008, advertisements were placed in
newspapers statewide for interested parties to make
formal comment to Mr Moynihan’s Review. This public
comment closed on the 5 September 2008 without a
submission from the QPS. Did the QPS somehow think
they were not an interested party? Mr Moynihan himself
made comment about the lack of a QPS submission on
page 37 of his review report. It is astounding to think
the QPS did not deem it necessary to submit a formal
submission. The QPS will claim they attended some
meetings and sent a few emails. Other organisations
such as the ones mentioned below also attended
those meetings but took the time to prepare formal
submissions as well, some up to 150 pages in length.
• Bar Association Queensland
• QLD Law Society
• Legal Aid Queensland
• Office of Director of Public Prosecutions (Qld)
• Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (Qld)
• Queensland Corrective Services
• The Public Advocate
• Then Chief Magistrate Judge Marshall Irwin
• Several legal defence firms
On the 24 November 2009 Attorney-General Cameron
Dick released the draft bill, Civil and Criminal Jurisdiction
Reform and Modernisation Amendment Bill 2009, for
public comment. These submissions were due on the
31 January 2010. I can disclose the QPUE Legal Team
prepared and furnished a 20-page submission after
consultation with members at local branch meetings
across the state. By the time this journal article is printed
the QPUE Submission will be located on the secure part
of the QPUE Website for members to view.
“ Why then would police arrest
a person for any offence if it
significantly increases the chances
of the officer becoming a
defendant ”
I call on the QPS to disclose to their employees
the contents of any submission they furnished, if
any. (Parliamentary privilege does not apply to this
submission.) If again, the QPS have been negligent and
decide not to furnish a submission, Commissioner Bob
Atkinson really needs to explain why this has not been
one his priorities. If this bill is allowed to be passed
in its current form, overworked police statewide will
potentially be facing criminal charges for not disclosing
and preparing briefs of evidence. Why then would police
arrest a person for any offence if it significantly increases
the chances of the officer becoming a defendant? This
bill in its current form encourages police not to do their
job to avoid the threat of criminal prosecution. This leads
to the need for good faith immunity legislation but that is
an argument for another day!
Remember if you have any problems I am
a phone call away.
Tony COLLINS
Union Representative
Metropolitan South Region
0414 804 472

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 North Coast Region • 7
Peddlers of illicit drugs are responsible for the victims
of crime that result from their trade. They are also
responsible for the heartache caused to many families
when a bad trip leaves a loved one cold. Traffickers buy,
sell and swap in evil regardless of the cost to others.
Their bottom line is a constant flow of cash that they will
launder.
Des Hansson
Who protects the community when
the criminal justice system fails?
I know how hard our colleagues in the branch work,
I’ve seen them in action and quite often you see
the results of their diligence reported in the local
newspaper. I read recently of our local detectives
busting a major drug ring in the Sunshine Coast
District.
As a result of raids on several properties, $148,000
worth of illicit drugs, including ecstasy, cocaine,
amphetamines and cannabis, were seized. More than
$700,000 in property was retained as proceeds of crime
along with $60,000 in cash.
“ Now I realise that we don’t
always have a win in every matter,
but in this instance not one of
those ten accused were remanded
in custody ”
Great news you say, I agree. However I later learned that
ten of the offenders arrested were considered by police
to be at risk of re-offending. Objections to bail were then
completed for those alleged offenders and put before
the court.
“ Two of the offenders allegedly
made threats to harm police
during the operation closure ”
Now I realise that we don’t always have a win in every
matter, but in this instance not one of those ten accused
were remanded in custody.
This group are allegedly no average small-time crooks.
At least five of them allegedly have previous convictions
for drug trafficking. One was on Supreme Court bail for
similar offences. Another offender was on two lots of
court bail for two other drug trafficking charges. Two
of the offenders allegedly made threats to harm police
during the operation closure.
This group of offenders allegedly made a conscious
decision to traffick in drugs.
The community, which includes police, deserve
protection from this modern scourge on our society.
The laws are by no means lenient in any respect in
relation to drug trafficking which attracts maximum
sentences of 20 years or even 25 years jail for dealing
to minors. It is predominately our youth, that we, as
enforcers of the law are sworn to protect.
In the meantime, keep on locking up those who break
the law. Walk into any school, hotel, barber shop or
just about anywhere else and the vast majority of our
community know and respect the good work of police.
It’s a shame that our judiciary appear to have forgotten
they work for the same community we do.
Anyway, be careful out there.
Des Hansson
North Coast Regional Representative
0412 707 434
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8 • Far Northern Region
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
Too often we are bitten when we go hands on with
violent persons. Any piece of kit that gives us a tactical
advantage in modern day policing has to be considered
as a benefit. If the kit gives a copper the opportunity
to go home unharmed then it is worth every red cent.
I don’t think anyone would argue that the frequency of
biting and serious assault is increasing. You only need to
read the SIGEVENTS to see the picture.
Denis Fitzpatrick
One burning issue is at the top of my agenda. In
my view we need to have an operational hand glove
issued to protect the members on the front line. The
glove needs to be strong enough to protect from
bites and flexible enough to allow deployment of
accoutrements. Many staff had already purchased
their own gloves and were wearing them with
success.
Unfortunately management have now directed these
officers not to wear the gloves. Obviously the gloves
need to be both pliable and comfortable. Our own
members have found something effective and now it is
time for the QPS to find an item or kit that will protect
and assist. Remember, personal protective equipment is
the last recourse in terms of the Workplace Health and
Safety of employees.
Now I am not suggesting that one glove will prevent
all bites or needle stick injuries. There needs to be
specialist gloves for specialist operational needs and
situations. But I strongly feel a general purpose glove is
a must in this day and age.
New Website
Our new web site is up and running. It can be found
at www.qpu.asn.au. I strongly recommend this site
to all members. Please save it in your “favourites” and
read it as often as you can. We will be updating EB6
developments on this site. You really have no excuses for
not being informed.
Father Pat Jones
February 18th saw the passing of our beloved Police
Chaplain, Father Pat Jones. The Padre was one of
nature’s gentlemen who gave counsel and support to
many police officers and their families in his 48 years in
the priesthood. His exploits on the Cape are legendary
with many police sharing a drink and fishing trips with
him over the years. I can assure you there will never be
another clergyman like Father Pat. May he rest in peace.
“ Still in the job”
Denis Fitzpatrick
Regional Representative
Far Northern Region

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 Central Region • 9
murderers, serial killers, drive-by shootings, or children
being murdered in their schoolyards. Where have we
gone wrong?
Bill FELDMAN
History Never Repeats
I remain amazed that we as a supposedly intelligent
society never really learn from the lessons of our
past and inevitably fall into the same traps that
caused our initial grief and heartache.
I read with some sense of pride the QPS October issue
of the Police Bulletin, “Policing through Queensland’s
150 years”, and I know how far we have technologically
advanced over all those years. But have we really got
smarter? I wonder how those old coppers would view
the police force, I mean service, we have created?
“ Unfortunately, not since the
Salem witch trials have children
had so much power in
our society ”
I know that our politicians have caused the majority
of grief for police through various forms of legislation
and I really wonder how those police of old would view
legalised prostitution, Satanism, decriminalised fraud in
the form of tarot reading, palm reading, ghost hunting,
and children roaming the streets at all hours of the night,
just to name a few societal changes. Unfortunately, not
since the Salem witch trials have children had so much
power in our society. There are no consequences for
their law-breaking behaviour and they are protected by
legislation such as the JJA. All the coppers of old had
were their size 9 boot and a kick that would make your
nose bleed. It worked and kept the streets safe.
“ Did those battle-hardened
veteran blue & khaki uniformed
men of old really control the streets
as we have been led to believe or
was it just a nice dream ”
Has society really become more violent or is it as the
media would have us believe that it is a matter of more
cases of violence being reported to authorities? Did
those battle-hardened veteran blue & khaki uniformed
men of old really control the streets as we have been
led to believe or was it just a nice dream? I know that
growing up as a child I never heard of knife fights on
suburban streets, glassings at hotels, road rage, mass
“ To add to our woes, operational
police are spending less time on
the street and more time behind
their desks trying to work through
the inadequate technology
that is QPRIME ”
On the Frontline
Then to make matters worse, police are hamstrung with
irrelevant or weak legislation and a myriad of oversight
committees- the ESC, CMC, PCJC and civil libertarians,
just to name a few. To add to our woes, operational
police are spending less time on the street and more time
behind their desks trying to work through the inadequate
technology that is QPRIME. It is harder to drive this
computer system – dotting I’s and crossing T’s - than
driving a car and catching the offenders who roam our
streets.
As a union we have always been about getting more
frontline police out there on the streets protecting the
very public we have sworn to save.
I am forever hopeful that our Commissioner who last
month signed on for another three-year term will be
forthright in his support for our frontline troops who face
the daily onslaught of a violent society that has been
allowed to develop.
Our members not only have to fight against societal ills,
they are also subject to harsh penalties by the QPS.
Penalties that would cause outrage if members of the
public were treated the same by a court of law. I see the
despair felt by those members as they choose to leave
a profession that truly seems to have lost focus on what
used to be a true calling.
I say goodbye this week to some six hard-working
central region coppers who have opted to leave for
better pay, less stress, and a more benevolent employer.
We will miss you all. Good luck in your future endeavours.
To all my colleagues still in the circus, I say chin up, take
that spoon full of concrete, and harden up. Better days
are coming.
Work smart, work safe – make it home.
Bill FELDMAN
Regional Representative
Central Region

10 • Southern Region
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
Our members are sick of the comments they hear
from politicians telling the world of our dedication and
professionalism yet treat us with such disrespect behind
closed doors when it comes to EB negotiations.
Darren LEES
EB 6
As I am penning this journal article I have received
an email from our office in Brisbane regarding the
outcome of the initial meeting of stakeholders for our
next Enterprise Bargaining Agreement which was
held at the QPUE building on Wednesday the 24th
of February 2010.
The QPUE were represented as was the QPS and the
Queensland Government. The meeting was to ascertain
who would be representing each stakeholder and to
organise future meeting/negotiation dates from there.
Well members, can any of you guess what occurred?
Yes that is right. The QPS informed the QPUE that
although they had invited us to attend the meeting,
they had not been given permission from the almighty
Labor government to commence negotiations with
us. This is the very same fiasco that occurred at the
commencement of EB5 negotiations. The question has
to be asked:
“Why set up a meeting and invite all stakeholders to
attend including those from the very government who
already know there has been no permission granted to
commence negotiations? Why set up a meeting when
the exercise is going to be one in introducing yourself
by name, shaking hands and asking where the tea and
coffee facilities are?”
“ I am sorry if I sound cynical,
but it appears to me the almighty
Labor government are treating
all of our hard-working, highly
dedicated members like little
school children ”
I am sorry if I sound cynical, but it appears to me the
almighty Labor government are treating all of our
hard-working, highly dedicated members like little
school children. It appears to me that the government
wants to flex their muscles and show everyone who is
boss without a second thought for the excellent men
and women it is treating with contempt. Enough is
enough, this government has to wake up to themselves
and start treating our members like they deserve to be
treated.
If the government are sincere in their public support
of the boys and girls in blue, then start showing it by
getting these EB negotiations up and running. Don’t
cause the same problems we experienced last time with
unnecessary delays which led to the agreement not
being reached and ratified until well after the expiry date.
I would like to remind the government the expiry date of
our current agreement is the 30th of June 2010, which is
fast approaching.
One Rule for us – One rule for them
Now I have that out of the way, I would like to discuss the
very serious issue of leaks of police-related issues to the
media in Queensland.
“ If police were leaking sensitive
information about ongoing
investigations, the CMC would be
first to come down on us like
a tonne of bricks ”
I have been inundated recently with emails from
members right across the Southern Region, and indeed
from other colleagues I know around the state, asking
the very same question I have asked myself in recent
times. How in the world do sections of the media within
this state (print, radio and television) seem to be able to
obtain sensitive and confidential information pertaining to
investigations relating to police?
Quite frankly, this issue stinks to high heaven.
Recently the Crime and Misconduct Commission
executed search warrants on private residences of
police and police establishments on the Gold Coast over
allegations of criminal activities and official misconduct
by police. This is just one high profile example of
where information was leaked to the media prior to all
allegations being properly investigated and examined in
a criminal or departmental forum. There are many more
similar examples.
Why is the CMC going public about ongoing
investigations? What are they doing about the leaks of
information? Queensland’s so-called criminal watchdog
should be asking serious questions to find out who is
leaking this information. If police were leaking sensitive
information about ongoing investigations, the CMC
would be first to come down on us like a tonne of bricks.
It seems to me that these leaks are the result of tactics
being used by the CMC to discredit the excellent work
that the vast majority of police perform on a daily basis.

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
I ask you this - if you or I conducted a murder
investigation, and in the middle of it we disclosed
to the media information such as the identities of
three suspects, that we had their DNA samples
and fingerprints as well as other evidence prior to
approaching or contacting any of the suspects, where
do you think we would be?
We would be dragged off the investigation team, a 466
would be submitted in relation to official misconduct
and there would be an outcry as to why or how police
could allow that to occur in the middle of a criminal
investigation. If the CMC claim this investigation is
ongoing, why is confidential information being released
to the media and public at this stage?
Don’t get me wrong. I, like all of you, do not condone
in any way shape or form criminal activity by police or
any other person in the community. That is why I am a
copper, to try and do something about such criminality.
However I think the time has come for someone to speak
out and ask some questions about these leaks. It seems
like there is one rule for police and another for those in
positions of power from the government to the CMC.
They seem to think it is okay for these allegations
to be aired publicly before they are examined in the
appropriate forums of the criminal and disciplinary
processes. These leaks also deny police natural justice
in their right of reply to respond to allegations.
As I have previously mentioned, the negative effect
Southern Region • 11
this has on the very fabric of policing cannot be
underestimated.
I have often said I am extremely proud to work with
a group of such highly professional and dedicated
men and women in this job. We all know in every
occupation we will find those who step over the line and
like everyone else in society, if it is proven they have
committed offences or done the wrong thing, they will
have to face the consequences. All this blatant leaking
of information does is to cause the community in general
to question the moral fabric of the 99.9% of men and
women who work their butts off every day to make
Queensland a better place.
I hope someone in the government reads this article
and they question the agendas behind these leaks
because troops, they are already being asked by you the
membership. In my opinion, you all deserve answers.
“Keep up the great work, and stay safe.”
Darren LEES (Beefa)
Southern Region Executive Representative
0417 776 184

12 • South East Region
BOB SMITHSON
MANAGERIAL RESOLUTION AND INTERNAL
INVESTIGATION COURSE
I recently attended the Managerial Resolution and
Internal Investigation Courses facilitated by two
inspectors from the Ethical Standards Command.
The courses were held at Coomera District H.Q. and
were conducted over a period of one day each. Most
of the course participants were of the rank of sergeant
as they will be the members of our organisation who
are delegated with most of the internal investigations.
Hopefully the investigations will not be complicated
or serious matters. I think we all learnt a lot from the
courses and the internal investigation process seems to
be heading in the right direction.
“ While on the topic of internal
investigations, if you haven’t been
involved in one recently, you must
have been on holidays ”
I sit in on many internal investigation interviews with
our members and I can say from experience that the
ESC investigators generally conduct interviews in a
professional manner. However, I believe there are a
few inspectors around the state who might benefit
from attending one of the above-mentioned courses
themselves. I don’t think anyone is ever in a position
where they cannot learn something new and improve
their abilities.
While on the topic of internal investigations, if you
haven’t been involved in one recently, you must have
been on holidays. It seems that just about everybody
is getting a call up for an interview. On this point,
members who are advised of an impending interview
should immediately contact me or their local branch
official. We all do shift work and it may take a couple
of days to organise union representation. This is
particularly important, as with recent cases, numerous
investigations have been conducted simultaneously.
Even if you are not the subject member of an
investigation and are approached for interview, still give
us a call.
Hopefully all of these issues can be sorted out quickly
and we can put them behind us and get on with our
jobs.
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY
REPRESENTATIVES
We have recently seen the election results for the
workplace health and safety representatives for the
various “clusters” spread across the state. (Each cluster
is made up of a large station/section or a group of smaller
stations/sections). Congratulations to these members
(some police and some unsworn) for their interest in
workplace wealth and safety issues. I envisage that these
WHS representatives will be working in conjunction with
our union members with the aim of improving safety
within the workplace. Once these new representatives
are trained, I hope they will be allocated the time to
which they are entitled, to visit all stations and sections
within their cluster as well as conduct inspections. The
capacity for these representatives to issue Provisional
Improvement Notices (PINS) to the employer will no doubt
have some managers feeling a little edgy.
It may be an appropriate time to reintroduce the “Dump
of the Month” section, once a part famous part of this
journal. We can only hope with the new provisions
regarding WPHS kicking in, there may not be any
“dumps” left.
NEW COOMERA BRANCH OF QPUE
As I reported last month, the creation of a new Coomera
branch of our union was approved at the executive
meeting in January 2010. I attended Coomera District
Headquarters on 1st February and opened their first
meeting. There was a good turnout of members, and it
was particularly pleasing to see a large representation
from the plain clothes members. Nominations for branch
officials were called and I am please to announce that
four positions were filled as follows. President is Senior
Constable Virginia Miller from the Coomera District
intelligence section; the position of Secretary was
filled by Senior Constable Mark Simpson, who works
general duties at Beaudesert station; Vice-President is
Senior Constable Hilton Buckley of the Coomera District
traffic branch, and Detective Sergeant Todd Miller of
the Coomera District C.I.B. was elected as Assistant
Secretary.
As you can see, this team has diversity with
representation from four different policing groups. There
is some past branch official experience among this group
and the new officials will be provided with appropriate
training by the QPUE. I look forward to working with
these new branch officials and I encourage members to
be supportive of them and also attend future meetings of
your new branch.
Bob SMITHSON
Regional Representative
South East Region

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
EBA6 – Update • 15
Photo left to right: Industrial officers Geoff Simpson, Steve Mahoney, Chris Stephens and Media and Government Relations Officer Ross Musgrove.
Standing behind left to right is QPUE General Secretary Mick Barnes and President Ian Leavers.
Enterprise Bargaining
Agreement 6
– Update EBA6
The first meeting of the Queensland Police Service Enterprise
Bargaining Unit was on Wednesday 24 February at the union
offices. The QPUE was represented by General President Ian
Leavers, General Secretary Mick Barnes, Industrial Officers
Geoff Simpson, Stephen Mahoney and Chris Stephens, and
Media and Government Relations Officer Ross Musgrove.
The QPCOU had three representatives and the QPS had four
representatives, including the Director of Human Resources,
Patsy Jones and former Director of HR Jim Hardy.
The Department of Justice and Attorney-General, Public
Sector Industrial and Employee Relations Unit was
represented by two Principal Consultants.
Given that the QPS actually initiated this first meeting (see
copy of correspondence in February Journal), union
representatives were amazed to find out that the QPS did
not have government authority to commence negotiations.
This situation is quite unbelievable and is reminiscent of the
fiasco that characterised the beginning of EB5 negotiations.
Needless to say, no meaningful negotiations can occur until
the QPS is given this authority to negotiate. Neither the QPUE
nor the QPCOU is prepared to table our respective Log of
Claims until this authority is given.
In relation to future meetings, the parties have set aside
Monday and Tuesday of each week for ongoing
negotiations, however the next meeting will not be possible
until the QPS is given authority to negotiate.
In last month’s Journal, I referred members to a report from
the Productivity Commission which highlighted how the
Queensland Government spends little but gets plenty from
its police. This month I refer members (and the government)
to a report on NineMSN entitled “Australian Workers Set for
Bumper Pay Rises”. The opening paragraph states that “Most
workers can expect fatter wage packets this year with their
bosses generally upbeat about 2010 as the economic
upturn gets into full swing, a new survey has found”.
So the message for the State Government is quite simple:
Firstly, give the QPS the authority to commence negotiations;
and secondly, don’t treat Queensland police with disdain
by using the global economic crisis as an excuse to offer a
wage rise that is significantly lower than the Australian
average.

16 • It’s Official Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
IT’S OFFICIAL
By Paula Doneman
HE went from a career in sales to spending his Monday
morning tracking down medical records to help identify the
body of a woman found in a local quarry.
For Sergeant Peter Thomas, looking after reportable deaths is
one of the many responsibilities of his role as officer-in-charge
of Townsville police inquiries.
He has held the position for the past five years and while it has
its ups and downs, he wouldn’t go back to sales for quids.
Sgt Thomas, who is also a trained diesel fitter and motor
mechanic, left the world of private enterprise in 1996, and the
following year graduated from the North Queensland Police
Academy.
“Having worked within private enterprise I can positively say
that this is still the best job in the world…. The grass is not
greener on the other side…. And bosses are the same
regardless of where you work,’’ he said.
Sgt Thomas was elected Townsville Branch Secretary in May
2008, has been Peer Support Officer since 1998, Harassment
Referral Officer since 2003, and was the Rehabilitation
Coordinator 2003 – 2006. This year he was also appointed
Workplace Health and Safety officer in 2010.
For Sgt Thomas, the 2004 Palm Island riots were the catalyst
for his interest in the role of the union in policing.
“There was almost a non-caring attitude of the service. To
members in general there were a lot of promises made that
were never followed through. Honours and awards were one
issue and if it had not been for the union, they would never
have eventuated (for the officers involved in the riots),’’ he
said.
“The aftermath of Palm Island will impact on the membership
for years to come. We still have members under investigation,’’
he said.
“During this time I called upon Mick Gerrard, Northern
Regional Representative, for representation regularly,’’ he said.
Since being elected in 2008, Sgt Thomas said the work has
been “non-stop’’ but rewarding.
“Through my short period of time as Branch Secretary I have
found that having an open and honest approach and
maintaining open lines of communication with senior
managers has proved fruitful. At times it has been necessary
to take more drastic measures to ensure the best possible
outcomes for our members and it has been necessary to utilise
executive members of the union to achieve this,’’ he said.
As branch official, Sgt Thomas has assisted members with
the completion of applications for lateral or compassionate
transfers, sat in on numerous interviews and just completed a
station audit with QPUE Industrial Support Officer, Rosemary
Featherstone.
“It’s nice to see a good result when you can assist members
with compassionate transfers which can have lasting effects…
and reconnect them with their families and the support they
need. There have been five in the last 12 months where
members have had family who are ill or dying,’’ he said.

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 It’s Official • 17
Recently Sgt Thomas attended the search site for Senior
Sergeant Mick Isles, and organised a barbeque to support
officers at the Ayr police station.
“I am peer support officer for Ayr and I spoke to Mick
(Gerrard) and we put on a BBQ lunch for members so officers
knew we are still thinking of them even though they are a 100
kilometres away,’’ he said.
It is not uncommon for police in regional and remote areas to
feel isolated from their colleagues in city centres.
“Townsville, Mt Isa and Cairns have issues in feeling distant to
south-east Queensland but Ian Leavers has made huge inroads
in keeping us connected. He stays in touch with us up here
and regularly meets with members. “
As is the case with many branch officials, much of the demand
for their work usually happens at all hours and often on their
days off.
“I have been called out at 4am to deal with matters. It can be
quite taxing on your time but when you see the positive
outcomes, it’s worth it,’’ he said.
Sgt Thomas has found part of the value in being a branch
official is having access to regional representatives who can
relay major issues impacting on stations and police divisions to
the QPUE Executive.
“The assistance from Mick Gerrard, Ian Leavers, Mick Barnes,
Dennis Sycz, Geoff Simpson and Steve Mahoney has been
amazing. The knowledge base of these gentlemen is
phenomenal.’’
“I would recommend the position of branch official to any
members that have an interest in supporting their colleagues.
The work is challenging and is also very rewarding when
successful outcomes are achieved for members,’’ he said.
Townsville born and bred, Sgt Thomas is a married father of
two whose eldest daughter is a recruit at the North
Queensland Police Service Academy. His other daughter is
aspiring to be a mathematician, studying for a double degree
in science and engineering at the local James Cook University.
His wife is a Guidance Officer with Education Queensland.
Asked what advice he gave his daughter on her career in
policing, Sgt Thomas told her to join the union. “It’s still the
best job in the world. It’s the people who make it,’’ he said.
“If I had a word of advice for all members, it is to always
contact a branch official prior to attending an interview
regardless of whether it is for preliminary inquiries, just to
clarify a situation or course of action taken, or for formal
matters. If you are involved in any critical incident, contact the
Critical Incident Team of the union or a branch official
immediately.”
“And remember: no union, no interview.’’

18 • Advertisements
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
Invitation to participate in Research Project
Managing tensions in professional statutory practice:
Living and working in rural and remote communities
Who is conducting the research?
Professor Lesley Chenoweth and Dr Donna McAuliffe, School of
Human Services and Social Work, Griffith University; Associate
Professor Barrie O’Connor, Institute of Disability Studies, Griffith
University; Dr Paula Jervis-Tracey, School of Education and
Professional Studies, Griffith University; Professor Daniela Stehlik,
Division of Humanities, Curtin University of Technology.
The Australian Research Council has provided funding for this
research project.
Why is the research being conducted?
• To map the scope and practice requirements of statutory roles
across health, justice, education and human services.
• To determine the characteristics of the relationships between
professionals with statutory responsibilities who live and work in
rural communities, and the communities in which they operate.
• To explore the strategies different professionals use effectively to
negotiate the multiple relationships generated by their work and
living situation.
• To determine what factors contribute to more collaborative
relationships and more effective outcomes of statutory work in
rural and remote communities.
• To identify the inter-relationships between working in rural/
remote environments and being ‘managed’ from central agencies
or departments.
What are the expected benefits of the research?
When professionals have mandatory responsibilities – in child
protection, law enforcement or mental health matters - tensions
can arise between workers and the community in which they live.
The study will explore solutions to the complex medical, legal and
social issues that arise for different professional groups in the
discharge of their duties. It will increase current knowledge about
the nature of their roles and responsibilities in small communities,
and about improving professional practice and retention, leading to
improved service delivery and outcomes for individuals, families and
communities.
What’s involved?
Workers will be asked to fill in an online survey during March to
July 2010. The survey will ask questions pertaining to professionals’
experience of statutory work in rural and remote communities.
The survey should take approximately 45 minutes to complete, and
participants can opt to enter a draw for a $100 gift card.
How do I become involved?
Please contact Natalie Clements, Senior Research Assistant on
(07) 3382 1134 N.Clements@gu.edu.au to express your interest.
Thank you for your time and consideration about participating in the research project.

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 Kokoda Mick’s Walk • 19
Kokoda Mick’s Walk By
Paula Doneman
TWO YEARS ago senior constable
Michael Brown would never have thought
he would be walking the arduous Kokoda
Trail with his oldest son Cameron.
In 2008, the then 16-year-old learned he
had his second bout of Acute
Lymphoblastic Leukemia, and the Brown
family was unsure whether Cameron
would survive.
“They were very uncertain times. I would
have been very doubtful we would have
been doing something like the Kokoda
Trail,’’ said Michael, who is attached to the
Gympie Traffic Branch.
Within months of the bad news and just
after his 17th birthday, Cameron received
a stem cell transplant from his younger
sister’s umbilical cord.
“We kept the cord when she was born
and she was a good match…Cameron is in
remission and doing well,’’ he said.
Around the same time Camp Quality, a
non-profit organisation that provides
year-round support for children with
cancer and their families, suggested the
pair walk the Kokoda Trail as part of a
fundraising exercise.
Now the father and son team are training
several hours a week to prepare for the
tough trek in Papua New Guinea between
May 22 and 31. They will be part of a
group of 12 including QPUE General
Secretary Mick Barnes.
“Cameron is a lot fitter than I am, believe
it or not…He has been doing a lot of walks
with the group down at Mt-Cootha and
The Gap.’’
“I have been training and have undertaken
that I will walk up the Cooroora Mountain
at Pomona 100 times to get me fit,’’’ he
said, adding that his son often outruns
him.
Michael also sees strong parallels between
his son’s battle with cancer and the
hardships endured by the WWII diggers
on the Kokoda Trail, and the Papua New
Guineans who helped them.
“In our battle with cancer you see a lot of
sad things. Like when you are in a
children’s hospital, there is a lot of
mateship; there are also breathtaking and
wonderful things that happen along the way
as well as a hell of a battle. This would have
been experienced in wartime,’’ Michael said.
Each participant raises at least $2500 each
primarily for the Camp Quality family camp
this year.
“Camp quality has camps for sick kids,
camps for siblings and also has family
camps with outings during the year where
everyone can get together and have a good
• Mick Barnes, Cameron Brown and his father Michael Brown
time and meet other people in similar
circumstances. You can forge friendships
and get support from other families,’’
he said.
Michael and his son have raised around
$3,500 in pledges. anyone who wants to
support their efforts can go to
www.campquality.org.au

20 • Advertisements
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 Operation Gradient Reaching New Heights • 21
Front left to right: Detectives John Saunders, Sally Gabel, Don Laird, Wes Biddle. Rear left to right : Detectives Kyle Ostapovitch, Brendan Anderson, Brad Nielsen.
OPERATION GRADIENT
REACHING NEW HEIGHTS
FIGHTING YOUTH CRIME AND GANG VIOLENCE ON THE CITY STREETS
By Paula Doneman. Photos by senior constables Russel Smith and Luke Cervetto
HER attackers were a gang of teenage girls. They allegedly
beat her and threw her into the Brisbane River. Not one of them
stopped to think whether their victim could swim; not one of
them thought about the consequences. They were allegedly
following the orders of their 17-year-old leader who ran the City
Bums street gang.
This is the kind of mentality permeating the youth gang culture
in Brisbane’s CBD.
It was one of a series of unprecedented attacks and crimes being
committed by groups of offenders aged 10 to 25 in the city and
Fortitude Valley areas.
Confronted with growing numbers of offenders, a taskforce was
formed last August, and Operation Hotel-Gradient was launched.
The taskforce was made up of two detectives each from the City
CPIU and CIB, as well as the City and Fortitude Valley Tactical
Crime Squads.
The detectives knew they had to find a fresh way to tackle the
problem, so they started at the top by undermining the credibility
of the leaders and targeting their foot soldiers.
“If we take away the foot soldiers, they have no one to lead. So
we focused on the younger ones who are more impressionable,’’
said operational coordinator and City CPIU Detective Senior
Constable Don Laird.
“By engaging them in conversation we get to see who is
following who…we saw cases where the younger ones were told
to take the blame for offences committed by older members - like
they do in outlaw motorcycle gangs but on a smaller scale.
“All proceeds of crime would also go back to the leader,’’
Sen-Const Laird said.
During the investigation into the Brisbane River bashing,
detectives learned the leader had allegedly ordered three girls
to attack their fellow member.
“He allegedly told them she had dogged on them to the 5-0
(police) and as a result, three of the girls bashed her. The victim
allegedly tried to jump in the river to escape but they pulled
her back and continued punching her before throwing her into
the Brisbane River. The victim tried to hide behind a pylon
and he (leader) was allegedly throwing rocks at her
and laughing.”

22 • Operation Gradient Reaching New Heights
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
Girls fighting in the Queen St Mall.
captured on City Safe cameras.
The victim then scrambled ashore where the leader allegedly
ordered the gang members to “get her’’. Her shirt was allegedly
ripped off during the second attack, but she managed to escape
them and was rescued by a passing motorist.
“I said to the three of them, ‘Which one of you asked her if she
could swim? What if she had drowned? You would be facing a
murder charge right now’. They all broke down crying and we
played them a tape recording of their leader allegedly turning on
the three of them. We destroyed his credibility,’’ Sen-Const Laird
said.
All involved in the assault were charged with assault occasioning
bodily harm and are before the Brisbane Children’s Court.
In their investigations, the taskforce found many members of the
38 street gangs operating in the CBD were disassociated from
their families and communities. “Many of them don’t have any
respect for their family or the law. They repeatedly breach their
bail conditions….’’.
The taskforce decided to adopt a two-prong approach – policing
the gangs; and enlisting external help from health, education, the
Brisbane City Council and welfare bodies to help move the youth
away from a life of crime and reconnect them with their families.
“We get all the agencies involved, get them counselling, and if
one agency falls down, another picks them up,’’ said Sen-Const
Laird.
Detective Senior Sergeant Wes Biddle, officer-in-charge of the
City CPIU, said police meet with the agencies each month.
Snr-Sgt Biddle said while the gangs - including the Bloods, Crips,
OUT (Only Us Tongans), Mafiddle, CYS (Catch You Slipping), MK
(Maori Kulture) and the Southside Woodsters - are not structured,
they need to be tackled before they get organised.
“We will have serious trouble,’’ he said.
“They identified themselves as gangs, calling themselves Crips,
Bloods and other names. They are mainly Polynesian kids and
there are some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island kids as well.
We ran an intelligence exercise and identified 176 kids in total
aged between 10 to their early 20s,’’ he said.
They also found that the some of the gang leaders were juvenile
offenders who only two years before had been pushed out of
Brisbane city in a series of street operations.
“Now they have come back as 17 or 18-year-olds with no respect
for the law, and are taking control of younger kids.”
“This beast grew from that…we have never had these numbers.
We worked hard to get them out of the city (two years ago) but
that didn’t solve the problem,” Snr-Sgt Biddle said.
Since its inception last August, Operation Hotel- Gradient has
identified 176 persons of interest. They have arrested 195
offenders on 261 charges for offences including armed robbery,
assault, public nuisance and grievous bodily harm. The
taskforce has conducted 966 street checks and located eight
missing persons.
“They were identified as persons of interest; they were not
necessarily suspects. However they kept getting picked up on
street checks in the city. We were going out there targeting these
kids from a police perspective and we keep the pressure on them.
But we were also trying to redirect them back into their
communities and assist them in reconnecting with their
families,’’ said Snr-Sgt Biddle.
“What we have found is that these groups are like little families
where they have leaders who will be the mum and the dad. They
might be the same age or a couple of years older and the others
follow them. It’s ironic because they are disassociated from their
own parents,’’ he said.

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 Operation Gradient Reaching New Heights • 23
“We have found that the parents of gang members don’t know
their rights and they are very trusting of their children. They
tend to believe their children who tell them they are staying at a
friend’s house when in fact they are living in the city.’’
The detectives found the gangs were loitering in areas such as
city parks, Jacob’s Ladder, the Botanical Gardens, Brunswick St
and areas like the city block on Albert Street (between Charlotte
and Mary streets) which the youth “claimed’’ as their own.
Safety audits were conducted and “hotspots” identified. Persons
of interest were detected through mostly street checks and then
profiled. The information is also passed on to the Queensland
Police Services Street Gang Project which is collecting data in the
state’s southeast corner.
“The Gradient response was proactive, with a high visibility
around where they’re loitering and identifies them and keeps
intelligence updated on them as persons of interest. We did risk
analyses on the places they were staying at like William Street
Park where there had been a lot of assaults. We went to the
council and they increased the lighting, trimmed the bushes to
deter them from going back to the park,’’ Snr-Sgt Biddle said.
The taskforce also linked with Education Queensland and
identified 15 truants in the CBD and letters were sent home to
their parents.
Snr-Sgt Biddle said most of the gang members are from Logan
and travelled mostly by train.
“They use the corridor between the Gold Coast and here (the
city) and go out to Chermside,’’ he said, “Many of our persons
of interest were turning up on the Gold Coast during Schoolies
Week.’’
pass the information onto the PLO. The PLO would engage the
families and advise them of their rights and that their kids were
coming up on our radar. For example it may be that their
13-year-old was street checked 45 times in the last two months
and 15 of those were at 10pm and he was a person of interest to
police. The PLO would keep in contact with the family and refer
them to the relevant agencies which keep in contact with the
family,’’ said Snr-Sgt Biddle.
Sen-Const Laird dealt with a 13-year-old boy who ditched a
football scholarship at a prestigious Brisbane private school in
favour of committing petty crime on the city’s streets with older
youths.
“We tried getting him to work on his grandfather’s property and
that didn’t work. We tried to get him back with his parents but
they didn’t really want to pay him any attention.”
“We put a lot of pressure on him and pressured him to seek help.
We identified him as someone who was a follower and not a
leader so there was potential to steer him away from offending,’’
said Sen-Const Laird.
The boy is now attending a northside Brisbane high school
where he is playing football.
“I have only seen him once in the past month and that was at
a shopping centre. He had his hair cut and was doing well. I
haven’t had a problem with him since,’’ he said.
In another case, a 17-year-old who was involved in “bottle runs’’
– where the offenders run into bottle shops and then flee with
stolen goods – was deterred from committing crime.
Again the taskforce placed a lot of pressure and attention on the
youth who was estranged from his family.
The pack mentality used by the gangs in their offending was also
of great concern to police with some victims being hospitalised.
Footage from the BCC’s City Safe Cameras (pictured) reveal a
violent, unprovoked attack allegedly by a group of teenage girls,
aged 15 and 16, from the City Bums, against another girl in the
Queen St Mall last December.
The victim is sitting on a bench when five gang members allegedly
approach her over a 15-minute period and abuse her. The
situation then quickly escalates and the victim, 15, stands to
try and talk with the one of the group.
“The fight was allegedly over a boy,’’ Snr-Sgt Biddle said.
The girls then allegedly attack the victim, punching and kicking
her while she is on the ground. Efforts by a security guard to
protect the girl proved fruitless as the attackers allegedly
clambered over and around him to bash their victim.
The group has been charged with assault occasioning bodily
harm and three of the teenagers are still before the Children’s
Court.
Snr-Sgt Biddle said the gangs are also committing crimes against
each other.
“They have trouble amongst themselves as well, with assaults
and robberies. There have been some members in these groups
that have been sexually assaulted by adult predators,’’ he said.
“There were also some cultural issues with his background
which we also have to be across. We would pull him aside, speak
to him and asked him about his plans for the future. He said he
wouldn’t mind getting a job. We found out what he was looking
for, the training he needed and with the help of outside agencies
we got him a job – he is now a roadie for an international heavy
metal band,’’ said Sen-Const Laird.
Snr-Sgt Biddle said many of the youth still come into the city but
no longer misbehave.
The taskforce also imposed a curfew where members of the
group have to be on the 10.30pm train to go home.
“We alerted the uniform officers about the curfew and the groups
are told they have to leave, and that they are only staying in the
city to cause trouble,’’ Snr-Sgt Biddle said.
Police are currently working with the Brisbane City Council to
establish exclusions zones in certain areas of the city to deter the
gangs from congregating.
Operation Hotel-Gradient has now become the pilot used by
other police regions in Queensland.
“It’s all baby steps. Every time we hit a wall, we come up with
a different strategy to get around it and moved forward. We are
slowly getting there,’ said Snr-Sgt Biddle.
A street check revealed a known sex offender was associating
with several young girls, aged 13 and 14.
He is currently before the courts charged with several rapes and
sexual offences against the girls.
But the news is not all bad. Operation Hotel-Gradient has had
some successes.
“We were very proactive. We would identify the youth and

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 AO Reminder • 25

26 • Butcher Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
Butcher
On the 4th February 2008, Western
Australian Police Constable Matt Butcher
attended a large pub brawl adjacent to
the Joondalup Police Station. During
the brawl, a male offender delivered a
deliberate and calculated “flying” head
butt to the rear of Matt’s head, rendering
him unconscious.
As a result of the attack, Matt sustained
bleeding to the brain which caused partial
paralysis to the left side of his body, and
the loss of his peripheral vision. Matt
also suffered a broken jaw. He spent
seven months in hospital learning to walk
again, and is currently on a return to work
program, three half-days a week, with the
Western Australia Police Force.
As a result of this callous assault,
three men (a father and two sons) were
charged with a variety of offences. The
assault was recorded on a mobile phone and can be currently viewed on
YouTube. The trial lasted for six weeks and the offender responsible for
viciously assaulting Matt was acquitted by the jury. The verdict sparked
nationwide condemnation and concerns that officers were no longer
protected when carrying out their duties. The acquittal also removed
Matt’s ability to access criminal compensation for the injuries inflicted
upon him.
Currently Matt is unable to walk for long periods of time (even with
short periods he requires a walking stick) and he has no movement in
his left hand or arm. Matt still has no peripheral vision and is therefore
unable to drive. However, having regard to his injuries, Matt is hoping to
return to work fulltime in 2010, in an administrative position within the
Western Australia Police Force.
With the assistance of the Ashmore PCYC, and the support of various
organisations, Matt and his wife, Katrina, are travelling to the Gold Coast
on the 13th May 2010 for an all expenses paid seven-day holiday.
During their stay Gold Coast police will hold a race day at the Gold Coast
Turf Club on Saturday, 15th May 2010. Everyone is welcome to come and
support this worthwhile cause.

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 Gold Coast Police Race Day • 27
GOLD COAST POLICE RACE DAY
WHEN: 12:00PM SATURDAY 15 MAY 2010
VENUE: GOLD COAST TURF CLUB, BUNDALL
Private air conditioned venue (The “DOME”) with bar and TAB facilities,
finger food, live music, expert punting advice,
numerous lucky door prizes and entry in “Fashions in the Field.”
Tickets cost $50.00 each and are available from the
Gold Coast District office Surfers Paradise on the 5th floor
Please see Natalie Bloxham and Julie Hall.
For email inquiries - McGrath.Craig A [SER]
Tables of 10 can be booked, however all the tickets must be paid for and collected.
The event is open to colleagues, family and friends.
ONLY 250 TICKETS AVAILABLE.
EVENT PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY:

28 • Behind The Spin
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
Behind the spin
Credibility lost
By Ross Musgrove
As I write this, Charleville and Roma
are in flood. The poor denizens of these
southwestern towns have enough problems
without having to deal with Premier Anna
popping in looking concerned and patting
folk on the shoulder for the TV cameras.
It’s a well known political fact – the lower your polls are the
quicker you must take advantage of a natural disaster. Anna
Bligh headed west at breakneck speed.
Right now her polling is as bad as it gets for incumbent
leaders. Even I’m astonished at how the punters have
dumped her. Her unpopularity stems from the fact that she
is getting the blame for destroying Queensland’s once proud
reputation for sound financial management.
of $2 billion dollars for the next three years) and the State
Opposition naturally says that things are catastrophic. So
who should we believe? Well, the international ratings
agencies are pretty independent and they’re the ones who
downgraded Queensland’s rating.
The public perception of a government’s economic
management is fundamental to the public perception of its
fitness to govern. It’s the bedrock of political credibility.
Anna Bligh’s political credibility is shot and despite her best
efforts, she won’t find a solution to that wandering around in
gumboots and posing for cameras.
“ The halcyon days of AAA credit rating is
but a distant memory as we watch
as monopoly businesses such
as Queensland Rail are sold to the
highest bidder ”
The fact that they’re flogging off assets is just a reminder of
how broke the state government are. The halcyon days of
AAA credit rating is but a distant memory as we watch as
monopoly businesses such as Queensland Rail are sold to
the highest bidder.
Anna Bligh and Treasurer Andrew Fraser maintain that
things aren’t so bad (despite forecasting deficits in excess
Anna Bligh
There is only one way back for Anna Bligh. Everything hangs
on getting back that AAA credit rating.
Attorney-General Cameron Dick, the person most likely to
take over her job should she fail to turn the tide, is sounding

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
Behind The Spin • 29
and looking more like a pro every day. He was on radio
recently speaking about a difficult subject with a shock jock
who was giving him a good going over.
“ To be honest, I thought Mr Dick did
very well. He is becoming an
excellent media performer who is
calm, measured and doesn’t talk
political gobbledygook ”
When Kevin Rudd eventually stops trying to make himself
the issue, difficult for a bloke that truly believes that the
world revolves around him, and gives the media the time and
space to question the Opposition, things could get messy
over at Team Abbott.
To be honest, I thought Mr Dick did very well. He is
becoming an excellent media performer who is calm,
measured and doesn’t talk political gobbledygook. We might
yet end up with Premier Dick.
“ In politics you need to be disciplined
and the Opposition still isn’t. In fact,
it’s shambolic at best ”
Election on the way
Kevin 07 seems a long time ago. Prime Minister Rudd is
feeling the heat over all manner of things and Tony Abbott is
riding high on the back of the Garrett insulation fiasco.
In fact, Mr Abbott has been very fortunate that the media
focus has been on the government for if it was to turn to the
Opposition, I suspect the honeymoon would quickly end.
Tony Abbott
Kevin Rudd is on the slide. However, I know that people think
he’s done a good job managing the national economy, so
unlike Anna Bligh, he will survive.
Yes, he talks in bureaucratese and has nothing in common
with 99% of Australians but I reckon he will scrape over
the line on the back of Australia’s economic performance
compared to the rest of the world.
In politics you need to be disciplined and the Opposition still
isn’t. In fact, it’s shambolic at best. Barnaby Joyce and Joe
Hockey disagree on just about everything.

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 Beyond Reasonable Doubt • 31
Atkinson v Gibson
This case is quite concerning to all
Queensland Police, given the facts
surrounding the matter.
intended police officers be protected from people they have effectively
apprehended, swearing at them in such a place.
by Calvin Gnech Legal Officer QPUE
The facts are:
On 30 November 2006, police set up a roadblock on McIvor Road near
Hope Vale in north Queensland. Police were intercepting vehicles with
a view to enforcing the Alcohol Management Plan in the community.
The offender’s vehicle was intercepted and he exited the vehicle. The
offender was standing between two vehicles that had been intercepted
by police. The offender said, ‘How long are you bastards going to be
here anyway?’ The offender was warned about his behavior and the
offender then said, ‘Oh, you’re all just a bunch of f#*#*#g c#*ts
anyway’. He then raised his middle finger at the police officer. The
offender was informed he was under arrest for public nuisance. The
offender then took up a fighting stance and threw a couple of punches
at the police officer that did not make contact. The offender eluded the
grip of the police officer and moved to the middle of the road and again
took up a fighting stance. Another police officer tackled the offender
from another angle and a struggle occurred before the offender was
handcuffed.
The offender was charged with committing public nuisance, assault
police (PPRA) and obstruct police (PPRA). During the summary hearing
the Magistrate dismissed all three charges and awarded $32,000 in
costs against the arresting officer.
The issues addressed in this case are:
(1) Were the offences committed in a public place?
(2) Why an offender swinging punches at a police officer is not assault;
(3) Why an offender wrestling with police is not obstructing police;
(4) Awarding of costs outside the prescribed scale.
The QPS Solicitor’s Office appealed to the District Court however the
appeal was unsuccessful with the Judge basically adopting the findings
and decision of the Magistrate.
Reasons for Decision
Were the offences committed in a public place?
I quote from the decision of the District Court the reasons why the
public nuisance charge was dismissed:
‘The respondent argues that consistently with the object of the relevant
Part and the definition of public place in the Summary Offences Act, the
quality of a place which makes it a “public place” is that members of
the public, even if they have to pay a fee to be present, can be present
in the place in the exercise of free will and they are free to leave by
their own choice. It therefore follows that a location which might
normally have the quality of a public place can be robbed of that
quality if, even temporarily, it is not open to use by the public and
all present within it are not there in the exercise of free will and are
not free to leave by their own choice. It is unlikely that the legislature
Therefore, that part of the roadside of McIvor Road where the events
occurred was no longer a public place whilst it was being used as a
“static vehicle interception site”. It was in effect, a “temporary detention
zone”, an area into which vehicles and the persons travelling in them
were present because they were compelled to be there by police
direction and not in the exercise of a free choice as members of the
public.
What does actual apparent present ability to apply force (s245
Criminal Code) mean?
Again I quote from the District Court decision as to why an offender
swinging punches at a police officer is not assault:
The Magistrate noted that the taking up of the fighting stance and the
air-swings could have been a threat to apply force to Atkinson or “they
could be simply the acts of a drunken man showing bravado with no
apparent ability to actually apply force to Atkinson”. The Magistrate
noted that on Atkinson’s evidence he did not have any concern about
being actually hit. Atkinson only got to within two arms lengths of the
respondent at any time and there was no danger of Atkinson being
actually hit. The Magistrate therefore found that there had been no
actual contact by the respondent to Atkinson and importantly, no actual
apparent present ability to apply force. He noted that for the respondent
to have such ability he needed to be moving in on Atkinson’s direction
but that there was no evidence of that.
This position was accepted by Judge Sarah Bradley during the appeal.
Why is an offender wrestling with police not obstructing police?
The Magistrate found the ‘tackle’ by the second officer was excessive
force and therefore the offender struggling with police was him acting
in self-defence against an unlawful assault. This position was again
accepted by Judge Bradley.
Awarding of costs outside the prescribed scale.
In normal circumstances, a Magistrate can only award costs in line with
the prescribed schedule. In this trial, costs in line with the prescribed
schedule would have been $3,250. Here $32,000 was awarded in
costs. I quote Judge Bradley’s reasons for finding costs higher than the
schedule were just and reasonable:
Having regard to the length of the trial, the legal argument that occurred
during it, the issues raised, and the importance of the case, not only to
the respondent but to the wider community, particularly in the context
of police dealings with indigenous people, the Magistrate was correct
to find that it was just and reasonable to award an amount of costs
higher than that provided for in the scale. The actual costs incurred by
the respondent were high but not unreasonable in the circumstances,
particularly given the geographical location of the trial court.
This case has some very concerning matters on a number of issues and
the QPU is fully supportive of the QPS Solicitors Office appealing this
matter to the Court of Appeal.

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
The WHSR - Your Safety Champions • 33
The WHSR -
Your Safety Champions
By Rosemary Featherstone
Regions around the state have held workplace elections for the
role of Workplace Health and Safety Representative (WHSR). All
regions were divided into clusters in consultation with the QPS and
both the Queensland Police Union of Employees and the
Queensland Public Sector Union. Their names and contact details
should be posted in every station/workplace as is required by
Workplace Health and Safety legislation.
These men and women, both sworn and unsworn, have
volunteered their time, energy and motivation to ensure that
everyone works in a safe and healthy environment. These WHSRs
will have a constant battle and a hard job ahead of them. For too
long QPS employees have endured work environments that are
often in a state of disrepair. QPS employees have always heard
“It’s not in the budget” and thus have developed a culture that
suffers in silence.
Most of the work of those in health and safety management has
been peripheral, reactive and incapable of having more than a
minor impact on underlying causes of work environment problems.
It is time to remove the old culture that believes we should just put
up with it.
WHS should not be left to management alone. It is the
responsibility of all to ensure that the workplace is healthy and
safe. Consultation is fundamental to the successful management of
WHS. The newly elected WHSRs should meet as part of the District
WHS Committee and be represented at Regional WHS meetings
alongside their union representatives. It is important that regional
committees realise and value the importance of having
non-management on their committee by speaking for the
employees.
Management needs to hear from the troops at all
levels. It is integral that a joint health and safety committee become
the norm in every region. Raising a community around health and
safety is really important. It provides channels for dialogue with
management on existing problems and planned changes. The more
people involved, the easier it is to build awareness and support for
safety.
It will be a hard sell – a WHSR needs to be persistent and prepared
to stick to their position. Remember the WHSR will have both the
QPUE and QPSU for support. Both unions have agreed to share
WHS information and to provide assistance to their members.
QPUE’s Regional Representatives Tony Collins and Mick Gerrard,
the QPUEs Workplace Health and Safety Officer was asked to
inspect two areas with long-term health and safety issues. At both
locations, a large number of WHS deficiencies were brought to the
attention of the QPUE General Secretary and the QPUE’s WHS
Committee. An immediate reaction from the QPS occurred – issues
were being addressed. The reports were forwarded to QPS Health
and Safety and to the Regional WHS Coordinator.
The day the inspection was to be carried out in the Northern
Region, a branch official, regional representative and the QPUE’s
WHSO witnessed the repair of steps that was the contributing
factor in two workplace incidents with one employee receiving
serious medical attention. This had been reported as required and
no action was taken until 18 months later on the same day the
QPUE arrived.
The feedback from the troops was amazing – they couldn’t believe
that the suggestion of an audit conducted by the QPUE would
result in an almost immediate response from the QPS. Requests
for future QPUE WHS audits have been coming in from stations
across the state.
The QPUE is fully prepared to answer a call from any employee
where there is WHS issue and present these issues at both a
regional and state level. Legal support for the rights of workers to
representation strengthens the employee’s position in labour
relations of workplace health and safety and may be an
encouragement to act in situations where otherwise fear of
victimisation may have prevented them from doing so.
Hard work, persistence and patience pay off in the long run. It takes
these key ingredients to build a relationship between the workers
and management. WHS representatives make workplaces safer
and healthier.
Every issue needs to be taken to management. The QPUE
understands the financial constraints that dictate the service’s
response to WHS problems but it is hoped that with constant
consultation and perhaps the issue of a few Provisionary
Improvement Notices (PINS), that the QPS will insist to the
Government that it needs more budgetary funds to ensure that
their employees have a safe working environment.
Stay Safe and Stay Strong!
The Metro South Region and the Northern Region recently
experienced that assistance. At the request of the respective

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 Sidebar • 35
By Calvin Gnech Legal Officer QPUE
Sidebar
“Sidebar” is being introduced to the journal as a regular addition for the purpose of
giving brief summaries of selected recently decided cases which may be of interest to
members. Members seeking a full understanding of the case will need to be obtained
the full case. These case summaries have been prepared by Ken Mackenzie of Mackenzie
Mitchell Solicitors as part of his Q-Crime weekly digest.
R v Gibson [2009] QDC 405 – Sentence for dangerous driving
causing death whilst adversely affected. Drinking while driving
with a blood alcohol level of approximately 0.19%. Lost control and
collided with oncoming vehicle. Assisted with rescue attempt of V.
Guilty plea at committal. Previous conviction for drink driving 15
months earlier. Gave up all alcohol. Participated in public
education campaign on the dangers of drink driving. Five years
imprisonment, suspended after 15 months for operational period
of five years. Disqualified for five years.
M v Gray [2010] QDC 14 – Domestic violence. Protection orders. M
convicted of two breaches of non-contact condition in a
protection order. M wrote a rational letter to the aggrieved, and
made a telephone call in which his manner was described as
“nice”. At sentence, a further two-year protection order was made.
Held: (1) The court may make such an order of its own initiative.
The mere charge of an offence involving domestic violence should
put the defendant on notice that a further order may be made. (2)
It is a pre-condition to making a further protection order that the
offence involves “domestic violence” as defined in s.11 DFVPA.
Mere contact is not domestic violence, unless it amounts to
intimidation or harassment. The order should not have been made.
Protection order set aside.
R v Bell [2010] EWCA Crim 3 – Re-trials. Sole ground of appeal was
that it was an abuse of process to try B a third time after two juries
had failed to agree on a verdict. Appeal dismissed. Obiter – “the
jurisdiction which permits a second re-trial after two jury
disagreements in circumstances like the present must be exercised
with extreme caution. The broad public interest in the
administration of criminal justice leads us to the clear view that a
second re-trial should be confined to the very small number of
cases in which the jury is being invited to address a crime of
extreme gravity which has undoubtedly occurred (as here) and in
which the evidence that the defendant committed the crime (again,
as here), on any fair minded objective judgment remains very
powerful.” at [46].
R v Sheppard & Whittle [2010] EWCA Crim 65 – Internet crime.
Jurisdiction. S & W published racially inflammatory material on the
internet. S & W were in England and electronically uploaded the
material onto a server in the USA. From the server the material was
available, via websites, to anyone in the world. Held: The test for
jurisdiction was whether a substantial measure of the activities
constituting the crime took place in England. It was relevant that
the material was written, edited and uploaded from England, and
parts of it were targeted specifically at a readership in the UK.
Appeals dismissed. Convictions upheld.
CPS v C, M & H [2009] EWCA Crim 2614 – Adjournment.
Prosecution failed to obtain and serve CCTV footage of the
offence, even after time to do so was extended. Judge
conducting review ruled that the trial was to commence
immediately and called for a jury. Prosecution had no witnesses
at court, offered no evidence under protest. Acquittal directed.
Prosecution appealed. Appeal dismissed due to deficiency in
the way the prosecution gave notice of the appeal. Obiter – the
judge’s decision was unreasonable. Comment: A neat illustration
of the case management difficulties created in superior courts by
the abolition of committal hearings.
R v Evans [2009] EWCA Crim 268 – Cross-examination. Prior false
statements. Prior sexual conduct. Child A made allegations of
sexual abuse against two men, E & J, who were to be tried
separately, E first. E’s counsel sought leave to cross-examine A
about her accusations against J. The intention was to show that
the accusations against J were demonstrably false, inconsistent
with the accusations against E, and inconsistent with the medical
evidence. Judge refused leave. Held: There was not, at trial,
sufficient evidential basis to suggest that the allegations against
J were untrue (still less basis at the appeal, by which time J had
pleaded guilty). Appeal dismissed.
Manning v Qld Transport [2010] QDC 15 – Vehicle overloading.
Section 43(b) of the TORUM – Mass, Dimension and Loading
Regulation 2005 provides that evidence that a load, or part of
a load, has fallen off a vehicle is evidence that the load was not
properly secured. Held: The section determines the relevance of
the evidence, not its weight. The weight could be diminished by
other evidence that showed an appropriate method of restraint
was used, or that the load was secured so that it was unlikely to
fall or be dislodged.
R v Brienza [2010] QCA 15 – Sentence for trafficking in
cannabis. Wholesaler in organised operation. Received 70 pounds
of cannabis in 12 transactions. Desisted before police action.
Guilty plea. 37 years old. No relevant convictions. Not a user of
cannabis. Chronic depression. Original sentence imprisonment of
six years, eligible for parole after two years. Not varied.
R v Luong [2010] QCA 14 – Sentence for possession of heroin (140
grams of powder containing 19g pure heroin). Some commercial
purpose. Early guilty plea from 41-year-old long-term addict.
Offence while on probation. Many previous similar offences
involving smaller amounts of drug for personal use. Good efforts
at employment and rehabilitation. Original sentence
imprisonment 5½ years, eligible for parole after 22-months. Not
varied.

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 Duty Of Care To Undercover Police Officers • 37
DUTY OF CARE TO UNDERCOVER
POLICE OFFICERS
S –v– State of New South Wales [2009] NSWCA 164
By Monique Moloney, Solicitor
The Plaintiff appealed a decision of the New South Wales
Supreme Court in which the primary judge held her employer
had not committed any breach of duty.
Background
The Plaintiff commenced her employment with the New South
Wales Police Force as a Probationary Police Constable in May
1985 at the age of 20. In August 1986, she was transferred
to the Drug Strike Force, undertaking criminal investigation
work for prosecution of drug dealers in the Kings Cross
area. The Plaintiff was then transferred to the Special Forces
(Undercover) Unit in January 1988 where she remained until
September 1990. During this period it is noted that the Plaintiff
undertook numerous undercover operations taking on assumed
names and identities.
From October 1990 to February 1999 the Plaintiff undertook
general policing and undercover duties after informing
her employer that she did not believe she could undertake
undercover work any longer.
The Plaintiff was married in April 2000 and returned to part
time police duties in March 2003. She ultimately ceased work
in May 2003, being discharged from the NSW Police Force on
medical grounds in 2005, with a claim of post traumatic stress
disorder.
Primary Trial
In Harrison J’s decision, a description of the undercover work
undertaken by the Plaintiff was provided, however there
were two particular drug operations in 1998 and 1999 which
were noted as being of particular significance in the medical
evidence. It was towards the end of the latter operation that
the Plaintiff indicated to a detective that she did not think she
could undertake undercover work anymore.
At first instance it was accepted that the Plaintiff suffered from
a psychiatric disorder and the Defendant owed a duty of care
to the Plaintiff. It was also held that there was a foreseeable
risk that the Plaintiff would suffer a psychiatric injury from
performing undercover work.
Harrison J rejected the Plaintiff’s argument that the
Defendant should have taken appropriate steps in answer to
the foreseeable risk of psychiatric injury. In support of this
decision, His Honour held that the training of the Plaintiff had
been adequate and that providing counselling or psychiatric
treatment beyond the maintenance of a readily available and
accessible welfare unit was not called for and outside what was
regarded as a reasonable response to the foreseeable risk.
Further, Harrison J considered there was no causal connection
established between the Plaintiff’s psychiatric injury and the
alleged breaches of duty by the Defendant.
Appeal
The New South Wales Court of Appeal ultimately addressed
whether it was reasonable for the employer to allow the
Plaintiff to perform undercover work for more than two to
three years continuously given the accumulation of stress over
this period. A further issue raised was whether placing her on
further undercover work, although on a part-time basis, was a
reasonable response to her complaints about performing this
type of work.
It was noted that the evidence suggested that the risks and
stressors of full-time and part-time undercover work are
comparable and it was unreasonable for the Defendant to
have the Plaintiff undertake further undercover work after
completing the three year period of full-time undercover work.
The Court of Appeal held:-
“If the employer had responded appropriately to the
foreseeable risk, the Appellant would not have performed the
part time undercover work that she did and in particular would
not have been involved in the two undercover operations which
triggered her psychiatric disorders.”
It was held the Defendant’s negligence in this regard caused
or materially contributed to the Plaintiff’s injury. In the
alternative, it was noted that the subsequent part-time
undercover work materially contributed to the psychiatric
disorders due to the accumulated stress and vulnerability to
the impact of the traumatic experiences.
The Court of Appeal also did not agree with the primary
judge’s conclusion that the Defendant was not negligent in
failing to have in place regular compulsory reviews, counselling
and psychiatric/psychological treatment. It was noted that
given the magnitude of the risk and seriousness of potential
injury, a reasonable employer would have ensured compulsory
assessments and counselling, which would likely have revealed
the Plaintiff was subjected to the stresses of undercover work
over an excessive period of time.
The appeal was allowed and judgement for the Plaintiff in
the amount of $1,679,936.71 plus domestic assistance to be
assessed was ordered.
Conclusion
Employers with employees in “high stress” positions/
circumstances should be mindful of this decision, whereby an
employer could find themselves open to a finding of negligence
should reasonable steps not be taken to respond appropriately
to foreseeable risks of a psychiatric or psychological disorder
due to accumulated stress.
Contact Us
If you need any further information or advice about this topic,
please contact McInnes Wilson Lawyers.
Monique Moloney
Solicitor
Telephone: 07 3231 0662
Email: mmoloney@mcw.com.au
Brodie McIntosh
Solicitor
Telephone: 07 3231 0651
Email: bmcintosh@mcw.com.au

Letters to The Editor should be no longer than
400 words if possible and sent to:
Queensland Police Union -
PO Box 13008 George Street Brisbane Qld 4003.
Fax (07) 3259 1996.
Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
Dear Mick,
Thank-you for the card you sent
me last week and your recent letter
of 3 February 2010 regarding my
resignation from the Queensland
Police Union. This was an oversight by
me for which I apologize.
Although I never had to call up on the
union, I wish to thank you and the
Queensland Police Union for the great
job that you do for your members.
It was good to be a member of such a
strong union and to know that I could
call upon the QPUE at any time if I was
in need. Many thanks.
Yours faithfully,
Peter CARTER
Dear Editor,
I refer to the letter of Constable Greg
Young in the February Journal.
I happily agree with Greg in relation to
allowances being incorporated in our
superannuation. The problem I have is
that not all officers are in a position
whether by choice or otherwise, to
receive any form of allowance. As an
officer with over 30 years experience
I am one of those and I personally
feel the additional opportunities
to increase superannuation though
receipt of allowances discriminates
against those not in a position to do
so. There are many of us out there
who do not get the OSA and as such,
this would automatically put us
behind people of equivalent rank in
our potential future earnings. Don’t
get me wrong, I would love to see this
occur, however that said, there would
need to be some form of recompense
to the non-OSA people to ensure
equality across the board.
Let’s also not forget that any push
along these lines may well be the
catalyst for the government to decide
to reduce their component back to
9% from the 18% we fought hard to
retain. This would severely penalise
those who do not have any allowances
as noted by the editor. Whilst the
government has previously stated they
would not touch our superannuation,
who actually believes anything said
by a politician? Sorry Greg, I am not
prepared to lose 50% of the super that
I am getting to go with your proposal.
Allan Berriman
Senior Sergeant
Branch President SCOC Branch.
Dear Editor,
I am not sure if this has become
common knowledge as yet, however,
apparently at the recent Senior
Executive Committee meeting one
of the most “pressing issues” within
the service is the wearing of a plain
shirt either over or in place of a
uniform shirt by uniform members
when travelling on public transport
or just walking outside Brisbane
headquarters.
Now before people jump up and
down, yes, I am fully acquainted
with the Code of Dress in relation to
mixing and matching uniform.
What mainly concerns me is that
in the present climate, our senior
executive found this to be of such
a pressing nature and the need to
enforce it has apparently become
a priority. Many of our members
travel on public transport and often
make use of a cover shirt in order
to prevent harassment and possibly
being assaulted by some of the
undesirable passengers.
I am also fully aware of the reason
police wearing uniform on public
transport is to provide a high
visibility, however, with due respect to
those who hold plain clothes positions
and also utilise public transport, one
has to question the validity of the
high visibility concept.
Members work their required hours
and as such should then be afforded
the opportunity to travel home
without having some grub, who
probably doesn’t have a ticket, give
them a hard time.
It has in fact been mooted that
officers caught catching public

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
CORRESPONDENCE • 39
transport wearing an over shirt will
be charged with a disciplinary offence.
What a joke! Has the service really
lowered itself to these levels?
Surely it is time our senior
management woke up and realised
there are far bigger issues occurring
within the job. This is yet another
great morale builder from our
Commissioner.
For fairly obvious reasons I would ask
you not publish my name in relation to
this matter, I believe such criticism of
the service would not be good for my
health.
Name Withheld
Dear Editor,
I HAVE BEEN SUBJECTED TO POLICE
CULTURE
In July 2009 my wife Barb got the
devastating news that she had
aggressive breast cancer.
This news is definitely the type
of news that sends your normally
structured world into a spin.
I immediately informed my Inspector,
Peter Flanders, that I may have to have
some time off.
Not being in this position before he
told me that he would look into what
leave I was entitled to and for me not
to worry about it. He came back and
informed me that I was entitled to
carer’s leave and he would follow up
on any other matters that I needed.
When it became public knowledge that
Barb had cancer, Sgt. Bill Feldman who
not only is our union rep. but also the
sergeant-in-charge of my neighbouring
division was the first to call and offer
his personal assistance as well as any
assistance from the union.
After that I had numerous calls
and e-mails from many members
throughout the State wishing my wife
all the best and offering any assistance
that they could give.
The biggest job at the end of the day
was remembering who had sent their
wishes so I could tell Barb. Our HSO
Natalie Dunstan kept in contact with
us and even cooked up a meal for us.
I started to think that maybe this is
the real thing that they call “Police
Culture”.
I had time off while Barb had surgery
and used carers leave while taking
care of her. During this time my
neighbouring divisions took over the
responsibilities of looking after my
area. Many thanks go especially to S/
Const. Peter McNamara and later Sgt.
Dan Graham from Finch Hatton Station
and Sgt. Bill Feldman and S/Const.
Marshall Roper from Marian Station
along with S/Const. Gary Knack from
Eton Station who took on the majority
of work covering my division. Again I
thought maybe this is the real “Police
Culture”.
I was contacted by Assistant
Commissioner Anne Lewis who
expressed her best wishes for Barb
and throughout the treatment has
kept in contact for any updates. Ass.
Comm. Lewis also gave us a contact of
another lady who had been in a similar
situation for Barb to talk to.
A meeting was held at Calen
where stations in our area met the
commissioner and the Police Minister
on his visit to the Whitsunday’s. The
Commissioner made a point of coming
over and asking how Barb was.
It then struck me that maybe this
“Police Culture” may go right to the
top. After chemotherapy, Barb needed
radium treatment in Townsville.
Again Insp. Peter Flanders inquired
for me about accommodation and
I was fortunate enough to receive
accommodation at Margaret House
which is a house run by CSP.
Thanks go to Sandy the HSO in
Townsville. Again I used carer’s leave
while my wife had her treatment.
Whilst in Townsville Insp. Bruce
Batterham and his wife Pat were good
enough to show us around the city
and kept in contact while we stayed in
Townsville.
Pat was also good enough to take Barb
along to a lunch and meet other police
wives from Townsville.
Thank-you Pat. Again I thought that
maybe all this is the real “Police
Culture”. Barb has finished all of her
treatment and now has to recover and
hopefully our life will get back to some
normality.
I know that the Police Service may get
things wrong on occasions but in my
instance they got it right.
Barb works for another government
department and did not get one call
from her immediate boss let alone a
call from her regional or state boss.
Barb has been amazed by how the
Police Service bands together when
one of its members is in need. I felt
this letter needed to be written as so
often only the bad things in our job
get written about. I feel that I have
been subjected to the real “Police
Culture”.
I await calls from the media as they
like to report about “Police Culture”.
Enclosed is a sign I now have on the
wall of my Police Station.
FEB.
WHAT CANCER CANNOT DO
IT CANNOT CRIPPLE LOVE
IT CANNOT SHATTER HOPE
IT CANNOT CORRODE FAITH
IT CANNOT DESTROY PEACE
IT CANNOT KILL FRIENDSHIP
IT CANNOT SUPPRESS MEMORIES
IT CANNOT SILENCE COURAGE
IT CANNOT INVADE THE SOUL
IT CANNOT STEAL ETERNAL LIFE
IT CANNOT CONQUER THE SPIRIT
CANCER IS SO LIMITED
Fred BAGULEY
S/Const. 4927
Mirani Police Station.

THE QUEENSLAND RETIRED POLICE
ASSOCIATION NEWS – MARCH 2010
By Greg Early, State Secretary, Ph 3863 1180
Email early.gregory@gmail.com
MESSAGE FROM
THE Q.R.P.A. STATE PRESIDENT M J (MICK) O’BRIEN
QRPA
It is time to contact and congratulate Branch President
Max Moloney and his Secretary Darryl Murtha on the
culmination of their hard work on the 11 February when
SMC Members Vice President Bob Pease, State Secretary
Greg Early and member Ned Darcy joined me at the
Beenleigh PCYC to officially launch the new Logan/
Beenleigh Branch of the Association - number 16 in the
Association.
Once their inaugural membership is finalised, a framed
certificate naming all the original members and other
historical details will be presented to the Branch. A
number of the new members indicated their pleasure
at forming the new Branch as they could not get to a
meeting anywhere else without transport problems, and
this new Branch will enable them to once again join with
their old colleagues and meet new ones in the spirit of
the Association.
One new member, Phil Clohesy, and his wife made the
trip to the Redlands Branch 2nd Annual Luncheon and
joined the 126 happy people present.
It was pleasing once again to see that our members
travelled from the Darling Downs, Near North Coast,
the Gold Coast and other Branch areas to join with the
Redlands Branch in this function where the hospitality,
prizes and food were of the highest quality. Many of
our Branches have struck up a great friendship with their
local RSL, other Club or hotel, to obtain a special deal for
their luncheons which of course brings in a large number
of patrons for the day who will more often than not spend
a few bob in the establishment before the trip home.
It is timely to remind ourselves that we should all make
some effort to partronise these luncheons and the dinner
at Rockhampton especially now as the Queensland
Police Credit Union has increased by $100 the subsidy to
assist the Branches to keep the costs of their luncheons
down. At this stage Van Diemen’s Land and Far North
Queensland Branches have not been increased past
the normal $400. QPCU also provides $200 in vouchers
as well as promotional items. We have agreed that for
this arrangement to continue all Branches must have an
account with QPCU to enable the transfer of these funds.
The account is free of charge and until the Branches
without accounts in place comply, the subsidy will be
withheld as an account at QPCU would not necessarily
hinder any long time relationship a Branch has with a
local bank where they can continue to transact their
Branch business.
On behalf of the Association I pass on our most sincere
congratulations to our Patron Bob Atkinson who has been
appointed for a further three years as the Commissioner
of the QPS. Well done, Bob.
Best wishes and God’s blessings to all.
M.J. (Mick) O’Brien, State President QRPA Inc.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
FUTURE LUNCHEONS: Hervey Bay at RSL Club on Tuesday
15 June 2010, Van Diemen’s Land – AGM and dinner
19 June 2010 at the Great Lake Hotel, Myna, Tasmania,
Gold Coast at Twin Towns Services Club 20 July 2010,
Gympie at Gympie Golf Club on 25 August 2010 and
Bundaberg at the RSL Club on 1 December 2010.
FUTURE MEETINGS IN BRISBANE: These now commence at
12.30 pm in the ground floor conference room at Police
Headquarters: 12 April (not 5 April) – Det Inspector Gary
Watts, Task Force Hydra – outlaw motor cycle gangs
and 12.30 pm on 10 May (not 3 May) at the Police
Union premises for refreshments and a presentation on
industrial relations.
QRPA-POLICE LEGACY ANNUAL BOWLS DAY: This was
going to be on 12 March 2010 but for a few reasons
has been shifted to 11 June 2010 at the Wavell Heights
Bowls Club.
BUNDABERG QRPA-POLICE LEGACY BOWLS DAY: Barbara
Bowls Club on 10 May 2010.
NEW MEMBERS: Former Sergeant 2nd Class Walter Ernest
Fraser, former Inspector John White and former Sergeant
Lance Patrick David Castle (all Brisbane).
NEW ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: Violet Faulkner, spouse
of member Max Faulkner (Logan/Beenleigh), Herald
Steinkamp, spouse of member Jillian Steinkamp,
(Brisbane), Maxine Mary Hansen, partner of member
Graham Pike, Jessica Margaret Frater, spouse of
member John Frater, Beverley Eva Jorgensen, widow of

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 QRPA • 41
Arnold Jorgensen and Maren Phyllis Sologinkin, spouse
of member Doug Sologinkin (all Mackay/Whitsunday).
RECENT OBITUARIES – May They Rest in Peace.
Life Member: Former Detective Sergeant 2nd Class
Edward Gilmore Dale, 5 February 2010; former Sergeant
1st Class Colin Watt Lindenmayer, 14 February 2010; and
former Senior Sergeant Sydney Joseph Griffiths, service 22
February 2010. Member: Former Senior Sergeant James
Clement Adams, 4 January 2010. Non Members: Former
Detective Sergeant Gordon Ross Cooke, 8 February 2010
and former Inspector Leyland Howard Jones, service 25
February 2010. Family: Muriel Jean Nolan, wife of Thomas
Nolan, service 16 February 2010. Serving Officer: Senior
Constable Robin Earl McDonald, Brisbane Watchhouse,
30 January 2010.
SENIOR CERTIFICATE: (These are issued to members who
are over 65 years of age and have ten years of financial
continuous membership): Margaret Ann Kussrow, Mackay/
Whitsunday.
OVER 90: Michael Cavanagh, 96 on 3 March 2010, and
Gordon Walter Shaw, 91 on 3 March 2010.
WELFARE REPORTS SINCE THE BRISBANE MEETING 1
FEBRUARY 2010: Bruce Whiting, who joined recently, had
a heart attack, was flown from Armidale to Newcastle on
3 February 2010 for further treatment, and is now doing
well at home. Graham Dank’s health is not good and he
is said to be contemplating a pacemaker/fibulator. Brian
Murphy has had a couple of falls and may have to move
into a nursing home. Ron Suhr has been hospitalised in
Ipswich and PA Hospitals after bad chest pains. After
treatment at the latter hospital it is anticipated he will
go back to Ipswich Hospital. Jack Jesson has suffered
a stroke and has been hospitalized on the Sunshine
Coast.
JOINING THE ASSOCIATION: Unfortunately there are still
some former police officers of the belief that, because
they did not retire from the Queensland Police Service
or any other recognised Police Service, they cannot join
the QRPA. That is untrue. The only criteria are that he/she
must have left with honour and have continued to be of
good character and repute since leaving.
AROUND THE BRANCHES
IPSWICH: Their 10 February 2010 meeting was held at
Brothers Leagues Club. Their guest speaker was Detective
Sergeant Tom Armit, Acting Officer in Charge of the Ipswich
Criminal Investigation Branch, who gave an excellent
presentation on a recent murder investigation in the
Leichhardt area of Ipswich. The meeting was informed
that Arthur Zillmann has returned home from hospital
and is now using a walker to get around. Bill Wallace
is recovering from eye surgery. Jim Lewis is currently
receiving treatment for skin cancers and Arthur Edwards
is recovering from a foot injury. President Ken Morris
is to undergo knee surgery. Bob Latter is undertaking
the duties of Welfare Officer while Arthur Zillmann is on
the mend. Discussion ensued about a ladies luncheon
and about a renewed approach to be made to eligible
former officers in the area to join the Association. John
Behm spoke of being snowed in for five weeks in London
over Christmas.
ROCKHAMPTON: As usual they met on 3 February 2010
at the Cambridge Hotel. A visitor was Pastor Horst Sauer,
Regional Co-ordinator and Police Chaplain. The next
BBQ will be held on 21 March at the Rotary Park, The
Bluff, in Yeppoon. Pastor Sauer advised that he may
hold his Sunday service on the beach, invited Branch
members to attend and indicated that he would later
attend the BBQ. Pastor Sauer spoke of endeavours to
have a full-time Police Chaplain to service the Central
Police Region. (This is the case in most police regions
now). He also wished to be advised of the hospitalisation
of any member/associate either locally or elsewhere so
that he may visit them or arrange for someone to visit
them. Norm and Caroline Tomlin had a hot Christmas
in Perth, crossed the Nullabor and after a short break in
Adelaide will move to Stansbury to meet up with friends
for some fishing and crabbing. Ian and Bev Hall are still
recovering from their traffic accident. Andrea Benson is
recovering from a skin graft on her shin. Pat Lawton has
had a biopsy in Brisbane and is awaiting results thereof.
Jim Oberle has been admitted to the Palliative Care Unit
at the Mater Hospital and is not travelling too well. Cavill
Heywood is to have a scan in Brisbane but has to have
a gall stone operation in Rockhampton before making
the trip south. Noel Boardman is to have treatment for a
small lump on the side of his face.
FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND (CAIRNS): We had a lunch only
meeting at Brothers Leagues Club on 26 February 2010.
Maureen Bickhoff and Coleen Williamson could not
attend due to heavy rain at the time. Noel Holding and
Ron Pocock have had short stays in hospital and were
not feeling the best. Next quarterly meeting and lunch
will be held at the same Club on 20 April. Member Jock
Macdonald has advised that Community Supporting
Police will soon be taking over the former Einasleigh
police station/residence. He is looking for volunteers
to help paint the outside of the building. Hopefully a
start will be made on 7 April. It has been suggested that
eligible volunteers could have some R and R, do a bit of
painting/fishing/drinking and assist a good cause. Jock
is on 40551198/enidmac@bigpond.com. Also Inspector
Rolph Straatameir, Mareeba District Officer, knows all
about the takeover of the building and the painting
thereof. (Don Condie).

42 • QRPA
SUNSHINE COAST: At their January meeting held at the
Headland Golf Club the Branch accepted from John Fox
a copy of the large police badge normally found outside
police stations of yesteryear. Tom Strain was presented
with his Veteran Member Certificate. Tom stated that he
was happy to still be around in spite of forecasts of his
demise by a previous member of the hierarchy who is
now deceased. Ron and Pat Smith recently celebrated
their 40th wedding anniversary. Unfortunately Ron’s
health problems are continuing. Secretary Merv
Bainbridge and wife Barbara recently went on a cruise
to Tasmania, Melbourne and Sydney. Greg Rainbow,
who was recognised by the Association recently for his
efforts in assisting police widows and elderly members,
has indicated that he is willing to assist members who are
having difficulties due to age, illness or infirmity. A great
gesture by Greg.
GYMPIE: Our first meeting for the year was on 3 February
at the Cooroy RSL Club. As there are a substantial number
of our members living around the Cooroy region we
alternate meetings between Gympie and Cooroy so the
same members are not travelling inordinate distances
for every meeting. It was a very sociable meeting and
great to catch up as most members have not had a
chance to meet since the Christmas luncheon. A few
were unable to make it due to minor local flooding but
all in all everyone is doing fine and looking relatively
well after the festive season. We all look forward to a full
and exciting year. (Norm Breen).
GOLD COAST: Our February meeting was held at the
Currumbin RSL Club. Pat Glancy was presented with his
Senior Member Certificate. Discussion ensued about a
change of date for their annual luncheon; also about
the possibility of having a buffet rather than a set menu.
Neil Raward gave us a run-down on the contents of the
book written by Dominic Cacciola. Unfortunately Larry
McNab is gravely ill. Arthur Jones has been in Hospital
for more panel beating to the face and body with more
to come early this month. As usual, he has bounced
back but his jokes haven’t improved. Two of our stalwarts
are having orthopaedic surgery during March. Treasurer
Neil is having a knee operation at the Allamanda
Hospital whilst Alan Barnes is having a hip replacement
across the road at the Gold Coast Hospital. Imagine the
trouble the nurses would encounter if they had that pair
in the same ward, although their injuries may slow them
down a bit. We wish them both a speedy recovery. Our
Barbecue for this month which is on Thursday 25 March
will be hosted by Jan and Denis Chalker at Mt Nathan.
(Des Sorensen).
DARLING DOWNS: We had a very full first meeting for 2010
as we needed to discuss the offer from the Toowoomba
Regional Council for the erection of a memorial wall which
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
will include an area for the Queensland Ambulance
Officers as well as ourselves. The local Fire Service did
not wish to take part in the wall. Our discussion was
very spirited. However the members decided to accept
the offer as we will control our section of the wall. It will
be at the Toowoomba and Drayton Cemetery entrance
and will no doubt be a very solemn site. We will make
contact with as many widows and family members as
we can and invite them to participate in the project. The
name plaques will cost $125.00 each. We gave Geoff
Little a great send off with a piper from Brisbane playing
“Abide with Me” and some other melodies. We will miss
Geoff but our Branch will assist Joyce as much as we can.
We congratulate Father Malcolm Twine our Chaplain for
a great service and the attendance of many serving
officers including Assistant Commissioner Ann Lewis and
the Acting A/C Tony Wright. Fay Hohenhaus has had a
few days in Hospital recently but seems to be OK at this
time. Bob Scarff’s spell in Greenslopes Hospital is over
and he is back with us. We lost another member with the
tragic death of life member Col Lindenmayer in a traffic
accident recently. We gave him a great send off on 25
February in Stanthorpe. (Graham Hohenhaus).
NEAR NORTH COAST: Near North Coast last met at
Suttons Beach Redcliffe in a combined meeting-
BBQ with thirty three members and friends present on
a fine but very windy day. The meeting decided that
our Annual Luncheon for 2010 will again be held at the
Cabooltlure Golf Club during November. A final date is
yet to be set. Bob Coops turned 80 years of age on the
15 February 2010 and Ron Francis turned 88 on the 11
February 2010. Ron Francis visited Bob Coops in the
Albany Gardens Nursing Home and said that Bob was
in general good health but his mobility problems would
prevent him from being able to return home. Syd Herbert
is suffering from vertigo which he said he has had for
many years. Both Albert Maier (92) and Roy Schultz (90)
were at the meeting and looking in good health. John
(Jack) Gibbison thanked all who visited him phoned etc
during his recent spell in the Caboolture Private Hospital.
Gus Young is not feeling well and could not attend the
meeting. He is still suffering from shortage of breath
(heart problem). Jim Robilliard has advised that he spent
12 days in hospital back in January with the worst flu he
has ever had. The doctor said his immune system is very
low. His wife Margaret also had the flu. I attended the
funeral of Edmund Geoffrey Little in Toowoomba on 28
January 2010. Our Branch was represented at the funeral
of Life Member and former Senior Sergeant Sydney
Joseph Griffiths. He was the brother of our Life Member
Evan Griffiths and the late John Griffiths. Twelve of us
attended the Redlands Branch luncheon. (Col Guy).
BUNDABERG: Our Welfare Officer Ron Rooke (Rookie) is
back home and going okay. Ron was able to make the

Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10 QRPA • 43
last meeting thanks to his good mate Elwyn Jones who is
back in Bundaberg and going well now. Our President
Bob Hayes is going OK. He has been back to Brisbane
for further tests. Bob has got a few months to decide
what treatment he will adopt for his medical problem.
Ken Strohfeldt has also had follow up medical advice re
his medical condition. Col Kellermeier is still much the
same and having trouble with balance. He is not able
to make the meetings. Gordon Storer has not been too
well of late. Fred Collins has been host to an old mate
and former Police Officer and Fire Officer Bob Faulkner.
Bob has been down in the Bundaberg area before
returning to his home base at Mackay. Fred makes
sure Bob “quality tests” his Chives Regal Scotch. The
annual Police Legacy charity bowls day has been well
and truly locked in for 10 May at Bargara Bowls Club.
TOWNSVILLE: Our first meeting for 2010 was well
attended with 27 members present. The President,
Brian Bensley, presented Life Membership plaques to
Lyal Kassulke and Rose and Stan Goffin. At the meeting
it was decided that the Branch would donate $500.00
to the Queensland Police Legacy Scheme, our yearly
trip to Ingham would be on our 2 June meeting date
and to support the Mackay/Whitsunday Branch as soon
as a date is set so that members of this Branch can
travel to Bowen to attend a combined meeting there.
Congratulations were given to Brian and Carol Bensley
who were the winners of the Townsville Bulletin’s “12 days
of Christmas” competition. They have won two nights in
a suite on Hayman Island. They said that they could not
remember when they had their last holiday and that
they had been on Hayman Island about 30 years ago
Congratulations were also given to Bob and Joan
Maynard who just celebrated their 55th wedding
anniversary. Next month we will be entertained by
our member Gordon Thomas, who will be making a
presentation (with the aid of Wendy) on their recent trip
to Canada. As soon as the Granddaughter of John &
Jenny Urquhart shows him how to make a “powerpoint”
presentation they will give a talk on their trip to the USA.
(John Urquhart).
HERVEY BAY: Even though the January meeting was the
first for the year we still had a good roll up of members
with an interesting talk from Maureen England of
Hervey Bay Centrelink office. We were also joined
by Father Paul Kelly, the Maryborough District Police
Chaplain. Our February BBQ was washed out due to
heavy rain in the morning and it was coincidental that
our February 2009 BBQ in the same beachfront park
was also effected by rain. We may have to look at
other alternatives for February next year. Vera King has
returned from her hospital stint in Brisbane while another
widow Jackie Hansen has had a fall at her retirement
village in Brisbane and broken her wrist. The Bradshaws
have returned from their long trek to Scarness Caravan
Park in Hervey Bay. Bevan said that it was interesting to
note the number of Hervey Bay people who travel up
to five km to have a holiday in their caravans at the
Scarness Caravan Park. The Floods have been a little
more adventurous and travelled to Thailand in February
and to the British Isles in March while the Gronows are
travelling to New Zealand in March. The Trosts have
organised a trip to Canada and Alaska in May. Please
remember our annual luncheon on Tuesday 15 June.
(Grahame Gronow).
REDLANDS: Sadly for the Redlands Branch the 6th of
February saw the passing as a result of a heart attack
of our Veteran Life Member Edward “Ted” Gilmore DALE,
at the ripe old age of 87 Years. Ted had applied for
the QPS Medal and the Commissioner allowed it to be
presented posthumously to his widow, Daphne, just prior
to his funeral on 11 February 2010. There was no February
meeting which was replaced by the second annual
luncheon on 23 February at the Redlands Sporting
Club. Special guests were Assistant Commissioner
Ann Lewis and Senior Police Chaplain Colin Munns,
Metropolitan South Region, Superintendent Tony Rand,
District Officer, Wynnum District, and State President of
QRPA and Chairman of QPCU, Mick O’Brien. There were
representatives from Darling Downs, Near North Coast,
Gold Coast, New South Wales RPA, Police Widows,
Queensland Police Credit Union, Queensland Police
Union of Employees and Queensland Police Legacy
Scheme. One hundred and twenty eight persons
attended and we had fifty eight raffle draws. Major
sponsors were the Queensland Police Credit Union and
Hervey World Travel. Many local businesses and our own
members donated prizes. The Redlands Sporting Club,
which is the venue for our monthly meetings, provided
an excellent luncheon which was supplemented by a
top effort by the organizing committee lead by President
Terry Walker and ably assisted on the day by our MC
and Treasurer Adrian Hall. We are confident that all who
attended enjoyed themselves and we hope to see them
all again next year. (Allan Nicol)
GLADSTONE: We met on 2 February with 17 members
and one visitor present. Our first A.G.M. was held prior
to our monthly meeting with all branch officials being
re-elected. The Executive for 2010 is President Mal
Nichols, Senior Vice President John Caterson, Junior
Vice Presidents Darryl Saw and Neil Coleborn, Secretary
Sharon Noy, Treasurer Gordon Jones with Paul Ruge
again taking on welfare and assisting Sharon with
secretarial duties as needed. I presented my annual
report and highlighted the achievements of Gladstone
Branch in its first 12 months. I am pleased with the steady
increase in membership and make particular mention
of the excellent rapport maintained with police officers

44 • QRPA
at Gladstone including the District Officer, Inspector
Graham Coleman. We decided to again hold our
annual luncheon at the Dragon Gardens Restaurant
in July (date to be decided). A tentative booking has
been made at the Calliope Central Bowls Club for
the December 2010 meeting and Christmas function.
Barefoot bowls, which proved so popular last year, will
again be played with a few old scores left to settle.
Member Warren Dinte is making representations with
the Gladstone Area Water Board for a tour within the
wall of Awonga Dam hopefully to occur when our May
meeting will be held at the old Kalinda Restaurant
at Awonga Dam. Member Arnold Mossman is in
good spirits having in mind his oral chemo has been
increased. Derek Nichols has undergone a further
bone marrow biopsy, the results of which were good.
(Mal Nichols).
MACKAY/WHITSUNDAY: We are enjoying good
attendances at our meetings with particular enthusiasm
being shown by a number of associate members. We
have a trip to Bowen coming up in April to give our
northern members a chance to attend a meeting, on
which occasion we also expect to see some of the
Townsville members joining us. Our incumbent social
director Mark Trevitt has had to relinquish his position
due to his relocation back to NSW – a venture we wish
him all the best with. The social activities of our branch
are now in the capable hands of Dennis Hansen. Mary
Hansen and Michelle Sheehan have volunteered to
form a subcommittee which we are calling the Archive
Committee. Their duties will involve the care and
management of police memorabilia coming into our
possession with particular focus on old photographs or
documents pertaining to policing in our district. Our
branch warmly encourages visiting members at our
meetings. (John Frater).
Queensland Police Union Journal Mar 10
Secretary – Darryl Murtha; Treasurer – John Enright
and Welfare Officer – Bob Sawford. There were a total
of 39 commitments made to the new branch from a
combination of new members, new associate members,
existing members and existing associate members with
several further indicating their intention of becoming
members. New President Max indicated that there was
a lot of work still to be done and that the Branch was
really keen to foster fellowship and ensure a healthy
membership of associates with functions permitting
a variety of fellowship activities. The Branch received
the caps and flags as per protocol and we certainly
wish to thank all that have supported and assisted the
establishment of Branch 16. Special mention needs
to be made of the State Management Committee,
Superintendent Alistair Dawson and Senior Sergeant
Mike Pearson of Logan who have been outstanding in
their support and encouragement. There were several
nervous moments during the meeting such as when the
new Treasurer asked State President Mick O’Brien when
we could expect the first audit of the books and then
later when the meeting found out that Don McDonald
and Jack Vaudin had been swapping hearing aids
during the meeting. (Darryl Murtha).
All the best to you and your family.
Regards,
Greg Early, State Secretary, QRPAI
VAN DIEMEN’S LAND (TASMANIA): The Van Diemen’s
Land Branch had a great meeting at Ross in early
February. Eighteen members gathered for a meeting
and barbeque at the Ross Post Office, the new home
of Steve and Val Kummerow. Must have been a good
day, we were there for about four hours. It is ‘Grey
Nomad’ season in Tasmania with all the caravans and
campervans about. Don’t forget if you are travelling
down this way get in touch. The sun is still shining but
the first day of autumn is just around the corner? All the
best from the ‘apple isle’. (Andy Beasant).
LOGAN/BEENLEIGH: On 11 February 2010, several days
after receiving permission from the State Management
Committee to form the 16th Branch of the Association,
we met at the Beenleigh PCYC and the rest is history.
An election resulted in the executive being: President
– Max Moloney; Vice President – Terry Ahearn;