Police officers recognised

QUEENSLAND Police Service officers have been recognised for outstanding service with the presentation of awards, medals and clasps at Police Headquarters.

Police Minister Neil Roberts and Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson awarded the QPS officers for their response to the flooding disaster in early 2011, their response to dangerous incidents and for long periods of exceptional service.

Mr Roberts said Chief Superintendant Alistair Dawson was presented with the National Emergency Medal, an award approved by Her Majesty the Queen during her Royal Visit in 2011.

"During the flood and cyclone disaster events of the 2010/11 summer, Chief Superintendent Alistair Dawson worked tirelessly at the State Disaster Coordination Centre (SDCC), primarily in the role of the Chair of the State Disaster Coordination Group (SDCG)," Mr Roberts said.

"Chief Superintendant Dawson was required to deal with a wide range of time critical , sensitive and difficult challenges during this period.

"Chief Superintendent Dawson's calm, professional and effective approach to this role, combined with his strong leadership skills and thorough understanding of the disaster management arrangements, provided a significant level confidence to all personnel working to assist Queenslanders during this period."

Recognised for their brave actions in dealing with an armed and violent woman in 2009, Detective Sergeant Christopher Gibney, Detective Sergeant Madonna Hickey, Senior Constable Matthew Barr and dog handler, Senior Constable Phil Cowling with Police Dog Zac were presented with the Commissioner's Commendation for Notable Action.

"When deployed, Police Dog Zac sustained stab wounds in his attempt to stop the woman who was armed with a knife," Mr Roberts said

"Each of the officers involved acted with bravery, measured decision and skill faced in this unpredictable and dangerous situation. "

Sergeant Graham Hedges, Sergeant Terence Mayocchi, Constable Jennifer Hendry and Constable Diane Howard were awarded with the Commissioner's Certificate of Notable Action for their roles in restraining a violent man who threatened not only their lives, but the life of another female at an incident in 2008.

In addition, Senior Constable Raymond Alcorn and Senior Constable Mark Dent received the Commissioner's Certificate Operational.

Commissioner Atkinson said these awards were given to those members of the QPS who went beyond their normal policing requirements respectively, in potentially hazardous situations.

"These awards recognise diligence, ethical conduct, commitment and often brave actions our police officers," Commissioner Atkinson said.

"It is important to publicly recognise these achievements and thank them for the enormous contribution they make to the community."

Eleven officers received National Medals and Clasps during today's ceremony. Impressively, 47 officers received Queensland Police Service medals and clasps, recognising milestones of service up to 35 years.

Detective Chief Superintendant Gayle Hogan, State Crime Operations Coordinator received her 35 Year Clasp to the QPS Medal, along with Superintendant Jon Wacker and Senior Sergeant Stuart McMurtrie.

The Queensland Police Service Medal is an award approved by the Commissioner under the provisions of the Police Service Administration Act, in recognition of diligent and ethical service by QPS employees after 10 years of full-time qualifying service.

The National Medal was introduced to recognise 15 years of diligent service by members of the defence force, Australian police forces and members of the ambulance and fire services, with a Clasp awarded for each additional period of 10 years service.

Commissioner Atkinson said the conduct and service of these officers diversely showcases the profess ionalism of members of the Service.

"These officers and staff members showcase the diverse range of talents, skills and attributes displayed daily by officers in the Service," Commissioner Atkinson said.

"From investigations, to operations support, traffic operations and intelligence gathering, our people, all over Queensland work daily to ensure the safety and security of all residents.

"I would like to congratulate everyone who received a medal or award today. You are all an asset to the Service and Queensland, and more than deserving," he said.