‘These are very brave people’ — Great Southern police honours dedicated service

Four WA Police Force Aboriginal Service Medals were among the presentations at the Great Southern Police District awards ceremony held in Albany last Friday.

In total, eight awards were presented at a ceremony to recognise valuable service to WA Police.

Great Southern Police District Superintendent Ian Clarke presented WA Police Force Aboriginal Service Medals to Anthony Farmer, Patricia Farmer, Edward Farmer and Stuart Roberts.

The medals acknowledge the commitment and sacrifice of Aboriginal WA Police employees both sworn and unsworn.

“These reflect how much Aboriginal people in WA have contributed not only to police but to their communities and the wider community,” Supt Clarke said.

“I had the privilege of working alongside some absolutely outstanding ... Aboriginal police liaison officers and those people were crucial parts of the police station. These people have not only taken the calling of policing up but also taken the calling from their community and there are challenges associated with that.”

“These are very brave people and I hope you accept and wear this with pride as you well and truly deserve it.”

Former senior detective Christopher Ellul received a National Police Service Medal, awarded to an officer who gives diligent service for a minimum of 15 years.

Supt Clarke also presented a plaque to Andrew Duffield on behalf of Main Roads WA, for the agency’s support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Rev. Karen Cave was awarded a Commissioner of Police chaplaincy certificate.