More than 130 Queensland Police Service members have been recognised for their outstanding service, courage and dedication at the Sunshine Coast District Honours and Awards Ceremony held on Thursday 3 September.
The ceremony celebrated recipients of the National Medal, National Police Service Medal, Assistant Commissioner Certificate, District Officer Certificate, Russell Sheehan Memorial Award, Blue Heart Medal and 15-40-year clasps of the Queensland Police Service Medal.
Two Blue Heart Medals were awarded to the families of Late Senior Constable Shayne Gill and late Constable Les McCosh who were both tragically killed while in the line of duty.
Former Senior Constable Leonard Elliot was also awarded a Blue Heart Medal after suffering a life-changing injury while performing duties at a random breath testing site at Beerwah on 18 April 2014.
Senior Constable Elliot was struck by a motorcycle, sustaining serious injuries that resulted in the loss of his lower right leg.
A Blue Heart Medal was also awarded to Senior Protective Service Officer Paul Rohweder, who suffered severe injuries after being deliberately struck by a motorcycle rider attempting to evade police on the Sunshine Coast on 3 August 2000.
Detective Senior Constable Katie Tomlins 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 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 the awards are an opportunity to highlight the good work of QPS members that can often go unrecognised.
"Bravery, tenacity, and professional conduct are qualities reflected in many of the decisions and actions taken every day by our police in the face of tragedy, senseless acts of violence, disasters and more," he said.
"Today is a chance to recognise the contributions and commitment of these outstanding officers in keeping the Sunshine Coast community safe. I'm proud to lead and work alongside them."
The Queensland Police Service congratulates all recipients and thanks them for their outstanding service and dedication to the Queensland community.
A career with the Queensland Police Service offers diverse roles, unique challenges, and the chance to make a real difference every day. From emergency response and crime prevention to community engagement and public safety, no two days are ever the same.
From our bustling cities to remote towns and pristine coastline, policing in Queensland offers a career and lifestyle as diverse as the communities you'll serve.
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