Queensland Police and Public Services recognised in the King’s Birthday 2024 Honours

• Seven Queensland Police Service officers have been presented with medals for their outstanding public service.
• This is a part of the national King’s Birthday Honours awards ceremony where Australians are recognised for their significant contributions and achievements in their respective fields, from community service, science and research, industry, sport, the arts and more.

Seven Queensland Police Service (QPS) officers have been honoured for their dedicated service at the annual King’s Birthday 2024 Honours ceremony today.

This prestigious event recognises the significant contributions and achievements of Australians from around the nations in their respective fields.

Among today’s Australian Police Medal recipients was Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Ziser, who has a particular expertise in stolen vehicle identification, and used his knowledge to establish the Vehicle Identification Platform – Enforcement Response (VIPER). He has been recognised for his exemplary leadership, and contribution to operation capability.

Another notable recipient is Sergeant Kelly Gurski who has served the QPS for 30 years and worked in the domestic violence liaison officer’s role for 14 years. In addition, since 2012 she has volunteered with RizeUp Australia, which provides support, and raises awareness about the social injustices faced by those affected by domestic, or family violence.

Also receiving an Australian Police Medal is Senior Sergeant Robert Richards who was sworn in to the QPS in 1986, and rose through the ranks to become a project manager for the training capability for the G20 Operation Southern Cross. This was the Service’s largest and most complex operation in its 150-year history.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Police and Community Safety, Mark Ryan: 

“I congratulate the individuals who have received awards during this year’s King’s Birthday Honours for their outstanding contributions in their field.

“I’d like to congratulate the members of the QPS who have received the Australian Police Medal.

“Your hard work is appreciated by the Miles Government, and the Queensland Community.”

Quotes attributable to the Commissioner of Police, Steve Gollschewski APM:

“Congratulations to the police officers who have received the prestigious Australian Police Medal.

“I recognise the achievement and honour of receiving this incredible award.

“Each recipient is recognised for their significant and distinguished contributions to the Queensland Police Service and their commitment to serving the community.”

Explainer/fast fact and or further information:

Australian Police Medal (APM)

-           Senior Sergeant Craig William BERRY

-           Chief Inspector Michael David FAWCETT

-           Sergeant Kelly Suzanne GURSKI

-           Chief Superintendent John Edwin HALLAM

-           Senior Sergeant Robert William RICHARDS

-           Senior Sergeant Rima SEFEROVIC

-           Detective Senior Sergeant Peter John ZISER

Media contacts 

Minister Ryan’s Office:                                                       Ph: (07) 3035 8300