WAPU Police News October 2015

OCTOBER 2015

Operation Blue Santa is a go Police officers play Santa to needy kids

Getting on with life

Matt Butcher talks about life after the threat of civil litigation

Pitman & Walsh – We remember them

Remembering the officers who were murdered in the Goldfields

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE

WA

POLICE UNION

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OCT 2015

POLICE NEWS THE MAGAZINE FOR THE WA POLICE UNION

CONTENTS

12

20

Police officers play Santa to needy families in refuges.

WAPU’s social media campaign gains momentum.

14

22

Senior Constable Matt Butcher talks to Police News ahead of his speech at our Annual Conference.

New tenants have been welcomed to WAPU HQ this month.

11 W APU BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION RESULTS

24

21 WAPU OPINION

Blue Santa

Getting on with life

16

WAPU Women’s Forum Outcomes from the inaugural WAPU Women’s Forum.

18

Pitman & Walsh – We remember them Remembering the officers who were murdered in the Goldfields.

4 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

#ArmedInCourts

Alongside

30

Karratha to Broome Bike Ride Ride celebrates 21st birthday.

06 WAPU DIRECTORS AND STAFF 08 PRESIDENT’S REPORT

23 WAPU OPINION 26 INDUSTRIAL REPORT

Member’s view on emergency driving

28 FIELD REPORT

A personal experience with the Emergency Driving Policy.

33 LEGAL

25

WAPU joins forces with Glory New partnership delivers benefits for Members.

31 HEALTH

35 MOTORING 36 ENTERTAINMENT 38 MEMBER BENEFITS 40 NEW MEMBERS 41 R ETIREMENTS, RESIGNATIONS AND VALE 42 FROM THE ARCHIVES

WA

POLICE UNION

639 Murray Street West Perth WA 6005 P (08) 9321 2155 F (08) 9321 2177 E admin@wapu.org.au OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday 7am-4pm AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY DIRECTOR 0438 080 930 www.wapu.org.au Follow us on Twitter @WAPoliceUnion

PUBLISHED BY WA Police Union 639 Murray Street West Perth WA 6005 (08) 9321 2155 ADVERTISING WA Police Union (08) 9321 2155 DISCLAIMER WAPU (“Publisher”) advises that the contents of this publication are the sole discretion of the WA Police Union and the magazine is offered for information purposes only. The publication has been formulated in good faith and the Publisher believes its contents to be accurate, however, the contents do not amount to a recommendation (either expressly or by implication) and should not be relied upon in lieu of specific professional advice. The Publisher disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage which may be incurred by any reader relying upon the information contained in the publication whether that loss or damage is caused by any fault or negligence on the part of the Publishers, its Directors or employees.

COPYRIGHT All materials in this publication are subject to copyright and written authorisation from WAPU is required prior to reproduction in any form.

ADVERTISING Advertisements in this journal are solicited from organisations and businesses on the understanding that no special considerations other than those normally accepted in respect of commercial dealings, will be given to the advertiser. All advertising is undertaken in good faith and WAPU takes no responsibility for information contained in advertisements.

COVER After hearing feedback from Members, President George Tilbury was out on the frontline this month.

Read about his firsthand experience in his President’s Report.

ABOVE President George Tilbury and Deputy Commissioner Stephen Brown are proudly supporting Operation Blue Santa.

Pictures: Jody D'Arcy.

WA

POLICE UNION

Board of Directors

GEORGE TILBURY President 0409 105 898

BRANDON SHORTLAND Senior Vice President 0419 802 650

24/7 EMERGENCY DIRECTOR

HARRY ARNOTT Vice President 0407 989 008

MICK KELLY Treasurer & 24/7 Emergency 0438 080 930

WARD ADAMSON Director 0457 603 311

DAVE CURTIS Director 0400 864 591

LINDSAY GARRATT Director 0407 775 050

MICK GILL Director 0427 097 000

Staff EMERGENCY 24/7 DIRECTOR MICK KELLY

0438 080 930

PAUL HUNT Secretary 6 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

CHRIS VITLER WENDY ROUTHAN Executive Finance Manager Personal Assistant

JESSICA PORTER Media Officer

STEVEN GLOVER Media Officer

CRAIG FORDHAM Industrial Officer

NICOLA ROMAN Industrial Officer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF

BRANCH PRESIDENTS Academy

John Seidner

Air Wing

John Raphael

Armadale

Steve Flanagan

Avon

Dave Flaherty

Bunbury Australind Gareth Reed Central Great Southern

Kallum Bond

Central Midlands

Peter Toia

Central West Coast

Jason Clark

Commissioned Officers

Mike Green

Curtin

Andie Fagan

Eastern Goldfields

Dave Curtis

East Kimberley

Simone Taplin

East Metropolitan

Cliff Daurat

Eastern Wheatbelt

Shawn Vieceli

Fortescue

Samuel Kelsey

Gascoyne

Jon Ellis

Geraldton

Michael Hall

Great Southern

Todd White

(Vice President)

Intelligence Services Contact WAPU HQ Leeuwin Naturaliste David Holmberg Licensing Nathan Hicks Enforcement Division

MICHAEL HENDERSON Director 0448 803 155

MARK JOHNSON Director 0488 352 525

GRAEME MACEY Director 0400 908 540

KEVIN McDONALD Director 0434 833 283

PETER McGEE Director 0418 938 354

PETER POTTHOFF Director 0407 476 679

HARRY RUSSELL Director 0412 585 429

Lower South West

Gerard Cartner

Maylands

Shaun Paterson

Midland Workshops Helen Riolo Mirrabooka

Mark Folkard

Murchison

Matt Fogarty

North Eastern Goldfields

Kurt Weedon

North Pilbara

Aaron Ogg

North West Metropolitan

Kym Buller

Peel North

Warren Dowbysch

Peel South

Harry Russell

Perth Police Centre

Aaron Hickey

Perth Watch House

Fiona McPherson

Professional Standards

Peter Birch

Prosecuting

Jarred Gerace

South East Eyre

Andre Michalski

South East Metropolitan

Kareene Santoro

South Metropolitan Julian Donohoe South West Hinterland

Ross Adam

Traffic Support

Paul Gale

Upper Great Robert Southern Jonas-Green

JANE BAKER Research Officer

DAVE LAMPARD Field Officer

DEAN GIACOMINI Field Officer

TARRYN SMITH Accounts Officer

PENNY BROWN Member Services Officer

NIKKI PAGE Administration Officer

West Kimberley

Craig Johnson

West Pilbara

Doug Holt

Western Suburbs

Chris Fox

7 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

GEORGE TILBURY President

Back on the Frontline AFTER THREE AND A HALF YEARS IN THE PRESIDENT’S CHAIR AT WAPU HQ and hearing about the changes on the frontline from Members, I decided it was time I saw firsthand what our Members are experiencing.

Over two shifts, I joined Response and Local Policing Team officers to experience the rigours of the frontline and the impacts of Reform.

I have to say, I was excited to get back out on the track for the ride alongs and couldn’t wait.

To ensure I received the best possible view of the new police operating model, I was rostered to head out with a Response Team from Cannington on a Thursday afternoon shift, when there was a crossover of teams working.

While there was plenty of staff on this particular shift, every job we attended was a Priority Two. It was relatively busy, so I would hate to see how it is when things are really cranked up with only half the crew rostered on.

I did another Thursday afternoon shift with the Midland Local Policing Team and as a former Midland officer myself, it was enjoyable to be able to see the positive work our Members are doing in the community.

We followed a Member through her shift starting with a briefing for an operation, then kicked a door and saw the team get rewarded for their hard work, when they found drugs and preferred charges.

The personal highlight for me was the interaction between two of our Members and a young boy.

At this point, Response Teams and suburban detectives are grossly under resourced.

These are the priority pressure points that need an immediate injection of staff or else burn out is inevitable.

8

The little boy was in awe of the accoutrements the officers were wearing and the two young Members took the time to engage with him in the middle of a busy shopping centre. I am sure all who witnessed it would have seen and respected the human side that so many of our Members display on a daily basis.

This recent frontline experience reaffirmed for me that the new model can work, provided it is properly resourced with police officers, vehicles and equipment. At this point, Response Teams and suburban detectives are grossly under resourced. These are the priority pressure points that need an immediate injection of staff or else burn out is inevitable.

The teams I was rostered with, worked extremely hard and are doing their best under very trying circumstances.

It was interesting to note that the Response Team said it was their first uninterrupted meal period, because they were with me!

RESPONSE TIMES BLOW OUT, CRIME STATS UP AND NO DETECTIVES I was as shocked, as was the rest of the community, when I heard that for the second month in a row the crime statistics were up on the same time as 2014.

Coupled with the WA Police Annual Report stating that response times had blown out and that we are experiencing a major shortage of detectives, all the signs point to a long, tough summer unless inroads are made immediately.

Traditionally as the weather warms up, crime also heats up and we can expect to see further exposure of the failure to adequately resource WA Police.

We have been steadfast that WA needs more police officers to cope with the growing population and to keep up with the police to population ratio of other jurisdictions.

We have called on the State Government to immediately allocate $4 million to allow WA Police to pay police officers overtime to get the crime statistics under control. By allocating funds for additional resources, our Members can

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

01 02

make inroads into volume crime without it affecting their current workload.

This is a temporary solution which will not address the underlying factors brought about by a lack of police officers.

MATT BUTCHER CASE DROPPED Senior Constable Matt Butcher can finally get on with his life after a civil action brought by Robert McLeod was dismissed.

WAPU has supported Matt since a sickening attack outside a Joondalup tavern on February 4, 2008 left him partially paralysed.

The WA community was left in a state of disbelief after the McLeods were acquitted of criminal charges, despite shocking footage of the callous attack. It was then even more surprising when Robert McLeod launched legal action claiming wrongful battery.

When I heard there was a chance that an out of court settlement was on the table, we immediately applied public pressure to Government to ensure no backroom deals were done and Robert McLeod would not get a cent. We believe significant public pressure and the community rallying behind Matt had a major effect on the decision to withdraw this case. â–ˇ

03

01 A WAPU Member from Cannington. 02 WAPU Members from Midland.

03 President George Tilbury seeing firsthand what Members are experiencing on the frontline.

9

PRESIDENT'S REPORT CONT.

This is a fantastic outcome for Matt.

But I have to say, I am appalled Mr McLeod even brought this action against Matt in the first place.

This is a fantastic outcome for Matt. But I have to say, I am appalled Mr McLeod even brought this action against Matt in the first place.

Matt is an exceptional police officer who has continued to do the work he loves despite this hanging over his head. We wish Matt and his family well for the future now that he can put this whole sorry saga behind him and get on with his life, albeit with a lifelong injury.

Matt has spoken to Police News and you can read more about his story on page 14. He will also be a keynote speaker at our Annual Conference on November 24.

#ArmedInCourts Last edition, I discussed our proposal to allow police officers to wear their accoutrements in court complexes around the State for the improved safety of not only Members, but also the community.

Our campaign stepped up in August, as we embarked on a social media campaign to highlight the safety concerns we have around court complexes.

We are currently waiting on a security report which will be presented to the Heads of Jurisdictions on November 23 which will hopefully lead to positive change.

For more coverage on our #ArmedInCourts campaign, please turn to page 20.

POLICE REMEMBRANCE DAY I once again had the honour of attending the National Police Remembrance Day ceremony in Canberra.

It was a great privilege to be able to remember our fallen officers and pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the community. If you have not visited the memorial in Canberra, I thoroughly recommend you take the opportunity to do so.

In my absence, East Region Director Dave Curtis attended a special service for the dedication of a new Pitman and Walsh Memorial in Kalgoorlie.

Detective Inspector John Walsh and Detective Sergeant Alexander Pitman who were murdered nearly 90 years ago near Kalgoorlie. For those that are not familiar with these men, Director Curtis has done a terrific job retelling their tragic story for this edition of Police News on page 18.

10

WAPU BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION RESULT I am very privileged to have been re-elected President for another three-year term which will encompass the next State Election in March 2017. Senior Vice President Brandon Shortland, Vice President Harry Arnott and Treasurer Mick Kelly were also re-elected unopposed to their positions.

The re-election of the WAPU Executive endorses the work we have undertaken over the past three years and provides consistent leadership and stability to our Union.

WAPU has maintained its position as a strong advocate for Members and will continue to strive to improve their rights and working conditions, with a strong focus on welfare.

We have worked extremely hard to reinstate our political influence, making sure that we were part of all highlevel decisions affecting our Members over the past three years. I look forward to maintaining this position over the coming term.

I congratulate all Directors and the incumbent Executive on their election. I am very confident the Board can continue to drive our political agenda and look after our Members’ best interests in the lead up to the 2017 State Election and for our Industrial Agreement negotiations.

Members are faced with the dangers associated with an increased risk of home-grown terrorism and a burgeoning methamphetamine issue every day. We will ensure all sides of politics know that law and order will be a major issue at the next State Election and that additional funding for policing is essential for us to stay one step ahead in this changing world.

â–

WA

POLICE UNION

BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION RESULTS

PRESIDENT

George Tilbury

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

Brandon Shortland

VICE PRESIDENT and

SOUTH REGION DIRECTOR

TREASURER Mick Kelly

Harry Arnott

METROPOLITAN DIRECTOR

METROPOLITAN DIRECTOR

METROPOLITAN DIRECTOR

METROPOLITAN DIRECTOR

METROPOLITAN DIRECTOR

METROPOLITAN DIRECTOR

METROPOLITAN DIRECTOR

METROPOLITAN DIRECTOR

CENTRAL REGION DIRECTOR

EAST REGION DIRECTOR

NORTH REGION DIRECTOR

Ward Adamson

Mark Johnson

Harry Russell

Mick Gill

Kevin McDonald

Michael Paterson

Dave Curtis

Lindsay Garratt

Peter McGee

Peter Potthoff

Michael Henderson

11 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

01

Operation Blue Santa is a go

BY STEVEN GLOVER

12 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

WA Police officers will play Kris Kringle to hundreds of kids in refuges this Christmas.

Operation Blue Santa will see police officers donate gifts, money and vouchers to supply children with wrapped presents on Christmas morning. Many of the children who will receive gifts have either been involved or are victims of domestic violence and could be living in refuges from anywhere from three to 12 months.

Operation Blue Santa Coordinator Senior Constable Carol Pulford said the project was first launched in 2013 to ensure all children in metropolitan refuges received presents on Christmas Day. “It was initially developed through the Family Violence State Coordination Unit and Police Media as part of the WA Police Christmas campaign to raise awareness about increased violence in the home over the Christmas period,” she said.

“As officers deal regularly with crisis situations involving children exposed to domestic violence, they see firsthand the effect of such behaviours on children.

“The operation enables police officers and staff to give back during the festive season to children in need as a result of domestic violence.”

Sen. Const. Pulford said toys and gifts for children of all ages up to 17 are required and there are a number of ways people can donate.

“We would rather have one nice gift or toy rather than lots of stocking fillers,” she said.

“Coles Myer Group vouchers are great as they enable us to buy what the children actually want and gifts bags are made up according to a child’s age, gender and likes. We try to accommodate specific requests and the special needs of some children.”

Anne Moore is the Executive Officer of the Lucy Saw Centre, one of the refuges which will benefit from Operation Blue Santa.

She said the refuge usually receives an influx of families prior to Christmas and without Operation Blue Santa these children would go without presents on Christmas morning.

“The last couple of years that this has been happening we have seen such an increase in positivity around Christmas time,” Mrs Moore said.

“Last year, in particular, the standard of gifts was just so high that it blew me away. I was quite surprised at the effort that all of the police had gone to, to provide such great presents.

“It is wonderful, absolutely wonderful, and I am always a bit sad really because of all the work the police officers have done but we all get the thanks on Christmas morning which is kind of nice for us but they miss out.”

Mrs Moore said the operation was particularly successful for teenagers and young adults, who often struggle to adjust when they are moved into a refuge.

“The tiny little ones seem to adjust a bit better but the older ones really struggle. Last year, I had three or four teenagers in (my refuge) and each of them received a mobile phone so it worked not only as a really good safety device but also something that made them feel good that they had a mobile phone too,” Mrs Moore said.

“I have had feedback throughout the year from all the refuges to say that it really was a great initiative and that they have really enjoyed having the response from police so I would wholeheartedly like to say thank you, it is just amazing.”

This year’s operation is also being supported by WAPU President George Tilbury and Deputy Commissioner Stephen Brown.

Mr Tilbury encouraged all WAPU Members to get on board and support Operation Blue Santa, which will put a smile on kid’s faces this Christmas.

“The festive season is a time to relax and enjoy good times with family and friends. Police officers often have to work over this time, but we should always spare a thought for those in the community that are doing it tough,” he said.

“Supporting Operation Blue Santa is the least we can do to help victims of domestic violence enjoy what should be, one of the best days of the year.”

“I have had feedback throughout the year from all the refuges to say … they have really enjoyed having the response from police so I would wholeheartedly like to say thank you, it is just amazing.”

Mr Brown said the 2015 Operation Blue Santa was a fantastic collaboration between WA Police, the WA Police Union, Telstra, State Super Financial Services and Peppermint Green Coffee House.

“Others are coming onboard and there is a great opportunity for police officers across the State to get involved and show just how much the Police Blue Team can become Blue Santa,” Mr Brown said.

"Operation Blue Santa has been running for a couple of years now and has been generously supported by our friends at Telstra who have donated large numbers of mobile phones for use by domestic violence victims in this State to alert police and others to any ongoing escalation to their personal risk.”

“So watch out for more information and get involved.”

Donations of gifts, money and vouchers to Operation Blue Santa can be made at the WA Police Academy (foyer outside the canteen); Metropolitan VSU offices; Police Media Unit at WA Police Headquarters, Peppermint Green Coffee House, Delage Street, Winton Park, Joondalup and the Foyer of 197 St Georges Terrace from December onwards. The collection date for donations is Thursday December 17.

A number of Local Policing Teams are already involved and will deliver the gift bags to local refuges last before Christmas Day. For more information about supporting Operation Blue Santa, including assisting with wrapping presents, please contact Coordinator Senior Constable Carol Pulford at the Family Violence State Coordination Unit on carol.pulford@police.wa.gov.au.

■

02

01 & 02 WAPU President George Tilbury and Deputy Commissioner Stephen Brown get into the Christmas spirit for Operation Blue Santa.

13 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

GETTING ON WITH LIFE

BY JESSICA PORTER

Despite being brutally attacked, placed in an induced coma, contracting pneumonia, losing mobility in an arm and leg, losing vision and then being sued; Senior Constable Matt Butcher is one of the most positive people you will meet.

Even after suffering partial paralysis, Matt says he has plenty to be thankful for.

He is particularly thankful for his wife, Katrina, and his two children.

“As corny as it sounds, I reckon I’ve become a better husband to Katrina,” Matt said.

“Prior to this happening [being assaulted], I took Katrina for granted. She used to always want to do things like go on picnics and whenever she said that to me, I would think ‘oh, I wonder what my mates will be doing’, so I never wanted to commit to her.

Because Katrina was my wife, I took it for granted that she would always be there,” he said.

“But now I’m different. I still like to go out with my mates but it’s more about family and quality time with them.”

Spending time with his son James, 4, and daughter Grace, 2, makes Matt extra happy, knowing that there was once a chance seven years ago that he might not have been alive today.

“After I got hit, I was put in an induced coma for 10 days and while I was in a coma, I contracted pneumonia,” Matt told Police News.

“Things looked pretty bad for a while. The doctors actually said to Katrina there was a 50 – 50 chance of me coming out of the coma alive, and if I did, I would more than likely come out with an intellectual disability.

“We were only married for three months. She had her whole life ahead of her, so thinking she could have been a widow or best case, a carer, would have been shocking. But she always sat by my bedside.

A lot of lesser people would have taken off, but she stuck around.”

Matt said in hindsight, he wished he did things differently on the day of the assault.

“Looking back, we didn’t use enough force I think... So how they had any grounds to sue is beyond me,” he said.

14 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

Being named in a writ by Robert McLeod, the father of Barry, was also astonishing. So too was the date on which it was filed.

The court accepted the writ on the final day before the three years was due to expire for civil litigation.

Matt said he did not even know he was being taken to court until a reporter from Channel 9 called him to ask for his reaction.

“When I heard that, I was shit scared,” he recalled.

“As soon as I got off the phone, I called [then Deputy Commissioner] Mr Dawson and he was a big reassurance.

He just said don’t worry about it. Then I rang Mike Dean and he just said don’t worry about it as well.”

But it did plague Matt and Katrina.

After four long years, that door has finally been slammed as civil action was dismissed in August.

“I feel like I had a strong case, but in saying that, I’m glad the door is shut now,” he said.

Matt said he was particularly thankful to WAPU for shining a light on the case.

“I want to thank the WA Police Union for having my back.

The big thing for me was the Union brought it to the media when there was talk about a settlement and that was a huge deal,” he said.

WAPU President George Tilbury agreed.

“When I heard there was a chance that an out of court settlement was on the table, we immediately applied public pressure to Government to ensure no backroom deals were done and Robert McLeod would not get a cent,” Mr Tilbury said.

“We believe significant public pressure and the community rallying behind Sen. Const. Butcher had a major effect on Mr McLeod and the decision to withdraw this case.

“The decision to dismiss this nonsense case highlights the fact there was no case to answer and Matt was just doing his job,” he said.

Life nowadays is looking as good as what it used to, according to Matt.

“After everything happened, my perfect life turned upside down. But slowly, my perfect life is coming back.”

While there have been some adjustments to life as a father of active children, Matt does the best he can.

“I can’t walk outdoors by myself, I get nervous about falling and get anxious,” he said.

“I didn’t join the police to sit behind a computer every day. But I love what I’m doing now. I’m hunting crooks again and I feel like a policeman.

This job has been a saviour.”

“The kids have learnt that I’m deficient in my arm and they help me. Whenever we go anywhere, my son puts his hand out to take my stick and holds my hand when we’re walking.”

But there are areas of his life that will never be the same, like playing footy with his son.

“I always had dreams of having a son and teaching him how to kick a footy around in the park but that’s been taken away from me. Now I have to sit back and watch him rather than be actively involved. It’s sad, but it is what it is and I just have to move on.”

Moving on is exactly what Matt did with his career too.

“I used to love coming to work before I got hit. Then after I got hit, I was doing back office work out at Joondalup but I didn’t feel like I was a copper anymore, and I lost all the satisfaction of putting on a blue shirt,” Matt said.

But moving to the Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team, he has found his passion for the force again.

“I didn’t join the police to sit behind a computer every day. But I love what I’m doing now. I’m hunting crooks again and I feel like a policeman. This job has been a saviour.”

■

01 Senior Constable Matt Butcher after a WAPU media conference.

02 WAPU President George Tilbury and Senior Constable Matt Butcher.

01 02

15 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

01 02

03

04

05 06

16 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

Several distinguished guest speakers presented on topics ranging from female participation in unions, to branch structure and delegate roles, to personal experiences of being a woman in a male-dominated industry.

08 09

07

WAPU holds inaugural Women’s Forum W

omen make up 22 per cent of WA police officers and approximately 21.8 per cent of WAPU Members. There are no female Directors on the WAPU Board of Directors and only 20 out of 132 Branch Official positions were occupied by women.

If the Board and Branch Officials were representative of the gender makeup of the workforce, then women should occupy (at a minimum) 29 Branch Official positions and three positions on the Board.

It is this under-representation and concerning lack of female participation that was the catalyst to hold a forum for female Members to identify the barriers to greater union activism, motivate participation in all areas of Union life and enact change by way of developing goals and guidelines to address this gender imbalance.

The inaugural WAPU Women’s Forum was held on September 3, 2015 at WAPU HQ. The event was coordinated

by Field Officer Dean Giacomini and MC for the day, Research Officer Jane Baker, with approximately 40 female Members (from both metropolitan and regional areas) attending. Media Officer Jessica Porter and Industrial Officer Nicola Roman also attended the day’s proceedings.

Several distinguished guest speakers presented on topics ranging from female participation in unions, to

branch structure and delegate roles, to personal experiences of being a woman in a male-dominated industry. These speakers included: • Police Minister Liza Harvey; • Opposition Police Spokeswoman Michelle Roberts; • Unions WA Secretary Meredith Hammat; • Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) Organiser Keryn Anderson; • WA Prison Officers Union (WAPOU) Delegates Julie-Anne Hampton-Meagher and Bernadine Deimel; and • WA Police Inspector Kim Travers.

The speaker s were interes ting , inspirational and informative and encouraged spirited debate from all attendees.

Four workshops/focus groups provided the attendees with the opportunity to further discuss a range of issues, including identifying barriers to participation and ways to increase female involvement at Branch and Board level.

The day was a wonderful success, made possible by the dedicated team effort of involved WAPU Staff, a series of inspiring speakers and the open and candid participation of the attendees.

WAPU looks forward to hosting another forum in the near future and encourages all of its female Members to partake in this important initiative.

■

10

01 WAPU Women's Forum Delegates.

02 President George Tilbury officially opens the Forum. 03 Julie-Anne Hampton-Meagher and Bernadine Deimel. 04 Meredith Hammat.

05 Police Minister Liza Harvey.

06 Bernadine Diemel. 07 Kim Travers.

08 Liza Harvey. 09 Opposition Police Spokeswoman Michelle Roberts.

10 Keryn Anderson.

17 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

PITMAN & WALSH

We remember them

BY EAST REGION DIRECTOR DAVE CURTIS

ON SEPTEMBER 29, 2015, Police Remembrance Day, I was privileged to represent the WA Police Union at the dedication of a new Pitman and Walsh Memorial in Kalgoorlie. This was to replace other smaller memorials that certain dirt bags in the community had decided to deface over the years (enough said – I promised not to get angry).

18 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

The new memorial was designed and provided by Norton Gold Fields, as they are the current custodians of the mining lease where the bodies of Detective Inspector John Walsh and Detective Sergeant Alexander Pitman were found. The memorial rock is next to the open shaft, where the two police officers were found nearly 90 years ago, and is accompanied by a storyboard to tell their tale.

The Murders On the evening of April 27, 1926, two ordinary coppers, members of the Gold Stealing Detection Unit based in Kalgoorlie, rode their bicycles more than 27 kms from the town to a lonely patch of scrubland towards Coolgardie. Det. Insp. Walsh (Regimental number 67) and Det. Sgt. Pitman (regimental number 425) were conducting surveillance on an illegal gold treatment plant.

The next day, Det. Insp. Walsh, 65, and Det. Sgt Pitman, 53, attempted to apprehend two of the offenders, William Coulter and Phillip Treffene, at the plant. During the attempted arrest, both detectives were murdered by one or both of the offenders. The officers had previously arrested both men for unlawful possession of gold in separate incidents in 1921, and were each sentenced to six months imprisonment.

At the inquest and their subsequent trial, Treffene claimed to have shot them both accidently while running away with his shotgun balanced on his shoulder pointing backwards, and Coulter denied even being there. Statements they made to a third co-accused, Evan Clarke derailed their plan. Clarke had turned ‘Kings’ evidence against the pair. They told him that

Treffene had shot the officers, killing Pitman outright, and then passing the shotgun to Coulter who killed the already wounded Walsh. Clarke’s role, aside from being involved in the gold operation, was mainly involved with the disposal of the police officers’ bodies.

The night following the murders, the bodies of Det. Sgt. Pitman and Det. Insp. Walsh were dismembered. Their heads, arms and legs were sawn from their bodies, and attempts were made to burn the remains in the gold furnace at the plant. Clarke apparently was not part of this, but returned later with Coulter in Clarke’s car to move furnace parts and bags (containing the remains) to an abandoned mine called Miller’s Shaft (or Miller’s Find/Miller’s Well), which is about 18 kms closer to Kalgoorlie.

While both Det. Sgt. Pitman and Det. Insp. Walsh were married with children, their families lived in Perth while they lived alone in Kalgoorlie, and it was not until May 8, 1926 that concerned colleagues began to look for them. In explanation, it was not unusual for the men to go off on inquiries without disclosing any details, and they were frequently away for days at a time.

The remains were discovered on May 12, 1926, after a passer-by noticed a cloud of blowflies around the shaft entrance. Following a retrieval operation by a team of volunteer miners who descended the 18-metre shaft, their remains were found. Hardened officers were said to have broken down in tears as the remains were removed, and the community was in a state of outrage and shock that such a heinous crime could have been committed, as evidenced by the print media at the time.

The Funeral After a sombre procession through the rainy streets of Kalgoorlie, escorted by their uniformed and detective peers, the remains of Det. Sgt. Pitman and Det. Insp. Walsh were conveyed by train to Perth.

Under the watchful eyes of the Kalgoorlie community, the pair arrived in Perth on the morning of May 18, 1926.

Their coffins were taken from Perth Central Train Station to St Mary’s Cathedral for the Requiem Mass, as part of the State Funeral. A large crowd, including the Minister for Justice, the Minister for Mines, the Police Commissioner, Police Association President Constable J.H. McDonald, and Treasurer, Constable N. McGowan, attended the service. The latter two were pallbearers for Det. Sgt. Pitman.

Following the Mass, a procession of more than 200 uniformed and detective staff, including commissioned officers and mounted troops, escorted the hearse. Some newspapers reported that 30,000 people lined the streets to pay their respects. The funeral cortege made its way to West Perth then onto Karrakatta Cemetery, where the officers were laid to rest in adjoining graves.

Looking After Our Own – The Police Family Following the murders, a Walsh-Pitman Relief Fund formed to provide for their widows, both named Mary, and their children. The name later changed to the Walsh-Pitman Remembrance Fund following an approach from the wives, as they did not want to appear destitute. This fund raised over £1,000 in a year (approximately $75,000 in today’s figures) from donations from members of the public.

The Government of the day, under pressure from the public to provide for the women, announced nearly two months after their deaths, that they would receive monies from the Death Benefits Fund, which was made up mainly of subscriptions paid by members of the WA Police Force, subsidised by Government. The payments were based on service, with Mary Walsh receiving £1,180 ($88,500), and Mary Pitman, £746 ($55,900). The Government also awarded them a pension of £2, 2s a week ($157).

While the public donations and the government pension were welcome, it is clear to see that the largest amount to help the families received was from the members themselves, through the Death Benefit Fund.

01

The Memorial in Perth It was in 1926 that the WA Police Association became the WA Police Union of Workers, and in October that year, the General Secretary, Mr C. Nelson, issued a circular to Members in relation to the building of a Walsh-Pitman memorial.

The idea came from Superintendent Mankey of the CID in Sydney, who communicated it through the NSW Commissioner to the WA Commissioner Robert Connell, and it passed to the WAPU Executive.

The Walsh-Pitman Memorial Fund was set up to receive donations from members of police forces, police unions and associations around Australia, to build the memorial.

In a sense, this memorial was to be the first national police memorial, and subscriptions were received from police members of every State.

By May 1928, the fund had £462 18s 8d ($35,100) and Constable Douglas Cummings, who was a draughtsman with the Police Traffic Department, as well as being an artist, had been commissioned to design the memorial. The memorial was made in Italy from Carrara marble and was eventually unveiled at its original location outside the James Street Police Barracks on December 8, 1929.

It relocated to the Adelaide Terrace Police Headquarters building when it opened in 1975, and subsequently moved to its current location next to the chapel at the Joondalup Police Academy.

It now stands as a reminder and guardian to the memory of our fallen officers, in a location where all new Members can see it on commencing their careers. I would urge all Members to stop whenever they are at Joondalup, to reflect and remember those who have gone before us.

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01 East Region Director Dave Curtis attended the Memorial Service. 02 Retired Commissioner Brian Bull with Director Curtis.

03 The new plaque.

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19 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

WAPU has increased pressure on the Judiciary and WA Government through social media in order to have Members armed with their accoutrements when attending court.

#ArmedInCourts

January this year saw the terror alert for police officers increased to high which prompted WAPU to seek immediate assistance from the Commissioner and Police Minister to allow Members to wear accoutrements in court complexes for their safety and the safety of the community.

After the decision by the NSW Government to allow its officers to wear their guns in courts, WAPU made our campaign public and used social media to garner public support for our #ArmedInCourts campaign.

As you can see from our tweets and Facebook posts using this hashtag, members of the community have been able to show their support for the campaign by retweeting, reposting and sharing our posts.

This has been par ticularly successful when WAPU highlighted security breaches as they happened and also past examples of incidents which would have benefitted from our Members being fully kitted up.

We were advised that the Chief Justice had carriage over this matter and sought his invention. He advised us he would take it to a meeting of the Heads of Jurisdiction of WA Courts.

The Heads of Jurisdiction discussed our proposal on August 31, 2015. The Chief Justice advised us that a detailed report covering a range of issues would be prepared by the Security Directorate of the Department of the Attorney General. He has also written to the Commissioner of Police requesting his advice with respect to security and other issues.

Once the Chief Justice has received those responses, the issue will be further considered by the Heads of Jurisdiction next month.

Considering their position on this issue has been steadfast for many years, this was a positive step in our fight to allow Members to be armed in courts.

We are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the security report but will continue to push our social media strategy to show the community and decision makers that arming our Members is a no-brainer and will only increase their safety and the safety of others.

20 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

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WAPU OPINION

BRANDON SHORTLAND

WAPU Senior Vice President

It’s Tough Enough IN OUR LAST EDITION, I made reference to how, as members of WA Police, we treat each other.

The words were describing how we treat our own people, the decisions that are made and the actions that are taken in the context of internal investigations. My view is that, generally speaking, we certainly do not do well in that area and tend to treat our own colleagues worse than other members of the public, including offenders and suspects.

Since then, I have reflected further on these themes and expanded my opinion that not only do we treat our own people poorly when it comes to investigating them in a managerial/ disciplinary situation, but more widely, we leave a lot to be desired across the whole spectrum of people management.

In recent histor y, there has been intense focus on operational, organisational and administrative reforms within WA Police. There has been laid bare a clear, present and urgent need for managerial and leadership nurturing or “cultural reform”.

Policing has never been an easy job. It has always presented various challenges and each generation of our dedicated defenders of the peace have encountered constantly changing and evolving dangers and difficulties.

This is something that will never change.

Throughout time, police officers have generally been very good at taking care of each other, looking after their mates, protecting one another, caring for families of colleagues in times of need and supporting each other to get the job done.

The WA Police Association (now WAPU) was established by police officers in 1912 to protect the rights and interests of each other. The Police Family Assistance Council was

It is interesting, and concerning, that our own people regularly fail to look after each other when it comes to the small and everyday issues.

established in 1976 to give police officers a hand in tough times. The Police Credit Society (now P&N Bank) was established to look after and assist police officers on the financial front. In 1992, WAPU in partnership with WA Police gave birth to WA Police Legacy to support the families of our fallen colleagues. In addition, various other support organisations and foundations have been established with the assistance of WAPU. We have established a long and proud tradition of looking out for each other.

The big picture issues have been well addressed. These organisations continue to grow and take care of our Members. When the wheels fall off or life takes an unexpected turn for the worse, our Members have support from a range of areas.

It is interesting, and concerning, that our own people regularly fail to look after each other when it comes to the small and everyday issues. It is the small things, the things that affect Member’s day-to-day lives that are often valued most and have the most impact.

It is disappointing that WAPU regularly receives reports of people within WA Police failing to: • Communicate with Members effectively or appropriately; • Failing to properly consider flexible working options; • Playing favourites with tasking duties, rostering, deployment, transfers and promotions; • Being over-officious and unreasonable with allowances; • Bullying; and • Breaching of Equal Employment Opportunity and OSH legislation.

As always, there are often diverging opinions on particular matters and it is often difficult to successfully unpick a situation once it has turned pear-shaped.

Prevention is always better than the cure. In order to reverse the phenomenon of our Members being treated poorly and the scourge of a vilification culture, WA Police needs to make some investments in its people so that these situations don’t manifest themselves and thereby reduce the risk of damage all together.

In my mind, the solution is easy.

If we all treated each other with the same respect, dignity, compassion and honesty we would expect our parents, siblings and children to be afforded then that would go a long way to countering this insidious culture that has infiltrated our beloved profession.

The key will be to have those values acknowledged by the Agency as important and by not only paying them lip-service but actively instilling them to Members in a natural and unforced manner.

It’s tough enough having to battle crooks, face unfair treatment from the media and being pulled through the ringer just for trying to protect the community and shield the vulnerable, without being treated poorly by our colleagues and having to face a harsh culture in what should be the protective sanctuary of our offices.

21 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

03 01

04

02

WAPU supports Alongside NEW TENANTS HAVE BEEN WELCOMED TO WAPU HQ THIS MONTH.

06 05

07

Not for profit organisation, Alongside, provides education, PTSD support and a strong community for partners and family of police, defence and emergency service personnel from recruitment, through to discharge and beyond.

Since its inception in March of this year, Alongside has received support from the Commissioner of Police and Health and Safety Branch, giving them the green light to implement education modules specifically tailored to the partners and families of incoming WA Police recruits.

The rapid growth of Alongside has further highlighted the vast, unmet need for critical incident education, awareness and support services for WA Police partners and families, helping to bridge the gap between work and home.

To find out more about Alongside services, including upcoming social events and the weekly PTSD reach out groups, find Alongside on Facebook and Instagram or drop them a line at hello@alongside.org.au.

01 Geoff Hutchison, Sarah Jane and Paige Hobbs.

02 Peter Tinley and Geoff Hutchison. 03 Laura Eddy, Paige Hobbs and Sarah Jane. 04 Josh Hawes, Sarah Jane, Paige Hobbs and Laura Eddy.

05 Alongside merchandise. 06 Josh McEwen, WAPU Senior Vice President Brandon Shortland and Jane Baker. 07 James Yates, Lisa Yates and Matt and Sarah Cole.

WAPU OPINION

KEVIN MCDONALD

Metropolitan Region Director

Saving Section 23 UNFORTUNATELY, THE PRACTICE of police officers being charged criminally for the crime of doing their job is becoming all too regular.

Section 23 is a legislative process which ensures police officers are afforded due process and rights of appeal. Both are vital but rarely applied since the implementation of the Section 23’s successor, the WA Police Management Intervention Model (MIM).

Apparent plans to repeal Section 23 of the Police Act 1892 can only serve to erode basic rights for police officers performing their sworn duty.

Section 23 is a legislative process which ensures police officers are afforded due process and rights of appeal. Both are vital but rarely applied since the implementation of Section 23’s successor, the WA Police Management Intervention Model (MIM).

If successful, a repeal of Section 23 would leave police officers exposed entirely to the inherently unfair, uncompromising , misused and un-appealable MIM. WAPU President George Tilbury recently wrote to the Commissioner of Police urging for a return to a common sense approach not afforded under the current application of the MIM, by dropping plans to repeal Section 23.

An approach that would encourage a return to the basic rights of due process and natural justice for police officers.

In his letter, Mr Tilbury highlights repeated alleged examples where pre-determined outcomes, adverse to Members, are being made under the MIM process. Outcomes which were later found to be spurious but nonetheless rigidly maintained, not reviewable and non-appealable.

Mr Tilbury also makes mention of the binding premise of the MIM, to promote communication, consultation and agreement.

If providing misleading information in interviews, pressuring officers to sign notices and making threats to escalate sanctions or even dismiss officers constitutes consultation and

agreement, then someone, somewhere has taken a wrong turn – because that is what we are witnessing.

The MIM is nothing more than a corporate slogan representing a flawed process that hurts coppers and removes their basic rights.

It’s hardly a consultative process when Members are not provided with access to materials either before or after interrogation. And the deceitful re-defining of the word agreement is reminiscent of the Howard Federal Government’s workplace agreements characterised by its deceptive ruse – sign here or no job.

Members won’t be surprised to learn that the management tool known as an Assistant Commissioner’s Warning Notice starts life as a fill in the gaps template that is 90 per cent complete while it’s still in the draw and most of its content already contains the requisite derogatory descriptions of the next in line subject officer – whoever that might be!

An AC’s Warning Notice represents the final step before dismissal and you’d think deserving of an original set of words relevant to the allegations.

Another point of contention of the MIM process is the protracted length of time it often takes to arrive at a final managerial outcome and the oxymoronic question of how many outcomes does it take to make an outcome?

In his letter to the Commissioner, Mr Tilbury cites an example where over a 12-month period one Member was originally cleared with no MIM outcome warranted (an outcome endorsed by the Member’s District Office). Nine months later, a different outcome came out of the blue and the Member was given

a MAP, sent for re-training and all was successfully completed. Then, several months later and after believing the matter was finally resolved, the Member was criminally charged!

MIM outcomes are based on untested material in an unfair process where adverse outcomes cannot be fairly sustained, are irreversible, industrially unchallengeable and the impacts on subject officers permanent. And the professional character assassinations created and endorsed by WA Police management can have far reaching implications.

Ex-Members have told WAPU that WA Police shares information about former employees with prospective future employers. That it routinely provides these fabricated and derogatory personal records that potential employers understandably accept as factual. It’s one thing to maintain a non-negotiable stance over the veracity and accuracy of so called ‘facts’ supporting MIM outcomes, but to share such information externally amounts to industrial treachery.

Police management projec t s a squeaky clean corporate image advocating that through the MIM, it is nurturing a disciplined and ethical workforce when in reality, they are compromising their own integrity, the WA Police brand and bringing down morale across the board.

One could argue WA Police needs Section 23 as much as anyone.

Members should oppose any proposal to repeal Section 23 and shun any further erosion of their basic legal and industrial rights.

23 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

EMERGENCY DRIVING – from the frontline

BY WAPU MEMBER Name and Regimental Number Provided

I write this letter as a warning notice to all WAPU Members, whilst taking full responsibility for my error in judgement and my breaches in policy.

Colouring outside the lines or the “grey area”, two very common phrases I hear used by frontline officers, within WA Police. We all know there are policies governing everything we do and how we are expected to do our job.

I have been a WA Police officer for 12 years and not only is policing my career, it’s my calling and what I was born to do.

I have been a frontline officer for my entire career and I have a great passion for proactive policing.

Frontline policing and specifically proactive policing, results in a vast amount of emergency driving and we are all fully conversant with the strict policies that govern it.

For the first part of my career, there was no such thing as AVL or fixed speed camera locations and there was somewhat of a different culture within WA Police with regards to driving compared to today.

If we are all being honest, there have been occasions where we have all “coloured outside the lines” during our emergency driving.

There is no malice or formed “intent” to breach emergency driving polices by officers, however sometimes through the values of dedication and commitment, we occasionally find ourselves in breach.

We all have those occasions where you hear that urgent call for assistance by other members or receive that job which required us to be there five minutes ago.

Like many other members, I have dedicated myself to my career and that of serving the community of WA and get excited in making a difference every day I am out there.

In August 2014, I was based at a Response Team in metropolitan WA and rostered on night shift.

I was one of six Response vehicles based in my sub-district and was dispatched to an armed robbery incident at a petrol station. The offender was armed with a knife and was still believed to be on foot in the area.

I attended under Priority 2 conditions and whilst en-route have made the incorrect decision to breach my driving classification.

24 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

I activated a speed camera prior to arriving at the armed robbery, far in excess of my permitted 20km/h above the limit restriction.

My intention was to get to the scene of this serious incident expediently and hopefully apprehend this dangerous offender.

What followed after this breach of policy was 12 months of extreme stress, not only impacting myself, but that of my family.

Sometimes we don’t stop and think how such a quick decision and error in judgement can have such a major impact.

I was formally interviewed, attended numerous meetings with commissioned officers, during which I received a Management Action Plan (MAP), a Management Intervention Notice (MIN) and an Assistant Commissioner’s Warning Notice.

I also had 12 months of waiting for a decision in relation to whether or not I was going to be criminally prosecuted.

As I previously outlined, policing is my passion and I feel privileged to have the standing in the community that being a police officer affords.

The thought of my decision jeopardising all my hard work, dedication and my reputation was devastating.

No one wants to be that police officer on the 6pm news, making their way into court, being followed by the media and judged by the community for a decision made in error with their best interests in mind.

I implore you all, the next time you use your right foot in a police vehicle to complete a vehicle intercept or accept a Priority 2, please do not venture outside the clear lines of the policies.

We all have to think, at the end of the day, you are ultimately responsible and your decisions, sometimes made in the reasonable belief of good faith, can have a major impact on everyone.

I was very lucky in the end that my internal investigation outcome didn’t leave the WA Police Disciplinary Model and I can move forward in my career.

So please stay safe out there, look after each other and remember the policies are there to protect the community and that of all the members in our policing family.

01

WAPU JOINS FORCES WITH GLORY

BY STEVEN GLOVER

T

he WA Police Union and Perth Glory have struck a historic agreement which will hopefully mark the beginning of a long-term, valuable partnership.

Perth Glory have acknowledged the important role police officers play in our community and wanted to give back to WAPU Members for their hard work and dedication.

The first step was to offer special discounted rates on Perth Glory memberships for WAPU Members for the 2015-16 season, with other special offers to be advertised throughout the season.

Perth Glory Chief Executive Officer Peter Filopoulos said the club was proud to be offering this exclusive deal to WAPU Members for the upcoming Hyundai A-League season.

“We know there are many passionate football fans out there so we urge them to take up this offer which equates to more than 10 per cent in savings,” Mr Filopoulos said.

“We look forward to working closely with WAPU this year and hope to see them at our home games at nib Stadium this year.”

WAPU President George Tilbury said he was excited by the new partnership.

“This is a win-win for both WAPU and the Perth Glory,” he said.

“For one of the State’s elite sporting organisations to acknowledge the key role our Members play in the community is massive for police officers, police auxiliary officers and police cadets.

“I strongly believe that having Perth Glory acknowledge our importance in the community will see other individuals and organisations follow suit.”

Mr Tilbury said he hoped the partnership would deliver positive results for WAPU Members off the pitch and Perth Glory on the pitch.

“I know the Blue Family will get right behind the Glory as they strive to improve on the field this season and I’m sure that support will equate to a couple of extra goals in the net and even a championship title for Perth.”

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FOR MORE INFORMATION … on the Perth Glory Member Benefit plus the other discounts available for WAPU Members please visit the Member Benefits section of the WAPU website.

01 Perth Glory women’s team player Kim Carroll, captain Samantha Kerr, Perth Glory men’s captain Richard Garcia, player Dino Djulbic, former Perth Glory player and current police officer Matt Horsley, President George Tilbury with Members from the Highgate Local Policing Team Sgt Tony Sacco, Const. Clay Willis and First Class Constable Kieran Thomas, police auxiliary officer Sarah Whiting and goalkeeper Ante Covic at nib Stadium.

25 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

NICOLA ROMAN Industrial Officer

Claiming your industrial entitlements IT IS OFTEN SAID THE MOST IMPORTANT RESOURCE A UNION HAS is its rank and file. It is no exaggeration to say the key to WAPU’s success is ensuring the rank and file is informed and involved in all aspects of Union activity.

Successful outcomes are contingent on WAPU being able to present evidence to reinforce the assertion that a particular industrial provision is inadequate/ inappropriate.

26 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

From an industrial perspective, this means ensuring all Members are well versed in the entitlements afforded to them under the industrial agreements negotiated by WAPU, as well as the entitlements provided by Federal and State legislation. However, on occasion Members can be aware of their entitlements but, for whatever reason, reluctant or unable to claim them.

Worryingly, over the past few months WAPU has heard from a number of Members who have been discouraged from claiming a variety of workplace entitlements, including paid meal breaks and meal allowances.

The importance of claiming the full suite of industrial entitlements owed to you cannot be understated. Your industrial entitlements have been negotiated on your behalf by WAPU and far exceed the minimum conditions of employment set out in statute. These conditions have been negotiated to ensure fairness and productivity in the workplace.

It is therefore of paramount importance the Employer (WA Police) provide you with all the conditions contained within any industrial agreement.

Whilst a missed meal break may not seem of particular importance to you, the provisions have been negotiated to ensure police officers are engaged under conditions which are not only fair and reasonable but allow you to perform your duties to the best of your ability.

In the lead up to the renegotiation of the WA Police Auxiliary Officers Industrial Agreement 2013 and the WA Police Officers Industrial Agreement 2014, the WAPU Industrial Team will rely on feedback from Members to inform our approach and identify the provisions in need of review.

Successful outcomes are contingent on WAPU being able to present evidence to reinforce the assertion that a particular industrial provision is inadequate/inappropriate.

If the Employer is able to demonstrate officers rarely claim for certain entitlements it is much harder for WAPU to secure a change to these provisions.

The success of WAPU’s industrial activities depend on broad participation by the membership. Members must not only be aware of the industrial provisions governing their employment but must also be proactive in claiming those entitlements.

Members who have any queries should contact the WAPU Industrial Team on admin@wapu.org.au or 9321 2155.

PURCHASE CARD POLICY The Industrial Team has fielded a large number of calls in relation to WA Police’s Purchase Card Policy.

In an attempt to consolidate and simplify the various documents attached to the Policy, the Industrial Team has answered some of the most frequently asked questions: • What can I purchase on my card?

The card can be used for the payment of travel expenses, such as accommodation and meals, for authorised travel by WA Police employees. The card cannot be used for withdrawing cash, fuel purchases (except in extenuating circumstances), purchases by officers other than the cardholder or purchasing airfares (unless prior approval has been granted).

• How much may I spend during my travel?

The total cost of the travel should not exceed the amount payable in allowances under the Industrial Agreement. WA Police has produced a Price Guide which details the amounts applicable for different regions and circumstances. Members should consult the Price Guide or the Industrial Agreement for guidance.

INDUSTRIAL REPORT

Industrial Briefs • How will any excess expenditure be calculated?

Excess expenditure is calculated based on the amount spent over the course of the entire trip. This means if you have spent less on one day, you may offset spending more on another.

• What happens if I spend more than the rates outlined in the Price Guide/Industrial Agreement?

Where the travel expenses are in excess of the travel allowance in the Industrial Agreement, the officer must submit a brief report explaining the overspend. If the Employer does not accept the reasoning provided, the officer will have to repay the excess expenditure.

• What if I have overspent on multiple trips?

A repeat offence could lead to the Director of Finance cancelling the card. In extreme cases, the Purchasing Card Guidelines clearly outlines that if a cardholder is found guilty of misuse or fraudulent use of the card they are liable for prosecution under the Financial Management Act 2006, the Criminal Code Act Compilation Act (1913) or Public Sector Management Act (1994).

• Can I purchase alcohol on the purchasing card?

A moderate amount of alcohol may be purchased with a meal, provided the officer is not on duty or about to resume duty. When determining whether an alcohol purchase is reasonable, the Employer will look at the individual amount spent on alcohol, not solely on whether the total expenditure for the trip is in excess of the amounts in the Price Guide. You may have spent less than the total amount permitted for the trip but still be asked to repay excessive expenditure on alcohol.

• Where can I find out more information about the Purchasing Card Policy?

WA Police has produced numerous documents which provide some guidance on the policy. WAPU can assist in interpreting the policy, in specific circumstances, and are happy to provide Members with copies of the policy and related documents on request.

FAQS

Members will find updated Industrial FAQs on the WAPU website covering a range of topics from parental leave to meal breaks and overtime. Any suggestions for additional FAQs or factsheets should be directed to the WAPU Industrial Team.

The success of WAPU’s industrial activities depend on broad participation by the membership.

Members must not only be aware of the industrial provisions governing their employment but must also be proactive in claiming those entitlements.

OIC REVIEW

The review of OIC conditions is underway.

A draft Terms of Reference has been developed by the Industrial Team and forwarded to WA Police for review. WAPU is hopeful that the first meeting of the working group will occur later this month, with monthly meetings thereafter.

OICs can expect to receive requests from WAPU for information pertaining to their employment in the coming months to assist with the review process.

COUNTRY DEPLOYMENT ALLOWANCE

WAPU has long had concerns regarding the restrictive interpretation of the Country Deployment Allowance clause of the Industrial Agreement.

WA Police has consistently held this allowance is paid only to sworn officers who are relieving a vacant position in regional WA. In recent correspondence on the issue, WAPU has argued the allowance should also be paid to officers who are providing additional assistance or performing special duties in these localities.

Following a meeting between WAPU and WA Police, both sides agreed to conduct some research into the matter in the hope of reaching a mutually agreeable solution.

WAPU will keep you updated.

27 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

DEAN GIACOMINI & DAVE LAMPARD Field Officer

Field Officer

Field Officers trek to Lillimooloora WAPU FIELD OFFICERS DEAN GIACOMINI AND DAVE LAMPARD RECENTLY TRAVELLED to the ruins of the Lillimooloora Police Post situated at the foot of the Napier Ranges to attend a dedication ceremony for Second Class Constable William C Richardson with WA police officers.

The ceremony saw 13 Members attend from Broome, Derby, Fitzroy Crossing and Looma stations to honour this fallen officer at the ruins of the police post, where he was murdered in 1894.

The trek to Lillimooloora Police Post has become somewhat of a regular WAPU meeting since former North Region Director Jon Groves was instrumental in organising the earlier gatherings in 2006 and 2010.

Originally built as a homestead for the Kingsound Pastoral Company, the building was used to detain arrested persons before embarking on a long hike to Derby Police Station.

Plans for a 2015 event sparked off when Senior Constable Nigel Rimmer of Derby Station Police Station passed through the area this winter.

He was dismayed to find the dedication plaque for Second Class Constable Richardson had been removed. The officer is now buried at the Derby Cemetery and the comprehensive and very accurate signage explaining the history of white settler clashes with the Bunuba and Ungguni people had also been removed from the historical site.

WAPU intends to follow up site restoration plans with the Department of Parks and Wildlife and will donate a new less controversial plaque to be fixed to the memorial stone at the entrance to the site.

28 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

WAPU intends to follow up site restoration plans with the Department of Parks and Wildlife and will donate a new less controversial plaque to be fixed to the memorial stone at the entrance to the site.

In addition to the site visit to Lillimooloora, the Field Officers also visited Broome Police Station, Fitzroy Crossing Police Station and the new $5 million justice complex as well as the Looma Multi Agency Facility.

The visit to Looma brought back fond memories for Mr Lampard as he was last there in 1980 when stationed at Derby as a First Class Constable. He said he was pleasantly surprised to find a peaceful and clearly happy thriving community.

“At that time (1980), the community had a reputation for violent behaviour that often placed the community nurses in serious danger,” he said.

“Trips in and out were generally restricted to rescuing the nurses from their post and taking them back to the safety of Derby Hospital.

“All of the government agencies are actively engaged in cooperative improvements with the community and it is a clear indication of the success of the Regional WA Remote Service Delivery Project.”

NEW SOUTH EAST METROPOLITAN BRANCH OFFICIALS WAPU’s South East Metropolitan Branch has new Branch Officials following an extremely well attended Branch Annual General Meeting last month.

Kareene Santoro takes over as President with Lynda McCutcheon and Clint Whalley elected as Vice President and Secretary respectively.

President George Tilbury was also on hand to update Members about current issues prior to heading out on the road with one of the Response Teams.

FIELD REPORT

01

01 Field Officer Dave Lampard with Members at the the ruins of the Lillimooloora Police Post. 02 President George Tilbury with the newly elected South East Metropolitan Branch Officials. Vice President Lynda McCutcheon, President Kareene Santoro and Secretary Clint Whalley.

02

GOVERNMENT

JUSTICE

LEGAL

MANAGEMENT

PUBLIC SAFETY

TRAINING

SECURITY

WHS

POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

Ride celebrates st 21 birthday

BY STEVEN GLOVER

Police officers from around the State once again jumped on their bikes and pedalled their way from Karratha to Broome all in the name of Police Legacy.

The bike ride celebrated its 21 st birthday this year as 34 riders and 28 volunteers completed the 36-hour non-stop marathon.

Riders had to endure head winds of up to 25 knots for most of the ride as well as 37C temperatures as they tackled the Roebuck Plains flats.

Organiser Senior Constable Kelsie Green said it was a fantastic effort from organisers and riders to raise $87,382.46.

Sen. Const. Green said the highlight throughout the trip was the constant banter between riders and volunteers for the entire journey.

“Practical jokes, water fights and the risk of getting fined for anything and everything,” she said.

“It’s a humbling experience for many, especially the maiden riders, but the sense of achievement when they ride into Broome is overwhelming, add to this the finish line is at the beautiful Cable Beach Surf Lifesaving Club.”

She said the ride also experienced a first as Pilbara District Superintendent Jo McCabe became the first WA Police superintendent to complete the ride.

PMX Campers were the major sponsor for the 2015 ride and donated the first and second prizes for the raffle, a Carrong Camper, valued at $17,500 and a 45-litre car fridge, valued at $1,199. Both prizes were won by serving Members this year.

Other sponsors who supported the ride included Gap Ridge Camp, Civeo Camp, Cherratta Lodge, Seariple Camp, Onyx, Woolworths, K-Mart, SINWA, Sealanes, Centro Karratha, Jolly Good, JAS Autos, Northwest Comms, Honda, Harvey Norman, McDonalds, BT Bakery, Karratha Panel & Paint, Barth Broz, BEZ Engineering, Karratha Building, Rio Tinto, Thrifty Car Hire and Pilbara Motor Group.

Sen. Const. Green said about six months of rigorous planning by the organising committee of nine Karrathabased officers made the ride possible along with assistance of volunteers from the local St John Ambulance, Army Barracks and Lions Club members.

“There has been a lot of interest shown for next year’s ride, and we do expect it to be bigger than this year’s,” she said.

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Bought to you by

HEALTH

CANCER COUNCIL WA

Understanding the risk of outdoor work MOST OF US ASSOCIATE SUN protection with going to the beach, being out on the boat or other leisure activities. But too often we either don’t realise or forget the importance of sun protection in the workplace.

It is also easy to not think of ourselves as outdoor workers when our time spent outside is inconsistent. However in Perth or northern WA, for much of the year but particularly during summer, skin damage can occur in just 10 minutes.

Western Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. …

Perth frequently experiences UV levels of 13 or 14 during summer, many times higher than the safe limit of under 3.

You may be surprised to know it is estimated each year in Australia 34,000 non-melanoma and 200 melanoma skin cancers are caused by workplace overexposure to UV radiation. This is alarming, especially given that more people die of skin cancer each year in Australia than on the roads. Western Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.

The facts are that overexposure to UV radiation has been identified as the main cause of skin cancer, and Australia experiences some of the highest UV levels in the world. At UV level 3 or above, sun protection is required to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Perth frequently experiences UV levels of 13 or 14 during summer, many times higher than the safe limit of under 3.

But sun protection doesn’t have to be hard. Just download the free SunSmart app to get your daily UV forecast or check www.myuv.com.au. The app includes UV information for over 45 locations in WA, the hours between which you require protection and when it is safe to be in the sun without protection, and important information to ensure you receive adequate vitamin D without damaging your skin.

It is also important to understand what protection your uniform provides, and what actions you need to take to protect those areas not covered. Your uniform will provide protection to the back, shoulders, part of the neck, torso and legs. However it is essential to recognise that a short sleeved shirt

fails to provide protection to your lower arms and backs of hands, and as the shirts are not buttoned to the neck, also the front of your chest. It is important that you provide protection to these areas with SPF30+ sunscreen.

A broad-brimmed hat provides the best protection, however if you opt to wear the cap provided as part of your uniform, you will find this protects your scalp but offers little protection to your ears, back of the neck and sides of your face, which are common sites for skin cancer. Therefore it is very important you ensure you use sunscreen in those unprotected areas at all times when you are outside and the UV is 3 or higher. SPF30+ lip balm is also a great investment as the lips are another location where skin cancers can occur.

When applying sunscreen it is important to know that one application is not sufficient for the entire day. It is recommended that you firstly apply sunscreen to dry skin approximately 20 minutes before going outside.

This allows time for the sunscreen to bond with the skin, providing the best protection. Sunscreen should be applied liberally, approximately 5ml per limb, and reapplied every two hours. Too often sunscreen sweats or rubs off during the day and is not reapplied, which can lead to unexpected sunburn and long term skin damage.

There are a number of new sunscreens on the market which have a dry-touch formula. This new formula is popular with people who work outdoors because it is applied like normal sunscreen but dries so the wearer cannot feel it. This formula of sunscreen is particularly good for those people who do not like the greasy feel of sunscreen, find that it sweats and runs into their eyes during the day or work in a very hot environment where traditional sunscreens can be uncomfortable.

Protecting your eyes is also important, as eyes are particularly vulnerable to UV radiation, with a number of conditions including cataracts and cancers of the eyes being attributed to overexposure to UV radiation. Sunglasses sold in Australia should meet the Australian Standard for UV protection. To be sure it is best to check the swing tag or label. Many workwear suppliers sell inexpensive t inte d prote c t i ve glas s e s an d sunglasses that provide high levels of UV protection which could be a good option for tasking duties. The most effective design for protecting your eyes are close fitting, wrap-around styles, as they will provide protection from both direct and reflected UV radiation.

Sun protection can be easy and doesn’t have to be too time consuming, but could help save you from painful or life threatening skin cancer later in life.

For more information about sun protection visit www.myuv.com.au, email sunsmart@cancerwa.asn.au or call Cancer Council WA on 13 11 20.

31 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

TGB are visiting KUNUNURRA, Y and BROOME HALLS CREEK, FITZROY CROSSING, DERB your appointment now. on week beginning 14 December 2015. Book

Free legal service for current and retired WAPU Members and their families.

The WA Police Union is partnering with leading law firm Tindall Gask Bentley to provide Members with access to first class legal services.

Established in 1970, TGB has grown to become South Australia’s largest plaintiff law firm and has now expanded into Western Australia.

The firm offers a full range of legal services.

Receive 30 minutes free preliminary advice on all legal matters.

We also offer a 10� discount on any legal fees for: • Workers Compensation*, • Motor Vehicle Accident Compensation*, • Criminal Injuries Compensation*, • Family and Divorce law, • Estates and Estate Planning.

To book an appointment with a lawyer or for more information contact WAPU HQ on (08) 9321 2155.

Level 1, 624 Murray Street West Perth *If you have not made a claim, disregard this publication.

WENDY BARRY

LEGAL

Family Law Partner Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers

Am I entitled to a share of my former partner’s superannuation?

Each party’s access to financial resources is a relevant consideration when the Court assesses the just and equitable division of assets. …

This is because one of the intentions of a property settlement is to place both parties on as equal a footing as possible to recover financially from the separation.

DE FACTO COUPLES

MARRIED COUPLES

In WA, de facto couples are not able to apply for a Superannuation Splitting Order as the Family Court Act 1997 (WA) does not make provision for de facto couples to divide their superannuation interests. But the Court will consider the superannuation of de facto couples as a relevant f inancial resource that will be available to them in the future when they retire.

Each party’s access to financial resources is a relevant consideration when the Court assesses the just and equitable division of assets. If one party has significantly greater f inan c ial r e s o ur ce s (in clu ding superannuation) than the other par ty then the Cour t may make an adjustment so that the other party receives more of the nonsuperannuation net asset pool to account for the difference. This is because one of the intentions of a property settlement is to place both parties on as equal a footing as possible to recover financially from the separation.

If you are married, you and your partner can split your superannuation interests.

A division of superannuation is known as a superannuation split and involves a portion of one party’s superannuation being ‘split’ to the other party either into an account with the same fund in the name of the other party or rolled out into the other party’s own superannuation fund.

For married couples, unless there are specific reasons not to do so, such as you agree to each retain your own superannuation or your relationship was a short one or one party accrued a significant amount of superannuation prior to the commencement of the relationship, the parties’ superannuation entitlements are commonly equalised. If the parties agree to divide their superannuation interests this needs to be done either

by Court order or a superannuation agreement.

Both married and de facto couples are required to comply with obligations for full and frank disclosure which means superannuation interests must always be disclosed when negotiating a property settlement.

If you have separated from your de facto partner and wish to obtain advice about property settlement or have specific questions about your entitlement to your former partner’s superannuation please contact WAPU HQ on (08) 9321 2155 to make an appointment with one of our family lawyers to discuss.

33 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

Package a new car and save on tax

Proud Supporters of the WA Police Union Your Package Includes Finance, Fuel, Insurance, Servicing, Tyres & Registration

Mention this advert prior to completing your contract and get a bonus Fitbit Charge HR or an iPad Mini when your new vehicle is delivered!

Did you know that as a police officer, you have priority access to salary packaging your next car?

Let the team at Fleet Network show you how to save thousands when buying your next new car.

It’s all about getting the most out of your salary and paying less in tax.

It’s worth a call – it’s your salary, after all.

1300 738 601 www.fleetnetwork.com.au/bonus Fleet Network Pty Ltd. To qualify for this offer you must mention this advertisement to Fleet Network prior to the completion of your initial contract. Vehicle must be new and supplied by Fleet Network. Not valid in conjunction with any other current Fleet Network offers. Employees should consult their employer’s salary packaging policy before entering into a contract. *Subject to Employer policy. Vehicle for illustration purposes only.

Bought to you by

MOTORING

FLEET NETWORK

FAQs on salary packaging STEVE ASHER HAS WORKED AT Fleet Network for 10 years and is one of our Business Development Managers. In his travels to various police stations and other government departments, Steve has been asked a number of common questions about salary packaging. Here is a selection of these frequently asked questions to help those who may be considering a novated lease in the future.

A common misconception about novated leasing is that the vehicle needs to be strictly used for business purposes only, but this is not true.

DOES IT HAVE TO BE A NEW CAR? No, but it has to be less than 12 years old at the end of the lease. Therefore if you want to lease a car that is eight years old, the maximum lease would be four years. Leasing new cars is a safer and more preferred option.

As a major part of the cost of the lease is actually the running costs, there is often very little difference in the reduction of your take home salary between new and second-hand.

Being a second-hand vehicle you could be purchasing someone else’s problems, for example, the tyres may not be in premium condition when you purchase second-hand and will almost certainly need replacing for more than the lease budget allows.

By purchasing a new vehicle you will receive a new car warranty and a national fleet discount on the purchase price which we pass onto you.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE END OF THE LEASE? You have three options: You can rollover into a new lease on a new car, we can trade-in your old vehicle or you have the option of selling it privately; You can pay out the residual owing (sort of like paying the deposit at the end instead of the beginning), cease salary packaging and keep the vehicle; or You can refinance and re-lease the residual, providing it complies with vehicle age restrictions.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I CHANGE MY JOB OR GET MADE REDUNDANT? Your lease is fully por table, subject to the agreement of your new employer. This would require a new deed of novation between you, your new employer and the financier, but essentially things would carry on as normal. Alternatively, you can continue to make the lease repayments from your post-tax salary, or pay out the vehicle. Whatever you choose Fleet Network will guide you through the process and prepare the documentation.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON’T MEET MY KILOMETRES? There is no longer a requirement to travel a set amount of kilometres per year with a lease. If we budget on a set amount of kilometres and you don’t drive them, it just means you haven’t used all the petrol allocated to you and you will build up a surplus of funds in your account. This can be paid back to you anytime you like, but as it came out of your salary before tax, when it gets refunded it must go back through your salary and be taxed.

CAN I USE A SURPLUS IN MY ACCOUNT TO PAY THE RESIDUAL AT THE END? Yes, but any surplus in your account has to be paid back to you through your salar y and thus be taxed when you receive it – the car must be paid off with post-tax funds.

TO SAVE TAX, DO I NEED TO USE MY CAR FOR BUSINESS? A common misconception about novated leasing is that the vehicle needs to be strictly used for business purposes only, but this is not true.

Even though your employer is helping you to buy the car it belongs to you as a private purchase.

Speak to one of Fleet Network’s expert consultants for an obligation-free quote or to arrange a workplace visit today.

Call Fleet Network on 1300 738 601 or visit www.fleetnetwork.com.au for more information.

35 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

READ

IN ORDER TO LIVE YEONMI PARK RRP: $49.99

Yeonmi Park was not dreaming of freedom when she escaped from North Korea. She didn't even know what it meant to be free. All she knew was that she was running for her life, that if she and her family stayed behind they would die – from starvation, or disease, or even execution.

This book is the story of Park's struggle to survive in the darkest, most repressive country on earth; her harrowing escape to South Korea through China's underworld of smugglers and human traffickers; and her emergence as a leading human rights activist – all before her 21st birthday.

WATCH

THE CSIRO TOTAL WELLBEING DIET COMPLETE RECIPE COLLECTION THE CSIRO RRP: $39.99

The CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet is Australia's favourite weightloss program and has inspired thousands of Australians to lose weight and improve their overall health. And to celebrate 10 years since the Total Wellbeing Diet was first introduced to us, we've gathered together more than 400 CSIRO recipes together in one volume. You'll be able to enjoy all of these healthy, mouth-watering dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with plenty of options everyone in the family will enjoy.

These are all the must-have recipes in one bumper collection – handy for those already using the diet or a delicious introduction to a healthy eating plan for those trying the diet for the first time. Lose weight and boost your vitality while enjoying the pleasures of good food.

WIN We have one copy of In Order to Live and The CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet Complete Recipe Collection to give away courtesy of Penguin Books Australia. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, work address and title of the book. Winners will be drawn on November 2, 2015.

POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

HOT PURSUIT

WENTWORTH SEASON 3

Straight-arrow policewoman Cooper (Reese Witherspoon) is excited and thrilled about her next assignment.

Her task is to escort Daniella Riva (Sofía Vergara), a wisecracking Colombian beauty, from San Antonio to Dallas so both she and her husband can testify against a drug lord.

Plans go awry when Mr Riva gets ambushed, leaving Daniella a widow.

Cooper and her witness must now use their wits to escape from crooked cops and murderous gunmen, while not killing each other in the process.

As the story resumes four months have passed since Bea Smith's bold escape and ruthless murder of Brayden Holt.

Having returned to Wentworth Correctional Centre, Bea has assumed the mantle of Top Dog, hailed by all – including Franky Doyle herself – as a worthy successor. Franky may no longer be Top Dog but she's not about to forget how Liz lagged on her, and Boomer is set make Liz pay.

Doreen's baby bump is growing and Ferguson is watching her closely. While Vera's instincts are more attuned to Ferguson’s scheming, Will is none the wiser despite Fletch's apparent hit and run accident.

SRP: $39.95 One disc

SRP: $39.95 Four discs

WIN We have five copies of Hot Pursuit and Wentworth Season 3 to give away courtesy of Roadshow Entertainment. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, work address and title of the movie. Winners will be drawn on November 2, 2015.

SEE

LISTEN

LEGEND

BLACK MASS

Legend is based on the true story of the rise and fall of the notorious Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie (both played by Tom Hardy) two gangsters who ruled the London crime scene in the swinging sixties.

With their gang, “The Firm”, the inseparable Krays imposed a reign of intimidation upon the city of but as their empire expanded, power struggles, madness, dangerous feuds and a woman weakened their bond.

Told through the eyes of Frances (Emily Browning), the love of Reggie’s life, this seductive and exhilarating story sees Tom Hardy deliver a masterful dual performance, perfectly capturing the nuances of two legendary brothers.

John Connolly and James “Whitey” Bulger grew up together on the streets of South Boston. Decades later, in the late 1970s, they would meet again. By then, Connolly was a major figure in the FBI’s Boston office and Whitey had become godfather of the Irish Mob. What happened between them – a dirty deal to trade secrets and take down Boston's Italian Mafia in the process – would spiral out of control, leading to murders, drug dealing, racketeering indictments, and, ultimately, to Bulger making the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted List.

Directed by Scott Cooper and starring Johnny Depp, Kevin Bacon, Joel Edgerton, Benedict Cumberbatch and Dakota Johnson.

SEASON COMMENCES 8 October

SEASON COMMENCES 15 October

WIN We have two passes to give away to Legend and Black Mass. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, work address and title of the movie. Winners will be drawn on November 2, 2015.

MALE

NATALIE IMBRUGLIA Out Now Three-time Grammy Award nominee, songwriter, actor and model, Natalie Imbruglia has released her new studio album entitled Male.

Imbruglia finds inspiration for her new album from her favourite male artists. Male, her first album since 2009, is a collection of classic and contemporary songs all originally performed by men including those of Cat Stevens, Damien Rice, Tom Petty, Pete Townsend and Zac Brown Band amongst others. It is produced by Billy Mann, who has also worked with artists like Pink, John Legend, Celine Dion, Martina McBride, and Sting.

Instant Crush, the first single from the album, was originally recorded by the electro-pop Grammy Award winners Daft Punk. The song was written by the duo’s Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo, along with The Strokes’ Julian Casablancas who also sang on the original track.

ENTERTAIN ME

THE ULTIMATE COLLECTION PAUL SIMON Out Now

The Ultimate Collection is the first-ever single disc collection to feature the best of Simon & Garfunkel and solo Paul Simon.

Taking listeners on a comprehensive journey through Paul Simon's extensive career, from Simon & Garfunkel's legendary tracks on Columbia Records to Paul Simon’s diverse solo recordings. As a solo artist, Paul Simon incorporated familiar pop-rock styles with a slew of world music influences, from reggae and gospel to traditional African and Brazilian rhythms.

The Ultimate Collection is now out on Sony Music and features You Can Call Me Al, The Sound of Silence and Diamonds on the Souls of her Shoes.

WIN We have five copies of Male and The Ultimate Collection to give away courtesy of Sony Music Australia. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, work address and title of the CD. Winners will be drawn on November 2, 2015.

37 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

SAVE with WAPU Member benefits www.wapu.org.au

Check out more Member benefits online at the WAPU website

WAPU HAS SECURED A

SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR MEMBERS on R.M.WILLIAMS BOOTS Check out the MEMBER BENEFITS PAGE at www.wapu.org.au for full details

POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

MEMBER BENEFITS

ARE YOUR DETAILS UP TO DATE? A number of recent tragic events has highlighted the importance of having an up to date Beneficiary Nomination Form.

Policing by its very nature is often unpredictable, difficult and dangerous.

While we may not like talking about it, it is imperative that you make arrangements for your loved ones just in case something should occur.

To ensure your chosen beneficiary receives the entire benefit under our Death Benefit Policy, you must complete a Beneficiary Nomination Form as without these details we have no option but to pay the benefit to your estate.

If your personal circumstances alter it is also your sole responsibility to make sure you advise WAPU in writing of these changes.

✁

Beneficiary Nomination Form WA Police Union 639 Murray Street WEST PERTH WA 6005

REF: WA POLICE UNION GROUP LIFE INSURANCE AND DEATH BENEFIT SCHEME BENEFICIARY NOMINATION FORM

Dear Sir, I,

Regimental No: (NAME)

of (ADDRESS)

in accordance with Rule 11.5 of the WA Police Union’s Constitution, Rules & By-Laws, hereby nominate: (NAME IN FULL)

(RELATIONSHIP)

(ADDRESS)

Please complete, detach and send the Beneficiary Nomination Form on this page to WAPU HQ immediately by email admin@wapu.org.au or post WAPU, 639 Murray Street, West Perth WA 6005.

to receive all monies due at the time of my death. Should he/she pre-decease me, I then nominate: (NAME IN FULL)

(RELATIONSHIP)

(ADDRESS)

In the event of any change in personal circumstances occurring since the signing of this document, or should any of the above matters be disputed following my death, I authorise the Board of the WA Police Union to act on my behalf and distribute the benefit to the person or persons considered most appropriate.

(MEMBER’S SIGNATURE)

(WITNESS)

DATE

POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

NEW MEMBERS

WAPU WELCOMES ITS NEWEST MEMBERS

40 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

RETIREMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

VALE

RETIRING MEMBERS

RESIGNING MEMBERS

5163 Philip WIGGETT 5473 Gary NEIL 6085 Warwick LIPSCOMBE 7097 Michael POWERS 7310 Patrice BERNARD 7770 Paul RIVERS 8466 Ronald DODSON

8859 Steven HAYWARD 9645 Alan CAHILL 10156 Glenn ROGAN 10747 Christopher BOWN 10783 Paul TAYLOR 10839 Melissa ELLERY 10923 Trevor HIGGS 11581 Karolyn HARTUNG 11995 Stephen STEYTLER 12177 Owen RUCK 12389 Simon WATSON 12406 David STIRLING 12947 Muhamad MOHAIYADEEN 13558 Paul CASSIDY 13941 Callan TUCKER 14807 Bradley TOBIASSEN 14811 Peter JEFFREY 15239 Christopher HANSON 15415 Kaman McDONALD 15668 Natasha DAVIS 15767 Diane SADLER 15995 Nicola MAZANDARANI

SERVING 6317 Sergeant ALLAN BRUCE SPICER Aged 57

RETIRED CONTINUED 3914 Inspector MERVYN JAMES COOPER Aged 73

11170 Detective Senior Constable MARK DARRYL TWEEDDALE Aged 40

2151 Superintendent ROY HECTOR PATTERSON Aged 89

RETIRED 2680 Inspector EDMUND CHARLES LAWTIE Aged 85

2755 Constable WILLIAM WAUHOP Aged 86

2353 Superintendent KENNETH FRED MARKHAM Aged 92

3372 Sergeant RAYMOND MICHAEL HEALY Aged 77

EMERGENCY

24/7 DIRECTOR

0438 080 930

639 Murray Street, West Perth WA 6005

PH: (08) 9321 2155

F: (08) 9321 2177

Mick Kelly EMERGENCY DIRECTOR

www.wapu.org.au

WAPU admin@wapu.org.au POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2015

FROM THE ARCHIVES

OCTOBER 1999 BATTLE FOR POST-SERVICE MEDICAL COVER The October 1999 edition of Police News highlighted the need for the State Government to look after its police officers, especially those injured on duty.

Then-President Michael Dean said the Government had a “special responsibility” to provide continued medical support to police officers who suffer permanent health problems resulting from every day duties protecting society.

THREE-MINUTE PURSUIT – LIFETIME INJURY On the theme of Members being injured on duty, Acting Sergeant Bernadine Tucker told Police News her story following an accident while pursuing a motorist on the South West Highway. Pictures show Bernadine’s overturned vehicle.

Bernadine was pursing a speeding Honda 1000 motorcycle when her vehicle stuck a roadside ditch and overturned. As a result of the accident, she had to have her elbow pinned and wired back together and was in a cast from wrist to shoulder for three months.

A partially dislocated shoulder also went undiagnosed at the time and was later treated by a different doctor some nine years after the accident.

Given the circums tances of Bernadine’s single vehicle accident, she had no resource to third party personal injury compensation and a judge’s decision that the motorcyclists could not be blame for the accident also closed any possibility of recourse to the State Government Insurance Commission. She also had no recourse to the Commissioner of Police and the Minister for Police refused an Act of Grace payment.

NORTH PERTH POLICE STATION Police News visited North Perth Police Station which housed OIC Sergeant Denis Sutton and five constables.

The small station was seen as ideal for probationers because they could receive one-on-one mentoring, gain skills across a wide variety of tasks and experience handling different situations before being posted to a larger station.

Fleetcare’s novated promise to you!

OUR PROMISE C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Choosing a novated lease provider is a big decision. It isn’t as simple as finding the lowest up-front premium, because in reality, the true cost of your vehicle is calculated over the full duration of your lease.

A promise of something better When you take out a novated lease with Fleetcare, we believe in up-front transparency. So rather than worrying about pushy salesmen, marketing gimmicks and hidden costs, you can expect good advice, great attention to detail and genuine value for money – for the full duration of your lease.

^

From

$295

per fortnight1 Fully maintained

Mazda3 Neo Hatch Auto Save tax of $2,547 per year !

2

Terms & Conditions 1. Quote is correct at time of publishing and is based on a 5 year lease with 20,000kms travelled per year. Prices and specifications subject to change and all quotes generated will be based on individual circumstances. 2. Estimated savings. 3. Fleetcare Pty Ltd 34 009 243 627. ^ Some vehicle features shown in promotional image may differ from exact model used to attain fortnightly quote.

1300 777 600 Visit fleetcare.com.au/police Call