APRIL 2014
Young Members
Up and coming police officers serving the community and your Union
Made for murder
Are killers born or made?
WAPU’s new-look building See the newly transformed WAPU HQ
THE MAGAZINE FOR THE
WA
POLICE UNION
SUPPORTING
THE FORCE ONE STEP AT A TIME. For every pair of Response Boots sold, we’re donating $4 to the Ryan Marron Foundation. Police officers risk their lives for the safety of our community and The Ryan Marron Foundation will ensure officers receive community support in return.
THE LEADER:
SLIM-FIT
DESIGN
ENFORCER 320250
COMMANDER 320251
LEADER 320550
To find out more or donate to the Ryan Marron Foundation visit: ryanmarronfoundation.org
APRIL 2014
POLICE NEWS THE MAGAZINE FOR THE WA POLICE UNION
CONTENTS
10
06 WAPU Directors and staff
33 Legal
08 President’s Report
35 Motoring
Young Members
19 WAPU Opinion
36 Entertainment
Meet two of the Union’s younger Branch Officials and see how they combine their police duties and Union work.
20 Industrial Report
38 Member Benefits
22 Field Report
39 New Members
24 Q&A
40 Retirements and Resignations
14
Made for murder
25 Opinion
41 Vale
27 WAPU Opinion
42 Where are they now?
31 Health
Are killers born or made? We speak to those with an insider’s understanding.
28
WAPU’s new-look building Several months of renovations and a few hiccups, WAPU HQ is finally ready for business. 4 Police News APRIL 2014
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
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.
PUBLISHED BY WA Police Union 639 Murray Street West Perth WA 6005 (08) 9321 2155 ADVERTISING WA Police Union (08) 9321 2155
Above First Class Constable Nathan Hicks had been an active Member of the Union prior to becoming Maylands Branch President. cover Constable Nikki Gill is one of WAPU’s young Members making a difference at Branch level. Pictures: Jody D’Arcy Photography
WA
POLICE UNION
24/7 EMERGENCY Director
Board of Directors
GEORGE TILBURY President 0409 105 898
BRANDON SHORTLAND Vice President 0419 802 650
JON GROVES Deputy Vice President 0438 080 868
WENDY ROUTHAN Executive Assistant
JESSICA PORTER Media Officer
MICK KELLY Treasurer & 24/7 Emergency 0438 080 930
Staff
PAUL HUNT Secretary
6 Police News APRIL 2014
Chris Vitler Finance Manager
STEVEN GLOVER Media Officer
Board of Directors & Staff
EMERGENCY all-hours Director MICk KELLY
0438 080 930
HARRY ARNOTT Director 0407 989 008
PETER KELLY Senior Industrial Officer
LINDSAY GARRATT Director 0407 775 050
Andrea Wyllie Industrial Officer
MICk GILL Director 0427 097 000
JANE BAkER Research Officer
KEVIN McDONALD Director 0434 833 283
DAVE LAMPARD Field Officer
PETER POTTHOFF Director 0407 476 679
DEAN GIACOMINI Field Officer
HARRY RUSSELL Director 0412 585 429
TARRYN SMITH Accounts Officer
JAIMEE McCAGH Administration Officer
PENNY BROWN Administration Officer 7
Police News APRIL 2014
George Tilbury President
Taser policy changes required The WA Police Union is very concerned with the current WA Police Taser policy as it does not provide appropriate protection for Members. I recently wrote to the Commissioner asking him to review the policy. An area which needs close review is the inconsistency in WA Police’s policy when compared with the Department of Corrective Services. DCS officers are permitted to use their Tasers against persons for compliance while our Members cannot. It is not fair nor reasonable that two government agencies, operating in similar challenging environments, are subject to different policies where greater protection is afforded to one group of employees and not the other. It is WAPU’s view that DCS has the best Taser policy, in particular Procedure 4, which allows prison officers to use a Taser for compliance purposes in the event the officer has issued orders or instructions to a person and that person does not comply. We believe the Commissioner and WA Police should adopt a strong stance on this issue by replicating the DCS position on Taser use for compliance, even if it is only in limited circumstances. The DCS Commissioner has got this right by having a supportive policy that provides an appropriate level of protection for prison officers and it is time that police officers have similar protections.
It is not fair nor reasonable that two government agencies, operating in similar challenging environments, are subject to different policies where greater protection is afforded to one group of employees and not the other.
8
Auxiliary officer band upgrades The Union has successfully lobbied WA Police to upgrade police auxiliary officers in custody/support positions at Judicial Services, Perth Metropolitan and Regional WA from Band 1 to Band 2. This is a fantastic outcome for our PAO Members, in particular those who work in the high stress environment of the Perth Watch House. It is our belief that the upgrade will also assist WA Police attract more applicants to custodial care roles. All substantive occupants will commence Band 2, effective from the approval date of November 18, 2013 and have their pay backdated. More information on this issue can be found on page 20.
Blood testing and Criminal Investigation Act Police Minister Liza Harvey addressed the March WAPU Board of Directors meeting and one of the topics was our push for mandatory blood testing of offenders when Members have been exposed to bodily fluids. Mrs Harvey said the Government was finalising the legislation and she was hopeful it would be introduced into State Parliament soon. This is a major issue for Members as it will reduce the period of uncertainty after coming into contact with an offender’s bodily fluids. WAPU will continue to pressure the State Government to ensure this legislation is progressed through Parliament as a high priority. I asked for examples of incidents where Members have been exposed and the response was overwhelming. We will now use these examples to illustrate the importance of this legislation to all sides of politics, so thank you for taking the time to respond. The Minister also assured Directors that changes to Section 139 of the Criminal Investigation Act is close to being completed. The changes will hopefully mean an end to police officers having to babysit arrested suspects while undertaking an investigation.
President's report
01 02
Metropolitan Scholarship winner At last month’s Board Meeting, I had the pleasure of presenting Shenton College Year 12 student Elizabeth Leong with this year’s Metropolitan WAPU Scholarship. Beth is the daughter of Member Eddie Leong and is achieving an A grade average on all subjects and has a very strong community commitment. Beth coaches netball and carried out fundraising for a community engagement project trip to Cambodia, to teach English. She has also made personal contributions to support the community, such as donating her hair for cancer survivors. Beth said she would use the scholarship to fund a maths tutor to assist with her studies this year. I wish Beth all the best for her studies in 2014 and beyond.
Retirement Presentation I had the pleasure of recognising the commitment of five of our Members at a recent retirement presentation. Pamela Minahan-Muir, Alan Cox, Dick Lee and Mark Valentine were all present to receive their plaques recognising their loyalty to WAPU and their service as police officers. The family of the late Gary Husain were also present to accept Gary’s plaque. His wife Jane spoke of the support she has received from the police family, once again showing our ability to help each other in times of need. With the large round of severances, we are currently in the process of planning further plaque presentations to acknowledge the commitment of our departing Members.
01 Mark Valentine, Alan Cox, Pamela Minahan-Muir, Dick Lee with George Tilbury after the retirement presentation. 02 WAPU Scholarship winner Elizabeth Leong with her mother Claire and President George Tilbury.
9
Young Membe making a difference By Steven Glover
Murdoch Constable Nikki Gill is your average young frontline police officer. She enjoys the normal stuff, just like anyone else. She likes being social, going out with friends for dinner and drinks, as well as the beach and water sports. “I’m into my fitness and try to fit in as much exercise as I can when my shifts allow it,” she said. Nikki is also a WA Police Union Branch Official. Back in March 2013, Nikki nominated as Secretary of the South Metropolitan Branch, was elected to the position and has held it ever since. “I went to one of the (Branch) meetings held at the station, and at the time the South Metropolitan President was stationed at Murdoch. We got chatting about the roles and responsibilities the Union plays and he encouraged me to get involved. There was a vacancy for Secretary so I volunteered for it. “I wanted to understand what the Union did, which is why I became involved.” Maylands Branch President and Regional Operations Group First Class Constable Nathan Hicks was an active Member prior to taking on his role with the Union. “I was an active Member within the Western Suburbs Branch under then President Detective Sergeant Rob Witt. I attended all the meetings and had input into them,” he said. After a move to ROG and being stationed at Maylands Police Complex, Nathan stepped up his involvement with WAPU. “I was approached by Dean Giacomini from the Union after 10 Police News APRIL 2014
consulting with Rob Witt. For various reasons, the Maylands Branch had not been active for almost 12 months and I did not want to see it fold so I decided to step up.” While working as an Inquiry Officer, Nikki manages to combine her work investigating minor offences and sometimes heading out for general duties tasking with her Union tasks which she believes are not too taxing. “For me as Secretary, all I do is help organise meetings and attend, take notes and type up the minutes. Sometimes the meetings are outside of work hours, but that doesn’t bother me,” she said. “Anything extra like training sessions is generally done during work hours in which I can take TUTA leave. It’s all about managing my time and integrating a couple of Union hours into my work each month.” Nikki became a police officer after studying security terrorism and counterterrorism at university with the original idea to head off to Canberra and work for ASIO. However, the idea of desk work and being away from family and friends persuaded her to remain in the State and join WA Police five years ago. “This job is so dynamic, it’s always changing and never boring,” she said. “I hate the idea of being stuck inside, behind a desk day in, day out. I sometimes have to spend days at the computer, doing files, however I always have the opportunity to get out on the road when I need to. “I enjoy the people I work with. It can be such a draining job, both physically and emotionally and having a good crew around you makes all the difference.” ▷
bers “I’ve met officers from all over the State and Australia… and it’s interesting listening to the issues they face.”
11 Police News APRIL 2014
Nathan always wanted to be a police officer from a young age.
“It's a great way to represent your Members and try and make some positive changes.”
12 Police News APRIL 2014
However, 20 years ago his initial application to WA Police was declined due to lack of life experience. “I went out and got married, started a new business, had two children, moved around and into three new homes. Then after 10 years and a mid-life crisis I got divorced, met my beautiful new wife and had two more kids,” Nathan told Police News. “I decided it was time before I got too old to reapply to the police. I was finally successful and I joined WA Police to help people and to make a difference to people's lives. I'm coming up to my eighth year in November. “I love turning up to work and not knowing what is going to happen. What district we will be in, the jobs we may attend, what we might get out of a vehicle stop and who or what we might come across during the shift.” He also has quite a diverse life away from the force. The father of four loves to spend time with his family as well as watching sport and socialising with friends. “I love watching the AFL and watching the Australian Cricket Team beat any team, but especially the English,” he said. His love of cricket also extends to on the field as a member of the WA Police Cricket Team, the Numbats. Nathan was a part of the side’s recent Sri Lankan Tour which he described as an awesome trip. As well as entertaining his kids, Nathan is also heavily involved in the Royal Australian Navy Band as a drummer. “We are a 20-piece big band performing everything from Glen Miller to Robbie Williams to the top 40 charts,” Nathan said. “We also march on ANZAC Day but predominately we are a show band. We have supported bands like the Hoodoo Gurus, Marcia Hines and the ABBA cover band and last year we attended Sydney to participate in the International Fleet Review.” He attends rehearsals every Wednesday night for three hours, working up cover charts for upcoming gigs on most weekends ranging from in-house Navy gigs or traveling the State to perform for not-for-profit organisations. And if that isn’t enough, he also helps run the Bright Blue Disco in Wembley. Every six weeks, a junior and senior disco are held for 250 kids over the course of the night. “We have a DJ, bouncy castle, face painter, big screen showing dance clips, food and drinks and awesome door prizes. $7 gets you in the door and all money raised goes to the Commissioner's Charity for sick kids, the Bright Blue Foundation,” he said. Last year, the discos raised $8,000 and Nathan said that without the core group of people and volunteers that helped at every disco it simply would not be possible.
WAPU Field Officer Dean Giacomini said the involvement of younger Members in the Union was vital to the future of the organisation. “Our Members, 30 and under, are the future Branch Officials, Directors and Presidents who set the agenda for the work the Union completes on behalf of Members,” he said. “The earlier we can get Members involved, even if it is attending Branch meetings and getting involved by engaging with WAPU Directors and staff, the better long-term benefit for the Union.” Mr Giacomini said WAPU was looking at starting a young Members group as a way to engage with the next generation. “I think a lot of our younger and newer Members do not know exactly what the Union does for them,” he said. “It is very important we educate them on the role of the Union and what WAPU Directors and staff do for all of our Members. “I attend a lot of Branch meetings and I think at times our younger Members are afraid to voice their opinions due to the presence of senior officers. I believe a young Members group or forum will allow our next generation to voice their issues and concerns and become more engaged with the Union.” Nikki said since becoming a Branch Official, the network she has developed has been a major benefit. “I’ve met officers that I normally wouldn’t come across. I’ve met officers from all over the State and Australia through conferences and it’s interesting listening to the issues they face,” she said. “I’ve been exposed to issues and discussions regarding upper management of WA Police which in my role, at my level, I wouldn’t normally hear about. I’m starting to get a better understanding of how WA Police is managed since being involved in the Union.” Learning more about her entitlements and what the Union stands for has been another positive for Nikki. “I know what I’m entitled to, what services and protection the Union provides, therefore protecting my job and my lifestyle.
“I can bring that information back to the junior officers who may not know where they stand when it comes to rostering and entitlements and I can help them out with their questions when need be.” She believes everyone should be going to at least a couple of meetings a year. “It doesn’t take much of your time and it’s vital to keep yourself up to date with current issues,” she said. “I know everyone is busy and no one likes to spend more time at work unless they have to, but it’s definitely worth listening in on the matters being discussed and putting your opinion forward.” As for his involvement in the Union, Nathan said he enjoyed being a part of WAPU because it was good to know there are like-minded people all around the State striving to get the workers the best deal at each industrial agreement negotiation. Another benefit Nathan enjoyed was the knowledge of the industrial agreement he has developed over his time with the Union. “Plus you are only a phone call away from George Tilbury, Brandon Shortland or any of the Directors if you need help or advice and that gives me a lot of peace of mind,” he said. Nathan also urged Members to get involved. “It's a great way to represent your Members and try and make some positive changes,” he said. “You don't have to give up too many hours. Plus it's a great learning curve and you get to engage with all ranks, from Assistant Commissioners to Commanders to Constables. “I have great support from my fellow Maylands Branch Officials, Vice President Sergeant Nathan Dawe and Secretary Senior Constable Jon Bailey and I have a very understanding Shift Sergeant. “I try to do a lot of my Union work just before or just as I finish my shift. I like to stay on top of the paperwork and answer all correspondence ASAP.”
“I can bring that information back to the junior officers who may not know where they stand when it comes to rostering and entitlements…”
13 Police News APRIL 2014
Made for Murder
By Jessica Porter
14 Police News APRIL 2014
It was a crime that captured Australia’s attention for more than a decade. The disappearance of Queensland school boy Daniel Morcombe puzzled investigators as to how a 13-year-old boy could disappear off the face of the Earth and not be seen.
Brett Peter Cowan was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Daniel Morcombe.
The killers “If you can create the right conditions, the right opportunities, anyone is capable of doing anything.”
But last month saw a dramatic resolution in this 11-year mystery with the conviction of Daniel’s killer, Brett Peter Cowan. Queensland Police undertook the biggest murder investigation in its history with more than 100 officers interviewing 10,000 people and following a whopping 20,000 leads. But it just took one great undercover sting, lasting months and involving WA police officers, to capture Cowan and elicit a detailed confession in a Perth hotel room. While police officers are trained to study the crime scene, catch the bad guy, lock them up and let the court decide their fate, one elusive question may remain unanswered; why do they do it? What pushes someone over the edge and leads them on a downward path of taking another person’s life? And what if that victim is just a child? As we learnt from the covert police tapes, Cowan’s primary objective was to molest Daniel and not kill him. So what turns someone into a murderer? And what can we learn about them from the harrowing scene they leave behind?
WA Police Behavioural Analyst, Detective Senior Sergeant Kristine Giesen, said homicides generally fell into two main categories; instrumental or expressive. Det. Sen-Sgt Giesen described expressive homicides as those in which the killer is more impulsive, disorganised, reactive, spontaneous or messy. This can infer there is an emotional connection between the killer and victim. Instrumental homicide, according to Det. Sen-Sgt Giesen, describes a murder in which killing was the primary objective. These killers seem to be more organised, are more likely to carry weapons to the scene, try to avoid detection by completing a forensic clean and are generally more controlled, educated, unemotional and skilled. They are also more pathological and sinister than expressive types. “The more common type of killer is the more expressive, spontaneous type of person who could just be like you or I,” she said. “Give us the right context, the right situation and anyone is capable of killing.” This is supported by Terry Goldsworthy, Associate Professor of Criminology at Queensland’s Bond University and a former police officer with nearly 30 years’ experience. “If you can create the right conditions, the right opportunities, anyone is capable of doing anything,” he said. “Potentially any of us, under the right pressure are capable of committing a crime. Where the differentiation comes is some people will resist the urge or temptation.” He says most humans have an “in-built circuit” which says ‘you can’t kill another human being’. ▷ 15 Police News APRIL 2014
Terry Goldsworthy is an Associate Professor of Criminology at Bond University.
However, proponents of evolutionary psychology, believe our brains are extensions of our animal roots. Professor David Buss from the University of Texas at Austin is the author of ‘The Murderer Next Door: Why the Mind Is Designed to Kill’ and believes killing is part of human nature, albeit morally wrong. “In seven years of research on murderers, I discovered that an astonishing 91 per cent of men and 84 per cent of women in five different cultures have had at least one vivid fantasy of committing murder,” he wrote. “As my research continued, I became convinced that we all have the capacity to become murderers. There's a compelling reason why. Over the long sweep of deep time, killing has conferred such powerful advantages in the ruthless game of reproductive competition that natural selection has forged in all of us – minds that are designed to murder. Murderer's genes prevailed over those of their unfortunate victims, and we are their descendants.” Prof Goldsworthy said statistics show men are more likely to kill and in around 70 per cent of all homicides, the victim knew the killer. “If you look at places people are killed, overwhelmingly it’s residential areas. Over 60 per cent of murders are committed in residences,” he said. He also said the leading cause which could trigger an expressive murder is a domestic argument. “General arguments would be the second cause, then other areas such as revenge, jealously, desertion or termination of a relationship, retaliation, money drugs or alcohol-laden arguments.”
16 Police News APRIL 2014
“So it does take a different type of person to kill a child because most of us have those protections for children. However, when you look at predators who go out looking to kill, they’re in a different category to someone who has very bad parenting skills, is under a lot of pressure and reacts in the wrong way.”
“When you talk about murder, you’re not just talking about complex people who commit murders, but the motives for people in most cases are slightly different.” Police believe sisters Jessica and Jane Cuzens were killed by their mother on December 5, 2011.
The investigators
The victims Victims also allow some insight into the minds of their killers, for example when the victim is vulnerable like a child. Prof Goldsworthy said the community elevated these types of offences higher as a society. “If you look at the International Criminal Court which looks at widespread atrocities, they talk about victims being typically defenceless as a circumstance of aggravation,” he said. “So it does take a different type of person to kill a child because most of us have those protections for children. However, when you look at predators who go out looking to kill, they’re in a different category to someone who has very bad parenting skills, is under a lot of pressure and reacts in the wrong way.” Major Crime Squad Detective Senior Sergeant Greg McDonald said he had investigated a number of child homicides, including the 2011 alleged murder-suicide in Port Denison which is yet to be finalised by way of Coronial Inquest. It will be alleged the mother was responsible for killing her two children before taking her own life. “A common theme among witnesses was that it was inconceivable the woman they knew could be suspected of committing such a crime,” he said. “The woman they knew is not the woman we allege committed the offence.” “It appears her actions were out of character which makes it very hard to understand why someone would commit an offence against anyone’s child, let alone their own.” Det. Sen-Sgt Giesen suggested the mother was most likely suffering a psychotic episode and mental health issues are often a contributing factor. “International research on mothers who kill their children shows that in some cases these mothers believe they are saving their children from something horrible. It is a rational thought process, but with an irrational premise.” Det. Sen-Sgt McDonald, who is a father of two, said luckily the Major Crime Squad is not called on to investigate the deaths of many children, but said they are fairly regular occurrences.
Being part of the dedicated squad which investigates these serious and often confronting crimes also garners an incredible amount of satisfaction for the officers, Det. Sen-Sgt McDonald says. “When you talk about murder, you’re not just talking about complex people who commit murders, but the motives for people in most cases are slightly different,” he said. “No two cases are the same. On some occasions the offender is apprehended quickly and makes full admissions whilst others can take years to resolve or remain unsolved. Even when matters are resolved quickly extensive work has to be done regarding the investigation and brief preparation.” One of those cases that took a long time to come to justice was the murder of millionaire businessman Craig Puddy by Cameron Mansell. Mansell was found guilty of murder following a 10-week trial in the Supreme Court. A prosecutor told the court that Mr Puddy thought Mansell stole money from him, which instigated an argument. Police said Mansell hit Mr Puddy on the head, put his body in a wheelie bin and dumped it. Following Mr Puddy’s disappearance, Mansell fled to Queensland. Det. Sen-Sgt McDonald, who was the senior investigating officer, said the case was a long, drawn-out investigation. “It took a long time to investigate and subsequently convict Mansell. Unfortunately we are still unable to locate Mr Puddy’s body,” he said. “I still have that in the back of my mind that I would like to find Craig Puddy’s body and how important this is to the family. All they want is to have their son back.” The investigation of homicides requires specialist skills where there is significant scrutiny on the investigative actions taken. Officers build knowledge over time and retention of them in the squad for longer periods can be useful. However, as with other areas in WA Police, there are tenure restrictions. “It would be good if we could find a way to retain people because a lot of people don’t really want to leave, but they’re in a position where they’re obliged to,” he said. “I think the hours worked can put some people off coming to the squad however everyone who works here finds it very satisfying,” Det. Sen-Sgt McDonald said. 17 Police News APRIL 2014
Access Accessyour your super superwithout without having havingtotoretire. retire.
Don’t miss Don’t outmiss on special out on benets bene specialtsbenets bene from ts age from 55 through age 55 through GESB’s GESB’s Tr Transition itiTr Transition iti to Retirement to Retirement option. option. Transition Transition to Retirement to Retirement allows you allows to access you toyour access super yourbene supertsbene whiletsyou while you are still are working. still working. You canYou switch canto switch part-time to part-time or casual orwork, casualchange work, change positions positions or even or take even some taketime some offtime whileoffstill while maintaining still maintaining your regular your regular income.income.
GESP0340-211x250 GESP0340-211x250 Ad_Police News.indd Ad_Police News.indd 1 1
GESP0340
The ChantThe West Chant ratings West logo ratings is a trademark logo is a trademark of Chant West of Chant Pty Limited West Pty and Limited is usedand under is used licence. under licence.
GESP0340
Call GESB Calltoday GESBon today 13 43 on72 13to 43nd 72 out to how nd out you how could youbene couldt bene from at from a Transition Transition to Retirement to Retirement strategy, strategy, or visit gesb.com.au or visit gesb.com.au
1/8/14 2:361/8/14 PM 2:36 PM
WAPU Opinion
Lindsay Garratt
Metropolitan Region Director
Forensic experts place Reform under the microscope In February, the Midland Workshops Branch meeting was packed with forensic officers, quite rightly anxious about the Frontline 2020 Reform and what it meant for their future careers.
…what struck me was the Superintendent’s willingness to engage in very open and frank discussion about the future of the Forensic Division…
Many years ago, these Members made career choices to specialise in their respective forensic fields and committed many hours to be trained as experts. Now, the officers are feeling the career rug has been unexpectedly yanked from under their feet. It was natural for their anxiety to be expressed as anger, generated from the corridor whispers of civilianisation. The officers’ visions of a forensic future were engulfed by images of two alternatives: one, a significant pay cut if they remain, or two, being marched off to the frontline, a distant memory for many and necessitating hours or even years of re-skilling. In an ef for t to open up communications, myself and Branch President Russell Gardiner approached the head of the Forensic Division, Superintendent Tony Flack, to bring the Members’ documented concerns to his attention. Through this discus sion, an invitation was extended to Superintendent Flack to attend regular Branch meetings to field questions and keep Members updated on the plans and the progress of the reform process, which he kindly and willingly accepted.
As a Director of your Union, it is not my job to pedal corporate messages, and certainly not propaganda, for the sake of the corporate good, but to advocate on your behalf, as Members. This often places us at odds with Government as well as senior managers who are also Members. However, I need to give credit to the leadership demonstrated by Superintendent Flack. In a special Midland Workshops Branch meeting, equally well attended as the first, the Superintendent immediately took the floor and proceeded to explain the drivers of the reform. He outlined a range of possible outcomes, what it may mean for the Forensic Division and the future of many Members. While the content would have been of great interest to the forensic officers, which is too detailed to do justice here, what struck me was the Superintendent’s willingness to engage in a very open and frank discussion about the future of the Forensic Division and talk about what he called the “C” word. It appeared that he genuinely wanted officers’ input and ideas. He gave an open invitation for officers to sit down with him and discuss their particular concerns.
In disbelief of my ears, throughout the meeting I made regular checks of my “propaganda meter” which seemed firmly cemented in the green throughout the entire time Superintendent Flack held the floor. Looking around the room and from comments at the meeting, it was evident that Members appreciated his openness and his ability to clearly articulate the issues, concerns and challenges in a down to earth and respectful manner that people could understand. It is still too early for forensic officers to know their future however, there is no doubt they are better placed to start making some informed decisions as we move forward in the reform journey. On behalf of the Member s, I would like to extend a big thank you to Superintendent Tony Flack for addressing our Members and setting the record straight.
Questions for Superintendent Tony Flack on the future of forensics in the reform process can be emailed to Midland Workshops Branch President Russell Gardiner or brought to the next Midland Workshops Branch Meeting.
19 Police News APRIL 2014
Jessica Porter Media Officer
PAOs on the band-wagon The WAPU Industrial Team has been fielding questions from Members about the recent reclassification of some police auxiliary officer positions.
Whilst this approach may appear not to acknowledge the prior service of some officers, it needs to be noted that this is a recognised industrial standard that has been applied for public servants and police officers historically.
20 Police News APRIL 2014
Industrial Officer Andrea Wyllie said the process involves appointing all Band 1 Custody and Support positions within Judicial Services, Perth Metropolitan and Regional WA to a Band 2 at the first increment of the promotional level. The incremental increase will be back dated to November 18, 2013. “Whilst this approach may appear not to acknowledge the prior service of some officers, it needs to be noted that this is a recognised industrial standard that has been applied for public servants and police officers historically,” she said. Ms Wyllie said the Industrial Team had received queries from concerned Members about their current classification and that prior service was not being taken into account. “Police auxiliar y officers who believe that they have relevant acting service and are seeking further consideration be given to their circumstances should contact Personnel Services which will be addressing requests on an individual basis.” The changes were announced after a WA Police review and a Union letter to the Commissioner addressing conditions and concerns relating to police auxiliary officers. Reclassification was one of the several recommendations raised. “A review of the removal of PAO Supervisor Band 3 positions from the Perth Watch House was requested. However, WA Police did not support the proposal claiming consideration was given to the matter from a corporate perspective and police operational requirements did not support the reinstatement of the positions,” Ms Wyllie said. “Further to this, issues relating to the implementation of an internal transfer policy for PAOs and transfers including GROH Housing were raised with both receiving a limited amount of consideration by WA Police.” Ms Wyllie said WA Police said an additional number of PAO resources had been identified for allocation to the Perth Watch House and these would be rolled out during the year, allowing officers more frequent and longer opportunities for rotation within the Perth Metropolitan Region.
People Who Care Police officers are entitled to up to 40 hours per calendar year to care for a sick family member and last month, the Industrial Team had a dozen queries about what this leave entails. Ms Wyllie said questions often arise from officers regarding the definition of a “sick family member” and what is and, how do you satisfy a “reasonable person”. Ms Wyllie said the definition of what classifies an individual as a family member is outlined in the Industrial Agreement in sub-clause 3 of Clause 34: (a) The partner of the employee; (b) The child, step child or grandchild of the employee (including an adult child, step child or grandchild); (c) The parent, step parent, or grandparent whether they live with the employee or not; (d) The sibling of an employee; or (e) Any other person who, at or immediately before the relevant time for assessing the employee’s eligibility to take carers leave, lived with the employee as a member of the employees household. “The entitlement is available to employees in times where a family member is suffering from illness, injury or in the case of an unexpected emergency relating to a family member. If an individual finds themselves in a situation where their circumstances do not fall within these broad categories then access to another form of leave, paid or unpaid may be appropriate,” she said. “Evidence that would satisfy a reasonable person is to be provided to the employer when requesting carers leave and the entitlement is not cumulative from year to year. “If attendance at a medical practitioner, dentist or chiropractor/physiotherapist is necessary then a medical certificate can be obtained as suitable evidence,” Ms Wyllie advised.
Industrial reporT
Tweets
Follow us on twitter @WAPoliceUnion
Kensington Police @KensingtonPol
In some instances, Ms Wyllie says, this may not be the case and it may be appropriate to have a conversation between the individual and the certifying officer where knowledge of the situation is shared, or if relevant, a note from the school nurse, teacher or carer can be provided. Alternatively, Ms Wyllie says a statutory declaration can be completed by the officer outlining the circumstances, bearing in mind that information about a third party is a private matter. All documentation submitted by an employee should be kept for five years to assist with any auditing that may arise. “If an individual has exhausted the entire 40 hours carers leave within the calendar year then an additional 40 hours can be accessed through their illness and injury leave entitlements and after 80 hours has been accessed within a 12-month period, alternative leave must be sought,� she said.
Evidence that would satisfy a reasonable person is to be provided to the employer when requesting carers leave and the entitlement is not cumulative from year to year.
Have you received sub standard service from your local drug dealer? Give us a call and we'll try and put them out of business!
WA Police Union @WAPoliceUnion
Great pleasure to attend the opening of @WA_Police new Air Wing facility today & catch up with a few proud Members
WA Police Union @WAPoliceUnion
Congratulations on your new position Mr #Nahan. We hope you also believe WA police are worth more than CPI. #WApol #Perthnews
Tindall Gask Bentley @TGBlawyers
Our firm only opened in #Perth late last year but we already love the place and the people! http://ow.ly/tUNS0 #AusLaw
Michelle Roberts @MichelleMidland
Great to be at WA Police Union building revamp opening and magazine launch with Rob Johnson. pic.twitter.com/ffqPllLe6m
Police News April 2014
Steven glover Media Officer
New Year’s Eve As a result of an audit conducted by Field Officer Dave Lampard regarding the New Year’s Eve operations out of the Perth Police Centre, WA Police management has acknowledged there were a number of industrial anomalies. A number of Members were rostered to work a single shift on night shift and then either a day or afternoon shift being worked for the remainder of the week. Mr Lampard said not only was this a breach of the industrial agreement by the employer, any Member who agrees or volunteers to work this pattern is also in breach. “A number of areas had contacted the Union prior to developing the roster for this period and our advice helped them roster shifts that were compliant with the hours of duty clause and the WA Police Manual Policy on Rostering,” Mr Lampard said. “If in doubt on any of these issue we urge managers and Members to contact the Union’s Industrial Team for advice.”
…not only was this a breach of the industrial agreement by the employer, any Member who agrees or volunteers to work this pattern is also in breach.
22 Police News APRIL 2014
EXERCISE YARDS AND SALLY PORTS Some serious issues have been observed regarding exercise yards and Sally Port arrangements at a number of police stations during recent inspections by Union Directors and staff. President George Tilbury during his 2013 field trip to the Kimberley and on a recent trip to Mt Magnet for the opening of the new $8.6 million police station, noticed a number of issues which have now been brought to WA Police’s attention. These issues have been acknowledged by WA Police and the Building Management Branch has been tasked to rectify the problems. Mr Lampard said the last thing Members needed was another custodial care incident. “Every engineering measure possible should be used to prevent this from happening within the scope of the Police Building Code,” he said. “The code is an excellent manual and contains technical details on all areas of police facility design and construction.” Mr Lampard urged OICs with concerns about design deficiencies of any project, where they are part of the pre-design process to contact him at WAPU HQ.
FIELD TRIPS Field Officer Dean Giacomini and Media Officer Steven Glover visited police stations and Members in the Wheatbelt and the Eastern Goldfields in February. Mr Giacomini spoke at the Merredin Branch meeting where Members from surrounding towns including Koorda, Bruce Rock and Bencubbin heard about major issues the Union was working on such as the Workforce Reform Bill and the upcoming industrial agreement negotiations. Following the Merredin meeting, they travelled to Kalgoorlie for the Eastern Goldfields Branch Annual General Meeting. President George Tilbury also attended the meeting and took the opportunity to outline a number of issues and answer questions from Members. Branch President Bill Little stepped aside as Senior Constable Dave Curtis was elected as the new President with Justin Tarasinski continuing as Vice President and Johnny Hennah as Secretary. Last month, Mr Giacomini also conducted a tour of the Midwest with visits to Three Springs, Geraldton, Mullewa and a visit to Gingin on the way home. The visit to Three Springs saw the Branch meeting conducted at the proposed Three Springs Police and Justice Complex which is due for completion in December 2014. The former Department of Agriculture and Food WA building will be converted and will operate as a ‘hub’ in the southern part of the Midwest Gascoyne District. Mr Giacomini and Mr Lampard also attended the South East Metropolitan Branch meeting after a merger between Armadale and South East Metropolitan branches. Members in South East Metropolitan District interested in getting involved are encouraged to contact Branch officials Peter McGee, Anthony Pymm or Ryan Hayter.
Field Report
01 02
03 04
FIELD OFFICER ROLES The Union has undertaken a review of the Field Officer roles and has restructured the portfolio so that both Field Officers will now carry out the same role and responsibilities. Mr Lampard and Mr Giacomini will now take on a portion of branch duties with Mr Lampard looking after branches in the southern metropolitan area, South West and Great Southern Districts. While sharing work on occupational safety and health (OSH) and resource issues, Mr Lampard will remain part of the Police Federation of Australia’s (PFA) OHS subcommittee. Mr Giacomini will tackle the northern metropolitan areas, Pilbara, Kimberley and Goldfields and also oversee Branch official training, which will be available to all Branch officials later in the year.
01 Eastern Goldfields Branch Secretary Johnny Hannah, WAPU President George Tilbury and new Branch President Dave Curtis. 02 Central Midlands Branch officials Peter Toia, Alan Page and Max Walker at Gingin Police Station. 03 Geraldton Branch officials Michael Hall, Jonine Harrison and Matt Froude with Central Region Director Mick Gill on the Geraldton foreshore. 04 Central West Coat Branch officials Jason Mercer, Darren Gill and Kristy Cannon outside the new Three Springs Police and Justice Complex due for completion in December 2014. 05 South East Metropolitan Branch officials Anthony Pymm, Peter McGee and Ryan Hayter outside of Armadale Police Station.
05
23 Police News APRIL 2014
Q&A Sergeant John Raphael WA Police Air Wing
Q: What should WA Police do with police officers who can no longer serve on the frontline?
First Class Constable Johnny Hennah Goldfields-Esperance Liquor Enforcement “I have been fortunate so far in my career to only spend a very short time off the frontline line due to a small injury. I have met other officers who through no fault of their own can no longer work on the frontline or were off the frontline for an extended period of time due to serious injury. I think WAPOL has been excellent and very supportive in providing those Members with positions to remain in the agency. There will always be administrative type roles within the police which would suit Members unable to conduct frontline duties. Whether the reform process will abolish these positions for sworn police is yet to be seen, however the opportunity should be afforded to the Member to stay within the Agency, whether it be in a sworn or unsworn capacity. We’re all aware policing is tough on our bodies and minds and the job puts a great deal of stress on us. We provide a service to the community which is dynamic and let’s be honest not many people would want to do it. Our Members get injured putting their lives on the line for the community and I hope in the future our Members will be fully supported within the agency and not just cast aside.”
First Class Constable Daniel Kaminski Mt Magnet Police Station
24 Police News APRIL 2014
“Police officers that are unable to serve operationally on the frontline would be great in a sense of behind the counter jobs, such as your CSOs. Obviously with their experience and knowledge they are great in relation to dealing with the public. It would be very helpful for those guys to be in that position and it would help us out a lot because they know what people are talking about and how best to deal with things. I think that would be a very valuable tool for us rather than being medically discharged.”
“The Government and the Department have a responsibility to look after the hard working, serving people regardless of their circumstances. If their circumstances change, they should treat them with respect and make sure they are looked after.”
First Class Constable Jodie Jarvis Goomalling Police Station “If an officer can no longer work on the frontline due to an injury sustained during the course of their employment or due to age or ill health, the organisation should provide them with employment within the organisation. It should be WAPOL’s responsibility to continue to provide employment to its employees regardless of their physical attributes. Most officers join for a career which can include diversity in frontline policing and in management and planning. To discriminate against an officer who is unable to provide frontline policing is wrong. The skill set acquired by most officers during their career can provide WAPOL with the necessary expertise to perform their duties. Any adverse action against officers that no longer serve on the frontline could suggest that the executive management team should not be police officers either.”
Constable Karli Jager Mt Magnet Police Station “I definitely think that WAPOL should utilise them either in office duties or at POC or PAC, especially officers that have been in the job for 30 years. They have so much experience to teach recruits and younger people in relation to jobs and how to handle situations. They have job experience that even young constables don’t have. WAPOL needs to use them in a training way or if not definitely non-operationally in the office where they can give that guidance to junior constables.”
John Welch
Opinion
Secretary, WA Prison Officers’ Union
Respect the Risk – how we did it WA Prison Officers’ Union Secretary John Welch shares his union’s battle with the Government during EBA negotiations.
It was during our EBA negotiations in 2010 when I first realised conditions were changing and we needed to start thinking of a new approach to bargaining. The Government was starting to make noises about tough economic conditions to come, and as we all know the State has since lost its triple-A credit rating and capped public sector wages rises at CPI. So when it came to negotiating in 201213, the economic landscape was changing. However, our members still had expectations of getting a fair deal for doing a tough job, and we had to juggle the weight of their expectations while at the same time being aware of the policies of a Government claiming to be under economic pressure.
Once we had this knowledge, it allowed us to frame our argument, put together a strategy and develop messaging in the type of language that would be effective to get our point of view across.
So we made a decision to go over the head of Government and talk directly to the public. We started with research – we needed to understand the public’s position, how they perceived prison officers and the job they did and whether they had any empathy for our members. The report that came back was that the public generally had respect for the fact that prison officers had a tough job, an understanding that the job was often dangerous and that it was one that most of them wouldn’t want to do. Once we had this knowledge, it allowed us to frame our argument, put together a strategy and develop messaging in the type of language that would be effective to get our point of view across. We developed a campaign around the research with consistent, targeted messaging. We created TV, radio and print advertising as well as an advertisement on the sides of a truck, which toured around regional areas, gathering media interest as it went. We also made the most of free media, again using the language, messaging and strategy that had been developed around the research. Every time a prison officer was assaulted, we made sure the public knew about it; every time there was a serious incident in a prison, we made sure the public knew about it. We wanted the public to know what went on in prisons and what our members had to put up with while keeping the general population safe.
The campaign was aimed at securing a new pay deal before the State Election. Our members saw that the nurses secured a 14 per cent pay rise while the Government was in caretaker mode and they wanted us to push for the same. After much negotiating and stone walling by the Government, we called our first State-wide industrial stoppage in 13 years. Just about every prison officer took part in the action, which attracted a huge amount of media attention. When I stood in front of the media to explain our situation, the value of the messaging that we had been putting out for the previous six months became clear: they didn’t need to ask why. The media were able to air informed stories because they already understood our side of the story. Talkback callers to the radio stations were already informed after seeing story after story on prison officers in the media. We had won the debate. In the end, we managed to secure a 12.75 per cent pay deal over three years with no trade-offs. It was a great result in light of the changing economic conditions and a Government already under pressure. I think it’s a good case study to show that if you can win the PR battle it can certainly help you can win the war.
25 Police News APRIL 2014
* WAPU SCHOOL HOLIDAY BALLOT APPLICATION Applications will only be accepted on this form, It can be faxed, emailed or posted to WAPU HQ. Complete and return by Friday 16 May 2014 to: WA Police Union 639 Murray Street, West Perth WA 6005 Fax: 9321 2177 Email: admin@wapu.org.au
Only mark the holiday periods and locations you are prepared to accept in numerical order of preference. Note: Bookings are available from Saturday (2pm) to Saturday (10am) only.
December 2014 / January 2015 WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4 WEEK 5 WEEK 6 20.12.14 27.12.14 03.01.15 10.01.15 17.01.15 24.01.15 to 27.12.14 to 03.01.15 to 10.01.15 to 17.01.15 to 24.01.15 to 31.01.15
Results to be advised by Friday 23 May 2014 ALBANY
Name (Please Print):
BUSSELTON VILLA 4
Reg no:
BUSSELTON VILLA 11
Address (Home):
BUSSELTON VILLA 15 Post Code: Work (Unit/Section):
Email (Home): Phone no. (Work): (Home/Mobile):
ESPERANCE EXMOUTH KALBARRI UNIT 27 PORT DENISON YALLINGUP
WAPU Opinion
KEVIN McDONALD
Metropolitan Region Director
Have you got crystal balls? Over the past decade, police personnel have been issued with a range of new accoutrements such as Tasers, to protect the public and themselves when dealing with people who offend in the community.
What is known now is that if there were a complete change in policy direction … it would significantly increase its effectiveness and significantly reduce the risks associated with a weapon that works less than half the time under current policy conditions.
In fact, the WA Police Union fought very hard, and quite rightly, on behalf of Members to acquire access to Tasers for every operational frontline police officer. There is however, one glaring omission in so far as accoutrements not yet issued, but one that frontline police officers desperately need. And that is a crystal ball. Un f o r t u nate l y, t h e p o li c i e s developed and re - developed, together with tactical training are now so protracted and convoluted; the grey seems to get greyer and the practical frontline use of Tasers more difficult as a result. Use of force policies seem designed to better protect WA Police from accountability and public criticism, deliver offenders means by which to sue and claim for compensation from individual police officers and ensure police officers are internally disciplined or criminally prosecuted at every possible opportunity for doing their job. Most of you will know from your tactical training that an analysis of the effectiveness of Taser probe de ploy m e nt s t hroug h out 2011 identified issues going to its reduced effectiveness due to probe and clothing disconnects. 52 per cent of probe deployments were reported as having a limited effect in terms of the intended incapacitation of the subject. Unfortunately, more important data such as how many officers were assaulted or injured as a result of a failed Taser deployment wasn’t available. It’s more than a bit of a worry for frontline coppers who now know that there is a better than even chance their Taser won’t work in situations where
they fear serious injury to themselves or any other person. Quite often non-cooperation by offenders is initially non-violent and it seems incongruous that police officers have to wait for things to get violent before they can act with a Taser under the current policy. It’s a pity they can’t see into the future. Currently, WAPOL is attempting to improve the effectiveness ratio of Tasers through the rollout of the XP green door cartridge which has slightly longer conductive wires and probes that travel at 70 metres per second instead of the grey door variety which travel at 60 metres per second. Whether or not this increases the effectiveness of the deployment and by how much won’t be known until some time after the rollout, when sufficient data is available. It seems management would have us believe the problem is solely with the weapon and nothing to do with policy. What is known now is that if there were a complete change in policy direction which allowed frontline coppers to use Tasers to gain compliance over uncooperative but yet to become violent offenders, it would significantly increase its effectiveness and significantly reduce the risks associated with a weapon that works less than half the time under current policy conditions. The police video shown by tactical training of the arrested giant with his hands on the bonnet of a US police patrol car, his refusal to comply with a direction to accompany police and the use of a Taser to subdue him, has always stayed with me as a perfect example of how a Taser should be used
and why we should all have them. The man mountain was restrained without injury to any person or damage to property. No further charges were laid and no internal investigation or criminal/disciplinary action against any police officer. Feedback I get from frontline coppers is that while they believe the training is about as good as it could be, the constantly changing, actual real life dynamics of dealing with offenders in the field in accordance with policy demands, contributes heavily to the lack of effectiveness of Taser deployments. Additionally, a combination of restrictive and long winded policy, use of force reporting and Members regularly being investigated and criminally charged is discouraging officers from using Tasers at all. The cur rent Taser polic y is unequivocally to the ongoing detriment of the occupational safety and health environment of police officers working in WA. While we all wait for a more user-friendly policy to emerge, I suggest you go out and purchase your own crystal ball, so you can see how the clients you are destined to interact with during your next shift will behave. A crystal ball will give you the benefit of hindsight, you can view CCTV footage and gain an insight into the lies told by the offenders, all before you go to work and get assaulted or internally investigated. Unfortunately, the crystal ball I’ve got shows a pretty bleak future for frontline coppers using Tasers under the current policy and I’d very much like to see that change. 27 Police News APRIL 2014
01
WAPU HQ Official Opening
02 03
11th FEBRUARy 2014 639 Murray Street, WEST Perth After six months of demolition and construction, the refurbishments to WAPU HQ at 639 Murray Street are finally complete. While the finished product is a highly professional, built for purpose and modern building, there were a few dramas along the way. The decision to renovate one floor at a time, saved considerable money on relocation costs and has improved the conditions and functionality of our major asset. The building survived a flood, fire, discovery of asbestos and a ceiling collapse while WAPU staff had to put up with drilling and hammering throughout the process. President George Tilbury said the new building interior looked fantastic and was now something the Union and its Members could be proud of. “The changes are a reflection on
04 05
28 Police News APRIL 2014
the investment we have made in our organisation and the long term future for our Members,” he said. “We wanted to take WAPU into the modern era and provide our staff and Directors with the necessary equipment and resources to support our Members in the best possible way. “We have maximised utilisation of the space and increased versatility. All offices are now located on the one floor and we have significantly increased security in and around the building.” The ground floor now houses a training room, library, board room, gymnasium and a number of offices and interview rooms. It can also be opened up to create a large area to hold functions and other events. “The Board envisages that the police family will be able to utilise this area for functions, meetings and events,” Mr Tilbury said. “The building is for all Members, past and present, and I encourage police officers to consider using the facilities wherever possible.” Mr Tilbury thanked Interite and all of the contractors for bringing the vision together and delivering a building which will take WAPU into the modern era.
Events
06 07 08 09
01 The front of the WAPU HQ building. 02 Reception area. 03 George Tilbury opening the refurbished WAPU HQ. 04 Boardroom. 05 Open plan function area. 06 Kevin McDonald and Eric Couzens. 07 Mick Kelly and Les Horrocks. 08 Ward Adamson, Brandon Shortland, John Foley and Jason Brewer. 09 Ken Manley and Helen Williams. 10 Harry Russell, Mick Brennen and Peter Kelly. 11 Richard Yates, Andrew Montesi and Wendy Barry. 12 Peter Potthoff, Cyril Laurent and Jon Groves.
10
12
11
Professor Daniel Fatovich
Emergency Medicine, Royal Perth Hospital and University of WA
HEALTH
Exposure to blood and body fluids Police work involves a risk of exposure to people’s blood and body fluids. After health care workers, police are the second most frequent group reporting such exposures.
The anxiety partly arises from the fact that the source status is usually unknown.
There are extensive resources available on this subjec t, and a par ticularly useful one is the document written by the Australian Society for HIV Medicine available at www.ashm.org.au. This resource also contains an excellent e-learning module on this subject that takes about 20 minutes. The three major viruses that can be transmitted by blood exposure are hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Hepatitis B and HIV can also be transmitted by other body fluids such as saliva. When people are exposed to blood and body fluids, they are naturally worried if they will get infected. This risk of the infection being passed on (transmit ted) is called risk transmission. But what are the risks and how can these be minimised? We should be reassured that the risks of transmission after an exposure are ver y low. As a general rule, exposures that occur in police tend to be less significant than those of health care workers. Perhaps the most common exposure is to blood and/or saliva to intact skin. The risk of transmission from a person known to have a virus infection is zero for all three viruses. For saliva that gets into the mouth, eyes and bites that break the skin, the risk is very low for hepatitis B, and zero for the others.
Even for a high risk exposure (eg blood contact with broken skin, mouth or eyes such as a punch from a bleeding person to the body causing a skin break; a large blood splash; blood contact from giving mouth-tomouth resuscitation if no protective equipment is used) the transmission risk for hepatitis B is moderate, and low for the others. As one would expect, penetrating injuries (eg needlestick) have a high risk of transmission. The figures are 1 in 3 chance of hepatitis B, 1 in 30 chance of hepatitis C, and 1 in 300 chance of HIV. Of course, many exposures will be from people who do not have these viruses, so the transmission risk is zero. The anxiety partly arises from the fact that the source status is usually unknown. Overall, the highest risk for transmission is hepatitis B, which is entirely preventable, because hepatitis B vaccination provides immunity (although the immunity needs to be confirmed by a blood test). It is standard procedure to assume that all blood and body fluids are potentially infectious. So standard precautions are always recommended. These are to use personal protective equipment (gloves and protective clothing), avoiding exposure to broken skin, proper handling and disposal of sharp objects, prevention
of e x p o sur e s d oing s ear ch e s , an d fo llow ing p r o ce dur e s fo r environmental blood and body substance spills. If an accidental exposure has occurred, it is recommended to wash the exposed skin with soap and water. If the eyes have been exposed, the open eyes should be thoroughly rinsed with tap water or saline. If the mouth has been exposed, spit out the saliva, rinse the mouth with water and spit again. Medical advice needs to be sought next to do a risk assessment. WA Police has a 24-hour helpline to obtain counseling and support if needed. In summary, prevention is the best approach, using hepatitis B vaccination and following standard precautions. You can however be reassured, that should an exposure occur, the risk of transmission is typically very low to zero.
If you would like Professor Fatovich to write about a particular health topic, please email your suggestions to jessica.porter@wapu.org.au.
31 Police News APRIL 2014
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, • Family and Divorce law, • Estates and Estate Planning, • Business and Property. To book an appointment with a lawyer or for more information contact WAPU HQ on (08) 9321 2155.
Penelope Charlesworth
LEGAL
Associate, Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers
We have agreed on our property settlement – What now? The breakdown of a marriage or de facto relationship is a difficult time, but can be made easier where the parties are able to negotiate a division of their assets and liabilities by agreement without the involvement of the Courts. But what stops one party from “coming back for more” at a later date? How can parties formalise the agreement reached between them for property settlement to protect themselves from the other party being successful in a claim for property settlement in the future?
While such a document could be useful as a record of the intention of the parties, it would not prevent either of them from making an application to the Family Law Courts for a property settlement at a later date.
It is encouraging and such a good thing that we see so many new clients who have reached agreement with their former husband, wife or de facto partner with respect to how they wish to divide the assets of their relationship. The Court process can be long and drawn out and in many cases people are able to see the advantages in negotiating an outcome that is acceptable to them both rather than having a Court decide “who should keep what”. Parties are able to “own” the property settlement and have a sense that they have both been involved in the ultimate decision made. We are asked by many clients whether it is sufficient for them to write down the agreement that they have reached and have it witnessed by a Justice of the Peace. The simple answer is no. While such a document could be useful as a record of the intention of the parties, it would not prevent either of them from making an application to the Family Law Courts for a property settlement at a later date. Unless Final Orders have been made, or a Binding Financial Agreement which meets the requirements of the Act has been properly executed and exchanged between the parties and their lawyers, then a party to a marriage can make an application for property settlement at any time after separation, up until 12 months after a divorce order is made.
In the case of de facto partners, either party can make an application for property settlement at any time up until the expiration of two years after separation. Even when these time periods have expired, the Court may grant an extension of time if the party applying for property settlement is able to satisfy the Court that the extension of time should be granted. Where an agreement is reached between husband and wife or de facto parties the agreement can only be made “final” in two ways: 1. Consent Orders sealed by the Court; or 2. A Binding Financial Agreement. To have Consent Orders sealed by the Court, the parties must prepare an Application for Consent Orders in the approved form providing the Court with necessary information required in order to consider the parties’ application and determine whether the orders that they are asking to be made are “just and equitable”, and attach to the Application properly drafted Minutes of Order. There is no requirement for both parties to obtain legal representation for an Application for Consent Orders, but it is recommended that one of the parties instruct a lawyer to ensure the documents are properly drafted.
The law with respect to Binding Financial Agreements is detailed, and there is a reason for this. The Court has the ability to overturn a Binding Financial Agreement or declare that it is not binding where requirements have not been met. The Binding Financial Agreement is drawn by a lawyer representing one party, and both parties must receive advice with respect to the agreement and have a lawyer sign a statement confirming that they have given that advice and that the requirements of the Act have been met. While in some circumstances a Binding Financial Agreement is the preferred option for parties, in most cases it is recommended that the Application for Consent Orders and Minutes of Order are prepared as they provide parties with a strong sense of comfort, as the Court has approved those Orders at the time that they are made. While in some circumstances a Binding Financial Agreement is the preferred option for parties, in most cases it is recommended that the Application for Consent Orders and Minutes of Order are prepared as they provide parties with a strong sense of comfort, as the Court has approved those Orders at the time that they are made.
Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers offers a legal service to WAPU members, including family law matters. To arrange an appointment contact WAPU HQ. 33 Police News APRIL 2014
your Pre-Tax Salary and Buy a new car with save thousands $$$$ your Pre-Tax Salary and save thousands $$$$
Limited Offer*
Limited Offer* Mention you saw this ad prior to
completing your contract and we’ll give you a choice of a iPad mini 16GB Wi-Fi or a $300 fuel voucher Mention you saw this ad prior to completing your contract and we’ll give you a choice of a iPad mini 16GB Wi-Fi or a $300 fuel voucher
Pick the car you want It’s your choice Pay NO GST on your new car purchase or its running Pick thecosts car you want It’s your choice Save with exclusive Discounts Pay NO GST on yourNational new carFleet purchase or its running costs Flexible Trade-in options Save with dedicated exclusive Salary NationalPackaging Fleet Discounts Your own specialist Flexible Trade-in options Your own dedicated Salary Packaging specialist
Call us for an obligation free quote NOW
1300 738 601 www.fleetnetwork.com.au
Lease Package Save
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.
Bought to you by
MOTORING
Fleet Network
A passion for fun Steve Meakins (8208) grew up in the northern Perth suburb of North Beach in the early 1960s.
He played rugby league for his local team North Beach where he showed considerable talent. A move further north up the coast to Sorrento in 1969 and later attending Balcatta Senior High School saw Steve’s attention move from rugby to the beach. Steve joined the Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club and a life-long love of the ocean and the outdoors was sparked. He was soon hooked on all things outdoors, particularly fishing and camping, and enjoying all things the ocean could provide. Upon leaving school, Steve wanted to do something where he could help those less fortunate than himself but given the height restrictions to join WA Police at the time he was not eligible. Instead, he joined the Royal Australian Navy where he spent four years as a Quarter Master Gunner on the Navy’s patrol boats.
I saved $5,000 in GST tax in the purchase of the Hilux and I am now saving $2,000 PAYG tax a year, so all up I have saved $15,000 over the five year lease.
At the age of 29 and after several attempts to join WA Police, Steve was finally accepted when the height restrictions were waivered and later graduated as a Probationary Constable. In 1995, Steve decided to join his passions of helping others through his work as a police officer with his love of the outdoor life and applied for a position at Geraldton Police Station. This saw Steve buy his first four wheel drive, a Toyota RV6 4 Runner, which allowed him to explore the wonderful fishing, surfing and camping spots along the Murchison coastline. The RV6 4 Runner was soon replaced with a Toyota Hilux to allow the explorations of Steep Point, an even more rugged country. In 1998, Steve moved back to the metropolitan area, with stints at Forrestfield and Kalamunda, before the opportunity came up to transfer to Midland PCYC. This was an oppor tunity of a lifetime for Steve where he could work with disadvantaged youth, allowing him to really focus on breaking down barriers between youth and police as a way of reducing crime and anti-social behaviour. Steve quickly recognised the revolving door of offenders being released back from sentencing only to reoffend and decided that prevention was better than a cure.
This saw the Midland PCYC focus on ‘before and after school care’ and ‘vacation care’ programs where the local youth had a focus, could be taught right from wrong and learn from the positive impact that local police could offer. This good work saw Midland PCYC named the ‘Most Outstanding Metropolitan Club 2002’. Having achieved what he set out to do, Steve moved back into frontline policing in 2003. He is now part of Operation Strike Force Vulcan which is targeting deliberately lit bush fires in WA. Having seen police friends suffer health issues as they grow older, Steve has reaffirmed his focus to enjoying life and making the most of every opportunity. His love of the outdoors has resulted in Steve purchasing another Toyota Hilux through a novated lease with Fleet Network. “I package my motor vehicle because of the tax savings I make,” Steve said. “I saved $5,000 in GST tax in the purchase of the Hilux and I am now saving $2,000 PAYG tax a year, so all up I have saved $15,000 over the five year lease.”
For more information call Fleet Network on 1300 738 601 to find out how you can save on the purchase of your next vehicle.
35 Police News APRIL 2014
READ
Stronger
JEFF BAUMAN & BRETT WITTER $14.99 When Jeff Bauman woke up on April 16, 2013 in the Boston Medical Center, groggy from a series of lifesaving surgeries and missing his legs, the first thing he did was rip out his breathing tube to try to speak. When he realised he couldn't, he asked for a pad and paper and wrote down seven words: 'Saw the guy. Looked right at me,' setting off one of the biggest manhunts in the country's history. Just 30 hours before, Jeff had been at the finish line of the 2013 Boston Marathon cheering on his girlfriend when the first bomb went off at his feet. When his life was turned upside down, Jeff did not give up. Instead he faced his new circumstances with grace, humour and a sense of purpose: he was determined, no matter what, to walk again. In Stronger, Jeff describes the chaos and terror of the bombing itself and the ongoing FBI investigation in which he was a key witness.
All February edition winners are listed on our website: www.wapu.org.au
Michelle Bridges' Total Body Transformation
Watch
Michelle Bridges $29.99
Jack Irish: Dead Point
Rake Season 3
The revised and updated edition of Michelle Bridges' first bestseller, Crunch Time, published in 2009. So you want to lose weight? Don't just settle for half a kilo here and there when you can lose more weight faster – and keep it off! So you want to get fitter? Don't put it off any longer when you can get fulfilled, invigorated and toned – and have fun too! Michelle Bridges' Total Body Transformation is jam-packed with all the information, practical advice and expert knowledge you need to turn your life around. New bigger photographs spell out the exercise program, step by step, and new food photos and extra recipes will inspire you to get cooking. This is the book that kickstarted the 12WBT phenomenon.
Jack Irish is a part-time lawyer, mug punter and finder of people who'd rather remain lost. When a high profile judge, Justice Loder (Barry Humphries), commissions him to locate a mysterious red book, Jack is thrown into a world of sexy club owners, dodgy drug dealers, bisexual blackmailers, and unhinged killers. Anyone who touches the red book turns up dead. Jack should follow his instinct and back away very slowly and very quietly. If only the judge wasn't family.
The bar has been lowered... again. Criminal barrister, Cleaver Greene, is back, as reckless, brilliant, self-destructive, funny and bloody minded as ever - and that's just his private life. In Series Three, Cleaver languishes in prison, facing the consequences of his crimes and misbehaviours, while he awaits the outcome of his appeal. When the conviction is quashed at last, he discovers his world has grown even more chaotic in his absence. The proliferation of Royal Commissions, inquiries and corruption trials requires so many barristers, even Cleaver can find work. Over the series, Cleaver Greene finds himself inadvertently at the heart of a billion dollar moral, political and criminal dilemma.
3 Discs $19.95 SRP
3 Discs $49.95 SRP
win
win
We have one copy of Stronger and Total Body Transformation to give away courtesy of Penguin Books Australia. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, address, book title and contact phone number. Winners will be drawn on May 5.
We have two copies of Jack Irish: Dead Point and Rake Season 3 to give away courtesy of Roadshow Entertainment. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, address, DVD title and contact phone number. Winners will be drawn on May 5.
Police News APRIL 2014
See
The Amazing Spider-Man 2: Rise of Electro 3D
Season Commences April 17 We’ve always known that SpiderMan’s most important battle has been within himself: the struggle between the ordinary obligations of Peter Parker and the extraordinary responsibilities of Spider-Man. But in The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Peter Parker finds that a greater conflict lies ahead. It’s great to be Spider-Man (Andrew Garfield). For Peter Parker, there’s no feeling quite like swinging between skyscrapers, embracing being the hero, and spending time with Gwen (Emma Stone). But being Spider-Man comes at a price: only Spider-Man can protect his fellow New Yorkers from the formidable villains that threaten the city. With the emergence of Electro (Jamie Foxx), Peter must confront a foe far more powerful than he. And as his old friend, Harry Osborn (Dane DeHaan), returns, Peter comes to realize that all of his enemies have one thing in common: OsCorp.
LISTEN
Entertain me
A Million Ways to Die in the West
Illmatic XX
The Amazing Spider-man 2
From the creator of the smash hit comedy Ted. Seth MacFarlane directs, produces, co-writes and plays the role of the cowardly sheep farmer Albert in A Million Ways to Die in the West. After Albert backs out of a gunfight, his fickle girlfriend leaves him for another man. When a mysterious and beautiful woman rides into town, she helps him find his courage and they begin to fall in love. But when her husband, a notorious outlaw, arrives seeking revenge, the farmer must put his newfound courage to the test.
On April 15, Sony Legacy releases Illmatic XX, the 20th anniversary edition reissue of Nas' classic LP Illmatic. It features a bonus disc containing rare remixes, demos, and freestyles. The second disc includes the above rare and commercially unreleased freestyle from Nas' October 28, 1993 appearance on "The Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show" alongside Grand Wizard. Time Is Illmatic, a feature-length documentary about the making of the album, will also be released in 2014, directed by One9 and Erik Parker. It'll premiere at this year's Tribeca Film Festival. Disc one features The Genesis,N.Y. State of Mind, Life's a Bitch, The World Is Yours, Halftime, Memory Lane (Sittin' in Da Park), One Love, One Time 4 Your Mind, Represent and It Ain't Hard to Tell. Disc two features previously unreleased tracks and remixes.
The highly anticipated motion picture The Amazing Spider-Man 2 will feature “It’s On Again” by Alicia Keys featuring Kendrick Lamar, written exclusively for the film by Pharrell Williams, Alicia Keys, Hans Zimmer, and Kendrick Lamar, produced by Pharrell Williams. Commenting on the announcement, Marc Webb, the film’s director, said, “We were looking for just the right song to close out the film – a song that would be upbeat and exciting, but also contain a note of foreboding. Alicia’s song, ‘It’s On Again,’ is the perfect end note. The film’s epic score was composed by Oscar® and Grammy-winning composer Hans Zimmer and The Magnificent Six, which features Pharrell Williams, Johnny Marr (of The Smiths, Modest Mouse), Michael Einziger (of Incubus), Junkie XL, Andrew Kawczynski, and Steve Mazzaro.
Season commences May 29
win We have two double passes to give away to The Amazing Spider-Man 2: Rise of Electro 3D and A Million Ways to Die in the West to give away. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, address, title of the movie and contact phone number. Winners will be drawn on May 5.
Nas RELEASED April 15
Soundtrack RELEASED April 18
win We have five copies of Illmatic XX and The Amazing Spider-Man to give away courtesy of Sony Music Australia. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, address, album title and contact phone number. Winners will be drawn on May 5. 37 Police News APRIL 2014
Member benefits
Visit www.wapu.org.au for details and regular updates on these and other great member offers.
SAVE with WAPU Member benefits Spotters Sunglasses
VIP Pool Care Malaga
Mantra on Hay
55% off recommended retail price on all sunglasses to WAPU Members. Please call WAPU HQ on 9321 2155 for more information.
20% discount to all Members when ID is shown. Shop 10/1904 Beach Road Malaga, 9248 5994.
Book your stay and receive 15% off the best available rate of the day. To book call 9267 4888.
Pie Face
U Need it! Window Tint
AirPro Airconditioning
Special Members’ prices • Sedans usually $330 – Members’ price $290. Discount on all tinting
2.5kW cooling, 3.4kW heating reverse cycle standard inverter split systems fully installed – WAPU Members $1395.00*. 3.5kW cooling, 4.0kW heating reverse cycle standard inverter split systems fully installed – WAPU Members $1545.00*. Contact Tony for more information on 9408 6666.
25% discount to all card carrying WAPU Members. 110 Williams St Perth CBD.
Ignition Racing
Novotel Vines Resort
50% off all standard rates. 3/9 Inspiration Drive Wangara 0437 141 020.
Resort Room for only $169. Conditions Apply.
* Standard back to back installation – single storey home. Two metres of pipe and 12 metres of electrical included.
POLICE OPTICAL AND SUNGLASS BENEFIT PROGRAM
20% OFF plus *
at OPSM and Laubman & Pank
a FREE Digital Retinal Scan or come in with a family member & both receive a FREE “Ultra Wide” Digital Retinal Scan** ($120 Value)
Please present this voucher to any of the stores Australia Wide. To find your nearest store or book an eye test visit opsm.com.au or laubmanandpank.com.au Lux Stores: Discount Code: B2W. Company Name: POLICE. Offer valid at all OPSM and Laubman & Pank Stores across Australia. *20% off frames, lenses, sunglasses, contact lenses and accessories. **The type of scan conducted will be determined by availability of technology in the store chosen. Offer excludes eye tests, gift vouchers, Chanel, Tiffany & Co., Bvlgari, Oliver Peoples, Paul Smith and Tag Heuer products. Offer only available for Police and their family members. Voucher must be presented at time of ordering. Cannot be used in conjunction with special offer packages, sale items, health fund associated discounts or any other discount or benefit from any source other than a rebate from a health fund. Offer ends 30/06/14. Discount Code B2W.
Discount Buying Electrical Discounts MotorService Vehicles We are here to help with the products you wish to purchase! Simply contact us with the make, model number and your best price; let us do the rest!
1300 650 214 www.shoprite.com.au Police News April 2014
With over 30 years experience, ShopRite’s car consultants know where to look, who to ask and how to negotiate. Let us do all the running around for you!
Retail Partners Receive special deals from over 60 ShopRite retail partners! Offering real discounts to members, you are sure to find a bargain!
Discount Buying Service
Make sure you check out the fantastic “Deal of the Day” offers on our website!
new members
WAPU welcomes its newest members Three Transition Squads and two police auxiliary squads have recently graduated from the WA Police Academy in Joondalup. 01
All of the new Members make up part of the State Government’s 2008 and 2013 State Election promises to increase police and police auxiliary numbers.
02
01 Transition Squad 02/2013
Robert Beck Adam Bradley Griffin Burbidge Claire Cheadle Jonathon Cheadle Andrew Clark Lee Cowell Jamie Cresswell Michael Cursiter Daniel Done
Jennifer Forrest Adriaan Geldenhuys Faith Hoyos Mark Kimber Fiona Main Paul McGinley Mark McInnes Katie Minor Roderick Moore Joseph Neal
Aaron Rigby Marc Sanders James Speed William Stokeley Stuart Trudgill Nimal Valleekanthan Shea Wakelin Benjamin White Lisa Wiggins Robert Williams
02 Transition Squad 03/2013
Jonathon Adams Michael Baughan Jamie Brady Thomas Briscoe Oliver Burgess Rebecca Corcoran Simon Goddard Stuart Kerr Andrew Keyes Ian Knapgate
Catherine McDowall Gregor McDowall Stuart Mosley David Murray Martyn O’Mahony Michael Pepper James Renwick Adam Simmons Jason Skuse Adam Stratton
June Tairua Tracey Tarr Aaron Taylor Daniel Walsh Arron Ward Craig Williams Ross Williams Timothy Wilson Rickie Winikerei Gayle Young 03
03 Transition Squad 04/2013
Jacqueline Annett Naomi Bass Joshua Billings Luke Bridges Tracy Cleary Richard Denny Benjamin Ducker Donal Fahy Michael Fine Christopher Forrest
Benjaman Giff Brendan Gilligan Adam Haines-Monaghan Gayan Hettiarachchi Shane Iredale Gemma Knight Gareth Lewis Guy Little Paul Matthews Stephen Murphy
Peter Oakley Katie Patton Ray Ridge John Rowley Kristian Tippins Helen Tomkin Burt Wahanui Lisa Warren Alexander Watson Justin Williams-Jones
04 Police Auxiliary Graduation Squad 02/2013
Charlotte Alexander Danielle Conlon Drew Dubberlin Jake Dunning Kailah Ellis Amy Harris
Jenine Holder-Campbell Brandon Horsley-Paku Rachel Librizzi Nicola Marshall Caroline Martin Graham Murray
James Nolan Cormac Ryan Andrew Schultz Russell Scowen Dean Turner Natalija Vuk
04
Continued
▷
39 Police News APRIL 2014
new members cont.
Retirements & resignations
Retiring members
05
Continued
▷
05 Police Auxiliary
Graduation Squad 03/2013 Lauren Cluning Holly Devenish Kylie Dyer Anthony Holmes Sahil Kohli Peter Le Feuvre Stephen Morris Natalie Parkyn Jessie Parry Jed Pickering Sharmain Raine Ryan Starling David Trant Fausto Valentini Kevin Wheeler
Pro Police torch
3482 William Smith 3535 William Todd 3581 Kevin Jones 3782 Graham Clifford 3850 Peter Walsh 4082 Frank Dirksz 4090 Trevor Davis 4164 Stuart Fozard 4206 Ronald Timmins 4341 Keith Pittaway 4344 Paolo Zegir 4356 Edward Trindall 4401 Kenneth Corcoran 4409 John McBeath 4416 Lindsay Curtis 4455 Gregory Aitken 4483 Alice Trinca 4515 Peter Williams 4531 Graham Wells 4532 Ross Hogan 4536 Andrew Rigg 4539 Russell Armstrong 4580 Norman Smith 4587 Dennis Collinson 4591 Rodney Kelly 4593 Mervyn Lockhart 4678 Bruce Sharper 4685 Neil Royle 4699 Barry Shelton 4729 Gregory Hill
4766 Kevin Schorer 4773 Graham Moon 4779 Kim Porter 4782 Denis Perich 4815 Cyril Laurent 4821 Ferdinand Gere 4862 Brian Eddy 4875 Stephen Ullrich 4880 Brian Keed 4885 Robert Corry 4887 Jonathon Adams 4888 Andrew Hill 4897 Donald Hawkins 4904 Barry Mann 4917 Michael Wells 4918 Stephen Stingemore 4919 Larry Turner 4920 Desmond Coffey 4921 Ronald Crane 4924 Francis McGrath 4925 Stephen Brajkovich 4935 Arthur Harris 4947 Robert O'Sullivan 4986 Stephen Sloan 4994 James Wilson 5008 Christopher Cassidy 5018 Gary Flynn 5019 Peter Zilujko 5045 Ljiljana Cvijic 5068 Anthony Moffat 5071 Francis Bell 5095 Bela Malasits 5118 Vicki Wray-Watts 5129 Philip Gors 5143 Philip Clews 5153 Michael Anicich 5207 Harold Heavens 5250 Stephen Jervis 5267 Antony Jarret 5269 Kevin Dale 5272 Geoffrey Sorrell
5295 Peter Smith 5296 Gary Sparks 5336 John Hart 5349 Arno Albrecht 5352 Dudley Congdon 5354 Russell August 5371 Jilles Jasper 5374 Jeffrey Hilderbrandt 5378 John Reindl 5392 Bruce Murray 5418 Paul Sampson 5422 William Collidge 5433 Robert Hislop 5472 Robina Raabe 5490 Maria Coyne 5503 Gerard Cassidy 5512 Barry Stevens 5514 David Haendel 5522 Darryl Stewart 5533 Maxwell Haines 5551 Yunus Wadson 5563 Gregory Walker 5606 Ian Pheasant 5631 Trevor Snashall 5632 David Trimble 5634 Gregory Webb 5638 Colin Asplin 5642 David Lucas 5643 Janet Pleece 5670 Peter James 5707 Neil Dawson 5710 Malcolm Scott 5714 Robert Taylor 5719 Timothy Murray 5740 Donald Campbell 5741 James Little 5742 Michael Mayes 5789 Jerzy Woznica 5800 David Whitelaw 5822 Gregory Dalwood 5829 Jillian Willoughby
POLICE TORCHES
• 150 metre throw • 1070 lumens º High, medium low beam and strobe • Only 15cm long - belt size • Rechargeable and supplied with battery • Free holster for Police - just mention when ordering
40
www.wolfeyes.com.au
Police News APRIL 2014
Phone 1300 911 007
5846 Mark Weir 5863 Raymond Collins 5872 Steven Balcombe 5874 David Roper 5876 Paul Barfoot 5877 Robert Moore 5893 Graeme Arbery 5924 Markus Kelly 5932 Ingolf Stange 5936 Darcy O'Neil 5941 Peter Grover 5944 Barry Kitson 5961 John Cawley 6034 Kerrie Graham 6047 Gregory Maslin 6066 Jeffrey Willoughby 6076 Brett Bale 6121 Mark Fairclough 6170 John Esslemont 6205 John Hancock 6223 Godfrey Hester 6306 John Dart 6316 Raymond Holt 6348 Joel Zanetti 6360 Graham Cameron 6377 Alan Boyer 6397 Brian Joynes 6398 Robert Stevens 6523 Paul Drayton 6614 Thomas Fergusson 6660 James Watts 6728 James Franseschini 6733 Stephen Hackwell 6778 Ian Wray 6783 Albert Finnegan 6802 Alan Nieuwenhuis 7101 David Jones 7123 Bernard Brennan 7124 Christopher Lawlor 7148 Geoffrey Bradley 7860 Archibald Smyth
8183 Malcolm Hicks 8346 Rocky Scully 8363 Chez Mitchell 8784 David Robson 9518 Peter Johnson 9617 Bruce Fowler 10026 Robert Bandy 10964 Andrew Wright
Resigning members 6276 Anthony Brackenreg 6291 Craig Sweeney 6520 Craig Stevens 6640 Kim Papalia 6811 Gregory Saggers 6981 Raymond Van Der Kooij 7045 Peter Anicich 7154 Ian Mondy 7322 Shane Pearmine 7348 Ian Tinson 7493 Ricki Wilden 7498 Vandra Leigh 7574 Rochelle Bailey 7590 Glenn Allen 7845 Warren Wheatley 8343 Douglas O'Neil 8344 Gary Boulton 8373 Jess Olsen 8457 Neil McMahon 8480 Helen Hart 8503 Jeffrey St Jack 8516 Elaine Montgomery 9053 Nicole Fairman
9055 Allan Berry 9136 Brett Hackshaw 9622 James Clark 10045 Durnon McCutcheon 10406 Kenton Bibby 10424 Megan Morris 10594 Jody Trotter 10601 Kristi Phillips 10665 Bevan Steele 10888 Natalie Boyd 10995 Travis Healy 10997 Tiffany Trust 11229 Timothy Ayres 11358 Kellie Carder 11375 Sean Fitzmaurice 12193 Casey Guyler 12282 Jay Leeder 12438 Glynis Ozies 12565 Patricia Farmer 12576 Goce Dilevski 12653 Gayle Skilton-Bowles 12813 Anthony Kapsanis 12906 Nathaniel Kett 13102 Alison Cleggett 13156 Damon Hall 13173 Vicki Fourie 13517 Adam Gunnis 13532 Michael Henderson 13758 Heinrich Wasserman 13871 Ellen Cartwright 14077 Rachael Giggins 14094 Richard Clark 14335 Brandon Reid 14404 Bryan Van Den Kerckhove 14732 Caitlin Coyles 14838 Bianca Murphy 40219 Natalie Clark 99805 Ryan Cormac 99818 Russell Scowen
KICKING GOALS FOR THE
RYAN MARRON
FOUNDATION. Date: Time: Location:
Saturday, 17th May 2014 League game kicks off at 2.00PM Steel Blue Oval Old Perth Road, Bassendean
Vale
Serving 11534 David Wood Senior Constable Aged 51 Retired 3243 Donald Alfred Smoothy Chief Inspector Aged 81 3290 Noel Charles Plunkett Sergeant Aged 80 2368 John William Lavers Third Class Sergeant Aged 83 3095 Norma Joy Thurstun First Class Sergeant Aged 88
The transfers list can now be accessed in the Members Section of our website: www.wapu.org.au
Steel Blue boots will be hosting the Swan Districts versus Claremont WAFL game to support the Ryan Marron Foundation.
FREE ADMISSION for Police Officers, Paramedics and Fire Fighters - just show us your badge at the gate. To find out more or donate to the Ryan Marron Foundation visit: ryanmarronfoundation.org
41
Police News APRIL 2014
Where are they now?
What are you up to now? I have been very busy mainly in the West Pilbara, Eastern Goldfields and Murchison helping out my mates on their cattle stations. It is very hard for them to get people to work for them due to the hard work and poor wages. I helped the Pastoralist and Graziers Association (PGA) on legislation regarding pastoralists having hand guns, also helped form a committee on stock theft. I have completed several investigations for a private company, been prospecting and travelling with friends and family. In 2013, I was President of the Swan Districts Football Club, which was very challenging, but also very rewarding.
What areas did you work in?
Superintendent David Parkinson APM (retired) I joined the WA Police on November 3, 1975 and retired on July 7, 2008.
In your opinion what have been the biggest changes in policing over the years?
What did you like most about policing?
I miss being able to pull up hoons and thugs, on my frequent trips away. I am beside myself by the time I get to my destination, after witnessing the horrendous behaviour on our roads by a number of our road users.
What did you dislike about policing? Lack of support from other government agencies and the judiciary, bullying by some senior officers who did not have capacity to gain respect from their subordinates and the never ending paperwork that kept officers behind a desk for the majority of the shift. 42
I was very fortunate to have travelled widely in the State Protection Portfolio and saw all of Australia, New Zealand and also travelled to London-MI5 and Belfast. Probably the most interesting was the joint AFP/ WAPOL investigation into the Japanese Aum Supreme Sect on Banjawarn Station, East of Leonora. I was second in command to the AFP lead investigator, this occurred after the sarin gas attack in a Tokyo subway, killing several people and critically injuring dozens more. I believe I am the only serving or former police officer that is both life member of the WA Police Social Club and WA Police Commissioned Officers’ Mess.
Like most police officers I started at Central Police Station after graduation in 1976, I was transferred to Kalgoorlie General Duties in October 1976 to 1980. I was then transferred to 79 Division from 1980-84. In 1984, I was an inaugural member of the Weapons Training Unit, after police became fully armed, I was fortunate to travel the State teaching police officers in the use of revolver, shotgun and .223 rifle. In 1986, I was transferred to the Protective Services and Counter Terrorist Intelligence Unit where I stayed until my appointment to Superintendent in August 1996. Upon promotion to Superintendent, I was given the State Protection Portfolio, comprising Tactical Response Group, Witness Protection and The Protective Services Unit. 2001-2003: District Superintendent-East Metropolitan District. 2003-2005: Divisional Superintendent-State Protection Portfolio. 20052008: District Superintendent-Peel Police Region.
The diversity and the camaraderie, you never knew from hour to hour what was going to happen next.
Police News APRIL 2014
What was the highlight of your career?
No doubt technology is the biggest change in policing. I remember when I was stationed in Kalgoorlie it took hours to get an MDL or licence check, now it is instantaneous.
Is there anything you would do to make policing as a procession safer and more appealing? Almost all coppers want to be out on the street, interacting with their community, conducting investigations and locking up baddies. Police are now tied up with administration, red tape and beaurocracy giving them little time on the track. I would simply try to have an auxiliary force to handle these issues, obviously Government have a part to play in financing this.
What do you miss the most about the job?
Any special comments? Policing people are exceptional people, the Government and community need to support them, not subject them to crippling budget cuts and red tape.
Over 4,500 police have trusted us to look out for them. You can too.
Get into a new car with Maxxia and you could save time, effort and money. With Maxxia, you can leave the hard work to us. While you relax with family and friends, we can do the legwork to: • find you a great price • organise the lease repayments, and • potentially reduce the tax you pay.
CALL
1300 123 123 benefits.maxxia.com.au/police
Important information: This document contains general information and doesn’t take your personal circumstances into account. Please consider whether this information is right for you before making a decision and seek professional independent tax or financial advice. Conditions and fees apply, along with credit assessment criteria for lease and loan products. The availability of benefits is subject to your employer’s approval. Maxxia may receive commissions in connection with its services. Maxxia Pty Ltd | ABN 39 082 449 036 | Authorised Representative (No. 278683) of McMillan Shakespeare Limited (AFSL No. 299054).
MAXMKG_Q3NL_Pol_A_0114