Far North District police officers recognised in awards ceremony

Mr Michael Healy MP, Member for Cairns representing the Honourable Mark Ryan, Minister for Police and Minister for Corrective Services, and Chief Superintendent Brett Schafferius have congratulated Queensland Police Service (QPS) officers and staff, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and Australian Federal Police members who received medals and awards at a ceremony in Cairns this morning.

Today’s ceremony saw 28 QPS officers and staff members recognised for their outstanding commitment to serve the Queensland community.

“Recipients have demonstrated a range of skills and attributes that highlight boundless dedication and commitment, not only to their profession, but also to Queensland communities,” the Member for Cairns Michael Healy said.

Chief Superintendent Schafferius presented the Queensland Police Meritorious Service Medal to Senior Sergeant John McArthur and Detective Sergeant Kristy Wilson.

This award recognises members of the QPS who have provided a continued substantial contribution in a number of areas within the QPS over an extended period of time.

Chief Superintendent Schafferius presented the Queensland Police Exemplary Conduct Medal to Sergeant Stephen Tillett for his role in enhancing the professional image of the QPS.

The Queensland Police Bravery Medal was awarded to Detective Senior Constable Jeremy Carter and Senior Constable Daniel Fysh for their acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.

Chief Superintendent Schafferius presented Sergeant Hayley Firth, Kristy Wilson and Winfried Weiss the National Police Service Medal.

This medal recognises a police officer's past and future commitment to give ethical and diligent service.

Two officers received the National Medal, and another two officers also received their clasps for extended service.

Inspector Stephen Kersley received his 2^nd Clasp for 35 years of service and Sergeant Damian Meadows received his 1^st Clasp for 25 years of service.

The national medal recognises 15 years of diligent service by members of the Defence Force, Australian police forces, and fire and ambulance services.

Chief Superintendent Schafferius presented the Queensland Police Service Medal (QPSM) to two officers, one Police Liaison Officer and one Administration Officer.

 A range of clasps were also awarded from 15 to 40 years of service.

The QPSM is awarded to a member or former member who has accrued 10 years continuous full-time qualifying service.

A range of certificates were also presented including the Commissioner’s Certificate Operational, which was awarded to two officers who displayed intelligence, resourcefulness and/or dedication to duty to a degree far exceeding what might reasonably be expected from an efficient member of the Police Service in the execution of duty in the operational field.

One officer received the Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate Operational and another two officers received the Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate Corporate and Support.

Chief Superintendent Brett Schafferius said today’s ceremony demonstrated the hard work and dedication amongst the QPS, QFES and AFP.

“To the QPS members who received medals and certificates today, thank you for your dedication to the role, commitment to policing and service to the community of Queensland,” Chief Superintendent Schafferius said.

“The contribution of all recipients is invaluable to the communities in which they serve and shows the professionalism that is a hallmark of the QPS.

“This is the very reason why Queenslanders place their faith and confidence in their emergency services.”

Media contacts 

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

Police Media:                                                                                  Ph: (07) 3015 2444