AUSTRALIAN POLICE MEDAL (APM) 266 Federal Superintendent ...

AUSTRALIAN POLICE MEDAL (APM) 

Federal 

Superintendent Barry Roy CORRIGAN, 

One of the longest serving members of the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Superintendent 

Corrigan is a highly dedicated, professional and experienced police officer who has made 

significant contributions to the Australian community throughout his career. He is widely 

regarded as a subject matter expert in the field of foreign diplomacy, Vienna Conventions and 

the Protection Intelligence role. Through his tenacity, he has been instrumental in furthering 

the AFP's relationships with representatives of foreign governments and the Intelligence 

community. Superintendent Corrigan's interest in politics, international diplomacy and the 

community has seen the Protection Intelligence role evolve from its humble beginnings to 

having Protection Intelligence Offices currently located throughout Australia. A large part of 

Superintendent Corrigan's role includes fostering and maintaining strong relationships with 

key agencies external to the AFP including ASIO, DFAT, the Department of Prime Minister 

and Cabinet, and state and Territory police forces. He has served the community with 

distinction. 

Awards/recognition include: 

AFP Federal Agent of the Year, 2005. 

Assistant Commissioner Neil Anthony GAUGHAN, 

Assistant Commissioner Gaughan joined the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in 1984 and 

served in a variety of general policing and investigative roles in the Canberra region prior to 

transferring to the National Internal Investigation area in 1998. After being employed in the 

Australian Tax Office for 5 years, he returned to the AFP in 2004 under the Australian 

Protective Service umbrella, and was promoted to Commander Close Protection in November 

2005, While in Protection, he was responsible for the AFP's close protection activities as well 

as for the national witness protection program. He served with distinction and delivered AFP 

outcomes for APEC 2007 and World Youth Day 2008. In 2008, Assistant Commissioner 

Gaughan was appointed Manager High Tech and Child Protection Operations where his 

responsibilities included all cyber investigations undertaken by the AFP, with a particular 

focus on critical infrastructure protection and child exploitation investigations. Promoted to his 

current rank in early 2010, Assistant Commissioner Gaughan is now performing the duties 

of National Manager High Tech Crime Operations - a recently introduced portfolio focused 

on delivering leading edge technology-enabled policing, as well as combating new 

technology-enabled crime. 

266


Commander Richard Charles (Dick) MOSES, 

Commander Moses joined the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in 1979 and served with the 

(former) Federal Bureau of Narcotics and the (former) National Crime Authority. Today he is a 

highly respected member of the AFP’s Senior Executive Service. Commander Moses has 

served with distinction in a number of senior management positions including International 

Operations, Intelligence and in the managing and leading of multi-discipline teams 

investigating organised crime on a national and international level. Additionally, he has 

managed teams investigating complaints and allegations of corruption, fraud and misconduct 

within the AFP. Commander Moses has extensive international experience across a range of 

overseas postings including Beirut, Rangoon, Islamabad and the Australian Mission to the 

United Nations in New York. He is currently the Senior Liaison Officer in New Delhi. 


Appointed Honorary Police Colonel in the Myanmar Police Force, 2008 

Commissioner's Medal for Excellence, for his innovation in pioneering the AFP's position in 

the international arena, 2007. 

New South Wales 

Superintendent Matthew Gerard (Matt) APPLETON, 

Superintendent Appleton joined the NSW Police Force as a Junior Trainee in 1979 at the 

NSW Police Academy, Redfern. He was attested as a Probationary Constable in 1980 and 

stationed at No 32 Division (Flemington). He has since performed General Duties with 

distinction at No 20 Division (PHQ, Special Gaming Squad) and No 9 Division (Burwood). In 

1985, he entered the Criminal Investigation field, again serving at Burwood, South-West 

Major Crime Squad and Liverpool. In 2000, he was transferred to the Olympic Security 

Command. He returned to Criminal Investigation duties at Cabramatta at the end of 2000, 

and was promoted to Inspector as a Duty Officer at Macquarie Fields in 2002. He again 

returned to Criminal Investigation duties as the Crime Manager at Macquarie Fields in 2004, 

and later relieved as Commander at Macquarie Fields, Burwood, Green Valley and Newtown. 

He was promoted to his current rank in 2010 as the General Manager of Operational Safety, 

Education and Training, and posted to his current command of Workforce Safety in 2011. His 

outstanding service in policing has seen Superintendent Appleton at the forefront of the 

provision of high level criminal investigation services to state of New South Wales. His 

distinguished career is highlighted by his role as the Senior Investigator for Strike Force 

YANDEE and Commander of Operation CLADY – two complex and difficult murder 

investigations that led to successful convictions. 


Commissioner's Unit Citation for outstanding bravery and devotion to duty at a major civil 

disorder incident, 2005. 

Commissioner's Certificate of Merit for outstanding police work and bravery in relation to a 

fatal aeroplane crash, 2003. 

Commissioner's Olympic Commendation for meritorious performance of duty during the 

Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, 2000. 

267


Inspector Edward Charles BILLETT, 

Inspector Billett joined the NSW Police Force as a Cadet in 1969. He was attested as a 

Probationary Constable in 1971 and stationed at No 9 Division (Burwood) on General Duties. 

He has since served as a Cadet at Criminal Investigation Branch, No 20 Division (PHQ, 

Transport Branch), No 9 Division (Burwood) and the Traffic Branch; and performed General 

Duties at No 9 Division (Burwood), No 20 Division (PHQ, Transport Unit), No 32 Division 

(Flemington), No 1 Division (Central), Lakemba and at Marrickville Local Area Command. 

From 1979 to 1995, he performed prosecuting duties with distinction with the Police 

Prosecuting Branch. He was promoted to his current rank and posted to his current command 

as Duty Officer, Marrickville Local Area Command. Inspector Billett has played a significant 

role working with youth and Indigenous communities. He has been successful in applying for 

special grants to allow children to travel to Sydney to experience the beach and surf, as well 

as a range of activities that would not normally be available to them. Much of this activity has 

been completed in his own time. Inspector Billett is highly professional and dedicated. He is 

well respected and admired by all personnel with whom he works and the community in which 

he serves. He has been a mentor to many junior police throughout his service, producing an 

entire generation of community-focused General Duties Police Officers. His distinguished 

service in policing now sees Inspector Billet at the frontline of community-based General 

Duties policing, providing dedicated, professional customer service for the NSW Police Force 

and to the community of New South Wales. 

Senior Sergeant Peter James DAVIS, 

Senior Sergeant Davis joined the NSW Police Force as a Trainee in 1984. He was attested 

as a Probationary Constable in 1984 and stationed at Penrith on General Duties. He has also 

performed General Duties at St Marys and the Transport Unit, and later as a Weapons 

Trainer at Penrith and the NSW Police Academy in Goulburn. He was posted to his current 

position as Team Leader at Weapons and Tactics, Policy and Review within Operational 

Skills Command in 1997 and promoted to his current rank in 2004. Senior Sergeant Davis 

has spent over 20 years as a dedicated weapons trainer. In this time he has gained the 

experience and qualifications to be considered the 'subject matter expert' in the area of 

weapons and tactics for the NSW Police Force. His distinguished service in the area of 

weapons and tactics instruction and policy writing has earned the respect of police both 

inside and outside New South Wales. 

268


Detective Sergeant Cynthia Maree DONOVAN, 

Detective Sergeant Donovan joined the NSW Police Force as a Trainee in 1982. She was 

attested as a Probationary Constable in 1982 and stationed at No 34 Division (Fairfield) on 

General Duties. She was confirmed as a Constable in 1983 before transferring to Armidale in 

the same year. Detective Sergeant Donovan entered the Criminal Investigation field serving 

at Armidale in 1985. She has performed criminal investigation duties at Glen Innes and 

Inverell. She later served as Team Leader of the (then) Child Protection Investigation Team 

(later the Joint Investigation Response Team) in Tamworth, oversighting numerous 

investigations into the abuse of children. From June 1998, with 3 staff later increasing to 

9 investigators, Detective Sergeant Donovan was responsible for the management of 

investigations into child abuse across an area in excess of 115,000 square kilometres, 

encompassing a number of large regional centres and remote rural and aboriginal 

communities. In the 11 years that Detective Sergeant Donovan worked in Child Protection, 

she was instrumental in the delivery of a joint approach by NSW Police and community 

services as a collocated office. The success of this office is testimony to Detective Sergeant 

Donovan's strength of character and outstanding leadership. Her distinguished service has 

seen Sergeant Donovan at the forefront of providing highly specialised criminal investigation 

services in north-western New South Wales, particularly, in the area of Child Protection. 

Detective Sergeant Donovan was posted to her current position with Police Prosecutions in 

2009. 

Detective Inspector Wayne George HAYES, 

Detective Inspector Hayes joined the NSW Police Force as a Trainee in 1979 at the NSW 

Police Academy in Redfern. He was attested as a Probationary Constable in 1979 and 

stationed at No 15 Division (Maroubra) on General Duties. He also performed General Duties 

at Murwillumbah and Central, before entering the Criminal Investigation field and serving at 

Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Redfern, South Region Crime Squad, Internal Affairs and Homicide 

Squad. He was promoted to his current rank in 2000 and posted to his current position as 

Coordinator at the Gangs Squad, State Crime Command in 2006. Detective Inspector Hayes 

has spent most of his service as a major crime investigator. He has been involved in the 

investigation of some of the most serious crimes in New South Wales, especially in the area 

of homicide. He continually demonstrates the highest level of skill, dedication and 

professionalism in his work, and has made a significant contribution in developing and 

mentoring a generation of major crime investigators. His distinguished service in policing has 

seen Detective Inspector Hayes at the frontline of the provision of high-level criminal 

investigation services. 


Commissioner's Certificate of Merit for his involvement in an investigation into the death of an 

Australian soldier in Iraq, 2008. 

Commissioner's Certificate of Merit for his involvement in a murder investigation, 2004. 

Commissioner’s Commendation for his courage and devotion to duty, 1981. 

269


Senior Constable Justine Louise HOUSEGO, 

Senior Constable Housego joined the NSW Police Force as a Trainee in 1990 at the NSW 

Police Academy in Goulburn. She was attested as a Probationary Constable in 1991 and 

stationed at Marrickville on General Duties. She was posted to her current Local Area 

Command at Newtown in 1992 and promoted to her current rank in 1996. Senior Constable 

Housego has served with distinction and has received accolades from all areas of the 

community and within the NSW Police Force for her work, dedication, professionalism and 

customer service. Senior Constable Housego leads by example and is an inspiration and role 

model to all who work with her, especially the junior police whom she mentors. She is 

dedicated to her profession and continues to receive praise from the general community, 

colleagues, and superiors. Her distinguished service sees Senior Constable Housego at the 

frontline of general duties policing, providing enthusiasm, professionalism and dedication, 

with a high level of work ethic and customer service for the NSW Police Force and to the 

community of New South Wales. 


Commissioner's Perpetual Award (Gold) for the Advancement of Women in Policing, 2007. 

Commissioner's Certificate of Merit and a Royal Life Saving Award for performing CPR on 

a distressed person, 2005. 

Commissioner's Commendation for Courage after responding to an armed robbery, 1992. 

Superintendent Patrick Allen PAROZ, 

Superintendent Paroz joined the NSW Police Force as a Trainee in 1983 at the NSW Police 

Academy in Redfern. He was attested as a Probationary Constable in the same year and 

stationed at Liverpool on General Duties. He has also performed General Duties at 

Campbelltown, Holroyd, Camden and Parramatta Local Area Commands, Blue Mountains 

and Macquarie Fields. He was promoted to his current rank in 2004 and posted to his current 

command at Drug and Alcohol Coordination, Major Events and Incidents Group, in 2010. As 

a Local Area Commander, Superintendent Paroz has demonstrated a strong commitment to 

his local communities, especially with disadvantaged youths and their families. He has been 

actively engaged in coordinating programs for these youths that focus on education, physical 

training and work experience. Superintendent Paroz is a highly professional and dedicated 

police officer who leads by example. He is well respected and lauded by the community, his 

colleagues, and government officials for his outstanding leadership, drive and commitment to 

the local communities. His distinguished service in policing has seen Superintendent Paroz at 

the forefront of providing community-based policing in various Local Area Commands. As the 

current Commander of Drug and Alcohol Coordination, he is now responsible for the 

coordination, development and implementation of drug and alcohol policies, strategies and 

program initiatives within the state of New South Wales. 

270


Inspector Ross Michael WILKINSON, 

Inspector Wilkinson joined the NSW Police Force as a Trainee at the NSW Police Academy 

in Goulburn in 1988. He was attested as a Probationary Constable in the same year and 

stationed at Newtown on General Duties. He later performed General Duties at Eden, 

Brewarrina, Deniliquin, Tweed/Byron and Bathurst. Inspector Wilkinson has also served with 

the Tactical Response Group, South West Region and the Tactical Operations Unit, State 

Protection Group. He was promoted to his current rank in 2005 and posted to his current 

command as Duty Officer at Chifley Local Area Command in 2008. Inspector Wilkinson's 

integrity and devotion to duty is an example to all. He displays great calmness when under 

extreme and sustained pressure or danger. He is an inspirational leader, admired and 

respected by his peers, subordinates and superiors. He is always willing to take on difficult 

and challenging tasks, even if at a great personal cost. His distinguished service in policing 

now sees Inspector Wilkinson at the frontline of General Duties policing, serving the 

community of a large rural area of New South Wales. 


Commissioner's Valour Award for bravery shown during the arrest of an armed offender, 

1996. 

Commissioner's Commendation for Courage for his involvement in a major incident, 2002. 

Commissioner's Unit Citation in recognition of his outstanding negotiation and operation skills 

shown during a major siege, 1993. 

Victoria 

Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Robert CAULFIELD, 

Detective Senior Sergeant Caulfield has been a member of Victoria Police for over 30 years 

and has contributed to investigative and covert policing fields for 25 of those years. During 

this time, he has provided a consistently superior level of policing, particularly in the areas of 

drug and homicide investigations. Detective Senior Sergeant Caulfield has been commended 

on numerous occasions for his dedication to duty, leadership and investigative work. Through 

the introduction of high-level methodologies in undercover and human source operations, he 

has brought continued development to the investigative expertise of Victoria Police. He is 

recognised in Australasian Law Enforcement as an expert in the field of human sources and 

continues to operate at a highly proficient level in this field. He has consistently displayed 

distinguished service throughout his career and is highly regarded by peers and superiors for 

his ethics, integrity, dedication and professionalism. Late in 2004 Detective Senior Sergeant 

Caulfield was seconded to the Intelligence and Covert Support Department to set up and trial 

a Source Development Unit where he remains today. 


International Investigator's Award for his work with the undercover unit in successfully 

infiltrating an outlaw motorcycle gang, 2002. 

271


Superintendent Paul Stephen HOLLOWOOD, 

Since joining Victoria Police in 1974, Superintendent Hollowood has consistently 

demonstrated confident and strong leadership, particularly during the 22 years he has spent 

within the Victoria Police Crime Department. During this period he has personally investigated 

and managed cases invoking some of the most serious offences committed in Victoria. He 

has provided strong and decisive leadership in respect to major operational areas including 

Purana, Petra, Drug and Armed Crime Taskforces as well as the Homicide, and Arson and 

Explosive Squads. Superintendent Hollowood's outstanding contribution to the Crime 

Department has been as primary investigator and driver of improvement and necessary 

change throughout the Department, and the development of individuals, workgroups and the 

department overall. Superintendent Hollowood has worked in some of the most 

demanding and sensitive areas of the force including investigations into politicians, national 

counter-terrorism inquires and high public and media interest issues. Throughout, 

Superintendent Hollowood has demonstrated the utmost integrity to ensure that members 

under his command act with the highest professional standards. In 2006 he was appointed 

project manager of the Major Crime Management Model that changed the management of 

the investigation of crime across Victoria and, since 2009, he has successfully led the 

investigation into the Black Saturday bushfires. 

Senior Sergeant Paul Hilary McBRIDE, 

Senior Sergeant McBride has been a dedicated and committed member of Victoria Police for 

over 38 years. Throughout his distinguished career, he has proved to be a highly effective 

investigator through his extensive experience as a detective. The skills, knowledge and 

confidence he has brought to a range of policing roles have, over time, positioned him well for 

the role of Officer-in-Charge at Ringwood Police Station. He has also dedicated his time to 

sharing his experience with others so that they have the capabilities needed to undertake 

policing roles with confidence, and also imparted his knowledge to assist others to 

incorporate health and safety practices into policing. Senior Sergeant McBride has made a 

significant contribution to Victoria Police by increasing efficiencies and reducing risks to police 

members through improvements to organisational policy and procedural change. This is 

particularly relevant in terms of his contributions to wildfire and general emergency responses 

and his genuine passion for occupational health and safety. 

272


Inspector Robert Peter (Petrus) RAAYMAKERS, 

Throughout his 37 years’ distinguished career, Inspector Raaymakers has remained 

committed to the development of sustainable community partnerships in emergency 

management, including adult and youth education, station management, and community 

safety. His is renowned for his meticulous emergency planning and preparedness, which 

benefited the community before, during and after the catastrophic events of Black Saturday 

2009. His abilities in preparing for emergency incidents are widely recognised by his 

colleagues, members of the public and the wider emergency management community. 

Inspector Raaymakers is considered a person of commitment and passion, and a team player 

who goes beyond what is normally expected in order to prepare and safeguard his colleagues 

and the community. During the height of the Black Saturday emergency, he demonstrated 

inspirational leadership and a strong depth of concern for the welfare of his people. He has 

also demonstrated exceptional skills in leadership and his ability to encourage, motivate and 

inspire his staff. In November 2010 Inspector Raaymakers was promoted to his current rank 

and assumed the duties pf his current position as Staff Officer to the Deputy Commissioner 

(Regional and Road Policing). 

Senior Sergeant Jeffrey Francis SMITH, 

Senior Sergeant Smith has served the Victorian community with distinction for over 35 years. 

His outstanding commitment, passion and dedication to improving road safety are 

demonstrated through his contribution as Officer-of-Charge of Glen Waverley Major Collision 

Investigation Unit for the past 15 years. Senior Sergeant Smith has provided assistance and 

comfort to victims and families who have experienced road trauma. He is tireless in his efforts 

to ensure that the information learned from each road incident is used to further Victoria 

Police's road safety endeavours. He works with criminal and coronial courts to increase 

safety on the roads through general deterrence and by increasing the management of road 

user risk, particularly in the field of police pursuits. Senior Sergeant Smith often represents 

Victoria Police during media campaigns covering issues of road trauma, and he is highly 

regarded for his ability to convey road safety messages and to advise on tragic incidents. He 

is also a member of the Restorative Justice Panel reference group examining alternative 

methods to the traditional forms of restorative justice for victims. Throughout his distinguished 

career, Senior Sergeant Smith has dedicated himself to reducing road trauma and to 

educating and supporting his colleagues and the community with unwavering dedication and 

commitment. 

273


Detective Senior Sergeant Valentine (Val) SMITH, 

Detective Senior Sergeant Smith has represented Victoria Police with distinction for over 

37 years. He has progressed from an operational area dealing with local issues in inner city 

and country locations before moving on to be a world-renowned authority on the Crime 

Stoppers Program. Since commencing as the Officer-in-Charge of Crime Stoppers in 1995, 

Detective Senior Sergeant Smith has been the driving force behind many initiatives that have 

resulted in the Victorian Crime Stoppers Program being recognised internationally as one of 

the leading community-based crime reduction programs. He has supported, guided and 

advised members of the Crime Stoppers Boards at state, national and international levels, 

and has developed, initiated and promoted numerous successful Crime Stoppers campaigns 

and operations. Detective Senior Sergeant Smith has represented Victoria Police 

internationally over many years and has fostered many successful global partnerships. He is 

the architect, instigator and manager of the innovative Crime Stoppers Multilingual Project 

and many other campaigns targeting criminal activity. Despite the additional responsibilities 

and demands of being a subject matter expert, Detective Senior Sergeant Smith has always 

ensured that the needs of those working under his command remain a priority. Detective 

Senior Sergeant Smith is an outstanding leader who is highly respected by his colleagues 

and those associated with the Crime Stoppers Program. 

Assistant Commissioner Wendy Maree STEENDAM, 

Assistant Commissioner Steendam has served Victoria Police with distinction for over 

26 years, providing outstanding service and commitment to the organisation as a whole, her 

colleagues, the broader Australasian Policing community, the Victorian Government and, 

most importantly, the Victorian community. Assistant Commissioner Steendam has 

represented Victoria Police with distinction at a state and national level across a range of 

areas where she is regarded as a leading authority. As evidenced by her project work, major 

operations and research work, she is committed to driving change and takes a lead role in 

delivering quality outcomes for the community. Assistant Commissioner Steendam has been 

instrumental in implementing cultural change within policing, particularly concerning family 

violence. She also contributed significantly to the implementation of organisational change 

through the introduction of the Major Crime Management Model in 2006. Highly intelligent 

and competent, Assistant Commissioner Steendam is well regarded by her peers and 

colleagues, and has developed a strong rapport with many people and organisations. She 

values her work colleagues and is committed to their care, welfare and development. After 

several successful years serving in the Crime Department, Assistant Commissioner 

Steendam was promoted to her current position as Assistant Commissioner, Eastern Region, 

in July 2010. 

274


Queensland 

Assistant Commissioner Paul Lawrence DOYLE, 

Assistant Commissioner Doyle was inducted into the Queensland Police Service in 1977 and 

has served with distinction in general duties, Brisbane Mobile Patrols, intelligence operations, 

counter-terrorist operations, dignitary and witness protection specialist areas and organised 

and major crime investigation units at various locations. These locations include Petrie, 

Nambour, Redcliffe, Innisfail and Brisbane. He has also held significant appointments to the 

Fitzgerald Commission of Inquiry, Criminal Justice Commission and Crime and Misconduct 

Commission. More recently, he was the head of education, training and development for the 

Queensland Police Service. Additionally, Assistant Commissioner Doyle is a member of the 

Board of Studies at the Australian Institute of Police Management, a member of the Board of 

Management for the Charles Sturt University Australian Graduate School of Policing, and a 

member of the Academic Advisory Board of the School of Law and Justice at the Queensland 

University of Technology. He was also the foundation Chairman of the School Board for the 

Holy Spirit School, Brisbane. 


Commissioner's Commendation and several citations. 

Sergeant Geoffrey Allan FAY, 

Sergeant Fay is recognised for his dedication to serving the community of Queensland 

through an ongoing commitment to general duties policing and to engaging the community to 

achieve positive outcomes. He is an outstanding leader, exemplified by his management of 

and support for the community following the tragic circumstances surrounding the Childers 

Palace backpacker hostel fire in 2000. Sergeant Fay has served with distinction in a range of 

policing appointments. His professionalism, expertise and leadership in the role as Officer-in- 

Charge have earned the respect of his peers and support of his community. His distinguished 

career has also seen him perform the role of training officer where he was responsible for the 

facilitation of training, mentoring and development of his peers and junior officers. Sergeant 

Fay has also served the community of Queensland through his dedication to community 

service, in particular his work with Rotary Club of Childers, Neighbourhood and Rural Watch 

programs, the Forest View Palliative Care House, and the Childers Festival of Cultures. 


Citizen of the Year, Isis Shire Council, 2007. 

275


Chief Superintendent Grant Alan PITMAN, 

Chief Superintendent Pitman has demonstrated outstanding dedication and commitment to 

the Queensland Police Service over many years. He is a recognised leader with a focus on 

excellence in organisational improvement. He enjoys high ethical standards, a strategic 

vision, and highly regarded analytical capacity. He displays commitment, skill, and excellence 

in developing and fostering innovation in policing practice, applying technology and 

maintaining relations with government and other agencies. He has served with distinction in a 

range of police appointments and has applied the knowledge gained from his considerable 

academic achievements and qualifications in his professional approach to his duties. He has 

earned the respect of his peers in policing, academia, and government and the support of his 

subordinates. Chief Superintendent Pitman has had high-level involvement in implementing 

change management following the Fitzgerald Commission of Inquiry and the Public Service 

Management Commission Inquiry. His contribution to the restructure of the strategic direction, 

education structures, administration processes and communications and response 

management systems has left an indelible mark on the Queensland Police Service. 

Detective Sergeant Daryl Harris POOLE, 

Detective Sergeant Poole has been a loyal and dedicated member of the Queensland Police 

Service. His professionalism and expertise in the area of investigations, particularly fraud and 

organised crime, have led to the conviction of several high profile organised crime figures. At 

an early stage of his distinguished career, Detective Sergeant Poole was identified as a 

reliable and conscientious police officer whose work output was of a high volume and good 

quality. Detective Sergeant Poole immediately displayed an innate ability to manage 

numerous protracted investigations simultaneously. His early investigations focused on the 

fraud arena, often electing to investigate the more difficult and complex matters. He was soon 

recognised as a very competent and trustworthy police officer who would provide valuable 

support to complainant companies. Detective Sergeant Poole has given long and valued 

service to the community of Queensland. He has performed with distinction and 

demonstrated outstanding dedication and commitment to duty, particularly in respect to area 

of protracted investigations. 

276


Superintendent Donna Maree STURGESS, 

Superintendent Sturgess has demonstrated outstanding dedication and commitment during 

her career with the Queensland Police Service. She is recognised for her leadership and 

excellence in organisational improvement, change management and operational planning. 

Superintendent Sturgess has served with distinction in a wide range of appointments, and her 

professionalism, expertise and leadership in these roles have earned the respect of her peers 

and the support of her subordinates. She is a long-time supporter of women's issues within 

the Queensland Police Service and has represented this group nationally on behalf of the 

Senior Executive. She recently received recognition for her contribution to the Leadership and 

Mentoring Program for women. Superintendent Sturgess is seen as a outstanding leader who 

implements change, acts as a role model for many officers, and displays excellent decision 

making skills in her senior role within the Queensland Police Service. 

Inspector Murray Allan VERRALL, 

Inspector Verrall moved into criminal investigations early in his distinguished policing career, 

establishing himself as a highly effective investigator. His operational experience served him 

well when appointed to the Assessment and Development Centre where he applied his 

knowledge to organising the Centre to ensure the most comprehensive assessments were 

undertaken. He was also responsible for a number of highly effective innovations that 

enhanced the assessment of members seeking appointment to commissioned officer rank, 

resulting in improved results for the Queensland Police Service. As Officer-in-Charge of the 

North Queensland Campus at the Queensland Police Service Academy, Inspector Verrall has 

been an inspiring leader, leading by example with his adherence to the highest standards of 

professional conduct. He has been a firm advocate for the dual campus curriculum and 

assessment process. He has also achieved an integrated approach to training that is now 

being considered as a future model for recruit training at the Oxley campus. 


Commissioner's Commendation, 1985. 

277


Western Australia 

Detective Superintendent Paul Edward COOMBES, 

Detective Superintendent Coombes has been a member of WA Police for over 28 years and 

has served his entire career with distinction in the metropolitan area. He spent a significant 

period as an Investigator within the Specialist Crime portfolio at Dealers and Fraud Squads 

before being promoted to Sergeant in the Homicide Squad, now known as Major Crime, 

where he has spent a significant period of time. Detective Superintendent Coombes was 

promoted to commissioned rank in 2004 while at Police Air Wing where he was responsible 

for restructuring the area into a contemporary air support unit. He was further promoted to the 

rank of Superintendent in February 2006 and took over the Police Specialist Unit. He then 

returned to the Specialist Crime area responsible for the Organised Crime Division and, since 

2009, he has had carriage of the Major Crime Division as the Divisional Detective 

Superintendent. He has managed the Investigation teams during a period when there has 

been a dramatic increase in the number of suspicious deaths throughout Western Australia. 

His outstanding ability to manage and prioritise investigations during this period has proved 

invaluable in the successful resolution and progression of these cases. 

Superintendent Harold (Harry) HEAVENS, 

Superintendent Heavens joined WA Police in 1975 and has considerable operational service 

in both metropolitan and country locations as well as in the Legal Services area and Internal 

Investigations. Superintendent Heavens has been a champion of district policing and, 

upon his promotion to commissioned rank, he served at the Southern Regional Office 

before transferring to Geraldton where he was the Assistant District Officer at the 

Mid West-Gascoyne District. Superintendent Heavens was the driving influence in bringing 

together a greater understanding and developing a more balanced relationship between 

policing and the Indigenous community. He later returned to Perth and worked in the forensic 

area until being promoted to his current rank. Superintendent Heavens is currently the District 

Superintendent at the East Metropolitan District where he is responsible for a range of 

diverse policing issues taking in both suburban and rural areas. Superintendent Heavens is 

quiet in nature but has outstanding leadership qualities that are essential in his current 

demanding role. He has an approachable manner and has had considerable success in 

professionally developing and engaging younger and less experienced officers. 

278


Inspector Joanne Lee McCABE, 

Inspector McCabe has been a distinguished member of WA Police for over 22 years and has 

served in both metropolitan and country locations, as well as a period in the Specialist Crime 

area as an Investigator. Inspector McCabe has a broad range of experience In a number of 

positions including the Domestic and Family Violence Coordinator, Crime Prevention and 

Diversity Office, the State Operations Manager for Police and Citizens Youth Clubs, and as 

the Officer-in-Charge of Fremantle Police Station which is one of the busiest metropolitan 

police stations. Her policing responsibilities included the extremely volatile Fremantle 

entertainment area that includes a significant number of nightclubs and other licensed 

premises. Her leadership and ‘no nonsense’ approach to those policing issues were well 

recognised within the business and community areas of Fremantle as being strong and 

decisive. Inspector McCabe was promoted to commissioned rank in 2008 and her 

outstanding leadership skills were recognised in her most recent appointment as Assistant 

Divisional Officer at the Police Transit Unit where she has responsibility for all public 

transport-related safety and security issues. Inspector McCabe performs her duties with the 

utmost professionalism and dedication and has provided strong leadership. 

Inspector Neil Lawrence ROYLE, 

Inspector Royle has been a police officer for over 38 years and has had a distinguished 

career in both metropolitan and country locations, with a particular emphasis on traffic-related 

policing duties. In 1999 he was promoted to Inspector and served at Bunbury and Fremantle 

Police Districts as an Assistant District Officer where he took control of all traffic-related 

matters. In 2004 he was appointed to re-establish a dedicated traffic-related unit named the 

Traffic Enforcement Group. His brief was to assume responsibility for all traffic-related 

policing issues on Perth's major freeways and highways, whereupon he became the media 

face of traffic-related inquiries throughout Western Australia. The Group has had a significant 

impact on lowering the number of fatal crashes, particularly in the metropolitan area. As 

Assistant District Officer, South Metropolitan District, Inspector Royle still maintains a media 

presence in relation to traffic matters due to his vast knowledge of traffic laws and 

regulations. Inspector Royle is a thoroughly professional police officer and has served the 

community of Western Australia with distinction over many years. 

279


South Australia 

Detective Senior Sergeant Michael John EICHNER, 

Detective Senior Sergeant Eichner joined SAPOL in 1968. In 1976 he commenced a career 

path in criminal investigations and for the past 17 years has been posted to the Major Crime 

Investigation Section (MCIS). He has excelled in the criminal investigation field, both in an 

investigatory and supervisory role, in some of South Australia’s most serious and complicated 

murder investigations. He was also seconded to the (then) National Crime Authority in 1986. 

His subordinates, peers and managers regard Detective Senior Sergeant Eichner as an 

investigator and leader of the highest calibre. His personal standards not only manifest 

themselves in the quality of every aspect of his work but also extend to his noted empathy 

towards families of victims. He is a positive role model. He is renowned for his willingness to 

instruct and guide members whether it be as a team supervisor, consultant in a murder 

investigation, or providing advice to members external to the MCIS conducting similar 

investigations. In addition, his professionalism comes to the fore in his gaining community 

confidence when appearing in the media during the course of major crime investigations. 

Superintendent Peter John HARVEY, 

Superintendent Harvey joined SAPOL in 1978. Following general duties postings his career 

path, from 1987 until promotion to officer rank in 2002, was within the criminal investigation 

area serving in metropolitan CIB, Drug Task Force and Covert Investigation Section. He also 

served as a member of the STAR (Special Tasks and Rescue) Force for 3 years. He was 

highly regarded for his commitment and contribution within the covert investigation field, 

being instrumental in the creation and establishment of the Covert Investigation Section, with 

responsibility for the development of comprehensive policies, procedures and training needs 

for the new structure, impacting on covert investigations and ensuring SAPOL's compliance 

with legislation. As an undercover operative and undercover controller, Superintendent 

Harvey was recognised as an expert in this field. As a Chief Inspector appointed as Officer-in- 

Charge, Drug and Alcohol Policy Section, he personally constructed SAPOL's Illicit Drug 

Strategy. His current role as Officer-in-Charge, Corporate Communications Branch, requires 

effective management of significant media-related issues, a role he fulfils at a highly proactive 

level, identifying and responding to issues across all services within SAPOL, highlighting 

potential risk areas and issues and providing advice to those accountable. Superintendent 

Harvey has also made a significant contribution to the establishment and conduct of ‘Ride 

Like Crazy’ as a charitable SAPOL corporate event. The event requires considerable 

commitment and input. 

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Chief Superintendent Linda WILLIAMS, 

Chief Superintendent Williams joined SAPOL in 1980, and her early postings were in the 

operational area and, later, in Prosecution and Policy Development where she was involved 

in the development of the first stalking legislation aimed at enhancing the safety of victims of 

domestic violence. In 2003 she was promoted to Manager Human Resources Branch and in 

this position took a leading role in developing a police recruiting initiative. In 2006 she 

returned to operational duties as the Local Service Area Commander at Holden Hill and, in 

2008, she set up the State Crime Prevention Branch, with significant responsibilities in the 

areas of drugs and alcohol, youth, victims, crime prevention, volunteers and Watch SA. She 

managed the introduction of SAPOL's new Crime Prevention Strategy and led a project to 

enhance problem solving: initiatives that resulted in a significant enhancement of community 

policing services across SAPOL. She was also selected to take part in an exchange program 

with New Zealand police, where she was responsible for the introduction of a range of 

policing initiatives based on the use of intelligence and tactical deployments. After furthering 

her academic studies, Chief Superintendent Williams was admitted as a Barrister and 

Solicitor of the Supreme Court of South Australia. In 2008 she was nominated by SAPOL to 

undertake studies in Cambridge University and is understood to be the first sworn officer in 

Australia to complete the Diploma Applied Criminology and Police Management (Cantab). 

She is currently employed as Officer-in-Charge Ethical and Professional Standards Branch 

where her outstanding leadership and commitment have been instrumental in ensuring the 

continued ethical health of the organisation. 

Tasmania 

Sergeant Rodney Harold CARRICK, 

Sergeant Carrick was appointed as a Junior Constable in the Tasmania Police Service in 

1971, and appointed as a Constable in 1974. During his distinguished career he has served 

in a variety of roles and locations, including Hobart Watch, Bellerive Police Station, Hobart 

Prosecution Section, Hobart Criminal Investigation Branch, Bellerive Criminal Investigation 

Branch, Internal Investigations, Hobart Coroner's Office and Eastern District Traffic Services, 

and as the Officer-in-Charge at the Triabunna, Lindisfarne and Orford Police Stations. He is 

currently serving as the Officer-in-Charge at Accident Investigation. Sergeant Carrick is a 

highly motivated officer who possesses a very strong work ethic. His outstanding devotion to 

duty, diligence and leadership have been recognised throughout his career. He has served 

the community of Tasmania with distinction over many years. 


Commissioner's Medal for his diligent and ethical service, 1999. 

281


Northern Territory 

Brevet Sergeant Owen Nathan AURICHT, 

Brevet Sergeant Auricht joined the Northern Territory Police Force in 2003. He served in Alice 

Springs in general duties for 2 years and worked in bush patrols and social order units 

dealing with anti-social behaviour and search and rescue incidents. In 2006, he completed 

the Operational Investigators Course training in Restorative Justice Conferencing, and wrote 

an Anti-Social Behaviour Strategy for Alice Springs involving the whole of government and 

the local community. In 2007, he was the first Northern Territory Police Officer to be 

transferred to the Warakurna multi-function Police Station in Western Australia, responsible 

for policing Warakurna, surrounding Western Australian communities and the relatively 

nearby Docker River in the Northern Territory. He served 2 years at the station and was the 

Officer-in-Charge for 18 months. In 2008, he transferred to the remote community of Kulgera 

where he is now the current Officer-in-Charge of the Kulgera Police Station and works closely 

with the community. He speaks an aboriginal language and has developed an excellent 

rapport with locals, enforcing the strong message of ‘not drinking and driving’ and safe driving 

practices. Brevet Sergeant Auricht is involved in social events within Kulgera and ensures 

there is an active police presence at all sporting-related events. He has a high standard of 

personal integrity, ethics and values and conducts himself in a professional manner at all 

times. He serves with distinction and is a fine representative of the Northern Territory Police 

Force. 

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AUSTRALIAN POLICE MEDAL (APM) 266 Federal Superintendent ...

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