Media release – Tasmania Police, 5 April 2024
Police, DPFEM staff receive Commissioner’s and National Medals
More than 150 current and retired police and DPFEM staff will be recognised for a combination of Medals and Awards, National Medals, National Police Service Medals, Commissioner’s Medals, and clasps at this year’s Medals and Awards Ceremonies across the state.
Of the 159 recipients statewide, 64 will receive Commissioner’s Medals – including:
Southern:
Commissioners Medal First Clasp (20 years) – 12
Commissioners Medal Second Clasp (30 years) – 17
Commissioners Medal Third Clasp (40 years) – 11
Western:
Commissioners Medal First Clasp (20 years) – 12
Commissioners Medal Second Clasp (30 years)– 1
Commissioners Medal Third Clasp (40 years) – 1
Northern:
Commissioners Medal First Clasp (20 years)– 7
Commissioners Medal Second Clasp (30 years) – 2
Commissioners Medal Third Clasp (40 years) – 1
Recipients being recognised at this year’s ceremonies include:
Southern
• First Class Constable Roderick Warrington – National Medal 3rd Clasp (45 years) – During a career spanning 46 years Constable Warrington has served within Uniform policing, Youth services, Marine and Rescue Services and Operational Skills Training at the Police Academy. He has dedicated the last twenty years to developing our recruits and police officers and has played an integral part in the development and presentation of operational skills training for all incoming recruits.
• Bicheno Surf Life Saving Club – Commissioner’s Certificate of Appreciation – In recognition of their outstanding commitment, dedication and professionalism during a successful search and rescue operation for two divers off the coast of Bicheno in June 2023. The Surf Lifesaving members professionally carried out their allocated search duties as requested by police. The vessel operators and crew demonstrated skill, determination and professionalism whilst being mindful of the sea and wind conditions at the time. The Bicheno Surf Life Saving Club directly contributed to the successful recovery of the divers.
Western
• Phillip Gardner (State Service) – Secretary’s award for 30 years’ service – Phil, who currently works in Engineering and Fleet Services, commenced as an apprentice mechanic in 1989 and continued as tradesman until 1992. He was promoted to workshop foreman in 2003 and has been in a statewide role as Area manager Operations since May 2022.
Northern
• Sergeant Terrence Reaney (retired) – National Medal 3rd Clasp (45 years) – During his service Sergeant Reaney was known as the ‘go to’ person for many. His wealth of knowledge on road safety, and ability to deal with difficult tasks with a caring nature and empathetic ear was highly respected.
• Sergeant Dale Cook – Commissioners Medal Second Clasp (30 years) – Throughout Sergeant Dale Cook’s career, he has significantly improved collaboration between Tasmania Police and external stakeholders when dealing with issues related to ‘At Risk’ youth and youthful crime. A strong supporter of restorative practices, he advocates for the rights of young people, utilising his influence and professional relationships within the community.
This year the inaugural Investigator of the Year will also be announced during the Southern ceremony.
The Investigator of the Year Award acknowledges the efforts of individuals who have gone above and beyond in unravelling the intricacies of complex cases, bringing closure to victims, and instilling public confidence.
This year’s winner is Detective Senior Constable Melanie Nichols from the Serious Organised Crime Unit.
Detective Senior Constable Nichols has been recognised for her positive outcomes through exceptional investigative skills, continually demonstrated through her involvement in drug, firearm, and serious crime investigations in 2023. Her professionalism, integrity, and leadership earnt the respect of her supervisors and peers within and outside Tasmania Police.
As part of the Investigator of the Year award, a Certificate of Appreciation will also be awarded to Detective Senior Constable Brooke Johnson for her exceptional investigative skills throughout a complex family violence case. Her ability to establish trust with victim-survivors, coupled with her perseverance, ultimately led to a successful prosecution, highlighting her exceptional investigative ability and dedication to seeking justice.
Commissioner Donna Adams paid tribute to the recipients, saying the medals were a chance to thank police officers and State Service employees – and the families and friends who support them – for their commitment to keeping the Tasmanian community safe, and for consistently going above and beyond their duties.
“Medals and awards are issued to members who have demonstrated a consistently high standard of work performance, along with demonstration of unequivocally high standards of personal and professional conduct. It’s these people who provide an invaluable contribution to our mission to keep our communities safe,” Commissioner Adams said.
