The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of several officers and emergency services members who have been awarded one of the highest honours in Australian policing – the Australian Police Medal (APM) and the Emergency Service Medal (ESM).
Awarded as part of the 2025 Kings Birthday honours, the APM and the ESM recognises the distinguished service of members within the QPS and are awarded by the Governor-General of Australia on behalf of the Sovereign and is part of the Australian honours and awards system.
The awards represent national recognition of extraordinary Service in law enforcement, governance, emergency service and community safety, limited to a small number of officers each year – making it the most esteemed award.
This year, seven Queensland Police officers and two members of the State Emergency Service (SES) have been acknowledged for their exceptional leadership, and dedication to the community they serve.
Among those acknowledged were Detective Inspectors Christopher Knight and David Nixon, Inspector Peter Doyle, Senior Sergeants Kirsty Gleeson and Ewan Findlater and Sergeants David Reid and Sarah-Jane Tulacz.
From SES, Mr Kieran Galey and Tristan Hardwick were awarded.
Acting Commissioner Shane Chelepy APM congratulated the recipients, articulating his pride of the awarded officers who reflect the very best of the QPS.
"The 2025 Kings Birthday awards are a symbol of excellence, integrity and service above self," Acting Commissioner Chelepy said.
"The Queensland recipients exemplify the highest standard of policing and emergency service.
"Their unwavering dedication, professionalism and compassion have had a profound impact on the Queensland community, and I am proud of what they have accomplished within the Service."
SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong acknowledged the significant contribution the ESM award winners provide to the Service.
"The awardees calm leadership, deep expertise and ongoing commitment to the Queensland community is instrumental to the operation of SES," Mr Armstrong said.
"Our volunteer efforts have an immense impact, both on the ground and at a strategic level which continues to shape the future of emergency service in Queensland."
Senior Sergeant Kirsty Gleeson who received the APM and has demonstrated the highest standard of policing over her 26-year career, including 21 years specialising in forensic services is the sole forensic coordinator in the Southern Region.
Senior Sergeant Gleeson plays a vital role in major crime responses across the region and her leadership, innovation and commitment from crime scene to courtroom has set a benchmark in forensic evidence.
These commitments go beyond day-to-day operations, as she also leads a multidisciplinary project reviewing unsolved cases involving unidentified DNA.
Her efforts have resulted in a significant advancement in intelligence gathering and case resolution - demonstrating both strategic foresight and operational impact.
Senior Sergeant Gleeson said she was honoured to receive the APM.
"I have always seen forensic work as a vital part of delivering policing, and I am proud to contribute to outcomes that make a real difference for victims, families and Queensland communities," Senior Sergeant Gleeson said.
Bundaberg Region SES Local Controller, Kieren Galey, received the ESM for his outstanding leadership and service over a dedicated 15-years.
Mr Galey is renowned for his operational excellence and unwavering commitment to the community and fellow volunteers.
His service has been pivotal in the response to some of Queensland's most challenging natural disasters including multiple floods, Tropical Cyclone Yasi, Tropical Cyclone Debbie, the 2012 tornado and flash floods and the 2019-20 bushfires.
As regional trainer, Mr Galey has significantly strengthened the frontline by delivering specialist training in storm damage, land search, working at heights, incident management and safety leadership.
Beyond operations, he has played a vital role in strategic initiatives, contributing to state-wide programs promoting inclusivity, domestic and family violence awareness and community resilience.
Honoured to receive such an esteemed award, Mr Galey humbly expressed his gratitude for recognition.
"I have always believed in leading from the front, supporting our volunteers and being there for the community when they need it most," Mr Galey said.
"It is an incredible honour to receive the Emergency Services Medal."
Each of this year's Queensland recipients have demonstrated sustained excellence over their careers - whether through frontline service, strategic leadership, community engagement or innovation.
The QPS is honoured to have such outstanding individuals, this recognition reflects not only personal achievements but the professionalism and dedication of the entire organisation.
