The Sunshine Coast District will recognise 45 police officers and five civilians for their service to the community at the Sunshine Coast Medal and Awards presentation today, October 9.
The awards presented include the National Medal, National Police Service Medal, District Officer Certificate, Assistant Commissioner Certificate, Commissioner's Certificate, Bravery Medal and 15-40-year clasps of the Queensland Police Service Medal.
The Queensland Police Bravery Medal has been awarded to 10 officers for their courageous response to a bushfire emergency in the Peregian Springs area during the 'Black Summer' bushfires.
On September 9, 2019, police officers were alerted to a severe and rapidly expanding bushfire which was threatening the township of Peregian Beach with multiple schools, businesses and homes at high risk of danger.
Despite the risk to their own safety, 10 officers displayed exceptional bravery and determination to evacuate and protect those in danger.
Long service and commitment to the community has also been acknowledged, and none more so than the service of Chief Inspector John Van Egmond who received his Queensland Police Service Medal 40 Year Clasp.
Mr Van Egmond, currently the Chief Inspector of the Sunshine Coast's Southern Patrol Group, is a well loved and respected member of the blue family and highly regarded for four decades of service to communities across the state.
The Queensland Police Service Medal recognises officers that provide diligent and ethical service over a continuous 10 years or more period.
Detective Plain Clothes Senior Constable Daniel McMah from the Sunshine Coast Child Protection Investigation Unit (CPIU) received the Russell Sheehan Memorial Award in recognition of his work ethic, professionalism, dependability, consistency and his high value as a team member, in memory of late Detective Senior Constable Russell Sheehan who died on in December 2015.
This award recognises a detective from the Sunshine Coast District Criminal Investigation Branch or CPIU who possess and displays the skills and attributes reflective of Detective Senior Constable Sheehan's contribution.
Sunshine Coast District Officer Superintendent Craig Hawkins said he's proud of the officers recognised today.
"It's a privilege to lead and work alongside these outstanding officers who are dedicated to protecting and serving our community," Superintendent Hawkins said.
"The officers recognised here today have used their skills and abilities to bravely respond to unprecedented and highly challenging situations, to contribute to a better police service and a safer Sunshine Coast, or to work tirelessly and sacrificially to serve the community for many decades.
"Bravery, tenacity and professionalism are qualities reflected in many of the decisions and actions taken every day by our police.
"Often those behaviours go unremarked, but today provides us with the opportunity to highlight their extraordinary work.
"They don't do it for the awards and medals, but for their community."
