2026 Recognition Of Excellence Awards - Finalists

The Western Australia Police Force is proud to announce the finalists for the 2026 Recognition of Excellence Awards, following an exceptional response from the community and police personnel across the state.

A total of 253 nominations were received from members of the public and WA Police Force employees, recognising outstanding professionalism, dedication and service demonstrated by individuals and teams across a wide range of policing environments.

From this year's nominations, 14 individual officers and 15 police teams have been selected as finalists across agency, metropolitan, regional, state and technology award categories. Their work reflects a shared commitment to trusted, professional and community focused policing.

The calibre of nominations reflects the breadth and impact of policing across Western Australia. Among this year's finalists is Senior Sergeant Dan Clark, recognised for his decisive and calm leadership during a major public safety incident in Perth's CBD.

The Major Crash Investigation Unit has also been recognised for Operation Aground, a landmark cold case investigation that delivered justice five years after a fatal hit and run.

The winners will be announced in June 2026.

Metropolitan Award

Individual Finalists:

• Senior Sergeant Steve Carter

• Senior Sergeant Haydn Farrow

• Senior Sergeant Dan Clark

Team Finalists:

• Perth Watch House

• Midland Detectives

• Mandurah Detectives

Regional Award

Individual Finalists:

• Senior Constable Kayley Florence

• Senior Constable Clinton Moore

• Senior Sergeant Scott Starkie

Team Finalists:

• 1/C Constable Peter Reith and Constable Kaylahni Klemke

• Fitzroy Crossing Police Station

• Broome Inquiry Team

State Award

Individual Finalists:

• Sharon Lyons

• Sergeant Stoney Steenkamp

• Senior Constable Oliver Taylor

Team Finalists:

• Operation Aground - Major Crash Investigation Unit

• Tania Belcastro and Charlotte Norris

• Operation Moorhead

Agency Services & Development Award

Individual Finalists:

• Senior Constable Angie Studd

• Jess Bertilone

• Sherileen Martin

Team Finalists:

• Kevin Askew and Kate Hughes

• The Freedom of Information (FOI) team

• Operation Podcast - Media and Content team

Lance Martin Technology Award

Individual Finalists:

• A/Sergeant Charlie Jenkins

• John Craig

Team Finalists

• Data Science & Analytics - IRIS team

• Firearms Act Reform Program

• Radio Electronic Services Project team

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