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The fight for Fynn
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Contents features
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The fight for Fynn The serious medical condition and uncertain future of this newborn left his mother and police officer father in fear and shedding tears.
April 2013 Police Journal
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REGULARS
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Making way for secretary 19 He expects that people will soon be saying: “Andy who?” but few will forget the gregarious, straight-talking Police Association secretary of the last 15 years.
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Premiership coach It seems her role in women’s footy has made SC1C Tanya Leonard an asset to the sport and a role model to young players.
06 Police Association 08 PRESIDENT 25 Opinion 26 Letters 27 Q&A 28 INDUSTRIAL 33 Health 34 Motoring 37 Banking 39 Legal 40 Books 42 DVDs 43 Cinema 45 Wine 48 The Last Shift 50 Police Scene 54 HEROeS
COVER: Senior Constable First Class Brian Mayger and son Fynn Photography by Steve McCawley
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Jim Barnett Motoring Reviewer
Dr Rod Pearce Health Writer
Publisher: Police Association of South Australia (08) 8212 3055 Advertising: Police Association of South Australia (08) 8212 3055
Design: Sam Kleidon 0417 839 300 Printing: Lane Print Group (08) 8179 9900
The Police Journal is published by the Police Association of South Australia, 27 Carrington St, Adelaide, SA 5000, (ABN 73 802 822 770). Contents of the Police Journal are subject to copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the Police Association of South Australia is prohibited. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor. The Police Association accepts no responsibility for statements made by advertisers. Editorial contributions should be sent to the editor (brettwilliams@pj.asn.au).
April 2013 Police Journal
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Brett Williams Editor (08) 8212 3055
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Level 2, 27 Carrington St, Adelaide SA 5000 T (08) 8212 3055 F (08) 8212 2002 W journal.pasa.asn.au
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Bernadette Zimmermann Deputy President
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Contact Details Level 2, 27 Carrington St, Adelaide SA 5000 P: (08) 8212 3055 (all hours) F: (08) 8212 2002 Membership enquiries: (08) 8112 7988
Allan Cannon Vice-President
Mitch Manning
Samantha Strange
Chris Walkley
Trevor Milne David Reynolds Julian Snowden
Tom Scheffler Secretary 0417 817 075
Mark Carroll President 0417 876 732
DELEGATES Metro North Branch Port Adelaide..................Mitch Manning (chair) Elizabeth...........................Glenn Pink Henley Beach...................Matthew Kluzek Holden Hill........................Peter Kitto Gawler..............................David Savage Golden Grove..................Simon Nappa Parks.................................Sonia Giacomelli Salisbury...........................Taryn Trevelion Northern Prosecution.....Tim Pfeiffer
Country North Branch Port Lincoln.....................Lloyd Parker (chair) Ceduna.............................Scott Price
Coober Pedy...................Jeff Page Kadina...............................Ric Schild Nuriootpa.........................Michael Casey Peterborough...................Andrew Dredge Port Augusta....................Peter Hore Port Pirie...........................Gavin Mildrum Whyalla.............................Wayne Davison
Crime Command Branch Elizabeth.........................Kym Wilson (chair) Major Crime.....................Campbell Hill Adelaide...........................Dac Thomas DOCIB..............................Jamie Dolan Forensic Services............Sam Strange Fraud.................................Rhett Vormelker April 2013 Police Journal
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Holden Hill........................Narelle Smith Intelligence Support........Kevin Hunt Port Adelaide...................Craig Johnston Sturt..................................Brad Scott
Metro South Branch Southern Traffic.............Peter Schulze (chair) Adelaide...........................Kim Williams Netley...............................Mark Williams Norwood..........................Ralph Rogerson South Coast.....................Peter Clifton South Coast.....................Russell Stone Sturt..................................Michael Quinton Southern Prosecution.....Andrew Heffernan
Daryl Mundy
Staff
Industrial
Police Journal
Assistant secretary Darren Cornell
Media and communications
Editor Brett Williams
David Russell
Reception
POLICE CLUB MANAGER
Shelley Furbow
Stephanie Morrison
Executive secretaries Finance Michael Kent
Wendy Kellett
Anne Hehner, Anita Hamilton, Sarah Stephens
REPRESENTATIVES Country South Branch Mount Gambier..............Andy McClean (chair) Adelaide Hills...................Joe McDonald Berri...................................John Gardner Millicent............................Nick Patterson Murray Bridge..................Kym Cocks Naracoorte.......................Grant Baker Renmark............................Dan Schatto
Operations Support Branch Dog Ops..........................Bryan Whitehorn (chair) Police Academy...............Francis Toner ACB ..................................George Blocki Police Band......................Neil Conaghty
Comcen............................Athalie Edman Firearms............................Jon Kemplay-Hill HR ....................................David Wardrop Mounted...........................Paul Marston STAR Ops.........................Daniel Garlik Traffic................................David Kuchenmeister Transit...............................Julian Snowden
Womens Branch Jodie Cole (chair)...........(no delegates)
ATSI Branch Robert Agius (chair)......(no delegates)
Officers Branch. Alex Zimmermann April 2013 Police Journal
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COHSWAC......................Darren Cornell Superannuation...............Bernadette Zimmermann ..........................................David Reynolds Housing............................Tom Scheffler Leave Bank.......................Tom Scheffler Legacy..............................Allan Cannon
PRESIDENt Mark Carroll
Simple denial of parole would have saved innocents It’s nothing new
for police to cop criticism from many and varied quarters about the role they play in society, the decisions they make, and their interaction with the community and justice system. The criticism isn’t always a bad thing. There is much to learn from working in such a highly scrutinized field. Plenty of the criticism is unwarranted but police officers have to – and do – have hides as thick as rhinos. In a way that few other bodies do, police organizations continuously respond, assess and improve. They mete out punishment – often harshly – to their own people who breach standards and orders; they endlessly adapt to changing times and expectations through constant self-review and examination of procedures. But police are not afraid to defend themselves and their actions, particularly after seemingly obvious truths emerge and the commentary of various critics subsides. Shane Robinson was a violent, recidivist criminal to whom parole should never have been granted. Had that privilege not been afforded him, he would never have been in a position to stab one of our own, Jeff Allen, and assault an elderly woman on July 9, 2009.
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A satisfactory answer to the question of why Robinson was on parole has yet to be heard. A satisfactory answer to the question of why Robinson was on parole has yet to be heard. Not even findings of the recent inquest into Robinson’s death shed light on this fundamental issue. Many thought it an obvious point to consider – and determine. Yet Robinson’s mother, Jacqui, “welcomed a Coronial finding that police showed a ‘profoundly disturbing’ lack of interest in tracking him down before his final, suicidal crime spree” ( The Advertiser, February 15). The Advertiser reported that she “applauded” the coroner’s finding that police could have prevented the carnage, and also thought the findings “bolstered her decision to sue the state and SAPOL”. Bewildering! SAPOL, after receiving advice of Robinson’s application for parole in 2007, made submissions to the parole board against his release, owing to his inability to reform, his associations with criminals and his criminal antecedence. Still, the parole board released him. His parole expired in January 2011. Less than a month after he was paroled, police arrested Robinson for attempted theft and resist arrest. Police refused bail. The Adelaide Magistrates Court granted it. A week later, Robinson failed to attend a community corrections appointment and the parole board issued a warrant for him three weeks later. SAPOL
submitted a report to the board recommending the revocation of Robinson’s parole. Police eventually arrested Robinson two weeks after the parole warrant was issued. His arrest involved a siege which lasted six hours. He was charged with offences relating to the siege and failing to comply with reporting obligations under the Child Sex Offender Registration Act. The parole board found he had breached his parole and he was imprisoned for two months and 20 days. He was released in May 2008. SAPOL provided further information to Community Corrections to assist in determining the revocation of Robinson’s parole. That information was submitted to the parole board in June 2008. Robinson then failed urine tests for drugs, was arrested for serious criminal trespass, theft and drug offences and was imprisoned by the parole board for 29 days for breach of parole. While in custody he tested positive for cannabinoids. In December 2008, he was released on home detention, remained on parole and was still subject to parole supervision. In January 2009, he was convicted of offences committed in 2008 while on parole and discharged by the magistrate without penalty. In March 2009, Robinson was convicted of offences committed in January 2008 while on parole – the magistrate discharged him without penalty.
In May 2009, the parole board received advice of then recent positive drug tests by Robinson and of the court convictions. Still he remained on parole. During his parole, Robinson failed five urine tests and three breath tests. He did not attend any programmes, as required by his parole conditions, for substance abuse. He was identified by Corrections as a high-risk offender. The crimes of Robinson’s histor y were violent and perverted. He had engaged in violent offending while on parole. Police had arrested him many times. They had even had to shoot him in a siege in which he had taken an innocent 17-year-old boy hostage. Many regrettable “slidingdoor” moments could have been considered in the inquest but were not. Shane Robinson should never have been on parole. Denying him parole would have prevented him from inflicting so much horror on so many innocents.
Less than a month after he was paroled, police arrested Robinson for attempted theft and resist arrest. Police refused bail. The Adelaide Magistrates Court granted it. April 2013 Police Journal
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The fight for Fynn It might have seemed as if it was only going to be a cosmetic issue. But, for one police officer and his wife, this facial birthmark had the potential to leave their son brain-damaged.
By Brett Williams
Fynn Mayger in hospital after laser treatment
April 2013 Police Journal
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Fynn as a newborn
Brian and Mel Mayger could see a heavy
purple mark covering all the right side of their newborn son’s face. A nurse said the discolouration might just have been bruising from the delivery, a Caesarean section at Flinders Medical Centre in 2009. So the new parents did not at first get too concerned. But, as Mel lay in bed in a recovery room a few hours later, around midnight, she found out exactly what her little Fynn was confronting. A doctor explained that he had a type of birthmark known as a port-wine stain, which would never just disappear. “I was shocked and then crying,” Mel remembers, “because I was thinking: ‘Oh, no…’ I was just in panic, and then I called Brian.” After Brian, who had gone home, went back to the hospital, he asked a specialist if Fynn’s birthmark would fade with the passage of time. “That,” the specialist said, “is the least of your concerns!” The remark devastated Brian, a police officer then based at SOS reliefs. “It set a lot of alarm bells ringing with Mel and with me,” he says. “I thought: ‘Wow, this is more serious than I actually thought.’ ” From what doctors would tell them, and from their own research, Mel and Brian would learn that Fynn might yet suffer brain dysfunction. And that left them gripped by shock and fear through the days that followed. April 2013 Police Journal
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The cause of the dysfunction would be a condition known as Sturge-Weber syndrome, which Brian found almost soul-deadening to read about after looking it up on the internet. He learned that it was associated with port-wine stains of the face and could bring about weakness on one side of the body, seizures, glaucoma and, ultimately, mental disability. And, if Fynn did have the syndrome and suffered seizures before the age of two, he would be all the more likely to end up intellectually impaired. Brian, then 29, had only just arrived home from the hospital when he got that call from Mel, who outlined what the doctor had told her. Soon after that was when he started searching the internet, fearing what lay ahead for his hours-old son. “I wanted to see what we were up against,” he says. “But, whenever you Google something, you always find out the worst possibilities, so I probably shouldn’t have done it. “You find all the associated illnesses and the complications that that particular kind of birthmark brings. But, obviously, the main concern at that stage was the Sturge-Weber syndrome. “The first day after he was born was pretty full-on. There were swarms of specialists coming in and out; there were people coming in and taking photos of him and taking him off for eye-pressure tests and MRI scans.”
“Fynn used to sleep in the cot next to our bed and Mel just wouldn’t sleep because she was so worried that he’d have a seizure.” From left: Fynn in hospital after his second laser treatment; and one day after his fifth treatment
Those scans would reveal any abnormalities in Fynn’s brain, but the results would not come instantly. The distraught young parents would have to wait, as they did, in the desperate hope of an “all-clear”. It seemed that all the post-birth joy in which they should have been immersed would never eventuate. “Obviously you’re a little bit worried about the actual birthmark,” Brian says, “but our main concern in those initial few days was: ‘Is our child going to be all right? Has he got any brain damage because of this birthmark?’ “And I still remember how we had to wait overnight to get the results of this MRI scan.” Before those results came, Mel, then 28, found the stress of the unknown overwhelming. “I was just busy crying,” she says. “It was horrible. I was just worried that, if it (the birthmark) was affecting his brain, it would be horrific.” Brian concedes that he, too, became overwhelmed with emotion. “I tried to stay strong for Mel’s sake,” he says, “but, in my own time, I did (cry) a little bit. “Leading up to the birth, Mel had done everything right. She looked after herself but, at the same time, you start asking yourself: ‘Why has this happened?’ I certainly asked myself: ‘Did we do something wrong during pregnancy?’
“But there came a time when different specialists reassured us that it was just one of those things that happens. And, at that stage, you think: ‘Oh, well, it’s just the way it was for us.’ ” Finally, after three days, Mel and Brian got the scan results, which showed that Fynn’s brain was clear of any abnormalities. The couple was “over the moon” and feeling great relief. But Fynn was not entirely in the clear. He still faced the possibility of developing Sturge-Weber syndrome later. After five days in hospital, mother and baby were able to go home. But their departure came with words of warning from a paediatrician. He told Mel and Brian to keep a close eye on Fynn and let him (the paediatrician) know if the boy became weak or suffered seizures. A fearful Mel took the warning so seriously that, for the next 12 months, she slept little more than one hour a night. Says Brian: “Fynn used to sleep in the cot next to our bed and Mel just wouldn’t sleep because she was so worried that he’d have a seizure.” She worried not only about seizures but also the reactions of people who would come to see Fynn’s heavily marked face. And many insensitive remarks did follow – out in public. One day, in a coffee shop, an unthinking woman asked: “What’s wrong with his face?” April 2013 Police Journal
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“It happened everywhere and often,” Mel says. “People would stop me and ask questions, and people would stare so I was a bit of a recluse. I didn’t join a mothers’ group or anything like that for fear of people staring at him and saying things. I would never do that.” Despite the boorishness of those with the inappropriate questions, Mel was gracious enough to respond. “I’d just say: ‘It’s a birthmark,’ or I’d just laugh,” she says. Brian often came across the same insensitivity but responded more bluntly. “Nothing’s wrong with his face: it’s a birthmark,” he said to anyone who asked him. “At the start, you get really angry with them,” he says. “Then, after about six months, you’re just that used to it because it’s just part of daily life. You still don’t like it but it just became a regular thing that we had to live with.” Still, today, Mel reflects on those first worry-filled postnatal weeks as “depressing”. And both she and Brian concede that living with the endless uncertainty surrounding Fynn’s health tested their marriage of five years. “It did put a bit of strain on our lives,” Brian says. “As far as his (Fynn’s) treatment was concerned, we didn’t really have any disagreements. But, with Mel living on one hour’s sleep a night, for a long period, it certainly took its toll. You do go through dark times.”
From left: Fynn one day after his first treatment in 2011; at home one day after his third treatment; and 10 days after his sixth treatment.
Still, the one thing which came with a guarantee for Fynn was his parents’ unconditional love for him. No birthmark, or any other health issue, could ever have made them love him any less. “We were still over the moon with the birth of our first child,” Brian says, “no matter what he looked like. And every parent would be the same. You have your concerns but we were still over the moon with our baby.” And, in any case, the Maygers were never without hope. Doctors had suggested laser surgery as a means of breaking up Fynn’s birthmark. But the treatment would involve general anaesthesia for the pain and Fynn would have to be at least 12 months old before it started. “We were certainly looking forward to that, because we’d heard how successful it can be, breaking up to about 70 or 80 per cent of the birthmark,” Brian says. “And we were aware that it wasn’t going to fade on its own. If anything, it only gets darker with age. “They (doctors) certainly told us about the pain associated with (the treatment). They described it as like thousands of rubber bands flicking at his skin and, then, there’s the burning sensation for the following week.”
“They described it as like thousands of rubber bands flicking at his skin and, then, there’s the burning sensation…” So, just after his first birthday, Fynn underwent his first laser surgery at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital. His father, by then based at Kadina, and mother had brought him to Adelaide, as they would for five more surgeries at four-month intervals over the next two years. The long breaks in between were for Fynn to recover. Each treatment left his face bruised, burning and swollen for weeks. And his parents struggle to remember Fynn ever complaining about pain or discomfort. Indeed, he rarely showed any interest in the mark he knew he had on his face. To the children who, in the playground, asked him what it was, he simply said: “That’s my birthmark.” “Kids do ask,” Brian says. “They notice more so after his laser treatment, when all the bruising is there. “We just sat him down and explained to him pretty early that he’s got a birthmark and April 2013 Police Journal
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talke d to him about it. Since then, he’s not curious about it at all. He doesn’t care.” To their delight, the Maygers eventually got to see the birthmark breaking up and gradually disappearing. The laser surgery proved an extraordinary success. “It’s amazing what they have done so far,” Brian says, “and that’s with six treatments.” But if one thing outdid that result, it was Fynn reaching the age of two with no sign of Sturge-Weber syndrome. Brian had read of some unfortunate children developing the syndrome without showing any symptoms before they turned two. So he and Mel knew that the absence of symptoms in Fynn never meant he was in the clear. And they had felt on edge about that for two whole years. N ow, eve n w ith hi s bir thmar k bare l y noticeable, Fynn is due to undergo his seventh laser treatment this month. “They will keep doing it until it stops working and it’s not effective anymore,” Brian says.
Above: At home with his mum, Mel, and dad, Brian below: Happy at home in mum’s arms
“And they’ve said that, after a while, as Fynn ages, it will start coming back and there will be follow-up appointments later on in his life. “My main concern now is the sort of psychological damage he might be exposed to at school. Children can be pretty nasty. That’s why we’re going with this treatment full-on now, because you think about school and bullying. It is worrying.” Mel sees that removing the birthmark might itself bring about a psychological issue for Fynn. “It sounds strange,” she says, “but, even though we’re trying to get rid of it (the birthmark), we don’t want him to hate it or think of it as a bad thing.” In the meantime, Fynn remains uninterested in his looks, totally unfazed by the laser treatment, and happily oblivious to his parents’ concerns about his future. He just revels in ball games, especially footy, and watching Nitro Circus or the Crusty Demons on TV. And, despite the strain of all their worry and uncertainty, his parents have in no way ruled out having more children. It was always their plan to have as many as three; and doctors have told them of the possibility of birthmarks afflicting any of Fynn’s future siblings.
Says Brian: “They have pretty much said: ‘No, it’s just one of those things.’ And, now, going to the Women’s and Children’s as often as we do, you realize how many children are born with problems, and it’s certainly an eye-opener. “I look at it now and think: ‘We’re extremely lucky to have Fynn how he is.’ Some parents have to go through a lot worse than us. We’re by no means hard done by with Fynn.” The sympathy Mel and Brian feel for those other parents extends to advice, which is to “be strong and accept your children for who they are”. Rewards, the couple insists, will follow. By speaking to the Police Journal, the now Sturt-based Brian had hoped to create awareness of birthmarks and their complications. But he did have one concern. “I think about when Fynn’s in his teenage years and how he will be feeling about us doing this interview and having him in a magazine,” he says. “If he looks back and reads the story, I don’t want him to think he was a burden on our lives for the first few years, because that’s certainly not the case. “Times have certainly been tough, but we wouldn’t change a thing.” PJ April 2013 Police Journal
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Making way for secretary 19 The sting of industrial battle never fazed Andy Dunn. But, for the longserving Police Association secretary, a few other issues cut deep.
By Brett Williams
April 2013 Police Journal
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The question
Facing page: Andy Dunn acknowledges guests after making a speech at his farewell function last month below from left: With then Police Association president Peter Alexander (right) and now former premier Mike Rann; addressing delegates at the Police Association annual conference in 2007; at the annual conference with association president Mark Carroll and now former police minister Michael Wright in 2008
about what he relished most as Police Association secretary causes Andy Dunn no hesitation. It was fronting up to the Industrial Relations Commission when the time came to ratify each of the outstanding enterprise agreements the association had secured. Dunn, 56, describes those moments in a way reminiscent of former prime minister Paul Keating calling his 1993 election win “the sweetest victory of all”. “I loved it,” Dunn says. “You’re down there on an agreed application. State government represents the employer and no one’s going to argue. So it’s about getting this agreement through. “The arbiters say: ‘Yes, we agree with government, we agree with the union, this is going to be what police are remunerated under for the next three years.’ “So the IRC becomes something of a stage for us to say: ‘Look how well your union has done. This is the deal.’ And the association’s never done a bad deal. We’ve only ever done good deals.” Life in the engine room of the police labour movement suited Dunn. It involved – and continues to involve – endless human interaction; and he was likely one of the most gregarious union secretaries in the whole of Australia over the past 15 years. And that trait, along with his image – bearded, portly and short of stature; a suit-, hat- and bowtie-wearer – made him near indelible. The now former Police Association secretary was recognizable to police of all ranks, political party leaders, and many others. And that was inevitable after one-anda-half decades in the job, and four years before that as an association committee member. “Andy has been a big personality on both the state and national scenes over his years as secretary,” Police Association president Mark Carroll says. “And, in that time, he has earned the deep respect of his fellow secretaries, and police unionists generally, around the nation.” Dunn might easily have won another four-year term in the recent association elections but, in January, announced that he did not intend to stand. He surprised many with his news, but not because it came with any drama or controversy. No one had indicated that he or she intended to challenge him, and there had been no coup or even a politician-style tap on the shoulder.
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Dunn had simply felt that, if he were ever to accept any kind of post-retirement role, he best do it now rather than in another four years at the age of 60. Not that he has a job lined up, and not that anyone had tried to lure him away from the association with an offer. “I’m not looking for a nine-to-five, Monday-to-Friday job,” he says. “But, if somebody came along and said: ‘We’d like you to do this or do that,’ of course I would have a look at it.” Former Police Association president Peter Alexander, who served with Dunn for 10 years, reckons his old second-incommand would be “an asset to any organization”. “Andy has a wealth of life experience and police experience,” he says, “and he’s a seasoned traveller. He understands the world and how it works.” Indeed, in the years they served together (1998 – 2008), as union president and secretary, Alexander saw many qualities in Dunn. “Andy had a very good understanding of what the membership wanted,” he says, “and he had a great relationship with the members. “He was tough, too, as was needed. I was able to work with him when we spoke to all sides of politics. He was always with me on the occasions we spoke to premiers and leaders of the Opposition, and he worked hard at what the association was trying to achieve.” That Dunn toughness wound up on display in his first few months as secretary, when now former commissioner Mal Hyde launched a surprise attack on the Police Journal, calling its content “negative”. The broadside came at the Police Association annual conference and reporters sought a response from Dunn, who gave them commentary for broadcast that evening. He said that, instead of “whinging” about the journal, Hyde should have been focussing on the shortcomings it had highlighted in SAPOL. Most knew that bold, up-front style to be typical of Dunn even as an operational copper. In those days, he had always gone straight to his bosses whenever he had a grievance or a point of view to express. “There were things that I saw as unfair in the workplace,” he told the Police Journal in 2008, “unfair to individuals and to the workplace itself. “There were issues around the behaviour of some supervisors, around equipment, around rosters, believe it or not. There were all sorts.
“… the vast majority of members we were dealing with on a one-on-one, face-to-face basis were suffering adversity.”
From top: In the Royal Hong Kong Police tactical unit in 1982; posing for a Royal Hong Kong Police recruiting promo; with his Hong Kong colleagues during riots in 1984; in Whyalla in 1978; running for election to the committee of management in 1994
“I’d always have my say to the boss but, if the boss couldn’t or wouldn’t fix the problem, I had to find somebody who would. And who else was going to help me but our union? And my involvement with the association literally grew from there.” But Dunn first got involved with his union as a writer of letters to the editor of the Police Journal. In his first correspondence he wrote of injustice in the workplace. The editor advised the young constable and fledgling activist that his letter was probably not conducive to a long career in SAPOL. It wisely went unpublished. Dunn had joined SAPOL as a 16-year-old in 1974 after leaving Crystal Brook where he had lived his early teen years. And, with only seven years’ police experience behind him, he scored special leave without pay to go to work for the Royal Hong Kong Police Force. Career breaks for police did not then exist, but Dunn had scored support from the now late Liberal MP Ren DeGaris, who had taken his application for leave to Cabinet. Three years in the then-British colony proved a strong influence on Dunn. He insists that the experience led to the paths he took in both policing and unionism back in Australia. “It was the people I met, the work I did, and the conditions I worked under,” he explains. “If I had to find an analogy I’d say it wouldn’t be much different from somebody who, in the contemporary age, did 12 months on the APY Lands.” Dunn followed the industrial relations scene for two decades before running for and winning office
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as a committee member in 1994. By then he was a patrol sergeant with that wealth of experience Peter Alexander saw in him. Says former Police Association treasurer Mick Standing: “I knew that, when Andy came on the committee, he would approach it in the same fashion he had approached his police work. “He always had his facts right; he was dedicated and loyal, and always listened to people’s arguments around the board table. If he thought something was wrong, he wasn’t afraid to speak up and say so.” In 1998, then-secretary Peter Parfitt resigned from office midway through his term. Dunn, then 41, stood as a candidate to replace him. “That was out of the blue,” Standing says. “I was quite surprised in one respect that he did stand and, once I saw his name there, I thought it would be interesting to see what happened.” After Dunn had finished campaigning, he took leave and travelled to England as the two-week ballot took place. While there, driving along a British motorway, he received a text message with the election result. He had won, and become the association’s 18th secretary since 1911; and he would return to office three times unopposed. In his time, Dunn played his part in a formidable team, which included Peter Alexander and current president Mark Carroll. With others, the trio achieved landmark victories in pay and staffing campaigns and enterprise agreements, and continued, through investments, to bolster the association’s finances. And Dunn, a long-time technophile, kept the association equipped with cutting-edge IT systems. But it was never IT or industrial disputes or pay campaigns in which Dunn found the toughest aspect of his work. “It was knowing,” he says, “that the vast majority of members we were dealing with on a oneon-one, face-to-face basis were suffering adversity.
From left: With members during the Your Rights at Work rally in Victoria Square in 2006; with Brian Coughlan, bandmaster of the Pipes and Drums of the Emerald Society, New York City Police Department in 2006; below: presenting Ritchie Hopley with the Walter Wissell award for academic achievement in 2006
“Be it personal or professional, be it discipline or family, it didn’t matter. They were suffering some form of adversity and we saw an awful lot of it.” Dunn might have found it hard to witness association members’ pain but, supporting them, as he did – and as others continue to – was his greatest reward. “It is what we do,” he says. “We help people.” Members the association could not help, such as Bob Sobczak, who died on duty in 2002, and others who took their own lives, caused Dunn his greatest sadness. But he worked through sorrow whenever it came and never stopped giving association members his best; and, in 2008, his best earned him life membership. President Mark Carroll pinned the coveted life membership badge on his lapel to the delight of dinner guests at that year’s annual conference. “It was a fitting acknowledgement of Andy’s service and loyalty to the membership, to me as president and to the organization,” he says. “He never hesitated to debate the critical issues but, after we’d made a firm decision, he would give it 100 per cent support. “And we received that glowing ‘report card’ on our governance practices from former federal attorneygeneral Robert McClelland at conference last year. Andy deserves a significant amount of credit for that. “And I will never forget the support he gave me when I was new to the role of president. We will miss him intensely, and he leaves big shoes to fill.” Even those Dunn at times opposed, in an industrial sense, considered him worthy of the accolades. “(He) has served PASA members with distinction,” Commissioner Gary Burns says. “While he’s always had the members’ welfare as his highest priority, Andy has been able to maintain a close, professional relationship with the commissioner and SAPOL’s senior executive group.” While life membership came as a career highlight for Dunn it also brought him sadness. None of his
family had survived to see him honoured. He had lost both his parents to illness in the previous nine years and his sister and only sibling had died in a car crash in 1988. Still, good memories of his secretarial life abound for Dunn. He speaks of the heights to which the presidents he served with led the Police Association. “Peter Alexander set the tone for the association a long time ago,” he says, “and that didn’t change with his retirement. The association still owes an awful lot of what it is to Pete in terms of the standard he set. “And Mark Carroll has taken up the reins with absolute aplomb since 2008, and I have no doubt he will continue to do so.” Dunn also delights in the establishment of the Police Federation of Australia, of which the Police Association is an affiliate. He highlights the authority of the organization to speak for police throughout the entire nation. “I’m not the first person to say it,” he concedes, “but not one politician, not one commissioner in this country can say he or she speaks for policing nationally.” Rather than highlight where he thinks SAPOL and governments need to improve the way they deal with police, Dunn simply expounds his philosophy. “Be it industrial or political, or be it policing or discipline or the courts, if you play fair, you generally get a better outcome,” he insists. “Governments tend to come unstuck when they dud the cops; and some would probably see pushing back an election promise as dudding cops. Both sides have done that over the years.” Dunn has equally simple advice for his longtime colleague and successor, Tom Scheffler, as well. “Listen, listen, listen,” he urges. “To the membership, to colleagues, to the pollies, to the PFA affiliates… Don’t slavishly follow but do listen, and don’t miss anything.”
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“Don’t slavishly follow but do listen, and don’t miss anything.”
Secretary’s coursemate to retire, too By Brett Williams
Kadina
detective sergeant Rick Day has spent 10 years as a dedicated Police Association committee member, taking part in critical decision-making around the board table. He has had to keep up to date with industrial issues and agenda items, attend conferences and special meetings, and contribute to committee deliberations – more than 200 times. And, to front up for all of that, he has had to travel to Adelaide at least twice a month since 2003, and still meet the demands of full-time police work. So will he find retirement, as he settles into it, a welcome relief from the responsibilities of his committee role, from which he stepped down after last month’s elections? Or will Day, 56, actually miss fronting up to represent association members? “Hell, yes!” he says. “The 10 years on committee have been a challenge right from day one, getting better pay and better conditions for members. “But what I appreciate is that it’s always been more about negotiating rather than industrial action. “The way I’ve seen it is that a lot of the work we do on committee is about ratifying decisions. I think that we’re a good check-andbalance mechanism. “I certainly don’t feel like I moved the world but I feel as if I played an important part in the industrial issues concerning police. And the chance to serve with Andy Dunn after having graduated with him 36 years ago has been a bonus.” Police Association president Mark Carroll describes Day as a “fine example of what it takes to be a long-term committee member”. “Rick always addressed his mind to the broader issues without getting unduly focussed on individual matters,” he says. “That was because he cared deeply about his colleagues and about the police occupation in general. “And he rarely missed a committee meeting, even though he worked at the cutting edge of the investigational field as the OC of a CIB unit.” Day found his passion for industrial relations when he transferred to Kadina 24 years ago. From what he saw then, he thought country cops were not receiving just recognition for their input. April 2013 Police Journal
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“There was the expectation of them to be involved in the local community,” he says. “And there were the hours they and their partners were putting in for very little recognition. “So I thought: ‘Well, if I’m going to do anything about conditions for police in the country and Crime Command, I’ve got to put my hand up.’ “No one should sit in the background and whinge about their conditions or wages and not think about being involved in the organization that has the power to cause change.” Day, who served as a delegate for two years, won his seat at the association board table in a 2002 casual-vacancy election to replace retired committee member Peter Franklin. Some of the greatest satisfaction for Day came from time he spent on the association’s CIB working party in 2005-06. “That working party drove an agenda for Crime Command (now Crime Service) which was losing people to other areas,” he says. “Now there’s the retention allowance, the CIB service increments and the brevet sergeant rank for CIB members performing supervisory roles. The whole gamut of the outcomes of the working party gave me a lot of pleasure.” Day thinks of former Police Association president Peter Alexander as his greatest influence in unionism. He learned much from the way the revered leader “worked the issues”. “Peter was a sensible, objective president,” he says, “and Mark Carroll is in that mould. “Peter made committee members feel as though their involvement and input was important. With him, you always felt that you had achieved something at a committee meeting, and Mark has continued that on, only now the issues are more varied.” Now, Day looks to his daughter, Tamara, to make union service a family tradition. She joined SAPOL in 2007 after leaving a career in the travel industr y. Day is not only intensely proud of her but also “quietly confident” she will at some time pursue a Police Association role. His advice to her is that, if she feels passionate about an issue and wants to bring about change, she should become a delegate. In retirement, Day plans to travel with his wife, Jenny, and take on volunteer work. Says Mark Carroll: “Rick was, above all, a loyal committee member and a trusted confidante. He will certainly be missed around the boardroom table.” PJ
Police Association of South Australia
2013 Annual Dinner to honour retiring members
Friday 28th June 2013 Hilton Adelaide Hotel 233 Victoria Square, Adelaide 7pm for 7:30pm
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RSVP to Anne Hehner Phone 08 8112 7977
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She
Premiership coach By Brett Williams
has had her eye blackened, her finger broken, and her ribs X-rayed after copping a knee in a ruck duel. Packs of undisciplined opposition footy players have tried to assault her. And she has heard others, on the sidelines, urge those on the ground to “smash Tanya”. Worst of all, 35-year-old Tanya Leonard, who is clearly a target to some, has wound up concussed – more than once. By one analysis or another, she has likely confronted as much aggression in women’s Aussie Rules footy as she did in frontline police work. In fact, as Leonard explains it, clashes both within and outside the rules happen “all the time” between players. “I’ve had one incident,” she says, “where I had three girls – who were fivefoot-nothing – around me trying to hit me (with their fists and bodies) during play. So I’m five-foot-10 with these kids in their early 20s trying to intimidate me. “I actually just stood there with them because they couldn’t really do anything to me. I resisted (any urge) to respond. “I get people who will purposely want to hit me yet I have never had a harsh word to say about them. But I do play tough on the field.” Sledging, too, occurs in a way Leonard describes as “big time”. “There is a lot of trash-talking,” she says. “I remember one incident where a girl who used to play in our team had changed clubs and didn’t like me. “She was on the boundary line with the rest of her team and they were sledging me while I was playing. It was: ‘Hit Tanya! Smash Tanya!’
“I’m not coaching because I want to be recognized for what I do. I just coach because I enjoy it.”
“I didn’t like it because I had never done anything to her or anything wrong to certain players. And it was silly (to urge people to hit me) because a lot of people just bounce off of me.” “My dad told me: ‘You shouldn’t do it,’ but I did,” Despite all the mischief, Leonard remains she remembers. “All my friends had jobs and wanted committed to the game as not only a player but also to go overseas, and I wanted to do the same.” coach of the Port Adelaide under-18s team. Just last Leonard found the prospect of a police year she led her young charges to the premiership career appealing because she wanted a “more and won the SANFL 2012 Female Football Coach physically active job”. And, to accept it, she had of the Year award. to reject an offer of employment from the Royal She accepted it in the Magarey Room at Football Australian Air Force. Park. Watching on were her proud parents, mother Her foray into women’s footy began in 2009, after her father had heard that various clubs Cristel and father Frank, himself a former SANFL player (West Adelaide) and coach (Norwood and needed more players. He also suggested that a Woodville-West Torrens). sport on grass would likely be easier on his “I’m not coaching because I want to be recognized daughter’s reconstructed ankle. “I wasn’t over the moon about it,” Leonard says, for what I do,” Leonard insists. “I just coach because I enjoy it. I love seeing kids develop. But (the award) “but I thought: ‘I’m not playing basketball and I need to do something, so I’ll go out and give it a crack.’ ” was a genuine surprise and I was really ecstatic to So, at the age of 31, Leonard donned the black receive it.” Much of her success might just be attributable to and white striped guernsey of the Port Adelaide the principles she has instilled in her players. Leonard Magpies and kicked off her footy adventure. She steers them away from sledging and behind-the-play wore – and still wears – No. 9 as did her father as a Bloods player in the early 1970s. attacks on their opposition. “I teach my kids to be assertive with what they do,” Before long, Leonard became interested in she explains. “I tell them: ‘I don’t care if the opposition coaching and, in 2010, passed a level-one football is physical: you’ll beat them on skill. If they don’t coach’s course at Football Park. In 2011, she took shake your hand, that doesn’t matter. You’re going on the roles of assistant coach of the under-16 SA to be the bigger person.’ ” girls’ state team and coach of the SA girls’ summer To coach her girls, Leonard has plenty of sports academy at Alberton Oval. The next year, Leonard won a scholarship from history on which to draw. At primary-school she played “absolutely everything”, but she and her two the Office of Recreation and Sport to take part in the sisters became devoted to basketball. At one point, AFL national coaching conference and a level-two Leonard was playing 10 times per week. coach’s course. And, among those she coached in 2012 were the: She would stick with the game as a Kildare College • Under-16 SA girls’ state team, which placed third girl and as a University of SA student studying for a Bachelor of Education and majoring in physical after Victoria and Western Australia. • Under-18 Port Adelaide women’s team, which education. Through the late 1980s and early 1990s she played for the West Adelaide Bearcats and the won the premiership. North Adelaide Rockets. • Under-15 SA girls’ summer academy at In 1995, Leonard, then 18, obtained a levelAlberton Oval. two accreditation as a basketball coach. With Two months ago Leonard represented SA as a coach in the inaugural AFL under-16 highthat qualification, she went on to coach not only performance academy in Victoria. And she will North Adelaide but also girls’ teams in the private complete her nationally recognized level-two school system. coach’s course in September and receive the But she stepped away from playing basketball in 2003, after on-court damage to her left ankle had led associated AFL accreditation. to three reconstructions. She had joined SAPOL the In the meantime, she continues to play for previous year, after leaving her job as a complaints the Port Adelaide women’s team and coach the manager with Telstra. under-16 girls’ state team and the under-18 Port And, before that, she had worked in the banking Adelaide women’s team. But Leonard has never industry. She had gone into that field after quitting sought involvement in women’s footy to push the university six months before she was due to graduate. feminist cause. April 2013 Police Journal
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“I don’t want to push a female perception of footy at all,” she insists. “No way in the world is that a priority of mine, and I am like that at work as well. “I just like being a positive role model. I love the fact that I can teach kids something and then they demonstrate that in a game. “I like developing someone who’s quite shy and, then, by the end of a season or two, my coaching hasn’t just affected their sporting ability, it’s affected their life outside of footy. “I focus on the kids’ sport but also their schooling; and I won’t let them do certain things unless they’re up-todate with their schooling. “Every single one of my under-16 state team last year gave me 100 per cent; and I like the fact that they worked their butts off because they respect me as their coach. They weren’t just doing it for the sake of doing it.” Leonard has a lot to cram into her life apart from coaching and playing roles. She has her own footy training to do, as well as daily runs of seven kilometres and bike-rides of up to 60kms three times per week. As well as that, of course, she commits herself to her full-time job as an operational-safety trainer with Driver Training at the police academy. The little downtime she gets, she most often spends with her sisters and parents around a family barbecue. She lists her father as her greatest influence but also draws inspiration from those who rise to heights others insisted they could never reach. Her aim now, as a copper, is to remain in the teaching field, which she loves. Her goal in footy is to coach the South Australian national women’s team. “I would jump at the chance,” she says. “I’ll do my level three (coach’s course) next year so that I’m qualified to do it. At the end of the day, I just want to be the best that I can be at it.” PJ
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Opinion
Why the courtroom trial is rarely the end Jayne Stinson Journalist
Of course, there were still scars for her and finally over. The jury has given its verdict. her family (including her son’s mental health and The judge has handed down the penalty. The years the destruction of their trust in men and teachers), of court hearings are done. The police investigations but she could walk away knowing the immense over. The media coverage over. value of seeking justice through the courts. But it’s not over. It never will be. She knew by taking action she had taught her For victims of crime, a moment of relief at the children the priceless lesson of fighting for what conclusion of a trial is quickly swamped by the was right. For those whose attacker is found to be mentally realization life will never be the same. Their outlook is a little less rosy; their trust in ill, there can be conflicting feelings. An official strangers damaged; their faith in the justice system verdict of “not guilty” does not cement a sense rattled; their ability to love and be loved strained. that justice has been served, even if the offender Hardly anyone escapes is detained. a l e n g t hy c r i m i n a l t r i a l A woman, whose family They live each day in the unscarred. Those scars can members were killed in a knowledge their attacker high-profile case, told me be emotional, social, physical she understood the offender and financial. And, just like may suddenly be released, was mentally deranged and crime itself, no one is immune – believing their worst the proper course of action police, prosecutors, witnesses, was not a jail term but a friends and family and even fears may be visited upon the offender’s supporters. lengthy period of detention in The toll is not the same for a mental institution. them at any moment. everyone. Different outcomes Despite that understanding, leave different burdens on different people. the outcome didn’t give her a definitive sense Amid all the variants, a lot depends on whether that justice had been done. She didn’t feel a whole the case was won or lost, or something in between. lot safer and she didn’t have the finality that is After a defendant is convicted there can be a so important after a traumatic ordeal. sense of empowerment and a feeling the right thing Under current laws, mentally ill offenders has been done for the benefit of the community. can apply for release in future if they can show A single mother who asked me to cover the trial they’ve recovered or can adequately control their of her young son’s sexual abuser told me she felt a mental-health problems. sense of achievement when the school tutor was While that serves a valuable purpose for the offender, this law generates uncertainty and sentenced to several years in jail. She felt by taking anxiety for victims who’ve already suffered the case to court she’d not only stopped the horrific abuse, but she’d helped to protect other children and enough. They live each day in the knowledge their made her community a safer place. attacker may suddenly be released, believing
It’s
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their worst fears may be visited upon them at any moment. As victims, their ability to oppose the offender’s release is limited and much relies upon the word of psychologists. When a trial is lost and the victims are left with no one to blame in law, the toll can be even worse. There is intense confusion and disbelief. There is an overwhelming sense of injustice and even anger at a system – and a world – that would let the wicked go free. Prosecutors and police do their best to give victims a realistic picture of the likely outcomes of a trial, but a victim can’t help but be crushed when his or her version of events is rejected by a court. I can recount many conversations with adult victims of child sexual abuse who feel broken and alone after hearing the words “not guilty” spill from the jury foreperson’s lips. They feel all the courage they summoned to recount the trauma of a dark past was ultimately a waste. Victims whose cases were lost can feel none of the safety, none of the justice and none of the peace of those who secure convictions. Some even fear retribution or social alienation as a result of taking their allegations to court. And with tight double jeopardy laws, most victims can have little hope their offender might one day be brought to justice.
Continued on page 41
Letters
Letters to the editor can be sent by: Regular mail Police Journal, PO Box 6032, Halifax St, Adelaide SA 5000 Email editor@pasa.asn.au Fax (08) 8212 2002 Internal dispatch Police Journal 168
A beautiful story Today I read the article I’ll miss you, mate in the Sunday Mail (first appeared in the February 2013 Police Journal as Letting go). It was a beautiful story of the bond between handlers and their dogs, and it was wonderful that the dogs were able to retire with their beloved handlers and their families. Whilst reading the article, I had tears streaming down my face as I know the agony of losing your much loved dog. It hurts more than words can convey, and I’m glad these dogs had people to love them so much. Thanks for a beautiful article and to all the police, dogs and horses who serve our community each and every day. Regards Rachel Marett
Police Journal giveaways a great feature
Grateful to Police Association
Excellent outcome
I am writing to advise all SAPOL members about the book, DVD and cinema ticket giveaways in each issue the Police Journal. I have been entering these giveaway competitions for quite some time now and have been successful on numerous occasions. I have lost count of the amount of books and DVDs that I have been lucky enough to win. Entering these competitions is neither time-consuming nor difficult and I urge all members to take advantage of this great feature in each issue. If members don’t enter for themselves they can put in an entry and, if lucky enough to win, the prizes make great birthday or Christmas gifts. I am also a Police Wine Club member and have attended quite a few tastings at the Police Club which have been excellent value for money and a great way to catch up with many members. I thoroughly recommend this service to any members who have not yet joined but have been thinking about joining. I wish now former Police Association secretary Andy Dunn all the best in his retirement and thank him for the time he has served. I hope he will enjoy a happy and relaxing future. Ingrid OIfacius Detective Brevet Sgt
It is with sincere gratitude that we acknowledge the Police Association contribution of $35,000 to Novita Children’s Services, being the proceeds from its recent lottery. Congratulations to the association on another successful lottery, and our thanks for again selecting Novita as the beneficiary for 2013. We value the time and commitment of the association and its staff in helping Novita raise funds. With that commitment to our organization, we can continue to provide ongoing assistance and care to more than 2,000 South Australian children living with disabilities and other special needs. We look forward to working with the Police Association again in 2013, and its support in raising funds via the PASA lottery and the Melbourne Cup Luncheon. On behalf of Novita’s children and their families, please thank association members for their support of Novita and helping us to continue to “connect kids with their worlds”. Yours sincerely Glen Rappensberg Chief Executive Novtia Children’s Services
Advice was received today that the Barossa CJS will not merge with Elizabeth CJS (see Regional criminal justice the loser under restructure, an excellent article by David Russell in the Police Journal, February 2013). On behalf of Brevet Sgt Natalie Stevenson, ASO Karen Nilssen and myself, I thank Mark Carroll, Andy Dunn, Tom Scheffler and Darren Cornell for all their efforts in achieving this excellent outcome. Thanks Sgt Carol Gallie Officer-in-Charge Barossa CJS
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Q&A
Do you support a return to extended training courses for teenaged police recruits? From top: Brevet Sgt Brendan Gottschutzke, Sgt Jeff Frankish and Detective Snr Sgt Sid Thomas.
Brevet Sgt Brendan Gottschutzke
Sgt Jeff Frankish
Detective Snr Sgt Sid Thomas
South Coast Criminal Justice
Eastern Adelaide Crime Management
Sturt CIB
I would definitely support extended training for teenaged police recruits. I believe we are losing talent by not recruiting young applicants. What appears to be happening is when they are rejected as applicants, young people move on into other fields of employment. Given the attrition rate at the moment, SAPOL is losing the opportunity to develop young people keen to contribute to policing. Let’s secure the young generation and develop them into assets for SAPOL. This can surely be done by committing to a longer training process. The longer course would counteract any lack of experience working within the community. By completing an extended training programme, experience and skills can be developed along the way. Not only would we benefit by strengthening our workforce, but opportunity is offered to young people aspiring to be police. Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders.
Operational police are spending increasingly more time on taskings which relate to mental-health issues and often involve violence with or without weapons. To deal effectively with these types of taskings, I believe that police need life experience through some degree of exposure to the real world prior to joining the police service. This is something those straight out of school do not generally possess. Generation Y has less loyalty to its employers and a greater propensity to change jobs. The investment in training might not be cost- or time-effective. In the current financial climate, longer courses, which involve a longer lag time between recognizing recruiting needs (and having the necessary budget) and having trained personnel on the job, might also promote future staff shortages.
Yes, having come through that system, though a little while ago, I most certainly benefited from it as did all those who continued on. The major benefit was, and would still be, indoctrination into a police culture, by learning and experiencing practice, protocols, policies and ever-changing legislation before doing the job proper. There is also no doubt that it enhances esprit de corps by remaining together for that extended training period, getting to know and associating with each other. The friendships continue on throughout one’s career. We all understand and acknowledge that times now are different. Teenagers tend to be more knowledgeable at a younger age, tend to stay at school longer and have many options available to them. But to serve an “apprenticeship” for the demanding role of a police officer can only be for the betterment of the person and, ultimately, SAPOL.
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April 2013 Police Journal
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Industrial
Members welcome revision of CJS restructure proposal David Russell
South Australia
Police management has reconsidered the proposal to restructure regional criminal justice sections, in favour of a new, greatly reduced restructure proposal. Now, only part of the original restructure proposal – the realignment of the Ceduna prosecutor position to Port Lincoln CJS – is being considered. The decision comes after consultation with affected members and the Police Association revealed significant dissatisfaction with the initial proposal. Despite the determination of SAPOL to remove the prosecutor position from Ceduna, Police Association president Mark Carroll told the Police Journal that members should feel encouraged by SAPOL management’s commitment to the consultation process. “SAPOL deserves acknowledgement for engaging with both the association and affected members through the consultation process,” he said. “They sought feedback, listened to that feedback, and revised their restructure proposal. “This outcome has demonstrated how valuable workplace consultation can be when it is done well.” The initial proposal – set out in a November 2012 consultation paper – was to rationalize the Ceduna and Port Lincoln sections into Whyalla, the Kadina section into Port Pirie and the Barossa section into Elizabeth. That restructure would have reduced the number of prosecution sections by four and supposedly created larger sections at Whyalla, Port Pirie and Elizabeth. It would also have reduced the number of sergeant positions in regional CJSs by three and created one new sergeant position within Western Adelaide CJS.
The consultation paper argued that regional CJSs of justice delivery in regional areas but also staff had experienced difficulty managing staff shortages, development in key country police stations. resulting from leave or positions which remained The association received a response from SAPOL unfilled, and that their ability to absorb staff absences on February 25, 2013. That letter indicated that Deputy Commissioner was limited because of their size. In response to the initial Grant Stevens was now Under the revised restructure, considering only the restructure proposal, the Police Association convened a meeting part of the proposal that the sergeant position at of 14 affected prosecution realigned the Ceduna members in mid-December 2012. CJS position. Ceduna would be converted Among the issues raised The letter also to a senior constable first explained that the by members were: • That witness proofing and position at Ceduna had class position at Port Lincoln. negotiations with local been vacant for more solicitors would be hampered. than 12 months. • That prosecutors attending court on a circuit basis “By moving the position to Port Lincoln it is considered likely Port Lincoln would be more would lack “local knowledge”. • Loss of valuable interaction and advice-sharing attractive in obtaining applicants which will provide between local prosecutors and local police. consistency and certainty for the Ceduna Police as • Significant impact on members, and the families to the prosecution arrangements,” SAPOL argued. of members, required to travel away from home Under the revised restructure, the sergeant to service regional courts. position at Ceduna would be converted to a senior • Lack of equipment and vehicles for prosecutors constable first class position at Port Lincoln. to travel to regional courts. Port Lincoln CJS would then service the Ceduna • Lack of office accommodation at the proposed court on a circuit basis. prosecution hubs. To ensure no prosecution sergeant positions • The long hours members would spend driving are lost, a senior constable first class position at to circuit courts. Western Adelaide – which has high caseloads – will be converted to sergeant. Following the meeting, Mr Carroll wrote to Commissioner Gary Burns to express the concerns On March 8, 2013, Mr Carroll again wrote to SAPOL management. He indicated that the of prosecutors in the affected areas. He indicated that the reality of the situation ran counter to the proposal to delete the Ceduna CJS sergeant position contention that larger CJSs were more robust in their and move it to Port Lincoln at a lower rank was not supported by the association. ability to absorb absences. He also asserted that resident regional He requested advice as to what incentives SAPOL prosecutors were not only integral to the fabric had offered to fill the Ceduna position. April 2013 Police Journal
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Police critical in delivering 2 4 - h ou r childcare trial for s h i ft- workers Police in New South Wales and Victoria will soon participate in a trial which will make 24-hour childcare available to officers who work rotational shifts. The federal government-funded trial includes 500 families, 100 of which are police. Families will be offered day-care options in the home as well as access to extended childcare centre hours. Care can also be modified to meet unexpected work demands, such as overtime or recall. The trial was developed in conjunction with the Police Federation of Australia, to which all Australian police unions belong. The PFA Women’s Advisory Committee, which Police Association deputy president and Nuriootpa sergeant Bernadette Zimmermann chairs, met Minister for Early Childhood and Child Care Kate Ellis to discuss the desperate need police have for around-the-clock childcare options. “We outlined (to the minister) findings from a survey of NSW officers that demonstrated police, particularly women police, were leaving policing because of a lack of affordable, flexible childcare,” Ms Zimmermann said. “We also told Minister Ellis that women officers are greatly needed in the community to attend to people in times of crises and that their departure from that role was not good for policing or the general community.” Following the meeting, a working party was formed between the minister’s office, the Police Federation of Australia and Family Day Care Australia, and a proposal for the trial was drafted. Ms Zimmermann told the Police Journal that the issue of flexible childcare had been on the agenda of the PFA Women’s Advisory Committee for 16 years. “The nature of shift work – irregular hours, overtime and weekend work – means that regular childcare
hours just don’t fit a police family’s needs,” she said. The problem of finding suitable childcare options also affects the ability for some police to pursue certain career paths within policing, according to Ms Zimmermann. “The lack of quality, flexible childcare limits officers’ ability to see a job through to its end, if it means overtime or extended hours are involved,” she said. “This effectively means officers can’t work on a patrol team or in a CIB unit if they don't have other options available to them. “Women officers are particularly affected because, as a group, they generally bear the bulk of child-rearing responsibilities. “Unfortunately, women will either leave policing entirely or sideline themselves into a desk job.” Minister Ellis said shift-workers wanted more flexible approaches to childcare to meet their families’ needs. “We know there is a clear demand for more flexible childcare options – we hear from parents who have to do the “tag-team” run just to get the kids before and after work every day,” Minister Ellis said in a statement. “We understand parents want to rely on affordable, accessible, quality childcare. “We also know that there has been a significant shift in the workforce in the last decade with a 25 per cent increase in the number of women in employment, creating extra demand for more flexible childcare.”
Detectives working night shift under new trial Detectives are now working night shift under a new SAPOL trial which began in March. The trial provides for a single CIB member to be based at the Communication Centre between 11pm and 7am every day. The night-shift CIB member is available for telephone advice and assistance to members
Police Association deputy president Bernadette Zimmermann: “We … told Minister Ellis that women officers are greatly needed in the community…”
responding to taskings that involve investigative and evidentiary issues. When serious criminal incidents occur, the CIB night-shift member is required to attend the scene to support the forward commander until the arrival of on-call detectives. The trial was subject to a consultation process between SAPOL, affected members and the Police Association. The initial version of the trial sought to provide two detectives in a response car, which would attend all taskings involving investigative issues. They were to provide support and manage scenes involving matters that could be resolved within the shift, and recall local CIB members for matters determined to require ongoing management. After that version of the proposal was circulated among CIB members, many contacted the Police Association to raise their concerns about the practicalities of the trial. The association then convened a meeting of representatives from all CIB units and Assistant Commissioner Paul Dixon to discuss the detectives’ concerns. Members raised a number of issues at the meeting, including: • Low staffing levels within CIB units. • Matters that arise when multiple incidents occur at once. • Confusion over who takes responsibility for cases. Following that meeting, SAPOL management reconsidered the parameters of the trial, opting instead to have a single detective on a CIB nightshift desk. The trial began on Friday, March 15 and will conclude on Friday, June 14, 2013.
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April 2013 Police Journal
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www.pasa.asn.au
PASAweb your website Access all services Apply for free legal assistance Follow police news and EB updates Participate in polls, surveys and competitions Browse upcoming police events Advertise goods and businesses Book holiday homes Access discounts on new Holden Vehicles
Visit April 2013 Police Journal
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www.pasa.asn.au
Celebrate Mother’s Day at THE POLICE CLUB Join other police families for what will become a Police Club tradition. Three-course lunch and a sparkling wine for mum for $39.50. A kid’s menu is also available, at a cost of $11.90. To see the full menu visit www.policeclub.com.au Doors will open at 11.30am, with lunch served from 12.00 noon.
Bookings are essential – tables will sell fast.
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Call 82122924 or email policeclub@pasa.asn.au
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April 2013 Police Journal
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HEALTH Dr Rod Pearce
Running on adrenaline No hormone could be more relevant to police officers, especially given the stress-filled nature of their work.
flight response) by intentionally engaging in stressful released by selective glands ultimately take their or risky behaviour. toll. Cortisone side effects include diabetes, Adrenaline junkies appear to favour stressful hypertension and osteoporosis. activities for the release of epinephrine as a The theory is that changes in response to repeated stress starts out as an adaptive and stress response. This, presumably, also delivers other good feelings because endorphins protective reaction but ends up as damage if the (morphine-like chemicals) and other compounds are imbalance in the regulation of the key mediators released as well. is not resolved. Some people seem to be New Zealand-born It seems that stress in life is happy with their lives when professor Fred Hollows, a good as long as it comes they are putting themselves renowned eye surgeon, said he into stressful situations. Other enjoyed risking his life climbing in measured amounts, and people seem to be depressed mountains because it gave him that we ourselves choose and miserable because of their a perspective on what was stressful lives. So what makes important in the world, and what when and where it occurs. good stress and what makes we should really worry about. bad stress? It seems that stress in life is good as long as Some of the answer lies in the amount of time it comes in measured amounts, and that we ourselves one spends in the stressful situation and whether the choose when and where it occurs. Work can become a problem if it comes without participation in that behaviour is by choice. Choosing when to undergo “stress” (a swim choice or control over conditions. Negotiating with the sharks, for example) is better than the boss choices for yourself can change a situation. Ultimately yelling at you at work. you can look forward to an exciting life, enjoyment in your work and a good retirement. One thing about chemicals released under stress is that they use short cuts to cope with the perceived That will allow you to look back and say how much threat on the body. The cells stop internal maintenance you enjoyed the job. and infrastructure work to concentrate on keeping their external walls strong. Some people seem to be happy with their They (cells) can also put off fighting lives when they are putting themselves into infections for the short term, assuming that, when the danger has past, the body will go stressful situations. Other people seem back to its normal day-to-day work. to be depressed and miserable because Although they come with the short-term benefit of providing sugar for instant action, of their stressful lives. So what makes increasing the heart rate, and mobilizing good stress and what makes bad stress? nutrients from the bones, the extra hormones
Two
police officers respond to an anonymous report of a disturbance in a dark city laneway at 2 o’clock in the morning. After they arrive and park their patrol car, they search cautiously for whoever might have caused the trouble. Suddenly, an agitated man appears from out of the shadows and draws a revolver which he levels at one of the officers. That officer experiences an “adrenaline rush” with the release of cortisone, dopamine, endorphins, hormones (including adrenaline) and chemicals which help humans survive lifethreatening situations. An adrenaline rush is the fight-or-flight response of the adrenal gland which sits just above the renal (or kidney) area in which it releases adrenaline, also known as epinephrine (above kidney). It (an adrenaline rush) causes muscles to perform respiration at an increased rate, thus increasing strength. It also works with the nervous system to lay down memory and interpret impulses that trigger selective glands (to release more hormones). An adrenaline junkie is somebody who appears to be addicted to the self-induced release of adrenaline. The “high” is caused by self-inducing a scare (fight-or-
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Motoring Jim Barnett
Unique electric car in Oz When the battery runs down, it’s just a matter of plugging it into a standard household power socket.
Short-distance
travel best suits battery-powered electric vehicles because their range is limited. Hybrids (powered by petrol and electric motors) solve the range issue but burn fossil fuel most of the time. In Australia, the US-built Holden Volt is a unique electric car. It has, as others do, both petrol and electric motors but can operate as a daily commute in electric-only mode for up to 87km before it needs a recharge. When its on-board 360-volt battery pack is low or depleted, one need only plug into a standard 10-amp household power socket (charger and lead supplied). After six hours and a maximum of $2.50, Volt is good for another trip.
Once the battery pack This unique car is … Volt feels more like a V6 off is depleted and recharging impressive to drive. Under the line and doesn’t fade on is just not possible, Volt’s battery power it is super smooth and totally silent 1.4-litre 63kW petrol engine long hills or when overtaking. seamlessly springs to life. except for occasional tyre Instead of helping drive the wheels, the engine noise. With electric motors providing high torque, acts as a generator, providing power to the 111kW Volt feels more like a V6 off the line and doesn’t electric drive motors. A combined range of around fade on long hills or when overtaking. 600km is possible from its fully-charged batteries Once the petrol generator kicks in, it is only heard and its 35-litre fuel tank. when power demand is high. Designed and built in the US, Volt costs $59,990 Travelling from the southern suburbs to Victor and is available in one highly-specified model. It’s a Harbor, as part of a broader test drive, depleted very high-tech, sporty-looking, four-door, four-seat the battery. So, that portion of the trip cost around sedan of similar proportions to the Holden Cruze. $2.50 for a recharge. The petrol engine powered And the cost of replacing batteries is no major the electric motors for the longer return journey, worry as they carry a 160,000km/eight-year warranty. averaging 4.1 litres/100km.
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Big on style and technology So car nuts and technophiles will delight in this Liberty X, which comes in a 14-model range.
Much promised – and delivered
Subaru Liberty X is a stylish-
And that includes its looks, which are sleeker than ever, and its five-star safety rating.
More
power, better on-road dynamics, reduced prices, better economy and fewer emissions. These are what Toyota promises the eleventh-generation Corolla hatch will deliver. Entry Ascent hits the market from $19,990 ($1,000 reduction) and boasts additional equipment over the previous model. Toyota says this is a sharper price than the RRP of similar-sized models from its competitors, but Nissan’s reincarnated Pulsar enters at the same price point. New Corolla scores a revamped 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which produces slightly more power with 103kW available. While the standard transmission across the four-model range continues to be a six-speed manual, a new seven-speed CVT (continuously variable transmission) comes as a $2,000 option. This transmission provides a seamless automatic shift mode or a stepped seven-speed manual mode and includes Hill Start Assist. Among the features which earn Corolla a five-star safety rating are: • Seven airbags (including driver’s knee airbag). • Stability and traction control systems. • Antilock brakes. • Seatbelt warning alarm for all five seats. • New front seats which lessen whiplash injury. • Ultra-high-strength steel in key areas. New Corolla sports a sleeker, more athletic-looking body with a wider V-shaped grille and a low sloping bonnet. Brighter projectorstyle headlamps feature on all models with the exception of Levin ZR which comes with self-levelling HID headlamps which can “see around corners” (swivel) and feature automatic high-beam dipping. Corolla also features new, comfortable seating for four adults, five at a pinch. Its new dash layout is smart but more conservative. Visibility is good as is the driving position. The roomy cargo bay has additional storage under the floor which also houses the spare wheel. Corolla’s revised engine provides spirited performance and works in perfect harmony with the smooth CVT. Ride quality is good and the new model is more agile in corners. According to Toyota, combined fuel economy is 6.6 litres/100km and emissions 152g/km (CVT).
looking car with a luxurious leathertrimmed interior. It is one in the new lineup of Liberty models to feature a host of cosmetic, handling and technology changes, according to its maker. The 14-model range includes sedan and wagon body styles, naturallyaspirated and turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engines and a 3.6-litre six-cylinder petrol engine. At $32,990, the entry 2.5i Sedan is $2,000 cheaper than its predecessor, while the top-spec 2.5GT Premium auto wagon costs $58,490. Expanding the range are new Liberty 2.5X sedan ($44,490) and 3.6X sedan ($55,990) variants. Each features: • Increased ground clearance (50mm). • A new grille and front bumper. • Sporty sills with chrome highlights. • New 18-inch alloy wheels. • An impressive standard kit list, including Subaru’s innovative EyeSight driver-assist system. EyeSight uses two forward-facing cameras fitted inside the cabin to scan the road ahead for lane markings, vehicles and pedestrians. It also has the ability to: • Warn the driver when leaving a lane or veering across road markings.
April 2013 Police Journal
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• Maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front during use of cruise control. • Reduce throttle and apply emergency braking with the ability to come to a complete standstill in the event of an imminent rear-end collision. Liberty 2.5X is a very rewarding drive. Its revised, naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre Boxer engine, which produces 127kW (power) and 235Nm (torque), is linked to a Linear tronic CV T transmission with manual mode and paddle-shifters. Acceleration is good; and, from inside, the characteristic Boxer engine sound goes unheard. The transmission is one of the smoothest CVTs in a fourcylinder car and, while suspension is firm, the ride is good. Both front seats are heated and have electronic adjustment. The smart dash comes with high-quality features such as: • McIntosh audio system. • Large-screen sat-nav. • Colour reversing camera. • Dual-zone climate control. Other features include a sunroof, smart-key push-button entry and start, and auto lights and wipers. Fuel economy, according to Subaru, is 7.9 litres/100km.
If you’re an expatriate police officer and you have a UK pension, did you know that there could be benefits if you transfer it to an Australian superannuation fund? If you transfer your UK pension (excluding state pensions) to Australia, the likely benefits will be: > Tax-free income in retirement > The ability to access a lump sum if retired at
preservation age > Freedom from exchange rate fluctuations > Avoid paying a 20% withholding tax whether
you live in the UK or not > Greater flexibility in investment options > Long-term asset protection > If you transfer your pension within a 6 month
period of becoming an Australian tax resident, Australian tax won’t be incurred.
Transferring UK Pensions — find out if you’re better off
It is important to see how your pension fits within the context of your overall financial situation. We will review your current circumstances and explain the options available to you. Bridges has been trusted to provide financial advice and guidance to credit union members for over 25 years and are committed to providing Police Credit Union members with professional, ongoing advice and service. Police Credit Union is one of South Australia’s pre-eminent financial institutions with total assets exceeding $672million. Bridges is one of Australia’s largest national financial planning and stockbroking firms and are part of the IOOF group, which has over 700,000 clients and over $104.5 billion of client funds under advice. So you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands.
Make a timely and informed decision. Call Bridges Adelaide Police Credit Union today to arrange a complimentary, obligation-free meeting on 08 8208 5700. A Q&A fact sheet is available on request.
This is general advice only and does not take into account your financial circumstances, needs and objectives. Before making any decision based on this document, you should assess your own circumstances or seek advice from a financial adviser. In referring members to Bridges, Police Credit Union Limited does not accept responsibility for any acts, omissions or advice of Bridges and its authorised representatives. Bridges is part of the IOOF group.
WMA-9894
Bridges Financial Services Pty Ltd (Bridges). ABN 60 003 474 977. ASX Participant. AFSL No 240837.
Banking
State of the markets… is now the time to buy? Costa Anastasiou Chief Executive Officer, Police Credit Union For first-time buyers, it’s a question of research and saving a substantial deposit – at least 20 per cent of the price.
Financial market update Home ownership and property investment have become increasingly appealing in the past few years, with dwelling prices falling and the official cash rate now at a record low of 3 per cent. No property owner wants his or her property value to decrease, and nobody can accurately predict where the Australian property market will go over the next 12 months. But, by assessing the current market and listening to financial experts, investors can make better informed decisions about their own financial situations.
The global market Global equity markets kicked the year off to a good start, with anticipated low interest rates and an easing risk profile for the world economy, underpinned by a demand for stocks. In spite of this better-than-expected start to 2013, global growth is forecast to be a little below average for the coming months. Around the globe, the US has so far avoided a severe fiscal contraction and financial strains in Europe have reduced considerably in recent months. China’s growth remains strong and slightly improved at around 8 per cent and, as such, growth generally throughout the Asian developing countries has reflected this stabilization.
Australian equity market Overall sentiment in financial markets has continued to improve and funding conditions for major banks
have become more favourable. Long-term interest rates faced by highly rated sovereigns, including Australia, remain at exceptionally low levels. Looking forward, it is predicted that the peak in resource investment is approaching and, as such, this should open up scope for some other areas of demand to strengthen. There are early indications of an improvement in dwelling investment, with dwelling prices moving higher, rental yields increasing and building approvals higher than a year ago. Early economic signs show that the demand for some categories of consumer durables have picked up and “savers” are starting to shift portfolios toward assets offering higher expected returns. In spite of the increase in building approvals, up by 2.9 per cent in November (m/m), housing finance reduced by 0.5 per cent (month/month). This represents the fourth consecutive month that the rate of loan growth has decelerated, with some economists linking this to the desire for households and businesses to seek lower levels of debt. Encouragingly, a recent Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence Rating revealed an increase in consumer confidence rising to 121.4 points (up 2.9 points since February 2, 2013) after the RBA left Australian interest rates unchanged at the record low 3 per cent. Consumer confidence is now 5.7 points higher than at the same time a year ago (February 11-12, 2012 — 115.7 points). This survey revealed a rise in confidence regarding the purchase of major household items and also
indicated that consumers have increased confidence when it comes to their personal finances for the last 12 months and in the coming year. The February 2013 study revealed that 34 per cent of Australians consider themselves “better off” financially, compared to the same time last year, and 43 per cent expect their family will be financially “better off” over the coming 12 months.
So is now the time to buy? First time buyers: The low cash rate makes it easier for first-time buyers to save a deposit and afford required mortgage repayments. The most significant considerations for first-time buyers are research and savings. Make sure you fully research the property market and get a pre-approved loan before you start looking. This will help you to narrow down your search and find the perfect property within your price range. Saving a healthy deposit will invariably save you money in the long run. The more you can save, the less you will have to pay in interest. Aim to save at least 20 per cent of the price of the property as your deposit. This will help you to avoid paying mortgage insurance. I’ve already got a house, what next? So you own your home or already have a mortgage for the house you live in, but the idea of property investment is appealing. You’re not alone: one in five Australians owns an investment property.
Continued on page 41
Police Credit Union Ltd. AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 238991. Terms, conditions and acceptance criteria apply. Cover limits apply as set out in the policy wording. Police Credit Union ABN 30 087 651 205 (PCU) acts under its own AFSL 238991 and under an agreement with the issuer QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited ABN 78 003 191 035, AFSL 239545. Any advice herein does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation and needs. Please consider your circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement to decide if a product is right for you. April 2013 Police Journal
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Free Legal Service for Police Association Members, Their Families & Retired Members. Leading Adelaide law firm, Tindall Gask Bentley is the preferred legal service provider of the Police Association, offering 30 minutes of free initial advice and a 10% fee discount. To arrange a preliminary in-person or phone appointment contact PASA on (08) 8212 3055.
Have you or a family member been injured in a car accident? Tindall Gask Bentley acts in more motor vehicle accident claims that any other law firm in SA. Gary Allison & Richard Yates can provide free preliminary legal advice on your entitlements to compensation. They can also help with Workers Compensation, public liability & medical negligence claims.
Family Law Matrimonial, De Facto & Same Sex Relationships • Children’s Issues • Child Support matters
• Property Settlements • “Pre Nuptial” style Agreements
Appointments with Wendy Barry (Accredited Family Law Specialist) & Dina Paspaliaris.
Commercial Law • General business advice • Real estate & property advice
• Business transactions • Commercial disputes & dispute resolution
Appointments with Giles Kahl & Julie Height.
Wills & Estates • Wills & Testamentary Trusts • Enduring Powers of Attorney • Enduring Guardians
• Advice to executors of deceased estates • Obtaining Grants of Probate • Estate disputes
Appointments with Julie Height & Rosemary Caruso.
April 2013 Police Journal
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Adelaide • Reynella • Salisbury Mt Barker • Port Lincoln • Whyalla (08) 8212 1077 tgb.com.au
LEGAL
TGB launches iPhone app Andrew Montesi Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers Not only to calculate compensation but also to access hundreds of legal blogs on a range of topics.
Injured
workers in South Australia are now able to calculate their compensation instantly, with a new iPhone app from leading law firm Tindall Gask Bentley. Legal Assist was released on February 28 and is available for free at Apple’s app store. Legal Assist uses a formula to calculate Whole Person Impairment (WPI) and Total Loss Injury (section 43) lump-sum payouts in accordance with the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1986, and can provide an estimate with the touch of a button. “As the largest plaintiff law firm in SA, we understand that negotiating the legal system can be stressful and intimidating, so we wanted to create an app that helped simplify things,” TGB managing partner Morry Bailes said. “We are particularly proud of our compensation calculators, as it gives injured workers an easy and quick way to get an idea about where they stand financially and then e-mail it to their lawyer, accountant or themselves for their own records.” The app also features accident checklists, access to hundreds of legal blogs on a wide range of topics and an easy way to find and contact a TGB lawyer. TGB is one of the first law firms in SA to launch its own app. “It is important for the legal profession to keep up with technology and stay relevant to the community,” Mr Bailes said. Search for Legal Assist on the iPhone App Store (for full functionality, please ensure that your iPhone software is upgraded to ios5 or higher).
TGB goes beyond divorce with free seminar series People facing separation are receiving more than just legal support through a new seminar series launched by South Australia’s largest family law firm, Tindall Gask Bentley. The series, called Beyond Divorce, sees the law firm bring in leading psychologists, financial planners and other experts to help people with their emotional, relationship and financial challenges at the end of a marriage or de facto relationship. “As lawyers we know a lot about the legal side of relationship breakdowns, but recognize that our expertise doesn’t extend to the huge psychological and financial burden facing many family law clients,” TGB partner and accredited family law specialist Jane Miller said. “People’s lives are turned upside down and, in many cases, they are also trying to help their children cope as well. “Through the Beyond Divorce series, we’re bringing in experts throughout the year who can provide important advice that not only helps these people get back on their feet, but relaunch their lives in a positive way.” Since the series launched in January, experts including psychologists Rita Princi and Tim Dansie, as well as financial advisers Tim Rogers and Ben Calder, have shared their knowledge. “The programme has so far been very well received, and each session has been much more than just a seminar,” Ms Miller said. “Our attendees are given the opportunity to ask questions relevant to their personal experiences and enjoy a chat and a drink with the speaker, some of our lawyers, and others going through similar circumstances.” April 2013 Police Journal
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The seminars are open to Police Association members, their family members and friends who might be going through the separation process.
You and a friend are invited to our upcoming Beyond Divorce free seminars: May 7, 2013: Helping children cope with parental separation. Rita Princi, psychologist. June 4, 2013: What does having a blended family mean for your will and estate? Rosemary Caruso, consultant, Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers
Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm Venue: Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers, Level 7, 76 Light Square, Adelaide. Light refreshments provided. Register now: Call Rachel Woodward on (08) 8212 1077 or e-mail rwoodward@tgb.com.au to confirm your place at any of these seminars or request more information.
Books
Dogstar Rising
Web of Deceit
Backtrack
I, Anna
Author Parker Bilal Publisher Bloomsbury RRP $24.99
Author Katherine Howell Publisher Macmillan Australia RRP $29.99
Author Jason Dean Publisher Headline RRP $29.99
Author Elsa Lewin Publisher Profile Books RRP $19.99
In the summer of 2001, in Cairo’s crowded streets, the unsolved murders of young homeless boys are fanning the embers of religious hatred. As tensions mount, Makana has a premonition that history might be about to repeat itself. Hired to investigate threats against a hapless travel agent, he finds himself drawn to Meera, a woman who knows what it’s like to lose everything. But Makana’s troubled past is trying to lay claim to him once again, this time in the form of a dubious businessman who possesses a powerful secret. After Makana witnesses a brutal killing he attracts the attention of a dangerous gangster family. His search for answers takes him from Cairo to the ancient city of Luxor and into a web of intrigue and violence.
Paramedics Jane and Alex respond to a man refusing to get out of his crashed car. Bystanders say he deliberately drove into a pole. The man claims that someone is out to get him. He seems delusional. Later that day he is found dead under a train in what might be a suicide, but Jane is no longer so sure: she remembers the terror in his eyes. Detective Ella Marconi shares Jane’s doubts, which are only compounded when the case becomes increasingly tangled. The victim’s boss tries to commit suicide when being questioned, a witness flees their attempt to interview her and a woman is beaten unconscious in front of Jane’s house. Then, a shocking turn of events puts even more people in danger.
Sometimes, a man must take a step back to move forward. In a small, sleepy Pennsylvania town, the staff of a loan store find themselves at the mercy of a gunman who demands they hand over the store’s entire cash reserves. But then the sound of police sirens shatters the silence. The robber takes a young female customer hostage in order to make his escape. Former marine James Bishop is no stranger to being on the wrong side of the law. Finally a free man, with his name cleared, he has a chance to get his life back on track. But as he flees the scene of the hold-up with his terrified hostage, he once again finds himself a wanted man. Prison can change some people. But has it changed James Bishop?
Anna lives with her teenaged daughter in a small New York apartment. Trying to meet people after her divorce, she begins attending singles nights, which is how she finds herself, late at night, in a strange man’s apartment. What happens next is a blank, but it’s only the beginning of her nightmare. Bernie, a police detective, is distracted from his duties at the scene of a brutal murder by a brief encounter with the striking, enigmatic Anna. He persists in his romantic pursuit of her but, when they finally meet, she has no recollection of the night their paths first crossed. As his professional judgement battles with his desire for intimacy and love, the mystery deep within Anna’s mind unravels, revealing a truth too painful to bear.
April 2013 Police Journal
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OPINION
Continued from page 25 The way our justice system is structured means, as a society, we take the approach that, when in doubt, it is better to let 10 guilty people go free, than to wrongly imprison one innocent person. But that’s little consolation. The only remedy to this pain is to ensure we do everything possible to ensure the guilty are convicted. To have that certainty, we need a well-resourced police force with sufficient numbers of highly skilled investigators and prosecutors. And we need a DPP with the staff, time and resources to serve the interests of the public at the highest level every day. So as the final touches are put on the state budget – the last before the 2014 election – we can only hope the treasurer’s office realizes the cost of injustice and finds the funds to ensure the community doesn’t need to pay the price of crime, with interest.
Dead Girl Sing
The Game
Author Tony Cavanaugh Publisher Hachette RRP $29.99
Author Tom Wood Publisher Sphere RRP $29.99
Darian Richards knew he should have let the phone keep ringing. But more than two decades as a cop leaves you with a certain outlook on life. One phone call, from someone belonging to a horror, in the not-verydistant past, he can’t ignore. There are two dead girls in a shallow water grave and a missing cop to deal with. Something bad is happening on the Gold Coast glitter strip. Among the thousands of schoolies and the usual suspects, someone is preying on beautiful young women. No one has noticed. No one knows why. Darian looked into the eyes of those two dead girls. The last person to do that was their killer. He can’t walk away. He will find out why.
Victor is the perfect killer. He has no past. He will stop at nothing. And he can find you anywhere. In sweltering Algiers, the ultraefficient hitman executes a fellow assassin. But, when the CIA comes calling, Victor must pose as his victim to identify the dead man’s next mark, a mission that takes him across Europe to the bloody streets of Rome. Working alongside a group of vicious mercenaries, he meets someone from his past, someone he thought was dead. When he wants out, it’s too late and he faces an impossible choice: to do what’s right, or sacrifice the only thing he cares about: his life. Full of white-hot tension and edge-of-the-seat action, The Game is the thrilling follow-up to The Hunter and The Enemy.
Win a BOOK! For your chance to win one of these books, send your name, location, phone number and despatch code, along with the book of your choice to competitions@pj.asn.au
BANKING
Continued from page 37 So how can you get started with your own financial nest egg? Depending on how long you’ve owned your home, you might have enough equity in the property to afford another dwelling. As always, getting the right advice can make all the difference. It’s important to seek professional financial and taxation advice from a reputable source before embarking on any major financial decisions. Seasoned investors: What does 2013 hold for you? Make an appointment for a financial check-up with a Police Credit Union financial planner to ensure that your investments are performing the way in which you intended. We are looking forward to a prosperous 2013 and we are here to help you achieve your personal financial goals and aspirations.
Need to talk to us? Whatever stage of your financial life-cycle you’re at, Police Credit Union’s private bankers can come to you to help answer any questions you might have. Call Adrian Ploksts, head of private banking, on 0412 289 267 or visit platinum-advantage.com.au. To find out about our upcoming seminars on investment, wealth creation or retirement, call 8208 5700 or e-mail fp@policecu.com.au for more information.
April 2013 Police Journal
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DVDs
End of Watch
Hidden
Parade’s End
Dalziel and Pascoe Series Nine
RRP $39.95 Discs 1 Running time 110 mins
RRP $24.95 Discs 2 Running time 240 mins
RRP $34.95 Discs 2 Running time 287 mins
RRP $29.95 Discs 2 Running time 356 mins
In South Central Los Angeles, street cops Brian (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Mike (Michael Pea) are partners patrolling the streets as Latino gangs are in a power struggle with Blacks. Brian and Mike get lucky a couple of times. They make big drug and humantrafficking busts and discover a secret that makes them the target of the country’s most dangerous drug cartel, which orders their deaths. Mike’s wife, whom he married out of high school, is pregnant and Brian searches for a soul mate. There are internal squabbles within the ranks of the LAPD and lots of squad-car conversation. Can the lads escape the cartel’s murderous reach? From the writer of Training Day, and End of Watch is a riveting action thriller that puts audiences at the centre of the chase like never before.
Hidden is a compelling, highly original four-part thriller by acclaimed screenwriter Ronan Bennett (Michael Mann’s Public Enemies, The Hamburg Cell, Face). Harry Venn, a small-time solicitor, is forced to delve back into his murky past. When a mysterious lawyer turns up asking Harry to find a missing alibi witness for her client, he agrees to take on the job but is unwittingly drawn into investigating the death of his brother 20 years ago. As he begins to untangle the web of lies and deceit, Harry soon finds himself caught up in a bigger and more complex conspiracy, which reaches deep into the heart of the British political system.
Acclaimed screenwriter Sir Tom Stoppard and director Susanna White bring Ford Madox Ford’s remarkable story of love and betrayal to life in this landmark production starring Rebecca Hall ( Vicky Cristina Barcelona, The Town, The Awakening), and Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock, War Horse, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy). As the comfortable certainties of Edwardian England give way to chaos and destruction, English aristocrat Christopher Tietjens finds himself marrying Sylvia, a beautiful but cruel socialite who is pregnant with a child who might or might not be his. Christopher is determined to remain loyal to his wife despite her string of infidelities, but his life is transformed the day he meets Valentine Wannop, a fearless young suffragette. Parade’s End is the story of a time when old certainties are being torn down and lives are changed forever.
Blunt-talking, politically incorrect detective Andy Dalziel once again pairs up with his younger, fast-tracked sidekick, Inspector Peter Pascoe. Joining the team are one-time tearaway WPC “Janet” Jackson and a young Muslim, DC Parvez Lateef, as they investigate four more intriguing murder mysteries in the town of Wetherton and the beautiful Yorkshire countryside surrounding it. In the first episode, Heads You Lose, Pascoe is rushed to hospital with serious injuries following a car crash, and slips into a coma. Dalziel keeps a vigil at his bedside and realizes just how much his partner means to him. And, in Dead Meat, Janet Jackson takes part in a raid on a Chinese warehouse packed with illegal immigrants and has no idea of the horror about to unfold. Other episodes are The Dig and Dust Thou Art.
Win a DVD!
For your chance to win one of these DVDs, send your name, location, phone number and despatch code, along with your choice of DVD, to competitions@pj.asn.au
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Cinema
Top Gear 50 years of Bond Cars RRP $19.99 Discs 2 Running time 62 mins In a special edition of Top Gear, Richard Hammond celebrates 50 years of James Bond films with a look back at 007’s legendary cars. From the gorgeous, gadget-laden Aston Martin DB5 and aquatic Lotus Esprit to the gawky Citroen 2CV and spiral jumping AMC Hornet, Hammond looks at the machines that moved the world’s favourite spy. He also talks to Daniel Craig and Sir Roger Moore, directors Guy Hamilton and Vic Armstrong and producer Michael G Wilson and gets exclusive access behind the scenes of Bond’s latest adventure, Skyfall. And, inspired by the on-screen Q Branch, Hammond pays special tribute to 007 by attempting to turn a Lotus into a fully working submarine car, something even the Bond producers couldn’t crack.
Iron Man 3
The Great Gatsby
Song for Marion
Season commences April 24
Season commences May 30
Season commences April 25
Marvel’s Iron Man 3 pits brash-butbrilliant industrialist Tony Stark/Iron Man against an enemy whose reach knows no bounds. When Stark finds his personal world reduced to rubble by a malevolent enemy, he embarks on a harrowing quest to find those responsible. With his back against the wall, Stark is left to survive by his own devices. He relies on his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him, as he seeks to destroy the enemy. As he fights his way back, Stark discovers the answer to the question which has secretly haunted him: does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man? Marvel’s iconic Super Hero Iron Man first appeared on the pages of Tales of Suspense in 1963.
The Great Gatsby follows Fitzgeraldlike, would-be writer Nick Carraway (Tobey Maguire) as he leaves the Midwest and goes to New York City in the spring of 1922, an era of loosening morals, glittering jazz and bootleg kings. Chasing his own American Dream, Nick lands next door to a mysterious, party-giving millionaire, Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio), and across the bay from his cousin, Daisy (Carey Mulligan), and her philandering, blue-blood husband, Tom Buchanan (Joel Edgerton). It is thus that Nick is drawn into the captivating world of the super-rich, their illusions, loves and deceits. As Nick bears witness, within and without the world he inhabits, he pens a tale of impossible love, incorruptible dreams and high-octane tragedy, and holds a mirror to our own modern times and struggles.
Song for Marion is a comedic drama about grumpy pensioner Arthur (Terence Stamp) who is reluctantly inspired by his beloved wife Marion (Vanessa Redgrave) to join a highly unconventional local choir. At odds with his son James (Christopher Eccleston), it is left to choir director Elizabeth (Gemma Arterton) to try to persuade Arthur that he can learn to embrace life. Ar thur must confront the undercurrents of his own grumbling persona as he embarks on a hilarious, life-affirming journey of musical self-discovery.
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Win a movie pass! For your chance to win an in-season pass to one of these films, courtesy of Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas, send your name, location, phone number and despatch code, along with your choice of film, to competitions@pj.asn.au
MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES
* Invitations to two Winestate magazine tastings each year (valued at $100)
* 12-month subscription to Winestate magazine (valued at $60)
*
Minimum of three tasting events at the Police Club each year
*
Free glass of house wine with every meal purchased at the Police Club
*
Entry to annual wine raffle
*
Discounts on quality wine
To join visit www.pasa.asn.au and click on the Police Wine Club banner or call the Police Association on (08) 8212 3055 April 2013 Police Journal
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WINE
Fox Creek Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon McLaren Vale, SA RRP $40.50 www.foxcreekwines.com Fox Creek Wines is a boutique family-owned winery which has produced award-winning wines since 1995. Recently its 2009 Reserve Shiraz won the Shiraz Trophy at the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition in London. Its 2010 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon won both the International and Australian Red Bordeaux Varietal Trophies at the Decanter Asia Wine Awards, as well as the Judges’ Award for the Best Cabernet at the 2012 South Australian Wine of the Year Awards. The fruit for both of these wines was sourced from premium McLaren Vale vineyards and the wine is only produced in good years. Senior winemaker Scott Zrna attributes the success to a focus on expressing the aromas and flavours created by McLaren Vale’s unique soils and maritime climate, as well as Fox Creek’s sustainable vineyard and winemaking practice.
Flints of Coonawarra Rostrevor Coonawarra Shiraz Coonawarra, SA RRP $25 www.flintsofcoonawarra.com.au Six generations of the Flint family have worked the rich land in South Australia’s South East since the 1840s. The family’s “Rostrevor” property sits on the famed Coonawarra terra rossa soil – one of the world’s finest red wine-producing areas. In the 1990s, after planting vineyards, the Flints produced a family wine. The first, the 2001 Gammon’s Crossing Cabernet Sauvignon, won a gold medal at its first show, the Royal Melbourne Wine Show. Two years later, the Rostrevor Shiraz was released and, in 2005, both wines were finalists in Winestate magazine’s Wine of the Year Awards. In 2006, the 2004 Rostrevor Shiraz won trophies for the Best Red Wine at the Cairns Wine Show and Best Shiraz at the Limestone Coast Wine Show. This is a brilliant food wine with sweet fruit influence and a deep ruby black colour. It is rich and powerful with lots of wood and tannins.
WORLD’S GREATEST
VIII
SHIRAZ/SYRAH CHALLENGE PUBLIC TASTING
WINESTATE SUBSCRIBERS ARE ENTITLED TO ONE FREE ENTRY. April 2013 Police Journal
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McLaren Vale III Associates Giant Squid Ink Shiraz McLaren Vale, SA RRP $150 www.mclarenvaleiiiassociates.com.au McLaren Vale III Associates is a boutique winery in the heart of McLaren Vale and produces only premium-quality wines. Its flagship wine is its Giant Squid Ink Shiraz, a wine of magnificent intensity. Perfect coastal location (which provides cooling breezes for slow ripening during summer) and the vineyard’s distinct soil type contributed to the rare wine, which was named Squid Ink because of the rich, dark colour of the grapes. The 2010 vintage has just taken out two international trophies at the AWC Vienna International Wine Challenge for Best Shiraz and Best Red Wine of the Year. It has also received a Blue-Gold Medal at the Sydney International Wine Show and a Gold Medal at the Winewise Small Vigneron Awards.
Come and join us for this fabulous event. Over 700 bottles available to taste. Friday 31 May, from 6pm-8.30pm, at the National Wine Centre, Adelaide Additional guests are welcome at a cost of only $50 per person! Contact Winestate on 08 8357 9277 or sales@winestate.com.au to claim or order your ticket.
Police Association of South Australia
Going overseas? Your coverage may be affected The group life insurance cover provided by the Police Association covers members 24 hours a day, seven days a week, regardless of the cause of death while members remain in Australia.
Got something to say? Got a comment about a story you’ve read? Do you have strong views on a police issue? Is there someone you want to acknowledge? Know of an upcoming social or sports event? Whatever the subject, put it in a letter to the editor. Regular mail Police Journal, PO Box 6032, Halifax St, Adelaide SA 5000 Email editor@pasa.asn.au Fax (08) 8212 2002 Internal dispatch Police Journal 168
The insurer may specify certain geographical exclusions and restrictions on the coverage due to increased risk. If members travel to areas of the world considered to be at increased risk, an increased insurance premium may apply or coverage may cease entirely. Members who intend to go overseas for six months or longer, or who are travelling to or via a war zone are advised to contact the association beforehand to confirm whether or not coverage will be affected.
Working part-time? Are you currently working part-time? Are you commencing or ceasing part-time work? If your hours change, it is important that you advise the Police Association. Your subscriptions may be affected. Please phone (08) 8112 7988 or e-mail membership@pasa.asn.au to advise of a change in hours.
Change of Address The Police Association of South Australia needs your change-Âof-address details. If you have moved, in either the recent or distant past, please let the association know your new address. Its office does not receive notification of changed addresses by any other means. The association will need your new address, full name, ID number, telephone numbers (home, work and/or mobile). Members can e-mail these details to the association on pasa@pasa.asn.au or send them by letter through dispatch (168).
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Group Life Insurance Beneficiary Nomination Forms Owing to a Supreme Court decision, the Police Association no longer uses the GLI beneficiary forms. Existing forms held at the association have been destroyed. Now, in the case of the death of a member, the GLI benefit (currently $300,000) will be paid to his or her estate. Accordingly, the association’s strong advice is that you ensure that your estate is well-administered. This is best achieved by having a valid will. Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers provides a free legal advice service to Police Association members and their families, and retired members. To make an appointment to receive free preliminary legal advice covering all areas of law, particularly families and wills, members should contact the Police Association (08 8212 3055).
The Police Club Great value with the new Seniors menu* Soup of the day 7.00 With crusty bread Fish and Chips 10.50 Beer battered or crumbed with garden fresh salad Chicken Schnitzel 12.90 Served with salad and chips Sauces: Mushroom, Pepper, and Gravy
Lambs Fry and Bacon 10.90 Pan fried liver, crisp bacon and potato puree served with a rich onion gravy Garlic and White Wine Prawns 13.90 Garlic cream prawns served with saffron rice and market vegetables Open Steak Sandwich 11.90 With lettuce, tomato, onion, egg and BBQ sauce served with chips
*Not valid with any other discount or offer and only available on RPOA meeting days.
The Police Club 27 Carrington Street, Adelaide
Facilities for hire The ground-floor facilities seat up to 140 and can be hired for events during evenings and on weekends. For special events, such as weddings, birthdays, retirement celebrations, training days, team lunches and corporate functions, the Fenwick Function Centre or the Jacaranda Room on the first floor of the association building can be hired. The Fenwick Function Centre can be configured for table seating or theatre seating according to your needs, while the more intimate Jacaranda Room seats 30. For corporate fine dining the President’s Room can be hired, seating up to 14 people.
For more information visit www.policeclub.com.au or to enquire or book call (08) 8212 2924.
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The Last Shift John Clements (1) Shane Ellen Jessie Hughes (2) Trevor Jenkins (3) Bob Kranz (4) David Macadam Ferdi Pit (5)
SC1C Jessie Hughes
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Brevet Sergeant Bob Kranz Confiscation Section 39 years’ service Last day: 24.01.13 Comments… “I must have been one of the blessed members who worked with people who made working under difficult, demanding and, at times, stressful and unforgettable circumstances more enjoyable. My memories of my SAPOL life will always remain with me.” “I thank Mark Carroll and the Police Association team for the services provided and the commitment to all members of the association.” “The support provided by the association is especially vital during these current times with the suggestion of budget cuts involving the reduction of SAPOL members.”
Traffic Training and Promotion 38 years’ service Last day: 03.02.13 Comments…
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Jessie Hughes as a traffic officer in the mid-1980s
“My 38 years of service included riding horses (the original reason I joined SAPOL) and riding camels from Darwin as part of the bicentennial expedition.” “I’ve had the opportunity of travelling the breadth of SA while at TTPS, presenting road safety displays – and they paid me to do it!” “Thank you, Andy (Dunn), and all at the association, for all that you do and have done for members. Keep up the good work. You are appreciated.” “To the remaining members of Course 117, the last adult course at barracks in 1975, good luck. And to all serving members and public servants, thank you and keep safe.” April 2013 Police Journal
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SC1C David Macadam Peterborough Police Station 11 years’ service Last day: 06.02.13 Comments… “I’m thankful for all the friends I have made and support I have received throughout my career. I have enjoyed my time in SAPOL and I am only leaving as my family is moving to Queensland.” “I have worked the majority of my career on patrols in metro and country posts and I would like to see more recognition for patrols and incentives to stay on the road.” “Front-line police are the face and backbone of any police force and should be encouraged and better rewarded for the work they do.”
Senior Constable Shane Ellen Crime Gangs Task Force Nine years’ service Last day: 08.02.13 Comments… “Thank you to the Police Association for its efforts in improving working conditions for SAPOL members.” “I thank everyone I had the pleasure to work with during my time with SAPOL, particularly at CGTF.” “There I had the privilege of working with so many great people and in such a fantastic team with hard-working, relentless investigators who taught me so much.”
Riding a camel as part of the bicentennial expedition
Brevet Sergeant John Clements Fingerprint Bureau 35 years’ service Last day: 21.02.13 Comments… “I wish a very fond and heartfelt goodbye to all SAPOL members.” “I have been with the Fingerprint Bureau since 1982 and, during that time, seen and been able to assist in some amazing things.” “I have been to some amazing places but, mostly, had the honour to work with some totally amazing and dedicated people. God bless you all.” Detective Snr Sgt Trev “Jenks” Jenkins OCIB 44 years’ service Last day: 15.03.13 Comments… “Congratulations to the current and past teams at the association for their great work over the years in maintaining great working conditions and wages for us, especially in these trying financial times. Well done.” “It feels like only yesterday that I stepped through the gates at Fort Largs in January 1969 as a nervous 16-year-old, and here I am all these years later walking away from it all. Where did it all go?” “Cadet Course 29, Elizabeth and Para Hills patrols, Elizabeth CIB, Drug Squad, various Operations Counteract since 1997, secondments to Major Crime and then back to various drug and organized-crime squads and Counteract.” “This brought about some very close and long-lasting friendships with great mates and fantastic coppers.” “In my role at Counteract over the years I represented SAPOL at the Australian Institute of Criminology (National Armed Robber y Monitoring Program) and the Australian Bankers Association (Security Issues Forum).” “I have made firm friendships with police in all states of this country as well as in various jurisdictions around the United Kingdom.” “I leave with many great memories and nothing but respect for a job which has provided me with everything I could wish for: satisfaction and fulfilment out of a career. Thanks to those I have worked with, my family and yourselves for that.” April 2013 Police Journal
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Above: Ferdi (right) with his then STAR Force colleague and now commissioner, Gary Burns, and the now former president of Malta, Agatha Barbara (left)
Superintendent Ferdi Pit Human Resource Executive 36 years’ service Last day: 28.02.13 Comments…
“I thank and acknowledge all those people, both sworn and unsworn, I have had the pleasure to work with throughout my career in SAPOL.” “My decision to move between the various functions available in the police has afforded me the opportunity to interact with people from both within and external to the organization.” “I particularly enjoyed my time at STAR Force, Elizabeth, Industrial Relations and Human Resources Management Branch.” “There is now and always has been a strong, professional working relationship between SAPOL and the Police Association which has resulted in the best possible conditions for people who undertake a difficult and dangerous job.” “I trust this relationship will continue long into the future.”
For the full version of The Last Shift, go to PASAweb at www.pasa.asn.au
Police Scene
Course 9/2012 Graduates' Dinner, Fenwick Function Centre Saturday, March 2, 2013
1 Brittany James & Kate Ruvinetti
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3
5
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All members of the graduating course 10
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1 Daniel Pople, Edward Etheridge, Emily Carr and Ben Philps 2 Karen Tamm, Alex Zimmermann and Adrian Ploksts
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3 Alex Faulkner and Jane Hodgson 4 Michael Oertel, Peter Shanahan and Tony Melino 5 Michael Warman and Sarah Luke 6 Vanessa Welfare 7 Guests listen to one of the evening’s speeches
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8 Matthew Tieman and Beth Howie 9 Lorelie Ellis, Nikola Delaney and Sarah Luke 10 Kate Ruvinetti and Christopher Melbourne 11 Nathan Long and Ashlee Ford 8
12 Liam Martin and Brittany James
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13 Julia Aguilar and Lorelie Ellis April 2013 Police Journal
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Police Scene
Graduation: Course 9/2012 Wednesday, March 6, 2013
1
Christopher Melbourne
Lorelie Ellis 3
2 5
6
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7 Course members toss their caps up after dismissal
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1 Edward Etheridge 2 Coursemates congratulate one another
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3 Vanessa Welfare 4 Graduates ready to march onto the parade ground 5 Graduates march on to the parade ground 6 Police Association president Mark Carroll presents Nikola Delaney with the Walter Wissell award for academic achievement 7 Ben Philps 8 Sarah Luke 9 Nikola Delaney congratulates a coursemate 10 Deputy Commissioner Grant Stevens inspects the course 10 April 2013 Police Journal
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Heroes
MARK AGER Senior Sergeant Police Academy
Two of the most selfless women in history make it onto his list, as do some men whose focus was also service to others.
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