Dozens of Queensland Police Service (QPS) members have been recognised for their service, dedication, and leadership at the Far North District Awards Ceremony today, April 2.
Far Northern Region Assistant Commissioner Brett Schafferius presented 36 awards to 27 members, including National Police Service Medals, Exemplary Conduct Medals, and a Queensland Police Meritorious Service Medal.
Senior Constable Callum Vine was awarded the Assistant Commissioner's Certificate for his outstanding conduct while stationed at Mount Isa.
Constable Vine along with his colleagues, were conducting foot patrols when they smelt smoke, and located a unit fire.
The occupant, a deaf, elderly man, was rescued and treated for minor injuries and the blaze was extinguished.
Senior Sergeant Owen Kennedy and retired Senior Sergeant Jeffrey Magnus were recognised for their leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Senior Police Liaison Officer (SPLO) Charlene Stacey received the QPS First Nations Peoples and Communities Leadership Award - Highly Commended for her work as the Cairns Project Booyah Police Coordinator.
SPLO Stacey works closely with vulnerable young people during the 16-week mentoring program, helping them overcome challenges, directly contributing to preventing youth crime and victimisation.
Far Northern Region Assistant Commissioner Brett Schafferius said he was proud to recognise the exceptional service and dedication of officers in the Far North.
"Being a police officer is a tough job that requires commitment, sacrifice and bravery - attributes that each of these recipients embodies," Assistant Commissioner Schafferius said.
"Some of these officers and staff members are being recognised for up to 45 years of service, which highlights their dedication to the Far North community.
"Congratulations to all the recipients and thank you for your service."
Full list of award recipients:
Recipients of the National Medal and Clasps and National Police Service Medal:
- Sergeant Darren House – who is receiving his National Medal and National Police Service Medal.
- Senior Constable Jayde Keating – who is receiving her National Medal and National Police Service Medal.
- Senior Constable Darren Lucht – who is receiving his National Medal and National Police Service Medal
- Senior Constable Brian South – who is receiving his National Medal and National Police Service Medal
- Senior Sergeant Duan Amos – who is receiving his National Medal - 2nd Clasp
- Inspector Donni McKay - who is receiving his National Medal - 2nd Clasp
Recipients of the Queensland Police Service Medal:
- Ms Sonja Knotek
- Torres Strait Island Police Liaison Officer Florence Levi
- Senior Constable Serena Setu
Recipient of the Queensland Police Service 20 Year Clasp is:
- Senior Constable Sarah Edwards
Recipient of the Queensland Police Service 25 Year Clasp is:
- Retired Inspector Scott Derrington
- Mr Des Hardy
Recipient of the Queensland Police Service 35 Year Clasp is:
- Inspector Donni McKay
Recipient of the Queensland Police Service 45 Year Clasp is:
- Ms Dawn Moss
Recipients of the Assistant Commissioner's Certificates
- Senior Constable Cameron Fell
- Senior Sergeant Owen Kennedy
- Detective Inspector Jason Smith
- Constable Callum Vine
- Senior Torres Strait Island Police Liaison Officer Edward Sam
- Senior Torres Strait Island Police Liaison Officer Elsie Waia
Recipient of the Queensland Police Meritorious Service Medal
- Mrs Noeleen Williams
Recipients of the Exemplary Conduct Medals
- Retired Senior Sergeant Jeffrey Magnus
- Senior Sergeant Owen Kennedy
Recipients of the QPS First Nations Peoples and Communities Awards
- Senior Police Liaison Officer Charlene Stacey
- Senior Police Liaison Officer Rob Paul
- Senior Police Liaison Officer Wayne Pitt
- Torres Strait Island Police Liaison Officer Nelson Gibuma
Commissioned Officer appointments
- Inspector Jamie Horn
A career within the Queensland Police Service is like no other. From protecting, responding, and investigating, to supporting, rescuing and learning – the sheer variety of roles make it both a challenging and rewarding career.
As a police officer, you can have one career that has endless possibilities. Now really is the best time to join.
Visit PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au to kickstart your policing career and make a positive impact in your community.
