tpav journal issue 1, 2016
Post on 25-Jul-2016
226 Views
Preview:
DESCRIPTION
TRANSCRIPT
This Edition
Out of the Blue -
Meet our very own
rock ‘n’ roll copper
Pursuit policy:
members have
their say
Newmember-
welfare initiatives
Andmuchmore...
Heavy whack,light justice for Chris
THE POLICE ASSOCIATION VICTORIA UPHOLDING OUR RIGHTS SINCE 1917 | WWW.TPAV.COM.AU | VOLUME 83 | ISSUE 1 | FEBRUARY 2016
JOURNAL
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 1 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au2
Call Fleetcare today on 1300 733 848or visitfleetcare.com.au/vic-police
^From
$352per fortnight1
Fully maintained
Save on car purchase price
Cut fuel costs
Cut vehicle costs
Reduce income tax
GST savings **
24/7 driver support
Terms & conditions
1. Quote is correct at time of publishing and is based on a 5 year lease with 15,000kms travelled per year. Prices and specifications subject to change and all quotes generated will bebased on individual circumstances. In this instance, vehicle availability may be limited as the vehicle mentioned is no longer in production. Used vehicle cannot be more than a certain ageat the end of the lease. Age is determined on an individual basis. ^ Some vehicle features shown in promotional image may differ from exact model used to attain fortnightly quote. **Taking into consideration your employers accounting methods and internal policies around GST and passing on input tax credits.
If you want to look after your well-earned cash, a Fleetcare novated lease is a no-nonsenseapproach to buying a car. It's the easy way to manage your vehicle, finance and running costsin one regular salary deduction.
Need a car loan? Novate and save!
At Fleetcare, used vehicles arealso eligible for Novated Leasing
2012 Nissan Navara ST Dual Cab
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 2 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
Welcometo your new-look Journal
As you’ve probably already noticed beforeeven opening this magazine, your Journal
has undergone a brand new look and feel.We hope you like it!
Since it was first published 98 years ago,The Journal has always evolved to maintainrelevance and appeal to members.
While we’re pleased that this process of evolutioncontinues, The Journal’s original and centralpurpose will not change – which is to inform andupdate members about our efforts to continuallyimprove our members’ working lives. In thisregard, The Journalwill continue to be The PoliceAssociation’s key publication of record.
But we also intend it to be a whole lot morethan that.
With somanymore immediate platformsavailable to us with which to communicate withour members, (such as via our website, App,Facebook page, InBrief newsletter, SMS etc)The Journal is able to serve as a point of differenceby delving more deeply into stories of interest tomembers as well as publish features that seek toentertain as well as inform. The Journal aims to domore of both.
We hope themore contemporary look and feelof the magazine agrees with you, and that youwill come to appreciate the work of our team oftalented feature writers and designers.
These aren’t the only elements of our new Journalthat’s changed.
The Journal also has a new business model from2016.We now publish The Journal ourselvesrather than through an external company. Thismeans that we now have direct control over theproduction and dispatch process of The Journal,including the sourcing of advertising whichcovers these costs.
Speaking of advertising, we’re excited to welcomeaboard the following group of important partnerswhose advertisements and informative editorialcontent will appear in all our six editions ofThe Journal in 2016 – ESS Super, BankVic, MauriceBlackburn Lawyers and Tobin Brothers Funerals.
It is especially pleasing that these organisationshave long-established connections with thepolicing community.We’re delighted that thisrelationship is further cemented by their supportof The Journal.
As always, we encouragemembers to providefeedback on any aspect of, what is after all, yourJournal.
We particularly welcome any story ideas youthink would be worthy of publication. Simplyemail us at journal@tpav.org.au.
Happy reading!
Ron Iddles OAMAPMSecretary
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 3 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
First published in 1918, The Journal is the
magazine of The Police Association of Victoria.
February 2016 Vol. 83 Issue 1
Published by The Police Association of Victoria
1 Clarendon St EastMelbourne Vic 3002
Phone: (03) 9468 2600
Email: general@tpav.org.au
Facsimile: (03) 9495 6933
Website: www.tpav.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tpav.org.au
EDITOR
Sandro Lofaro and Wayne Gatt
Executive MembersMr John Laird - President
9468 2600
MrKarl David - Senior Vice President
(Rosebud Police Station)
5986 0444
MrDermot Avon - Junior Vice President
(SouthMelbourne Police Station)
9257 3800
MrMax Jackson - Treasurer
(Melbourne North Police Station)
8379 0800
MrMichael Lamb - Assistant Treasurer
(Hastings Police Station)
5970 7800
MsGeri Porter
(Broadmeadows Police Station)
9302 8222
Mr Rod Brewer
(King Lake Police Station)
5786 1333
Mr Steven Azarnikow
(Victoria Police Academy)
9566 2163
Ms Alex Griffith
(Prahran Police Station)
9520 5200
MrDamien Peppler
(Critical Incident Response Team)
9247 5617
MrKen Ashworth
(Trident Taskforce)
9247 6666
Senior AdministrationSecretary: Ron Iddles
Assistant Secretary: BruceMcKenzie
Industrial RelationsManager: Chris Kennedy
Legal Manager: Chris Gorissen
CommunicationsManager: Sandro Lofaro
AdministrationManager: Sylvia Loveless
FinanceManager: MaryMcNicoll
Free Counselling for MembersMembers needing urgent, professional and
confidentialcounselling should call Optum on
1300 361 008. 24 hours, 7 days.
Retired Police AssociationIf you’re soon due to retire as a swornmember of
Victoria Police, please consider joining the Retired
Police Association.
President: JohnWills
Secretary: Phil Parson
Phone: 0448 950 691
Website: www.rpavictoria.org
POBox 2238, Rowville Vic 3178
The Police Association (Victoria) JournalThe Police Association Journal is published six
times a year. Published by The Police Association
Victoria, 1 Clarendon St, EastMelbourne Vic 3002
ABN: 004 251 325
The statements and/or opinions expressed in this
publication are not necessarily those of The Police
Association Victoria or of its officers. The
Association publishes all material herein from
various sources on the understanding that it is
both authentic and correct and cannot accept any
responsibility for inaccuracies.
AdvertisingIf you are interested in advertising in this
publication,please call Sandro Lofaro on
9468 2600 or 0419 311 427
DesignJen Clark Design
(03) 9088 0755
www.jenclarkdesign.com.au
PrintingFinsbury Green
(08) 7221 6652
www.finsbury.com.au
14Cover Story:No justice for Chris
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 4 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
VEOHRC Review: TPAV Responds
28
06 President’sMessage
08 Secretary’s Report
10 Pursuit Policy: Member’s Verdict
14 Cover story: No justice for Chris
20 OutOf The Blue
28 VEOHRCReview: TPAV Responds
30 BradshawHouse - The Next Step Inc
33 First Aid Security Concerns Allayed
34 Health Checks For Life
38 Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Is Preventable
40 Motoring
42 Your Say
44 Information Security - Have Your Say
46 Book Review:Ned Kelly: A Lawless Life
47 TPAV After-Hours Hotline
48 Whaddyaknow
51 Hot Property
Cover image and image top left: Constable Chris
Eyre with Detetctive Senior Constable DrewCorry.
Photo: Greg Noakes
Inside this edition
Lower speed limitfor vehicles passingstationary on-dutypolice back on theagenda
45Pursuit Policy
10
Out Of The Blue
20
Bradshaw House
30
Motoring
40
Hot Property
51
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 5 9/02/2016 9:23 am
www.tpav.org.au6
President’sMessage
Why youshouldvote ‘YES’to betterpay andconditionsBy John Laird
President’s
conditions
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 6 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 7
The time to vote on our proposed EnterpriseBargaining agreement has arrived. The ballot
for the vote is being conducted by the VictorianElectoral Commission on behalf of Victoria Police.Ballot paperswill be sent to your home address.The ballot opens on February 15 and closes onFebruary 29.
As President of The Police Association, I stronglyencourage you to participate in the ballot and tovote “Yes” to vastly improve your pay broughtabout by increases to yourweekend shift penaltiesand base salary.
The process of achievingwhat is on offer, followedsixmonths of intense negotiations.
Aftermuch robust debate, deliberation andnegotiation, we ultimately reached agreement onawhole raft of significantly improved conditions,including a 12 percent increase in base salary overfour years (well above inflation) and an historicimprovement toweekend penalty rates.
The newweekend penalty rates represent a hugeincrease formembersworking these shifts. Thisis whatmembers said theywanted loud and clearfrom the outset of the process, andwe are proudto have delivered!
Other improvements to your conditions include:
• Vastly improved penalty rates formembersworking on four public holidays every year
• Increase to all salary-related and expense-related allowances by 12 percent over the nextfour years
• Ability formembersworking part time toarrange set days and hours
•Rostersmust be posted physically at least 14days prior to commencement.
•Change of roster inside 48 hours, other than bymember’s request, will incur a penalty
•Membersmust be verbally notified of a changeof roster
• Payment of a newmeal allowancewhenmembers are unable to return to their place ofwork for ameal and the employer hasn’tmadesuitable arrangements formeals
•Carriage of bulky equipment, to be transportedby the employer. If this does not occur, membermust be deemed ‘on duty’ to undertake this task.
• Excess travel nowdetermined by time(45minutes). If you travelmore than 45 fromyourworkplace, and as a result, incur additionaltravel time, you are entitled to an excess
travel payment.
• Voluntary duties now to be paid at time and ahalf rather than at time and a quarter.
• Two daysCritical Incident Leave followinginvolvement in a critical incident.
•Members onCommutedOvertime to receivepayment for recall when not rostered onavailability
•Memberswhowork 11 continuous hourswill beentitled to an 8 hour break; if not to be paid atdouble time until they receive an 8 hour break,(does not include recipients of COT).
•New clause that changes trigger for overtimefrom “expressly directed” to the less onerous“required and permitted”. This will providecapacity to be paid overtime forwork thatmustbe completed but is not directly authorised.
A ‘YES’ votewill ensure that all Police and PSOmembers receive the benefits of this proposedagreement back-paid to 1December 2015.
InNovember, we took the steps ofmoving towardsprotected industrial action, somethingwe havehad to do in previous negotiations to achieve anoutcome.
We again thought that stepwould be required.However, immediately following the votebymembers to take industrial action, yourAssociation got the attention and interest of seniormembers of government. In previous campaigns,this is something thatwould only occur onceindustrial action commenced. This time around, itwas not necessary.
It is the firm view of the Association that not takingindustrial action on this occasionwas not to the
detriment of the final outcome.
This agreement, for the first time, offers decentpenalty rates formembersworking onweekendsand on some public holidays.
I encourage thosewho have not done so alreadyto log on to ourwebsite and use the penalty ratecalculator to seewhat is on offer forweekendwork.
Like in all previous EBAs, there are somememberswho don’t feel satisfiedwith the outcome and areadvocating thatmembers should vote ‘No’ to thisdeal.
Anybody contemplating going down this path,should carefully consider that there is a very realrisk that a ‘No’ votewill mean that the significantachievements of this agreementwould be lost.
Contrary to the belief of some, it is not the casethatwewould just resume our negotiations fromwhere this agreementwas reached. Wewouldbe required to start again from scratchwith aclean slate. This wouldmean starting from thesame positionwe started before this round ofnegotiations commenced nearly a year ago.
If this happens, the increases in your base pay andweekend penalties secured under this proposeddeal won’t necessarily occur, let alone back-paid to1December 2015.
In this scenario, it is highly likely that thefuture of your pay and conditionswill be in thehands of FairWork Australia whowouldmakean arbitrated decision. Arbitration is not anegotiation. Arbitrationwould be conducted by acommissionerwith no experience in policing.
In this situation, where an arbitrated decision isimposed, there are no guarantees thatmemberswould evenmaintain their existing conditions,let alone secure a better outcome thanwhat thisproposed agreement provides. In essence a ‘NO’votewill mean a risky and uncertain future.
If somebody you know is advocating a “No” vote,askwhat it is they expect and then suggest thatthey contact your Association for our view.
The newEBA cannot happen unless themajorityofmembers vote ‘YES’ to this agreement.
If youwant the salary and penalty increasesbrought about by this EBA, it is vitally importantthat you cast and submit your ‘YES’ vote and notleave it to others.
Let’s lock in the gains. Don’t risk losing them.Vote ‘Yes’!∆
“As President of The
Police Association, I
strongly encourage
you to participate in
the ballot and to vote
“Yes” to vastly improve
your pay brought about
by increases to your
weekend shift penalties
and base salary.”
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 7 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
Secretary’sReport
Dr Kevin Gilmartinwelcomed back toVictoria
We’re delighted to be bringing backDrKevinGilmartin to once again impart his wisdom
and expert knowledge to helpmembers to bettercopewith the unique demands of policework.
HisNovember 2014 visit generated glowingreviews frommembers and their familymemberswho sawhim. Clearly word-of-mouth in policing isas strong as everwith bookings exceeding 3000for the five presentations hewill be running thismonth across four locations around the state.
I thankChief Commissioner Ashton for supportingDrGilmartin’s presentations by allowingmembersto be rostered on to attend.
I also take this opportunity to acknowledge PoliceHealth for their generous support inmakingavailable complimentary copies ofDrGilmartin’sbook tomembers attending the sessions.
Ultimately, the reasonwe have flownDrGilmartindown from theUS to speak to ourmembers (he isalso speaking to policemembers inWA, Tasmaniaand theNT) is so that they and their partners canget themost out of the practical strategies headvocates to enablemembers to best copewiththe rigors of the job.
We hope theywork for you.
BradshawHouse
Another Police Association initiative in thewelfarespace is our new andwelcome associationwithBradshawHouse – aDrug&Alcohol treatmentcentre designed for thosewho strugglewithaddiction.
BradshawHouse is well equipped tomeetthe needs of Victoria Policemembers seekingassistance forDrug andAlcohol problems. It was
8 www.tpav.org.au
By Ron Iddles, OAM, APM
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 8 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 9
established by a former police officerwith theneeds of police inmind. It is a residential programthat adopts a holistic treatmentmodel thatincludes physical, mental, emotional and spiritualconsiderations.
The Police Association has offered tomakeavailable some funding to enable BradshawHouseto assist Associationmemberswho need helpthrough their program.
Please contact ourwelfare section for furtherinformation and advice about this service.
You can readmore about BradshawHouse onpage 30 of this edition of The Journal.
Resources
It might be an old chestnut, but regrettably, theissue ofwafer-thin frontline police resourcesis one that never seems to go away -with goodreason.
I don’t need to elaborate tomembers aboutwhythis is a problem and the impact it has on your dailyworking lives. You already know.
The proverbial elephant in the room, of course, isVictoria’s booming population.
As long as our population continues to growby100,000 people every year (or put anotherway, bya town the size of Ballarat), while police numbersremain stagnant, the problemwill continue to getworse.
Unfortunately, bothmajor political partiesmade
modest commitments on police numbers in thelead up to the 2014 state election. There’s sincebeen some tinkering at themargins to put on someadditional transit police and PSOs for theNightNetwork, but nothing tomake any serious inroadsto fix the problem.
Weare not permitted by law to negotiate onresources during the enterprise bargainingprocess, so the recent EBA process, unfortunately,never represented an opportunity for us to securebetter outcomes in this regard.
Notwithstanding, the Police Associationwill keepmaking the case to ForceCommand, both sidesof politics and to the public at large via themedia,thatmore needs to be done.
Meanwhile, we urgemembers to keep providing uswith examples of how the shortage of resources ismaking it harder for you and your colleagues. Yourfeedback is always invaluable to us in prosecutingour case.
TradeUnionRoyal Commission
The recent Royal Commission into TradeUnionshas highlighted the importance ofmaintaining highstandards of governance, structures and policies insuch organisations.
Your administration hasworked solidly over thelast 12months to ensurewe have the right policiesand procedures in place to ensure compliancewith all relevant legislation to ensurewe operateresponsibly and in accordancewith the regulatoryframework towhichwe’re accountable.
Over the next twelvemonthswewill continue thisworkwith a focus on refining our businessmodel,andmoving to an integrated andmore effective
casemanagement system, supported by a fullydigitised filing system.
Ultimately, our objective is to achieve amoreefficient and higher standard of service for ourmemberswho call on us for assistance and advicein away thatwithstands any scrutiny.
Police pursuits
Thank you to the nearly 3,000memberswhorecently gave us their feedback about the currentpursuit policy via ourmembers’ survey on thisissue.
Clearly, this is an issue that has generatedmuchpassion and debate amongmembers.
When the policywas introduced last July, ThePolice Association said at the time that only timewill tell if the new policyworks, and thatwe’dcloselymonitor its impact to assess if it struck theright balance. Clearly, there’s an overwhelmingmood amongmembers to see the current policychange.
Your responses have informed The PoliceAssociation’s position through our own reviewof the policy, as set out in an extensive report wehave compiled. We have submitted this paper toVictoria Police to take on board as they go abouttheir review of their current pursuit policy.
On pages 10,11 and 12 of this edition of TheJournal, we provide a sample of your responses aswell as an overview of the review documentwe’veprepared.
“It is a residential
program that adopts
a holistic treatment
model that includes
physical, mental,
emotional and spiritual
considerations.”
“The proverbial
elephant in the room,
of course, is Victoria’s
booming population.”
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 9 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
embers have given the newpolice pursuitpolicy the thumbs down andwant it changed.
That’s the emphatic verdict frommore than93 percent of the nearly 3000memberswhocompleted The Police Association survey on theissue late last year.
The overwhelming view amongmembers is thatthe contentious policy has failed to strike the rightbalance between the risks and benefits of pursuitssince it was introduced in July last year.
While somemembers have endorsed the ‘safetyfirst’ principle underpinning the current policy, thevastmajority have lamented that the policy, in itscurrent form, has done little to curb dangerousand erratic driving and therefore represents athreat to community safety.
Members took the opportunity in the survey tovent their frustration atwhat they see as the policy
effectively giving hoons the green light to get awaywith their offending behaviour, while thumbingtheir nose at police.
Members also strongly criticised the policy on anumber of other notable fronts.Many told thesurvey that;
• hoons are engaging in ‘baiting behaviour’ andthat the lack of pursuit response is actuallyincreasing, and not decreasing the safety risk tomembers
• the community is losing faith in the currentpolicy
• concerns at alarming instanceswheremembersof the public are takingmatters into their ownhands by stepping into the role of police inresponse to their perceived inaction by police
• thewording of the current policy is unclear and
confusing and that this has causedmembers tobecome too risk-averse in their decision-making.They say thewording of the policy should focusonwhen pursuits can occur, rather thanwhenthey can’t.
• the highly-restrictive nature of the policy deniesmembers the ability to properlyweigh up therisks and benefits of pursuing
• morale among policemembers is lower becauseof the policy
Police Association Secretary Ron Iddles saysthat input frommembers in the survey has beeninvaluable in informing The Police Association’sformal position on the policy.
“Since the policywas introducedwe’ve always saidthatwewouldwait and seewhether the policyproduced unintended consequences and thenrespond accordingly. Themembers are telling us
Members give their verdicton police pursuit policy
‘Wrong way,Go back!’
M
www.tpav.org.au10
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 10 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
clearly in our survey that this has been the case.
“We have carefully collatedmembers’ responses,which are central to an extensive and thoroughlyresearched review documentwe’ve prepared onthe issue.
“There is no silver-bullet solution, which is whyweare advocating amulti-faceted approach towardsgetting the balance right.
The Association’s 17 recommendations for changearewide-ranging and call for reform in areasincluding (but not limited to);
• clearer and simpler policy formulation
• greater level of discretion formembers
• more authority to be vested in a pursuitcoordinator,
• better training
• improved internal communications
• expanded aerial support
• greater investment in investigative tools andtechnology (such as targeted disabling devices,remote vehicle disabling technologies, fleeingvehicle tagging andGPS systems)
TheAssociation’s 49-page review paperwassubmitted to Police Command earlier thismonthandwill be taken on board as part of VictoriaPolice’s own review of the policywhich is due tooccur shortly.
Ron says he is pleased that Victoria Police hascommitted to take into account themembers’feedback in the survey as part of their review.
“Themembers on the ground are the best judgesof whether or not this policy is working. It’s notoften you seemembers responding to a survey
on a specific issue in such huge numbers, sharingtheir valuable experience and expertise. They haveshown genuine passion on this issue.
“I’m confidentwe’ve represented ourmembers’views in our review paper fairly and accurately andthat theChief Commissionerwill afford themdueconsideration in his own review of the policy”.
Members can view the Association’s full reportof its pursuit policy review on The PoliceAssociation Victoria website - www.tpav.org.au
Next page:What you said about the pursuitpolicy...
11The Police Association Victoria Journal
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 11 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au12
“[There are] obviously fewer injuries to all involvedbecause there are minimal pursuits”
“I don’t like to get involved in them [pursuits] if I don’thave to”
“...offenders continue to drive erratically anddangerously to avoid police apprehension, regardlessof whether they are still being followed or not”
“...Drink-drivers are just u-turning from booze buses asthey know there is no consequence”
“Road policing is negatively impacted due tooffenders knowing we won’t pursue so they engage inincreasingly risky behaviour above what they wouldnormally do”
“In the past six months the increase in members beingrammed/shot at has increased. Thisis directly related to this ridiculous policy”
“...the effect is that while one risk may have arguablybeen lessened, other aspects of associated crime andbehaviour still requiring police attendance are atgreater risk”
“In the absence of being able to predict the future,police will always be in a situation where they are‘damned if they do’ and ‘damned if they don’t’ withrespect to pursuits”
“There are many more occurrences of people evadingpolice. They KNOW that we will not pursue, so thechoice to flee becomes too convenient for them. In thepast some offenders wouldn’t think about evading.”
“It has also reduced our ability to detect and apprehendoffenders for other less serious crimes. Now anoffender knows we can’t pursue. If they have a bit ofdrugs on them or they’re suspended or other minorcrimes, they now fail to stop for police”
“I think this new policy has begun to erode the respectheld for Victoria Police.”
“...on social media offenders are coaching otheroffenders on how to engage for the police to terminate[a pursuit]. One known tactic is to drive on the otherside of the road”
“It is only a small element that are baiting police,throwing things at divvy vans and even shooting atpolice but if you allow something to fester, then itgrows...”
“Already there has been one situation where amember of the public took matters into his own handsand pursued his stolen vehicle while police cars satstationary doing nothing. The public are far moredisappointed in the police when they feel like they didnothing than they are when we tried and somethingwent awry”
“The people of Victoria have an expectation that thepolice will ‘uphold the right’ and apprehend offenders”
“I think that morale of members has been significantlyaffected in relation to this policy. I joined the policeforce to try and catch offenders, not to be a witness andwatch them drive off into the sunset”
“Members feel like they might as well sit in theoffice and wait for a job to respond to, rather thanproactively identifying offences and stopping them”
“The current policy and the long list of requirementsto observe is confusing to the police involved. I believeit is partly designed to create so much doubt that thedefault position is NO PURSUIT”
What you said aboutthe pursuit policy...
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 12 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 13
NewCAREbookletsavailableformembersdoing ittoughThe Association is pleased to announce the
launch of another resource to assist memberswho are doing it tough – our newCARE booklet.
TheCARE booklet is designed to provide valuableinformation and advice to helpmembers bettercopewith challenges causing themhigh levels ofstress and anxiety.
Above all, the booklet is designed to helpmemberslook out for their own psychological wellbeing.
It sets out some of the signs and symptoms ofstress or burnout aswell as some suggestedcoping strategies you can adopt. The booklet alsocontains contact details of other resourceswhereyou can seek help.
The booklet also provides information aboutour legal andworkers compensation services,as the stress and anxiety somemembersmaybe experiencing could be exacerbated by theirdealingswith theWorkCover and/or disciplinesystem.
While theCAREbooklet is not intended as asubstitute for face-to-face professional welfareassistance available through the Association orother sources both fromwithin and outside of thepolicing environment, we encouragemembers tofamiliarise themselveswith its content.
Police Association Secretary, Ron Iddles says allmembers should bemindful of the existence of thisnew resource formembers.
“Even if you don’t require help yourself, youmighthave a colleaguewho you feel could dowith someof the advice contained in this booklet. Please feelfree to refer them to us”, says Ron.
While hardcopies of ourCAREbooklet will behanded personally tomemberswho seek directprofessional assistance fromAssociation staff, thebooklet is also available formembers to view onourwebsite –www.tpav.org.au∆
Members experiencing
personal crisis should urgently
contact The Police Association’s
OPTUM service for free,
professional, confidential
counselling, 24 hours a day.
Call 1300 361 008.
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 13 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au14
No justiceafter Chris’unfair whackByKate Jones
Constable Chris Eyre with Detetctive Senior
Constable DrewCorry in the background, who
investigated the cowardly assault which left Chris
with shocking injuries.
Photo: Greg Noakes
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 14 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
Twenty seven years afterConstable Damian Eyre wasmurdered in Walsh St, his nephewbecame the victim of a cowardlyattack in the line of duty. And itseems that justice has again beenin short supply for Constable ChrisEyre.
Constable Chris Eyre didn’t see the plank of wood hurtling towards hisface.His head was turned when the baseball-style swing connected.
Stars appeared, then everything went black.
“I just remember grabbingmy face, trying to figure out what had happened.I could feel something all over my hands.”
It was blood.
Chris had been smashed across the nose with a 46cm length of framingtimber. The thug wielding the woodwas a fifteen-year-old boy.
The attack occurred in August when the constable was on night shift,working the van alongside an experienced colleague, Leading SeniorConstable NathanWarrick.
The pair was tasked to break up a rowdy party at Hoppers Crossing, shortlyafter midnight.
“It was a pretty routine job at the start, moving kids on on a Saturday night.It’s something we go to a lot. It just turned really bad really quickly.”
Most of the teenagers scattered when Chris and his partner arrived. Ofthose who remained, one was drunk and abusive, and was placed in the backof the divisional van.
His mates refused to accept it. One whipped off his top, despite the winterchill, and tried to pick a fight. He was capsicum sprayed.
The spray had little effect on the boy, but LSCWarrick copped the backdraft.
Chris’s protective instinct kicked in.
“There were six guys, andme andNath. I stood between Nath and the guysbecause Nath couldn’t see.”
The Police Association Victoria Journal 15
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 15 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au16
One of the boys took advantage of the diversionand tried to liberate his friend from the van.Chris heard the latch being rattled, and orderedhim to stop.
“I’ve turned around to look at Nath, because theother guys were still trying to fight him, and then,as I’ve turned around, I felt something hit me inthe face.”
Chris knows he didn’t lose consciousness, sincehe remained on his feet. But he was temporarilyblinded.
“At the time, the adrenalin was going. It was morescary than anything, because I couldn’t see, so Ididn’t knowwhat was happening.
“I could hear the others trying to fight Nathan,but I couldn’t see what they were doing.
“I thought, ‘If something happens, I can’t helpmyself let alone someone else.’”
He wondered about the offender, the boy who’dbeen trying to free his friend from the van.“When I saw him, he was a fair way away fromme,so if he’d hit me, I couldn’t figure out how.”Had the teen thrown the wood at him?
A neighbour who had witnessed the altercationfrom across the street provided a bag of frozenpeas for Chris’s face, and an explanation for whathad occurred.
“He didn’t throw it at you, mate, he hit you with it.”
The investigating officer, Senior Constable DrewCorry, was horrified by the force. “He hit Chrisso hard that a big chunk of wood bounced to theother side of the road. It wasn’t just a weak tap, itwas a line up and a smack to the face.”“A lot, I guess.”
The offender ran off, and an ambulancetransported Chris to the Royal MelbourneHospital. He had a CT scan to rule out a brokencheek bone, and surgery to repair his crumpledface.
“He broke the left side of my nose. It collapsed,so I couldn’t breathe out of it properly. I had ahuge lump onmy cheek, and cuts and bruises.”
As he recovered, it emerged the damage wasmore than cosmetic.
“My partner bought me an aftershave as a getwell present and I couldn’t smell it. That’s whenI twigged.”
The attack had cost him his sense of smell.
As Chris recovered, it was left to SeniorConstable Corry to investigate his case.
“It hits home a little bit more, I suppose, when it’sone of your colleagues.”
Three of the boys involved in the fracas werearrested. Twowere charged with minor offences.The teen who struck Chris had the book thrownat him: intentionally cause injury, recklesslycause injury, serious assault police, assault with aweapon, and being drunk in a public place.
Since the boy was 15, it’s fair to say neither Chrisnor his informant expected a draconian penalty.But the decision of the Children’s Court left themdumbfounded.
After pleading guilty, the boy received a12-month youth supervision order - withoutconviction.
The teen wrote a letter to themagistrateexpressing remorse, but a conversation at court,in earshot of one of Chris’s colleagues, proved itwas lip service.
“She overheard him bragging about having acopper’s blood on him and belting a copper,’says Chris.
Senior Constable Corry tries to bemeasuredin his reaction: “Frustration’s a word. Anger’sanother.”
“The biggest thing I found with the whole processwas there was somuch emphasis on the offender.Granted, I accept it is kids and they need to be
“There’s nothing I could
have done, because I
wasn’t even dealing
with him. I wasn’t even
talking to him. I was
dealing with something
else. He came from
behind. I’ve thought
about it time and time
again, and I can’t think
of any way I could have
avoided it”
Constable Chris Eyre
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 16 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 17
Above, left to right: Chris in 2016 (Photo: Greg
Noakes) and in the aftermath of last year’s attack.
The 46cm length of timber used to strike Chris
from behind.
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 17 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au18
rehabilitated too, but it certainly seemed thatthe balance was really heavily focused on theoffender and not so much on Chris.
“No one’s expecting the young fella to get lockedaway and never seen again... but I’d have beenpushing for a conviction, at least.”
The sentence left Chris feeling cheated.
“This has affectedmy life andmy family’s life.Possibly lifelong issues I’m going to have with it,and to think that he’s getting no real deterrent todo it again, it’s disappointing.”
He feels further frustration every time he seesWorkSafe commercials advocating safe workingenvironments.
“We go to work every day and expect to comehome in the same condition that we went in thereand to think that I haven’t... That’s not the resultof an accident, that’s the result of a decisionsomeonemade to try and stopme from doingmy
job. All I was trying to do wasmake the area safeand people in the community safe.”
Constable Eyre’s family is painfully aware of thedangers of policing.
His uncle, Damien Eyre, was one of two policeofficers gunned down inWalsh Street, SouthYarra, in 1988.
Four menwere acquitted of murder.
Damien’s father, retired policeman Frank Eyre,is Chris’s grandfather. He’s not surprised hisgrandson was attacked.
“It’s not out of character in today’s climate.”
But he is angry at how often the legal systemleaves people feeling let down.
“The victims are denied proper justice and, in myopinion, the penalties do not fit the crime.”
Chris’s TPAV delegate, Detective SeniorConstable BrendanO’Mahoney, agrees.
“The big thing it’s highlighted is we’ve probablybecome used to lenient sentences.”
He says many police officers ‘build a wall’ to avoidbeing affected by the outcomes of cases theyinvestigate.
But members’ families provide a reality check.
“When you’re speaking to people who aren’tinvolved in it every day, that’s when you get a bitof perspective and say it’s a slap on the wrist.”
DetectiveO’Mahoney saysChris’s case hasresonatedwith othermembers, who believe thesystemhas failed him.
“You expect a bit of protection from the courts.Assault police is supposed to have extra sentencingvalue.
“At the end of the day, I don’t knowwhatmessageit sends to the rest of the community, particularlyin a place likeWerribee, that’s got lots of youngkids.”
As for theChildren’s Court: “There needs to besome serious consideration into how these thingsare dealt with into the future.”
Chris returned towork amonth after the assault,with his approach to the job inevitably altered.
“I’m a lotmore cautious. I tend to stand a little bitfurther away frompeople.”
But, on reflection, he acknowledges cautionwouldn’t have saved him that night.
“There’s nothing I could have done, because Iwasn’t even dealingwith him. I wasn’t even talkingto him. I was dealingwith something else. He camefrombehind. I’ve thought about it time and timeagain, and I can’t think of anyway I could haveavoided it.”
Despite his uncle’s death, he’s never dwelled onthe risks of being a policeman.
“Peoplemake a big deal out of it, but I don’t knowany different. You can get hurt driving your carto and fromwork. It’s not something that I thinkaboutwhen I’m atwork. Nomore than anyone elsewould.”
Chris still has trouble breathing and expects he’llneed further surgery to rebuild his nose.
He remains hopeful his sense of smell will return,in time.
Which smells does hemiss?
“All of them.”
Even the bad ones. He can’t smell when histwo-year-old needs his nappy changed. He’d beoblivious if the gaswere left on or the housewereon fire.
It’s been a hefty price to pay, for one night at work.
But Chris says leaving the force never crossedhismind.
“I love this job and it’s an isolated incident thatwillhopefully never happen again.”∆
Kate Jones is a news reporter for the SevenNetwork
“You expect a bit of
protection from the
courts. Assault police is
supposed to have extra
sentencing value. At the
end of the day, I don’t
know what message it
sends to the rest of the
community, particularly
in a place like Werribee,
that’s got lots of young
kids.”
Detective Senior
Constable Brendan
O’Mahoney (TPAV
Delegate)
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 18 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
Out ofthe BlueLeading Senior Constable Tony Brewin
moonlighting as a rock n’ roller’.
www.tpav.org.au20
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 20 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
Never a longway for this copwho wants torock and roll
When Leading Senior Constable Tony Brewin isn’tdevising initiatives to keep inner urban teenagers on thestraight and narrow, he’s having a great time trying to“rock your socks off”.
When the lights go down, he goes undercover as a rockerand he’s not the only policeman on this particular beat.
By ElissaMcCallum
The Police Association Victoria Journal 21
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 21 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au22
In police officer mode, Tony Brewin has afriendly and well-modulated speaking voice,with a measured tone, verging on softly-spoken.He works as an inner suburbs youth resourcesofficer and deals with struggling families living inpublic housing.
On stage, he’s all rock’n’roll.
“YEAH!” he shouts.
“HEY!” he rumbles.
“Baby don’t you know you drive me CRAZY!”he belts into themicrophone.
“We are going to rock your socks off with a few ofour songs!”
He’s no garage band dreamer. He’s releasedalbums and has been playing gigs recentlywith singer ShannonNoll in front of crowds ofthousands. Fifty years old, he’s been a policeman
for 27 years and amusician since his early teens.Themusical all-rounder can sing, play lead andbass guitar as well as keyboards, is a songwriterand is in two bands.
He dreamed of being a rock star. His first bandwas called Lazee. “It was a pub band, looking forsuccess. I thought that was going to bemy life.”
He played gigs at night and wrote songs byday. In his early twenties, he made a reluctantdecision. “I needed a real job, so to speak.” Hebecame a police officer because he had friends inthe force.
The day themusic died never arrived though,despite the responsibilities of work, marriageand children, although it came close when histhree boys were little. “I moved into singing atweddings and that sort of rippedmy soul out.”
So hemade the time to feed his passion the wayhe likes. “I’ve always managed to balance musicand career.”
Fronting the five-piece bandMu-Theory, Tonyjumps around the stage, he bends towards theguitarists, he leans back towards the keyboardplayer.
“We’ve got a little song for you called ‘Spooky’”he announces to a corporate party audience,using some finger snapping to establish the beat.
“Life is kind of crazy with a spooky little girl likeyou,” he sings.
Now it’s on to a few cover songs. Tony needs aticket for an aeroplane because his baby wrotehim a letter.
Performing four concerts with singer ShannonNoll last year was a highlight. They came about
“My instruments are all pluggedin and ready to go. I just haveto turn them on and away I go.There’s nothing more relaxing thanhaving a muck-around with theinstruments. A glass of wine, somemusic it’s great”
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 22 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 23
because the drummer in Tony’s second band, acover outfit calledWonderpants, knew him.
“The first concert I did with him, I was reallynervous for some reason,” says Tony. “We startedthe first song and he came straight over to meand grabbedme and gaveme a big bear hug andmademe feel terrific.
“He’s a real country bloke.Whenever we playsomewhere, his mates always turn up and they’realways farmers. Shannon treats them like royalty.”With Noll, Tony and theWonderpants haveplayed golf clubs, pubs, a football event and thebiggest, a rodeo before a crowd of 5,000 people.
“Ooh la la la, ooh la la la, yeah,” sings Tony on stagewithMu-Theory. “Sing it with us!”
By his side, on bass guitar, rocking mustardcoloured shorts, is Acting Inspector Pat
Ferdinands from the Legal Services Department.He’s got his hands full at work preparing counterterrorism Supreme Court applications, but onstage, he’s in the moment as he accompaniesTony’s lyrics about the cool of the evening “wheneverything is getting kind of groovy”, beforelaunching into a Hendrix cover.
Another song Tony wrote is calledMan Cave,which he performs with Pat, who has his ownversion of one at home. His retreat is his study.
“My instruments are all plugged in and readyto go. I just have to turn them on and away I go.There’s nothing more relaxing than having a muckaround with the instruments. A glass of wine,somemusic…it’s great,” he says.
His friendship with Pat goes back nearly 30 years,when they had just joined the force and Tony waspromoting his music.
“I was doing a lot of solo records, releasing themon cassette and flogging them to all the recruits,”recalls Tony. “There are probably tons of cops outthere who’ve got a dusty Tony Brewin cassettesomewhere around,” he laughs.
Mu-Theory’s third album, with eight of the 10tracks written by Tony, is expected to be finishedin the next couple of months. “It’s quite a rock andpop record,” he says.
Music has found its way into Tony’s work,particularly when he was a schools resourceofficer and got involved with East Timoreseteenagers in a Collingwood school band.
“I was helping themwrite songs. They werewriting about the experience of coming toAustralia andmissing the cultural things fromEast Timor that were really important to them.
Tony performs with Australian
singer-songwriter, ShannonNoll.
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 23 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au24
“Early to rise, early to die.Born into heroin addictionand lies.There’s hurt and there’spain, canyons of shame.Can’t stand the parents butyou love them the same.”
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 24 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 25
“When I work with young people, music is acommon thread. Not that I like the samemusic.I’m not really into hip-hop or whatever is aroundnow.”
He says his song writing ideas comemainly fromhis personal life, but “Lonely Life” is a reflectionon working with vulnerable people and “thealmost total inevitability of poor outcomes andhowmany young people in these situations cometo this realisation.
“Many beautiful people live in public housing, butthere’s always a sad tale somewhere,” he says.
Early to rise, early to die
Born into heroin addiction and lies
There’s hurt and there’s pain, canyons of shame
Can’t stand the parents but you love them the same
(Lonely Life)
After chatting to The Journal about music, Tonywas due to knuckle down to work on a programhe initiated called Communities That Care,which involves identifying the crime risk factors
influencing children’s lives. A survey was taken ofstudents in the City of Yarra and revealed drugand alcohol use among year eight students.
Also on his agenda are regular meetings with agroup of local mothers from the public housingunits across the road from his office at Fitzroypolice station. The women are worried about howto steer their rebellious teenage sons in the rightdirection.
“We’re trying to support the community acrossYarra with social-emotional literacy,” explainsTony. “It’s being taught in a lot of the primaryschools. A lot of our families are having troublewith the way they communicate with one another.Skills in emotion coaching are being taught toparents and kids.”
Tony says music will always be an itch he can’tstop scratching. It’s a thrill all the time. “It’s niceto know that at the age of 50 I’m still able toexperience some of themost fun gigs. It holds outa bit of hope for us oldies.”∆
“I was helping them
write songs. They
were writing about the
experience of coming to
Australia and missing
the cultural things from
East Timor that were
really important
to them.”
Above, left to right: Tonybelts out a number at one of his
concerts. At work: Leading Senior Constable Tony Brewin with
local youth support worker, AkechManyiel (Photo: Greg Oakes).
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 25 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
Plan the future you want with helpfrom the experts in your fund
IntroducingESSSuper’sSeminar Seriesfor 2016 –
Super is one of themost important buildingblocks in planning for retirement so it’s
important that you have a good understanding ofyour super benefits.
As the fund responsible for your ESSSDefinedBenefit Fund, ESSSuper is committed in helpingyou understand your super benefit. ESSSuperrun a number of FREE information seminarsthroughout the year, at theirMelbourne office,surrounding suburbs and in regional Victoria.
The range of seminar topics have been tailoredbased on the different needs and interests of ourmembers. You simply choose the seminar topicwhichmost interests you.
The seminars are an excellent opportunity foryou to learnmore about your super benefits.
ESSSuper’sMember EducationConsultants covertopics such as contribution rates, your insuranceoptions, tips on boosting your super savingsandwhat to consider in achieving a comfortableretirement.
If you are interested in attending a FREE superseminar near you please visit the ESSSuperwebsite for dates, times and locations. Please noteplaces are limited so bookings are essential.
Super questions?Get super solutions
If you have recently joinedVictoria Police andwould like to knowmore about your super youcan call ESSSuper’sMember ServiceCentre on1300650161 to arrange an appointmentwithone of our consultants.
ESSSuper’s SuperannuationConsultants havean excellent understanding of the ESSSDefinedBenefit (DB) Fund and they can explain yoursuperannuation options on joining the forceto help you get themost out of your super.Alternatively, the ESSSuperwebsite is a greatsource of information.
Issued by the Emergency Services Superannuation Board ABN28161296741, the Trustee of the Emergency Services Superannuation Scheme(ESSSuper) ABN85894637037. Beforemaking a decision about an ESSSuper product or service please consider our ProductDisclosure Statement (PDS)available at: www.esssuper.com.au or by calling 1300 650161.
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 27 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au28
When the Victorian Equal Opportunity andHuman Rights Commission (VEOHRC)
released its confronting report into sexualharassment and discrimination in Victoria Policein December, The Police Association immediatelygave its recommendations our full public backing.
We also said at the time that we would offerto work with and assist Victoria Police to bringabout necessary change and to stamp out andprevent these behaviours in the first instance.
The Police Association has proudly taken anactive role in bringing issues of harassment anddiscrimination to the surface by working closelywith VEOHRC to identify issues of concern aspart of its independent review and investigation.
We also strongly promoted VEOHRC’sconfidential survey of members, includingconfidential face-to-face interviews.Wecommend and thank all members who providedtheir feedback and told their own stories.
This supportive role played by The PoliceAssociation in this review continues a history ofactively supporting and advocating on behalf ofvictims of discrimination, harassment and bullyingin Victoria Police for more than 20 years.
The Police Association, for example, wasinstrumental in the introduction of flexibleworking initiatives for those with parental orcarer responsibilities and has representedmembers when these standards have not beenmet. In this last EBA negotiation, we took onboard the recommendations of the review – asdid Victoria Police - by including many otherequity initiatives as part of the proposedagreement.
All of us in leadership positions in the policingcommunity have a responsibility to ensure thatour profession must move its culture in line withtoday’s community standards.
We accordingly welcome VEOHRC’s report as anextremely important catalyst for change.
to the VEOHRC Review
The PoliceAssociationresponds
By Ron IddlesOAMAPM
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 28 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 29
A difficult, but absolutely necessary process liesahead in ensuring that not only the wrongs of thepast are acknowledged, but, that going forward,police workplaces across the state are built onrespect, safety and fairness - with no exceptions.
Harassment and discrimination, of any type, mustbe stamped out and should never be swept underthe carpet.
Victoria Police’s response
I wish to place on the recordmy appreciation forthe commendable leadership shown by ChiefCommissioner Ashton to date in his responseto the VEOHRC report. I welcome his genuinecommitment to do what needs to be done toidentify and address unhealthy behaviours and toensure they are prevented in the future.
Notwithstanding, Mr Ashton’s initial responseto VEOHRC’s report, The Police Associationhas since written to Victoria Police seekingclarification on some of the initial measures itannounced in the wake of the review, which seemto have caused some confusion amongmembers.
Some of the issues where we’ve sought moredetail include;
•How the victim-centric approach beingadopted by Victoria Police will operate withthe complaint process contained in the EqualOpportunity Act or the ‘redress scheme’mooted by Victoria Police in somemediareports;
•Greater clarity about how the two hotlines setup by Victoria Police are to operate and howthey are intended to differ;
•Greater detail in relation to the ‘advice, triageand referral services’ of theWorkplace HarmUnit
• Great clarity about the role undertaken bytheOrganisational Standards and BehavioursBranch and whether it will advocate on behalfof victims and how any perceived conflict of
interest will be dealt with;
•Greater detail on processes or policies to befollowed by aggrievedmembers or by VictoriaPolice in cases that warrant ‘investigation’ intobreaches of OHS, Equal Opportunity, CriminalLaw or Victoria Police legislation/policy.
We expect that once we receive the clarificationwe are seeking on these issues, that this wouldpave the way for further discussion betweenthe Association and Victoria Police about a clearway forward in properly and fairly dealing withcomplaints.
What about TPAV?
The VEOHRC report has also given The PoliceAssociation cause to reflect on howwe deal withmatters around harassment and discriminationwhenmembers come to us and howwe canimprove as an Association in representingvictims.
We accept the feedback from somemembersin the VEOHRC report that they perceive theAssociation’s role to be conflicted as it representsboth victims as well as those who are accused ofdoing the wrong thing.
Somemembers perceive that the Associationadopts a ‘first in, best dressed’ approach whendealing with incidents of harassment or bullying,mainly at the expense of the party that has comein late in seeking representation.
While this is not the case, the point here is thatthis is the perception, and therefore the reality, ofsomemembers. This is not good enough.
Wemust be self-aware enough to acknowledgethat we are far from perfect when it comes todealing in the best way possible with membersinvolved in matters of harassment, bullying anddiscrimination.
For this reason, I recently contacted theCommissioner of VEOHRC, Kate Jenkins andinvited her organisation to review The Police
Association’s current policies, procedures andpractices when it comes to handling complaints ofharassment, discrimination and bullying.
We have done this with very much an openmindfor us to change should VEOHRC feel that we fallshort in any way.Wewill keepmembers posted inrelation to this process.
In themeantime, we encourage all memberswho feel they’ve been victims of harassment,discrimination and bullying behaviour to call onThe Police Association for assistance and advice.
We all share a responsibility for identifying,preventing and eliminating these behaviours.
I can’t help but wholeheartedly endorse thedeclaration made by former Australian ArmyChief and recently-announced 2016 Australian ofthe Year, DavidMorrison when he said that ‘Thestandard you walk past is the standardyou accept’!∆
“I can’t help but
wholeheartedly endorse
the declaration made
by former Australian
Army Chief and
recently-announced
2016 Australian of the
Year, David Morrison
when he said that ‘The
standard you walk past
is the standard you
accept’!”
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 29 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au30
BradshawHouse – TheNext Step IncHelping members to overcome addiction
“If members can
demonstrate that they
have made genuine
and repeated attempts
to overcome their
addiction, we will
consider funding
their placement on
the Bradshaw House
program”.
The Police Association’s increased focusonmember-welfare has taken another
step forward with its decision to partner withBradshawHouse, a live-in drug and alcoholrehabilitation clinic geared to helping policemembers overcome addiction.
Secretary Ron Iddles says the initiative for theAssociation to supportmembers in this regard isinspired by the success of the Phoenix AAGroupin helping serving and former policemembers beataddiction overmany years.
“The personwho founded the Phoenix AAGroupprogram is a formermember of Victoria Policewho set up the programprimarily with thewelfareof police inmind” says Ron.
“She is also behind the establishment of BradshawHouse - TheNext Step Incwhich offers specifictailored programs to address drug and alcoholissues and is well equipped tomeet the needs ofVictoria Policemembers seeking assistance.
“We arewell aware policing has become a verydemanding jobwhich causesmany issues such as
depression, anxiety and PTSD,which canmanifestinto alcohol or substance abuse.
BradshawHouse, located inHalls Gap near theGrampiansNational Park, provides private andconfidential clinical treatment in a peaceful setting.It provides a residential program that adopts aholistic treatmentmodel.
Ron saysmembers strugglingwith alcoholaddiction should consider contacting The PoliceAssociation’s welfare section in the first instanceto discusswhether the programoffered byBradshawHouse is right for them.
“If members can demonstrate that they havemadegenuine and repeated attempts to overcome theiraddiction, wewill consider funding their placementon the BradshawHouse program”.
Places are limited and anymemberwho availsthemselves of this program via the Association canbe assured of utmost privacy and confidentiality. ∆
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 30 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 31
•Caters to police
•Comprehensive rehab program
• Strict confidentiality
•TPAV support (subject tomeeting criteria)
• Peaceful environment
Further information
Members interested in this program shouldcontact The Police Association’swelfaresection anytime of day or night on(03) 9468 2600
Why Bradshaw House?
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 31 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
Call ourhotlineanytimefor advice9468 2600
To get the best possible legal advice call the Association as soonas a critical incident happens. Failure to do so puts you in avulnerable position, and can expose you to disciplinary and/orserious legal action. Before you speak to anyone, speak to us.
CritiCal inCidentsCan inClude:Discharge of firearmPolice PursuitsDeaths in CustodySerious Police accidents
inaCritiCalinCident?Protect yourself.Call us. straight away!
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 32 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
Securityconcernsallayed formemberstraining inFirst AidConcerns around security and red tape
have been allayed for members seeking toundertake mandatory First Aid training, followingrepresentations made by The Police Association.Members now seeking to undertake requiredFirst Aid training will no longer be required totake on the burden of having to obtain a UniqueStudent Identifyer (USI), a process which alsoentails members having to disclose personalinformation.
As a consequence of last month’s ruling by theUSI Office, members who undertake First Aidtraining with St John will still receive a certificateof attainment despite not having a USI.
Prior to the ruling, members were told by VictoriaPolice that they were obliged to obtain a USInumber before being allowed to undertakemandatory First Aid training.
This requirement followed the January 2015introduction of the Unique Student Identifier(USI) initiative, which allows students to accessall of their training records and results from oneonline location.
Following the introduction of this requirement,some Association members expressed concernthat the application process for a USI requiredthem to provide personal identificationinformation like drivers’ license or passportnumbers.
After representations made by The PoliceAssociation we can now advise members thatthey are now exempt from the requirement toobtain a USI.
The USI Office has provided the following advice:
“…Training organisations exempted by theirRegulator from the need to collect and submitAVETMISS compliant data on nationallyrecognised training activities on the groundsthat submission of such data would conflict withdefence or national security legislation and/orcould jeopardise the security or safety of defence,border protection, customs, national security orpolice personnel will continue to be exemptedfrom the submission of AVETMISS compliantdata and will not be required to participate in theUSI initiative….”
Generally, when students register for VocationalEducation Training (VET), they are required toprovide their USI number to the RegisteredTraining Organisation (RTO) so that the RTOcan report the student’s training information tothe National Centre for Vocational EducationResearch (NCVER) on completion.
A USI reference number creates a secure onlinerecord of recognised training and qualificationsgained in Australia.
Despite this ruling, members who still wish toobtain a USI for their own purposes, such as useof training records outside of Victoria Police, canstill do so. It is entirely your choice.
More information about the USI initiative can befound online at:
www.usi.gov.au
The Police Association Victoria Journal 33
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 33 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au34
Healthchecksfor life
Having the car serviced is a given for mostpeople who want to protect their investment
and lessen the chances of being left stranded byan avoidable breakdown.
Curiously that same thinking does not alwaysapply when it comes to personal health check-ups.
Regular visits to your doctor should be a priorityeven if you have never felt better. They canidentify medical problems in the critical earlystages and prevent years of chronic ill health.
Most importantly, early intervention can save lives.
Health checks give your GP an opportunity toassess your lifestyle, medical issues and any familyhistory that could place you at risk.
In this article we take a look at the healthscreeningsmen andwomen should be consideringat different stages of their lives.
ChildrenIn addition to regular check-ups by a GP orpaediatrician, babies and infants are providedfree ongoing assessments by local child andfamily health centres. This includes overall healthand weight, eating and physical activity, eyesightand hearing, teeth and gums, sleeping habits,language and physical development, and socialand emotional wellbeing.
A blood test is also offered to every newborn tocheck for metabolic or genetic disorders. Healthauthorities urge all parents to ensure theirchildren’s immunisations are kept up-to-datefor protection against highly contagious andpotentially fatal infections.
Regular dental check-ups are also important andshould continue into adulthood.
20 to 40 yearsThis is whenmost people are in their prime. Youfeel good and health checks seem a pointlessexercise. Common hidden health issues maybe lurking however and it’s important they arediscovered early.
Men and women
•High blood pressure has no symptoms yetis a major cause of stroke, heart disease andheart failure. It can also lead to eye and kidneydamage. Have it tested at least every two years.
• Elevated levels of cholesterol and glucose inthe blood can lead to heart disease and type 2diabetes. Have your GP check them every twoto five years andmore frequently if you have afamily history of these conditions.
•About 95 per cent of skin cancers can be
CHILDREN
• Regular check-ups by a GP or paediatrician
• Keep immunisations up-to-date
• Regular dental check ups are a must
Brought to you by Police Health - Member’s own health fund.
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 34 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 35
treated successfully if found early. Examineyour own skin for suspicious moles or spots andseekmedical help if you have concerns.
• Sleeping with new partners can expose you tovarious sexually transmitted infections whichcan lead to serious health problems, includinginfertility and cancer. If at risk it’s advisable tovisit a sexual health clinic every fewmonths.
Men
• Testicular cancer has a high cure rate if foundearly. Men of all ages should self-examine aboutevery four weeks for any unusual lumps orswellings.
Women
•All women over the age of 18 who are sexuallyactive should have a pap test every two yearsto identify any irregularities that could lead to
cervical cancer. This is important even if you’vehad a cervical cancer (HPV) vaccine, as thisdoesn’t protect against all cancer-causing typesof HPV.
• Sexually active women under 30 are advised tohave an annual urine test for chlamydia whichcan affect fertility and often has no symptoms.
• Have a general check-up before planning apregnancy and regular antenatal checks tomonitor the baby’s development.
40 to 50 yearsReaching 40 is a milestone for your body whenthe risk of various health conditions increases. It’sa period of demanding work and growing childrenand your ownwelfare may take a back seat. Keepup with your previous health checks and add afewmore.
Men and women
• It’s normal for your vision to deteriorate whenyou reach 40 so now’s the time to get youreyes checked. The test will also pick up otherpossible conditions such as glaucoma, theleading cause of blindness in Australia, andmacular degeneration.
•A one-off health check for people aged 45-49is provided by the Australian Government toidentify those at risk of chronic disease such astype 2 diabetes and heart disease. People aged40-49 can also be evaluated for type 2 diabetesusing the government’s AUSDRISKassessment tool.
Men
• Prostate cancer is a major cause of cancerdeath in Australia and is very common in menover 40 years. See your doctor if you have
20 - 40 YEARS 40 - 50 YEARS 50 PLUS YEARS
• Preventative health checks are critical
• Screen for bowel cancer as risk increases
• A hearing test can determine any degree ofhearing loss
•Women over 45 andmen over 50 shouldask for bone density testes to help treatosteoporosis
•Women should self check or get a mammogramevery two years
• Get your eyes tested
• Test for chronic disease, such as:- type 2 diabetes and- heart disease
•Men see doctor if problems urinating
•Men have annual prostate checks once youreach 50 or earlier if there is family historyof prostate cancer
• Test blood pressure every two years,cholesterol and glucose every 2-5 years
• Examine your own skin for suspicious moles
•Men self examine for unusual lumps orswelling that could lead to testicular cancer
•Women have pap test every two years ifsexually active
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 35 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au36
problems urinating and have annual prostatechecks once you reach 50, earlier if you have afamily history of the disease.
50 plus yearsRegular preventative health checks are evenmore critical as you head into your 50s andbeyond – and your body starts to feel its age.
Men and women
• Bowel cancer is the secondmost commoncancer in Australia with about 17,000men andwomen diagnosed each year. The risks increasefor people aged over 50. You can be screenedthrough the National Bowel Cancer ScreeningProgram, which is a non-invasive test for bloodin the faeces using a free kit at home.
• Advancing age increases the risk ofosteoporosis when bones become brittle duetomineral loss. This makes youmore vulnerableto fractures.Women over 45 andmen over50 should ask their doctor to assess theirrisk factors and a bone density test may berecommended. Lifestyle changes and calciumsupplements help treat the condition.
•Once you reach 50 your doctor mayrecommend an electrocardiogram (ECG)every two to five years to identify any cardiacabnormalities.
•About 50 per cent of people suffer someform of hearing loss as they age which makescommunication difficult and reduces quality oflife. A hearing test will determine your degreeof hearing loss and possible causes. Manyhearing conditions are treatable.
Women
•Women of any age should self check forbreast cancer. Between 50 and 74 you cantake advantage of themammogram serviceprovided free by BreastScreen Australia everytwo years. Anyone with a family history ofbreast cancer should inform their GP about theneed for more regular screening.
PoliceHealth has launched a new service tomake it easierformembers to assess their health risks. healthbeat is a freeonline service for eligiblemembers aged 18 and overwhohave hospital cover.
After you have completed an assessment the portal providesup-to-date information relative to your status and allows youto track your health and progress.
Anyone identified at risk can then join an appropriatechronic diseasemanagement program (CDMP)which coversconditions such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonarydisease,mental health and coronary heart disease.
PoliceHealth partnerHome Support Services (HSS) deliversthe six-month programwhich addresses the progressivestages of chronic disease through in-home and telephoneassistance.
The aim is to helpmembersmanage their chronic disease andkeep themout of hospital.
Formore information about healthbeatvisit www.policehealth.com.au or call 1800 603603.
Healthbeat RiskAssessment
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 36 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au38
Listen hear:Noise-inducedhearing lossis preventableHearing impairment affects one in six
Australians. And while aging has long beenidentified as themost common contributor,excessive exposure to loud noise has now takenover as themain cause.
Loud noise can harm the delicate hearingmechanismwithin the inner ear and the higherthe noise and longer the exposure, the greaterdamage it can have.
Research suggests regular exposure to noiseabove 85 decibels – about the level of a vacuumcleaner − for more than eight hours a week cancause irreversible damage.
So it might come as a surprise to learn thatpolicing is considered among the professionsmost at risk of occupational hearing loss, due tothe cumulative effects of sounds such as constanttraffic noise, sirens, barking dogs, firearms andspending entire shifts at loud public events.
In contrast to age-related hearing loss, whichaccelerates over time, the rate of hearing loss
due to chronic noise is greatest during the first10-15 years of exposure. It is therefore vital thatthis major preventable occupational hazard betreated as a high health and safety priority.
Early signs of hearing loss include:
• having difficulty understanding what peoplesay when there are other sounds in thebackground, or if they are not looking at you
• hearing words incorrectly and asking forrepeats, or for the volume to be raised
• difficulty hearing soft or distant speech, or ifthe speaker has an accent, and,
• not hearing sounds around you, like phonesringing, doorbells and alarm signals.
HEARINGLife provides all Victoria Policemembers free hearing checks. Those found tohave hearing problems are eligible to make aclaim for medical treatment including the costof hearing aids, as well as a lump sum paymentfor permanent impairment, if your hearing loss iswork-related and above the injury threshold.
For more information about a claim, talk to theAssociation’s lawyers, Maurice Blackburn.They can help if you’ve been injured on-dutyin any other way as well. They can also assistif you or a loved one has been involved in aroad accident, has a public liability or medicalnegligence claim, or want to make or disputea will. The initial consultation with all PoliceAssociation members is free.
For more information about howMauriceBlackburn Lawyers can help you on a no win,no charge basis, visit:www.mauriceblackburn.com.auor free call 1800 810 812.
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 38 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 39
BREATHING
CONVERSATION TRAFFIC FROMINSIDEACAR
A TYPICALCOVERS BAND
LOUDROCKCONCERT
SHOTGUNBLAST
PHONERING
ACOUSTICACTS
MOTORCYCLE JET ENGINE LOUDEST SOUNDPOSSIBLE
Source:XXXXXXXX
30db 60db 80db 85db 85db 95-105db
100-110db 115db 140db 165db 194db
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 39 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
Motoring
Redesigned frombumper to bumper.And it’s clearly the bestCamry yet – at a value-for-money price.
The newest Toyota Camry hits the mark withcompletely new styling, sharper pricing and a
new sports variant.
Design
Except for its roof, Camry has undergone abumper-to-bumper redesign. And it looks extraathletic with amore aggressive grille and newalloys on all models.
Inside is a newdash layoutwith upgradedinstruments and newmulti-function display. Asmaller steeringwheel, with audio and phonefunction buttons, features across the range.
Seating is roomy and comfortable. The rear seatsfeature 60-40 split-fold functionality for storageof longer items. The huge boot comeswith a sparewheel under its floor.
Atara SX, a stand-alone sportsmodel, wasconceived and engineered in Australia to be themost agile Camry yet. Making it complete are:
• Eighteen-inch black alloys.
•Wide low-profile rubber.
•Ablackmesh grille.
• Boot-lip spoiler.
•Dual exhausts.
Value formoney
With up to $5,000 slashed off equivalentsupersededmodels, entry Altise nowhas an askingprice of $26,490, just $90more than a 1997
CamryCSi. And it’s a far better carwith loadsmore equipment.
The new sporty Atara SX is $31,990, while thethreewell-equippedHybridmodels start at$30,490.
Top-of-the-rangeAtara SL is available in petrol($37,440) orHybrid ($40,440).
Safety
All models score a five-star safety rating andfeature:
• Seven airbags.
• Traction and stability control systems.
• LEDdaytime running lights.
• Reversing camera.
• Pre-load differential, which improves stabilityand enhances steering feel.
Top-spec Atara SLmodels comewithmoreadvanced safety features such as:
• Pre-collision alert with the ability to applythe brakes.
• Blind-spotmonitoring.
• Lane-departurewarning.
• Auto high beam.
• Radar cruise control.
Stats
Petrol models feature a 2.5-litreDOHC four-cylinder petrol engine, which produces 133kWof
power and 231Nmof torque. The addition of dualexhausts on all Ataramodels squeezes an extra2kWand 4Nm.
The standard transmission is a six-speed automaticwithmanualmode. Ataramodels gain paddleshifters.
Claimed fuel economy is 7.8 litres/100kmwithCO2 emissions of 183g/km.
The threeHybrid variants feature a 2.5-litreAtkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol enginecombinedwith a 650-volt electricmotor andgenerator. Combined output is an impressive151kW.
Hybridmodels use an all-gear CVT transmission;andHybrid combined fuel economy is 5.2litres/100km,withCO2 emissions of 121 g/km.
On the road
TheAtara SX feelsmore powerful than its engineoutput figures suggest. The transmission offerssmooth, quick changes and the paddle shifters addto its sporty feel.
On bends, SX remains agile and compliant. Itsquicker steering ratios are evident. Suspension isfirmbut the ride is generally good and the cabinremains quiet.
Verdict
This is clearly the best Camry yet and representsbetter value formoney.
www.tpav.org.au40
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 40 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
The third Holden instalment fromGermanythis year is the new Insignia VXR.
Design
Amid-sized four-door sports sedan, Insignia VXRfeatures a turbochargedV6 petrol engine drivingall fourwheels through a six-speed automatictransmissionwith paddle shifters.
The car features big 20-inch alloywheels shodwith low-profile (255/35) Pirelli tyres. Big cross-drilled front rotors are fittedwith four-pistonBrembo calliperswith smaller solid discs at therear. A boot-lid lip spoiler and dual exhaust outletsalso feature.
Driver and front passenger each score anelectrically adjustable heated Recaro sports seat.The 60-40 rear seat offers sufficient head andleg room for two adults. The boot is roomy butcontains no sparewheel, just a tyre inflation kit.
Insignia’s gauge layout features an analoguetachometer and fuel and temp gauges. Betweenthese is an eight-inch configurable driverinformation centre, which offers electronicvoltmeter, oil temperature and speedometer.
Drivers can toggle between digital speed, tyrepressure, trip computer, phone info, G-meter, laptimer and satellite navigation readouts. A secondeight-inch colour touchscreen in the centre of thedash displays sat-nav, reversing camera, and audioand other functions.
Drivers can select between Standard, Sport andVXRdrivemodes. These alter throttle response,
gearshift mapping, power-steering assistance andthe torque transfer between front and rear axles.
Value formoney
The $51,990 price tag, plus dealer delivery andon-road costs, sounds a bit steep. It’s close to theprice of aCommodore SSRedline V8. But InsigniaVXR iswell engineered and highly specified.Standard items include:
• Leather trim.
• Satellite navigation.
•Dual-zone climate control.
• Front and rear parking sensors.
• Trip computer.
• Seven-speaker audiowith digital radio.
• Smart entry.
• Push-button start.
Safety
Insignia comeswith an array of safety equipment,including:
• Reversing camera.
• Six airbags.
• Autowipers and lights.
• LEDdaytime running lights.
• Blind-spotmonitoring.
• Lane-departurewarning.
• Adaptive cruise control with speed limiter.
• Forward collision and rear traffic alert systems.
•Emergency brake assist.
• ISOFIX child seat anchorage system.
Stats
Insignia’s 2.8-litre turbochargedV6 engine putsout 239kWof power and 435Nmof torque. Butthe car is heavy, a tad over 1,800kg and, as a result,can be thirsty. Holden claims fuel economy of 11.3litres/100km.
On the road
A smooth and relatively quiet car around town,except for the exhaust burble at idle. On twistybitumen, all the sports bits come together tomakefor a quick, agile performer. In VXRmode it’sexhilarating.
Verdict
Although not a V8 killer, Insignia VXR is a superblyfitted-out driver’s carwhich can set the pulseracing. Fuel efficiency and the requirement for98RONunleaded are possible drawbacks. ∆
Reviewedby Jim Barnett
When the sports bitscome together.It’s close to the priceof an SS Redline buthighly specified.
41The Police Association Victoria Journal
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 41 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au42
YourSay
Dear Ron,
In the early hours of the 27th of
August 2011 I attended a job at the
Cranbourne McDonalds given to me
as “bottles being thrown at police
members” and throwing bottles at
passing cars, hitting one police car.
The crowd was approximately 100
strong from a party that had been shut
down. Police had called for assistance.
One police Sergeant said in evidence
the scene was chaos.
I was later charged with speeding
to this job despite the fact that the
job was given as a priority 1 job.
At McDonalds I met with hostile
aggression. I was assaulted by one
youth while attempting to move
people on. I placed one of the youths
in the van and drove him around
the corner away from the aggressive
crowd and confirmed his details.
He was released and we found he
was 16 years of age. After obtaining
permission, he was taken home to his
mother. Despite passing through three
speed cameras that didn’t activate, I
was charged with speeding home and
false imprisonment of the youth.
On the 19th of October 2015 I was
found not guilty of all charges by
a judge and Jury. I have also been
cleared of all disciplinary charges.
I would like to thank the Police
Association for their tireless support
throughout this process. I would like
to thank Rick LEWIS, who, without
knowing me, represented
me at the cost funding application.
I would like to thank everyone from
Tony HARGREAVES & Partners who
represented me including Vincent
AZZOPARDI, Abigail BIRCHILL and
Theo KASSIMATIS who worked
absolutely tirelessly to defend these
criminal charges. I would also like to
thank retired police member Frank
EYRE who came all the way from
Shepparton to give character evidence
at my trial. The Police Association
funded the enormous entire legal costs
which would have amounted to a sum
which I could not imagine being able
to afford on my own. I would also like
to thank all the Sergeants and Senior
Sergeants at the Dandenong Police
Station who supported me throughout
the process.
This is a case that clearly shows the
major benefit of being a paid up
member of the police association. For
the small amount of money that we
pay each month we are provided with
the best legal representation when
we are on duty and acting in good
faith. I personally see it as an absolute
necessity to be a member of the police
association in modern policing.
David THORNE
Senior Constable 35925
Engage with us!
Email journal@tpav.org.au
or write to us at
PO Box 76, Carlton South 3053
We welcome readers’
correspondence to our magazine.
In all cases the writer’s name
must be supplied, unless there is
good reason for anonymity.
The editor reserves the right to
edit, abridge, or decline letters
without explanation. Letters
fewer than 400 words are
preferred.
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 42 5/02/2016 4:50 pm
www.tpav.org.au44
Effective information security ensures the best law enforcementoutcomes for members of Victoria Police, and for members the community.CPDP plays an important role in establishing and implementing informationsecurity standards to assist members in their day-to-day policing practice– including the ability to capture andmanage information expertly andefficiently and preserve the security, and integrity, of that information.
The survey is designed to measure changes in practice as a reality check onthe real world of policing.
You will soon receive an email fromCPDP / Victoria Police with a securelink to the online survey. The survey is voluntary and will take 15minutes tocomplete. All responses are anonymous and confidential.
Your successful completion of the survey will also put you in the running towin a great prize:
•One of five $500Harvey Norman vouchers, or
•One of ten $200 Caltex fuel vouchers.
The Police Association is committed to supporting members and theirprofessional development and endorses this survey as making a specificcontribution in the area of information security policies and procedures.
We encourage all members to complete this survey to ensure that the viewsand experience of all members can be included in the analysis.
The Police Association issupporting the online survey ofmembers being conducted by theCommissioner for Privacy andData Protection (CPDP),formerly CLEDS.
Have your sayon informationsecurity
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 44 5/02/2016 4:51 pm
EMERGENCY SERVICES DISCOUNT OFFERED IN STOREAND FREE SHIPPING FOR COUNTRY LOCATIONS
PHONE: 5995 5055 EMAIL: ADMIN@E4WD.COM
1B/280 SOUTH GIPPSLAND HWY, CRANBOURNE
The Police Association’s long-standing pushto impose a 40km speed limit onmotorists
approaching or passing stationary police vehicleson highways and roads, has been given a boost.
TheAssociation first joined forceswith itsambulance and firefighter union colleagues inlobbying for this safetymeasure to the Victoriangovernmentmore than a decade ago, but hasattracted little interest until late last yearwhenVicroads accepted a request from theAssociationto put the issue back on the agenda.
Assistant Secretary, BruceMcKenzie haswelcomed the renewed interest in this importantsafetymeasure.
“We have always felt thatmotorists should becompelled to slow downwhen approaching orpassing stationary emergency services personnelwho are doing their job on our roads, just as theyarewhenever they are driving in close proximity ofroadmaintenanceworkers.
“Police, ambos and firies deserve the sameconsideration. The safety of ourmembers and
their emergency services colleagues demandsthat this issue is seriously looked at by our roadsauthorities and byVictoria Police.
“We’re delighted that this is finally going tohappen.”
The next stepwill involve all members beinginvited to provide their views on the issue via aconfidential survey currently being compiled byVicroadswith input fromThe Police Association.
The survey is expected to be finalised and thenreleased tomembers during February.
Asmembers’ feedback from this surveywillbe taken into account before the next step isconsidered, Bruce says that “all members areencouraged to take part in this important surveyonce its released. Naturally, ourmembers’perspective is crucial.”
The Police Associationwill keepmembersupdated on further developments.∆
Lower speedlimit to helppolice safetybackon theagenda
The Police Association Victoria Journal 45
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 45 5/02/2016 4:51 pm
www.tpav.org.au46
BookReviewDebunking the Kelly Myth
Myth-makers beware’ might well be thetouchstone of this work, which is the latest
offering by noted Australian historian DoctorDougMorrissey.
A specialist onmatters pertaining to themythology surrounding Ned Kelly and hiscohorts, he has researched and written widelyon this subject for forty years, including his PhDthesis ‘Selectors, Squatters and Stock thieves: ASocial History of the Kelly Country’.
He not only debunks much of the Kelly mythbut in a scholarly vein also tackles some of themythmakers who peddle the Kelly tale andwork at keeping themyth alive. And unlikemany commentators and writers in this field,he proffers a balanced view of the role andposition of the Victoria Police in the hunt for thebushrangers and sundry supporters.
In an introduction to this work, La TrobeUniversity historian Dr JohnHirst observes‘The books on Ned Kelly multiply without addingto our understanding. Instead themythologisingbecomesmore intense and uncritical. DougMorrissey, by contrast, has something new to sayon this well-worn subject. He has a clear-sightedview of Kelly, free from romantic illusionsand delusions’.
DougMorrissey tackles the Kelly myth headon. In telling the story of Ned’s lawless life, herestores dignity and respect to the policemeninvolved in the Kelly drama: a dignity long deniedthem by the distortions and untruths of the NedKelly mythmakers. Morrissey looks closely at NedKelly and his outlaw family’s relationship with
individual policemen and concludes that authorssubscribing to Kelly mythology invariably grantedthe Kelly clan the benefit of the doubt, whilstunfairly condemning the policemen involved as‘corrupt and without saving grace’.
Themurders of the police at Stringybark Creekwere dismissed by Kelly as something the policedeserved. Hemisrepresents what happened,pleading self defence and a feigned reluctanceto resort to violence, when clearly he and hismates were the aggressors attacking the policefrom ambush. Thomas Lonigan was shot runningfor cover trying to draw his revolver. MichaelScanlan was shot while on his knees attemptingto untangle himself from the rifle slung across onhis back. SergeantMichael Kennedy was pursuedfor some distance before he too fell from a bulletfired by Kelly. McIntyre was unarmed and underthe Kelly gang’s guns from the beginning of theencounter. There was nothing he could have donethat would havemade the slightest differenceto themurderous outcome.When presentedwith a golden opportunity to escape, McIntyreunderstandably took it.
Contrary to what Kelly’s admirers say, Morrisseydemonstrates that the police were not universallydisliked nor were they looked upon as oppressors.Morrissey presents a counter narrative to theKelly myth that undermines much of what hasbeen written concerning the bushranger’s life.He puts forward for the first time in publishedform, an extensive annotation of the JerilderieLetter, the principal source of Ned’s side of hisstory. He reveals Kelly’s many distortions andmisrepresentations of the truth, meticulously
dissecting the bushranger’s appealing busheloquent style of writing.
Morrissey offers a critique of the writings ofseveral prominent Kelly authors and affordsreaders an incisive and balanced account of thetrue place of those police at the heart of theKelly Saga.
In Ned Kelly: A Lawless Life DougMorrisseybrings much needed fair-mindedness andhistorical accuracy to the Ned Kelly story:‘a myth distorted story of a violent and egotisticalbushranger, who rather than being rememberedas a national folk hero, has his true place inhistory as a horse and cattle thief involved in themurderous slaying of three policemen. ∆
NED KELLY: A Lawless Lifeby Doug Morrissey
Review by Dr Robert Haldane APM
For your chance towin a copy ofDougMorrissey’s NedKelly: A Lawless Life, simplyemail journal@tpav.org.au and answer thefollowing question;
Onwhat datewasNedKelly hanged for his part inthemurder of three police officers?
Win a copyof this book
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 46 5/02/2016 4:51 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 47
New after-hourshotline for TPAVServices
With policing being an around-the-clockprofession, it is has always been important
for The Police Association to be there formembers who need urgent help or advice nomatter what the time of day or night.
TheAssociation’s services and benefits are nowmore accessible tomembers than ever beforethanks to the introduction of an expanded after-hours hotline.
In addition to accessing our services duringbusiness hours, the Association nowhas availableawider array of professionals who are on-call andavailable to assist you after hours in times of need.
Speaking to anAssociation representative, day ornight, will now be easier than ever beforewith onecentral number linking you to our services.
As part of our expanded on-call servicewe arepleased to announce that should amemberrequire after-hours `face to face’ support, in timesof personal crisis, the Associationwill be there.Anytime. Day or night.
Our teamof serving and former policemembersprovides a trusted person that you can talk towhen times are tough.
Memberswill have access to the followingafter-hours services:
Critical Incident and Legal Advice
After a critical incident or to get urgent legaladvice speak to our legal section immediately.Critical incidents can include discharge of firearms,police pursuits, deaths in custody or serious policeaccidents.
Personal Crisis Line
Need support or someone to talk to straight away?TheAssociation provides ourwelfare service ina variety of ways, including counselling, financialassistance and day-to-day advice and support.Speak to a professional that gets policing!
Occupational Health and SafetyAdvice
If you need urgent advice regarding anOccupational Health and Safetymatter you canspeak to one of our safety specialists.
Web/App
After-hours support is also offered tomemberswho are having difficulty accessing themember-only section of ourwebsite/App.∆
Dial03 9468 2600
or Toll Free1800 800 537
outside MelbourneMetro area
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 47 5/02/2016 4:51 pm
WhaddaYaKnow
What Year? Who am I?
Test your knowledge withthese brain-teasers
Who am I?
1. I was born in Tottenham, London, England
2. I grew up listening to the Spice Girls
3. I am a singer-songwriter
4. I have released three albums, each named after
my age at the time of their release
5. In 2013 I was awarded anMBE
Name the year when these events took place:
1. Pope John Paul I died about amonth after hewas elected to the position
2. The summerOlympics descended into chaos by a terrorist act resulting in 11 people killed
3. PrimeMInisterMalcolm Turnbull was born
4. Port Adelaide wins its first AFL premiership
5. South Australia became the first Australian colony to allowwomen the vote
6. Space shuttle Challenger exploded 73 after launching, killing all seven crewmembers
7. SerenaWilliamswins her first AustralianOpen singles title
8. Popular sitcom,Modern Family airs on television for the first time
9.Victoria Police celebrated its 150th anniversary of existence
10. The redevelopment of the new Ponsford stand at theMCGwas completed
11. The Beatles release their iconic Sergeant Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band album
12.Dallas BrooksHall hosts its final events before closing for demolition and redevelopment
13. The VFLGrand Final is televised live for the first time
14.Vintage Crop becomes the first overseas runner (outside of NZ) towin theMelbourne Cup
15. The Australian Security IntelligenceOrganisation (ASIO) is established
16.Mainstream television launches in Australia
17.Australia introduces decimal currency
18. Popular Australianmovie, The Castle is released
19. LukeHodge, Luke Ball and Chris Judd are the top 3 picks in the AFLNational Draft
20. PrinceWilliam and KateMiddletonmarry
www.tpav.org.au48
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 48 5/02/2016 4:51 pm
Win a book!
Waxing Lyrical
Answers
For your chance to win a mystery fictionnovel, simply email the correct answers tothe three questions highlighted in bold tojournal@tpav.org.au by 29 February 2016.
WhatYear?1.1978,2.1972,3.1954,4.2004,5.1895,6.1986,7.2003,8.2009,9.2003,10.2004,11.1967,12.2015,13.
1977,14.Answer
innexted
ition15.1949,16.1956,17.1966,18.1997,19.2001,20.2011Whoam
I?Answer
innexted
ition.
WaxingLyrical:1.Space
oddity,DavidBow
ie,2.C
andy,Iggy
Pop
,3.Answer
innexted
ition4.Throw
your
armsarou
ndme,
Hun
ters&Collectors,5.The
Ung
uarded
Mom
ent,The
Chu
rch,6.The
boyslight
up,AustralianCrawl,7.Prettyflyforawhite
guy,Offspring
,8.N
ever
tear
usapart,IN
XS,9.N
ewYo
rk,N
ewYo
rk,Frank
Sinatra,10.Smellsliketeen
spirit,N
irvana,11.It’smy
life,Bon
Jovi,12.H
otelCalifornia,Eagles,13.Sultans
ofSw
ing,DireStraits,14.BeautifulDay,U
2,15.Lay
your
love
onme,Racey,
16.AmIevergo
nnaseeyour
face
again,The
Ang
els,17.BigYellowTaxi,Jon
iMitchell,18.Bitch,M
ered
ithBrooks,19.It’salong
way
tothetop,ACDC,20.G
oyour
ownway,Fleetwoo
dMac
Name the song title and artist belonging to each set of lyrics:
1. Planet earth is blue and there’s nothing I can do
2. It’s a rainy afternoon in 1990
3. Buddy Holly, Ben Hur, SpaceMonkey,Mafia
4. I will kiss you in four places, as I go running along your street
5. Tell those girls with rifles for minds, that their jokes don’t makeme laugh
6. The garden is a dorsetted; That lady she’s so corseted; She’s got 15 ways to lead that boy astray
7. So if you don’t rate, just overcompensate. At least you’ll know you can always go on Ricki Lake
8.We could live for a thousand years. But if I hurt you, I’d make wine from your tears
9. These vagabond shoes are longing to stray; Right through the very heart of it…
10.With the lights out, it’s less dangerous. Here we are now, entertain us
11. This ain’t a song for the broken-hearted; No silent prayer for the faith-departed
12. You can check-out anytime you like, but you can never leave!
13. AndHarry doesn’t mind if he doesn’t make the scene. He’s got a daytime job; he’s doing alright
14. The heart is a bloom; Shoots up through the stony ground
15. You’re the one who takes me higher; Ooh baby set my heart on fire
16.Went down to Santa Fe where Renoir paints the walls. Described you clearly but the sky began to fall
17. They tookall the treesandput themina treemuseum.Then theycharged thepeopleadollarandahalf just to see ‘em
18. I’m your hell, I’m your dream, I’m nothing in between; you know you wouldn’t want it any other way
19. If you wanna be a star of stage and screen; Look out it’s rough andmean
20. Loving you isn’t the right thing to do; How can I ever changing things that I feel?
The Police Association Victoria Journal 49
Compiled by Sandro Lofaro
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 49 5/02/2016 4:51 pm
The Police Association Victoria Journal 51
New Docklands holidayapartment proving a hit
Hot property
The Police Association’s new holidayapartment at Docklands has proved to be a
big hit with members after the property attractedhundreds of rental expressions of interest.
Themost recent addition to The PoliceAssociation’s impressive portfolio of Victorianholiday properties is a modern and spaciousapartment in the Docklands precinct that canaccommodate up to six people.
With three bedrooms, two bathrooms, twosecured car spaces, modern kitchen/appliancesand floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunningpanoramic views of the city and the bay, thisproperty provides an ideal holiday location formembers who want easy access to all the city hasto offer, including its sporting and cultural events,shopping, restaurants and bars.
In addition, our new fully-furnished holidayapartment features ducted heating and cooling,secure swipe and intercom entry with an on-sitegym, pool, sauna and BBQ area.
Members will be able to rent this property forone week for $550. This represents outstandingvalue compared with similar properties in theprecinct.
Members are welcome to register theirexpression of interest to rent a week’s holiday inthis apartment with their family.
Simply call our Holiday Homes Co-ordinatorduring business hours on 1800 800 537 orexpress your interest online via our website –www.tpav.org.au or through the TPAV App.
Given the expected high level of demand for thisproperty, members should prepare to be part ofa ballot process. Members who have rented ourHoliday Homes in the past would be aware thatthis has been our traditional method of dealingwith properties that are in heavy demand.
This most recent acquisition adds to an alreadyextensive collection of holiday accommodationwhich your Association owns and rentsexclusively to members.
Members will be able to take their next holidayin one of 15 homes or units across no fewerthan nine locations in Victoria, including Bright,Echuca, Lakes Entrance, Phillip Island, Port Fairy,SouthMelbourne, Tawonga South, Yarrawongaand now, Docklands.
The weekly rental for all Police Associationholiday properties across the state – except forDocklands - remains at an extremely affordable$400 per week.
To enquire about any of our holiday homes or tomake a booking, simply call our Holiday HomesCo-ordinator during business hours on1800 800 537.
TPAV_February_2016_round7.indd 51 5/02/2016 4:51 pm
top related