Bulletin 292-MASTER.v4.qxd - Queensland Police Service ...

QUEENSLAND POLICE SERVICE ISSUE NO. 292 APRIL 2005
Queensland -- leading
the nation in child
safety on the internet
Page 8

2/ PoliceBulletin 292
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FROM COMMISSIONER ATKINSON
Committed to providing a safer community
for all Queenslanders
Recently the Queensland Police Service (QPS)
hosted the 2005 Conference of Commissioners of
Police of Australasia and the South West Pacific
Region in Brisbane. While a range of issues were
addressed the main theme was performance
management.
Queensland Police provide for the safety and
security of our community. Maintaining the high
level of service and performance in terms of
community expectations in that regard is a day to
day challenge for police in all jurisdictions in an
environment of growing demand for services.
Performance management embraces every facet of
a contemporary policing agency.
The key note speaker at the 2005 Police
Commissioners' Conference was Mr William (Bill) J
Bratton, Chief of Police, Los Angeles Police
Department and the former Chief of the New York
and Boston Police Departments.
It was a pleasure to host Chief Bratton, while he
was in Brisbane. He oversees the operations of
one of the largest municipal law enforcement
agencies in the United States of America.
During his address to the Conference, it was
reassuring to hear Mr Bratton provide positive
feedback on policing in Queensland. Mr Bratton
confirms the comments we have received from our
community and the visitors to Queensland over
recent months.
Queensland police officers have a demanding role
in the community. This issue of the Police Bulletin
showcases some of the challenges faced by our
police officers on a daily basis and the positive
programs established to look at preventing crime
and promoting community safety.
Two recent examples of significant community
interest involve police officers from the Sexual
Crimes Investigation Unit and Brisbane Central
Police District. Through work such as child
abduction alerts, protective behaviours, the crack
down on internet paedophiles and proactive
strategies implemented in Brisbane's CBD these
officers are further enhancing community safety
and crime prevention.
This issue of the Police Bulletin also provides you
with an insight into initiatives developed to further
increase community safety throughout Queensland.
Some of the good work currently being undertaken
by QPS members includes programs such as: the
U-turn program which aims to reduce motor
vehicle theft and provides young offenders with a
chance to turn their lives around; Project Kit which
addresses volatile substance abuse in suburban
Cairns and was the 2004 QPS Gold Award for
Excellence in Crime Prevention; and Healthier
Lifestyles Project which targets adolescent drug
use in Toowoomba and won the 2004 QPS Silver
Award for Excellence in Crime Prevention.
This issue of the Police Bulletin further
demonstrates the commitment and
professionalism of QPS members in providing a
safer community for all Queenslanders.
Initiatives such as these embrace the concepts of
working in partnership, problem solving and
preventing crime.
We appreciate and value greatly the continued
support of the community and should strive to
further develop productive partnerships and
engage the community in problem solving
processes.
While the performance of QPS members in recent
years has in my view been outstanding, existing
challenges and emerging ones mean that we will
need to expand our efforts. I am confident that the
three part approach of: decisive reactive
investigative policing that is based on good
intelligence analysis; prevention and problem
solving is working for us and will continue to be the
basis for our efforts in the future.
PoliceBulletin 292 /3

Page 7 Protecting the community
Page 18 Making healthy life choices
Executive Editor
Leon Bedington
Editor
Simon Kelly
Editorial Assistant
Karen Crook
Photography
Front cover photo taken by Sergeant Stuart Cross, QPS Photographic
Section, Police Headquarters. Photographs throughout the publication
were provided through the associated branch or unit or taken by other
members of the QPS Photographic Section.
Statement of purpose
Police Bulletin is a free bi-annual public information document
intended to provide a record of initiatives and achievements, an insight
into the operations of the Queensland Police Service and base
research to interested members of the community. Each edition is
available from police stations, district and regional offices, and Police
Headquarters, Brisbane.
Copyright of this publication is vested in the Commissioner of Police.
Reproduction for use other than within the Queensland Police Service
is prohibited and requires the written permission of the Commissioner
of Police (or his delegate) prior to re-publication or attribution. Contact
should be made through the Director, Media and Public Affairs Branch.
Police Headquarters
GPO Box 1440
Brisbane Qld 4001
Telephone: (07) 3364 6669
Facsimile: (07) 3364 6268
Layout Design
Antoinette Begni, Graphic Designer, Graphic Design Services
Front cover
The front cover image was first used for the Queensland Police
Service (QPS) booklet and poster – Who’s Chatting to Your Kids? The
Sexual Crimes Investigation Unit’s Task Force Argos produced the
booklet, poster and accompanying web page to educate parents as
part of their campaign to protect children from the threat of internet
paedophilia. The education pack provides advice to parents on internet
safety in an effort to prevent children from becoming victims of
internet predators. The guide and poster are available from all
Queensland police stations or electronically at www.police.qld.gov.au.
In this issue, the Police Bulletin looks at this and other initiatives of
the Sexual Crimes Investigation Unit as well as a range of youthoriented
programs being conducted by the QPS.
ISSN 1325 - 1376
Police Bulletin is printed externally by McDonald Printing Group.
Media and Public Affairs Branch
4/ PoliceBulletin 292

Page 24 Innovative solutions to CBD crime
Contents
Page 28 Putting crime out of business
Message from Commissioner Atkinson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Message from Deputy Commissioner Conder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Child Protection Offender Register . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Leading the way in child safety on the internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Child Abduction Alert System introduced . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
U-Turn program turns lives around . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Winning focus on volatile substance abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Palm Island’s new playground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Step in right direction for isolated youth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Encouraging healthy lifestyles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
New recruits put best paw forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
New road rules clarified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Advertisers Index
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Seniors Task Force . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
QPS Honours and Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Edinburgh Military Tattoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
New technology puts finger on crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
PoliceBulletin 292 /5

FROM DEPUTY COMMISSIONER CONDER
Protecting children from predators
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is currently
involved in a range of significant projects aimed at
either protecting young people from crime or
diverting them from criminal behaviour.
Already this year, the QPS has led the introduction
of the Child Offender Protection Register and Child
Abduction Alert System.
The Child Offender Protection Register aims to
protect members of the public by monitoring
offenders who have been released back into the
community after being convicted of committing
serious offences against children.
Meanwhile, the Child Abduction Alert System has
been developed and introduced to assist in the
location and safe recovery of children who are
kidnapped.
As you will learn from this issue of the Police
Bulletin, the activities of Task Force Argos have put
the QPS at the national forefront of detecting
offences against children.
The dedicated team of detectives at Task Force
Argos has played a leading role in establishing
strong international networks with other law
enforcement agencies.
This enables the sharing of information with
authorities in the United States, Europe and the
United Kingdom High Tech Crime Centre – leading
to the tracking of offenders across international
borders.
arrested for using the internet to either procure
children for sexual acts, expose children to
indecent material or distribute child pornography.
However, it is important to note that Task Force
Argos is not only arresting offenders but identifying
the victims of paedophilia and preventing them
from further suffering.
These operations have led to the identification of
eight Queensland children who have been exploited
by people they have met through internet chat
rooms.
Task Force Argos also concentrates on educating
the public with a recent significant initiative being
the booklet, Who’s Chatting to Your Kids?
The booklet and its accompanying poster and web
page provide advice to parents on internet safety in
an effort to prevent children from becoming victims
of internet predators.
The project was the result of research conducted
by Task Force Argos and from frontline experience
gained through online covert operations and from
interviewing child victims.
A new version of the booklet also addresses mobile
telephone safety for children.
I encourage parents to take an active interest in
the technology their children are using and talk to
them about the dangers that can be posed by its
misuse.
For instance, in March 2003 detectives at Task
Force Argos arrested an internationally wanted
man in relation to serious sexual offences against
children.
In addition to these networks, officers continue to
maintain a presence on the web by conducting
covert operations in internet chat rooms.
Since late 2000, when Task Force Argos began
conducting covert operations, 62 people have been
6/ PoliceBulletin 292

Child
Protection
Offender
Register
By Adelle O’Donnell, Media and Public Affairs Branch
Offenders who have been released back into
the community after being convicted of
committing serious offences against children
now have to report to police as part of the
Child Protection Offender Register which
started on January 1.
Detective Sergeant Denzil Clark from the
Child Protection Offender Registry said the
register aimed to keep police informed of
these offenders’ whereabouts.
The serious offences against children, known
as reportable offences, include murder, rape,
sodomy, unlawful carnal knowledge, indecent
treatment and child pornography.
“The National Child Protection Offender
Register recognises that in many cases there
are recidivist risks posed by offenders who
have committed serious offences against
children,” Detective Sergeant Clark said.
“This register is not punitive in nature but
aims to protect the community. It allows
police to monitor the reporting offender’s
situation, so as to reduce the likelihood they
will re-offend, and to facilitate the
investigation and prosecution of any future
offences they may commit,” he said.
People required to report to police include
those who were sentenced for a reportable
offence after January 1 or a person who, as
a result of having been sentenced for a
reportable offence before this time, was
serving a term of imprisonment, was subject
to a supervision order or was subject to a
reporting order under section 19 of the
Criminal Law Amendment Act 1945.
Detective Sergeant Clark said many factors
determined the length of a reporting period,
including the seriousness of the offence
committed and the number of reportable
offences for which the person had been
convicted.
“An offender has certain reporting obligations
to meet, namely an initial report upon being
released from custody and an annual report.
Offenders must provide personal details to
police and if these change, or they intend to
travel from Queensland, they must report
these within certain time frames,” he said.
“It is an offence for failing to comply with
these reporting obligations or to knowingly
provide false or misleading information to
police,” Detective Sergeant Clark said.
All information contained on the Child
Protection Offender Register is confidential
and will only be used for law enforcement
purposes.
A brochure about the Child Protection
Offender Register is available online at
www.police.qld.gov.au.
PoliceBulletin 292 /7

QPS leads the way in child safety on the internet
By Simon Kelly, Media and Public Affairs
Branch
As the national leader in internet
investigations, Queensland’s
Sexual Crimes Investigation Unit
has put the state at the forefront
of detecting offences against
children.
The Sexual Crimes Investigation
Unit consists of Task Force
Argos, the Child Abuse Unit and
the Child Safety Coordination
Group.
Task Force Argos is recognised
as a leader in its field for
monitoring paedophilia activities
on the internet. They also
investigate extra-familial
paedophilia -- child abuse not
committed by family members.
Starting in 2000, Queensland
was the first state to introduce
covert operations that target
people who use the internet to
procure children for sex.
Detective Superintendent Ross Barnett, Plain Clothes Senior Constable Craig Foreman, Detective Senior Constable Adam
Bycroft and Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Stewart Kerlin from Task Force Argos.
Photographs by Karen Crook, Media and Public Affairs Branch.
Other Australian states have approached Task Force Argos with the
aim of launching similar covert operations based on the Queensland
model.
Since new provisions were introduced under the Criminal Code in April
2004, detectives from Task Force Argos have arrested 44 people in
covert operations and identified eight Queensland children who have
been exploited by people they have met through internet chat rooms.
Last year, eight Task Force Argos detectives were awarded
Commissioner’s Certificates for arresting an internationally wanted
man in relation to serious sexual offences against children.
Officers also educate children and their parents about how to take
preventative measures while using the internet.
The Child Abuse Unit investigates the intra-familial physical and sexual
abuse of children, while the Child Safety Coordination Group focuses
on policy, procedures and training for officers.
As head of the Sexual Crimes Investigation Unit, Detective
Superintendent Ross Barnett became the Queensland Police Service’s
inaugural Child Safety Director in June 2004 -- one of 10 appointed to
Queensland government agencies.
With 28 years service, Detective Superintendent Barnett has been a
detective in Brisbane and the Northern Police Region, worked in the
armed hold-up and drug squads, and been seconded twice to the
National Crime Authority.
Detective Superintendent Barnett, a graduate of the FBI (Federal
Bureau of Investigation) Academy of Quantico, USA, has also worked
with the Queensland Crime Commission where he was involved in the
Project Axis report into the behaviour of repeat child sex offenders.
“Working in the Sexual Crimes Investigation Unit takes extreme
dedication and professionalism,” he said.
“It’s a personally demanding place to work, especially for people who
have children.”
Detective Superintendent Barnett encouraged parents to be vigilant as
they were the first and best line of protection for their children.
“However, parents shouldn’t be unduly alarmed about incidents of
paedophilia in the community.
“There hasn’t necessarily been an upsurge in incidents, more an
increase in reporting offences and a willingness for public debate on
the topic.
8/ PoliceBulletin 292

Parents should teach their children to look out for early warning signs,
such as a pounding heart, goose bumps and wobbly knees. These
signs should be listened to and appropriate action taken to feel safe.
These actions may include breaking a rule such as telling a secret,
running away or hitting and kicking someone.
Nothing is so awful that they can’t talk with someone about it.
Children should be encouraged to openly talk about their feelings. If
they feel unsafe, they should approach someone they trust and always
trust and act on their instincts.
Detective Acting Inspector Jon Rouse, Task Force Argos.
“More people are prepared to expose this type of conduct and see the
offenders punished rather than let things go unreported as in the
past,” Detective Superintendent Barnett said.
Last year, Task Force Argos launched the Who’s Chatting To Your
Kids? booklet, which provides safety advice for children using the
internet. A revised version this year will address mobile telephone
safety for children.
Suggestion for parents and caregivers:
• always keep an eye on your children
• always be observant
• always be aware of your surroundings, and
• immediately report any suspicious behaviour to police or local
security.
These suggestions are not intended to be an exhaustive list but are
relevant to all situations. Parents and caregivers should use common
sense to ensure the safety and welfare of their family.
It is important for parents and caregivers to keep the fear of violence
in perspective as this could result in unnecessary limitations being
placed on their lifestyle.
A sought after speaker on detecting internet paedophilia, Detective
Acting Inspector Jon Rouse, Task Force Argos said parents should be
aware that new varieties of mobile telephones could give users access
to the internet.
He said Task Force Argos regularly liaised with other police
departments throughout the world, sharing intelligence to track
offenders and victims across international borders.
Tips for ensuring children are safe using the internet include:
• Consider installing filtering software.
• Ensure you are able to access your child’s email and randomly
check the contents.
• Keep the computer in a room the whole family accesses, not the
child’s bedroom.
• Check your telephone bill for outgoing calls.
• Check with your child’s school on what safety measures they have
in place.
• Tell children not to send pictures of themselves to someone they
don’t know, not to give out personal information on the web and,
not to arrange face-to-face meetings through the web.
• Parents are encouraged to keep the computer turned off and
immediately contact police if a child has received child pornography,
been sexually solicited or received sexually explicit images.
The QPS encourages parents to start teaching their children protective
behaviours from an early age.
There are two important messages to teach children:
• we all have the right to feel safe all of the time
• that a person may have to take action to look after themselves.
Child victims are allowed to play in this room before they are interviewed by
officers in another room.
PoliceBulletin 292 /9

Child Abduction
Alert System
introduced
“Every second counts in urgent situations
such as child abductions,” Police
Commissioner Bob Atkinson said.
The Queensland Police Service and Police and
Corrective Services Minister Judy Spence have
developed and introduced the Child Abduction
Alert System to assist in the location and safe
recovery of kidnapped children.
“The system, introduced statewide on April 4,
enlists the help of the community and media
organisations as an additional strategy to
maintain a safe environment for our children,”
Commissioner Atkinson said.
Under the system, personnel from the
Service’s Media and Public Affairs Branch will
urgently notify the media and provide them
with details of an abducted child or children,
where they were last seen and other
important information such as a description
of the offender and any vehicle involved.
The media will then break into normal
transmission with an alert tone and
broadcast the details every 15 minutes,
instead of waiting for the next news bulletin,
until it is cancelled.
This system will initially only involve radio
stations but will be expanded to include other
media outlets and potential stakeholders that
could distribute the information such as taxi
companies, buses, Golden Casket agents,
Department of Main Roads and Queensland
Transport.
The alert will ask anyone with information
that could help police solve the abduction to
immediately call Triple Zero or an alternative
information number (131 564).
“Police chances of rescuing a child from any
potential harm are greatly increased when
more people are made aware of the
situation,” Commissioner Atkinson said.
Ms Spence said Queensland was the first
state in Australia to begin the phased
implementation of this system for the urgent
broadcast of information about suspected
child abductions.
“Queensland’s system was modelled around
the existing systems in the United States,
Canada and the United Kingdom.
“Police will activate an alert system when they
have reasonable grounds for believing that: a
child under the age of 17 has been abducted;
the child is at risk of serious harm or death;
there is sufficient descriptive information
available to make the alert effective; and an
urgent public broadcast will assist in locating
and safely recovering the child.
“In emergency situations such as child
abductions, everyone can help.
“We need the community to be the eyes and
ears of police and respond immediately,
particularly when the lives of our children
could be at stake,” Ms Spence said.
By Louise Allen, Media and Public Affairs Branch
10/ PoliceBulletin 292

Advertisement
PoliceBulletin 292 /11

The Queensland Police Service
(QPS) and the YMCA are working
in partnership to deliver the
U-Turn Program aimed at
reducing motor vehicle theft and
giving young offenders the
opportunity to turn their lives
around.
The 10-week program is based
on similar diversionary programs
in Australia and the United
Kingdom and offers young
people training and education in
a number of areas including the
automotive industry, road safety,
personal development, literacy
and numeracy.
U-Turn is jointly funded by the
Australian Government’s National
Crime Prevention Program and
the National Motor Vehicle Theft
Reduction Council (NMVTRC)
and is based on the NMVTRC
Best Practice Model.
The program aims to break the
offending cycle of young
offenders and those at risk of
offending by helping them
develop new skills based around
vehicle maintenance and repairs.
A total of eight courses will be
delivered during the two-year
pilot, each comprising 10
participants.
U-Turn
Program
turns lives around
By Sergeant Kim McCoomb, Media and Public Affairs Branch
Participants are trained in a workshop where they develop new skills based on
vehicle maintainence and repairs.
The QPS and YMCA have
engaged key government and
non-government agencies to refer
young people to the program.
Referrals have been invited from
police, the courts, and supervisory
agencies as well as from the
community with self-referrals and
referrals by family members.
Case management plays a large
part in the U-Turn Program.
Initial discussions and interaction
with the participants indicated
many of their problems resulted
from a combination of low self
esteem, poor communication
skills, anger management
problems, drug use and lack of
persistence. Underpinning this is
the fact that most have very
limited education.
The caseworker has been able to
capitalise on everyday activities
to use as real life examples of
learning, such as bad behaviour,
attitudes, language, quitting and
selfishness and to use those
examples as discussion points in
their twice weekly group meetings.
The group discusses issues such
as what the behaviour was, the
impact on themselves and the
rest of the group, what was
achieved and alternate ways of
handling the situation.
U-Turn is being delivered by Logan YMCA Youth Services from a fully
equipped workshop.
The program targets young people aged between 15 and 20 with an
interest in cars and a history of vehicle theft.
The Queensland pilot is off to a bold start: eight participants graduated
from the first course on November 28, 2004; six received a Certificate
1 in Automotive; five of these are presently in full-time employment;
and two have continued their studies on U-Turn Course Two to gain the
full certificate. None of these young people have re-offended at this
time.
The YMCA employs a project manager, two mechanical trainers and a
youth worker to focus on addressing the underlying issues contributing
to offending behaviour and linking the young people to networks of
support, further training and employment.
The staff pay equal if not greater attention to any positive behaviour or
improvements and emphasise, reinforce and discuss the consequences
of the improved behaviour.
The Moreton Institute of TAFE performs an independent assessment of
the program participants, giving them the opportunity to obtain a
Certificate 1 in Automotive and the ability to pursue a career in the
automotive industry.
All participants are provided with tutoring in general road and driver
safety and can complete a learner driver theory-training program.
They are also given the opportunity to take on additional studies in
numeracy and literacy.
In accordance with the Best Practice Model, course participants are
given the opportunity to take part in recreational activities.
12/ PoliceBulletin 292

Young people and their facilitators during the U-Turn program, where they learn about motor vehicles.
These activities have been designed to broaden their experience and
knowledge by providing them with a variety of activities that they are
unlikely to have experienced.
The emphasis for the young people is that there are more ways to
have fun than undertaking illegal activities that are harmful to others.
The first course participants attended tours of Aviation Australia,
Boeing and the Brisbane Airport to see aircraft engines and training
centres, John Deere to see heavy farm and construction machinery
and engines, Fairways Driving Range to play golf, Queensland Rail to
see large diesel and locomotive engines and workshops, Willowbank
Raceway and the Dick Johnson Racing Workshop.
The trips successfully built team spirit and showed it was possible to
have legal and constructive fun.
As part of the program the young people are given assistance by the
caseworker to develop resumes and job application skills. They are
also learning life skills such as cooking and cleaning.
From the start of each course the kitchen is made available to
participants to cook themselves breakfast and lunch.
Part of the program entails the group organising a rotating lunch roster
where two or three of the group cook and three are rostered to clean.
Although not initially popular, by the end of the first course the group
were all participating, providing them with a strong sense of teamwork,
new skills and the opportunity to get guidance into healthy eating.
A large part of the training involves restorative justice, enabling the
groups to build self-esteem and contribute in a positive way to the
Logan community.
Each course is given a vehicle and parts from local businesses and
insurance companies to repair and present to an individual or family
who have been the victim of a car theft, resulting in hardship.
The recipients for the restored cars will be chosen from the Logan
community.
This program is another example of the QPS broadening its approach
to crime prevention and working in partnership with government and
non-government agencies, industry and the community.
Enrolments for future U-Turn courses are now being taken.
More information on how to enrol or to nominate a victim of crime to
be considered as a recipient of a repaired car from U-Turn can be
obtained through the Queensland Police Service website
www.police.qld.gov.au or by contacting the YMCA U-Turn Manager,
Michelle Venables on 3208 9715.
PoliceBulletin 292 /13

Winning project targets
volatile substance abuse
Chroming and the abuse of
other easily available substances
is a serious and potentially life
threatening issue facing many of
the State’s communities.
Chroming is defined as when
people sniff chrome based paint.
In July 2003, police from the
Raintrees Police Beat in Cairns
noticed an increase in incidents
involving the abuse of volatile
substances such as paint
aerosol cans and methylated
spirits in their area.
Members of the community and
the local Wuchopperen Health
Services said this was also a
cause of increasing anti-social
behaviour and high levels of
truancy.
A team from Raintrees Police
Beat, led by Senior Constable
Michael Musumeci, determined
that juvenile crime and
behavioural issues in the area
could be a result of easy access
to these volatile substances.
“We identified that there was a
problem, but that it was
something which would need a
broader solution than just
reactively policing the situation,”
he said.
The Raintrees Shopping Centre,
in the Cairns suburb of Manunda,
has more than 40 specialty
stores and several supermarkets
and discount outlets where these
substances are available.
Project KIT-VSM was developed
as an initiative to resolve the
issues arising from volatile
substance misuse.
14/ PoliceBulletin 292
In January 2004, a conference
was held at the Police Beat with
managers from Woolworths, The
Warehouse, Overflow and Action
supermarkets, and members of
the Cairns City Council Youth
Action Group and Wuchopperen
Health Services gave a briefing
on the social and health effects
of using these substances.
An agreement was reached with
the retailers to remove these
items from the shelves or ensure
they were stored in a secure area.
Two-litre bottles of methylated
spirits were removed from stores
in the shopping centre, while
other types of products were
moved to areas directly in front
of or under the control of
counter staff.
“All of the stores were really
helpful and their response to the
project was overwhelmingly
positive,” Senior Constable
Musumeci said.
“The aim was to give retailers
control over their stock and to
educate them on potential signs
that a customer could be
affected by volatile substances.
“It reduced the availability of
things like aerosols and
methylated spirits as they could
not be shoplifted because they
were securely stored, and
potential abusers could not
purchase them.
“The retailers have also had an
opportunity to train their staff
and put in place their own
procedures for selling these
products,” he said.
Local media, including ABC
Radio, the Cairns Post, WIN and
Senior Constable Michael Musumeci (centre) receives the Crime Prevention
Gold Award from Police Minister Judy Spence and Commissioner Bob Atkinson
for Project Kit-VSM.
Seven Television, also attended
the conference. This provided
positive coverage for the
Queensland Police Service for
taking a “hand in hand” approach
with the community in dealing
with an important subject.
The Warehouse support
manager Chris Paki said it had
not been easy for the stores,
with staff being abused for not
supplying people who are
obviously under the influence of
a substance.
“Thanks to the support of the
police, the amount of abuse and
visits from some regulars has
ceased to be a problem.
“The program being run from
the Raintrees Police Beat,
especially with the meeting and
the educational pamphlets that
were handed out, has given us
extra tools to deal with the less
desirable element when they
come into the shop,” he said.
Wuchopperen Health Services
Drug and Alcohol Coordinator
Jan Robertson said the project
had led to highly responsible
changes in retail practices
regarding the sale of methylated
spirits and other volatile
substances at the Raintrees
Shopping Centre.
“Hopefully through the media
attention the project received
these retail practices will
become a replicated model
across far north Queensland,”
she said.
The final phase was to have two
officers inducted as Adopt-a-
Cops and a PLO (Police Liaison
Officer) added to the project.
This helped address key issues
involving road safety, substance
abuse and crime prevention. A
Police Liaison Officer also now
conducts foot patrols on
Thursday nights with
Wuchopperen and Cairns City
Council youth workers in
targeted suburbs.
Project Kit-VSM was conducted
without any financial costs to the
Service. The success of the
project was recognised with the
QPS Gold Award for Excellence
in Crime Prevention.
In presenting the award,
Commissioner Bob Atkinson said
the officers involved in the project
“are to be commended for their
dedication in finding creative
solutions to policing issues”.
By Brett Davis, Media and Public Affairs
Branch.

New playground for
Palm Island youth
By Simon Kelly, Media and Public Affairs Branch
Local children flock to the new Police-Citizens Youth Club on Palm Island.
Just weeks after opening, the
new Police-Citizens Youth Club
(PCYC) has already become a
major part of the Palm Island
community.
About 200 children flocked to
the PCYC’s new basketball court,
boxing ring, gym equipment,
pool tables and computer games
when it opened on February 24.
Now it is even being seen as a
source of employment for Palm
Island residents and a vital
meeting centre for the
community.
“We’re looking at employing bus
drivers, cleaners and a child
care coordinator,” Sergeant Paul
Morley, Palm Island PCYC
Branch Manager said.
“The PCYC has been very well
received by the whole community.
I’m getting positive reactions
from everyone I speak to.
“We’re hoping to broadcast the
local radio station from the
building. We’re also looking for
volunteers and supervisors as
well as people to staff the
kitchen and canteen at the club.”
Sergeant Morley said locals had
already approached him looking
for work at the PCYC.
“It is also becoming an
important meeting venue with its
multi-purpose rooms,” he said.
Crowds at the PCYC rarely drop
below 100, with the youth
activity centre boasting pool
tables, computers and video
games proving very popular.
The gym is also getting a
workout with Sergeant Morley
already holding a fundraiser to
send a team of local boxers
away for a tournament.
The Palm Island PCYC is
Sergeant Morley’s first full-time
branch manager position.
He recently worked at
Yungaburra Police Station and
has enjoyed previous stints as a
relieving PCYC branch manager.
Sergeant Morley said he enjoyed
working with children and had
always liked working in small
communities.
He is relishing the challenge of
working on Palm Island where
his wife Sam helps out at the
PCYC and does Queensland
Transport duties two days a
week at Palm Island Police
Station.
“It’s non-stop and that’s why we
like it. We feel like we’re making
a good impression,” Sergeant
Morley said.
Palm Island children try out gym equipment at the community’s new PCYC.
PoliceBulletin 292 /15

A step in the
right direction
By Brett Davis, Media and Public Affairs Branch
The Walking Together, Working Together project developed by police in
Boulia, 300km south of Mt Isa, received a highly commended in the
2004 Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Public Sector Management.
The awards are designed to reward exceptional work by public sector
units that have delivered positive results for communities throughout
the state.
Boulia is an extremely isolated town of about 300 people, with
Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents each making up about half
the population.
In particular the lack of access to education (the nearest high school is
300km away), or even the awareness of what opportunities exist in the
wider world, means the young people of the town are especially at risk
of being seriously disadvantaged.
The initial focus of the project was on reducing the rates of truancy
and juvenile crime in the town, but local police also saw the
opportunity to improve the relationship between government agencies
and community organisations.
The original concept for the project came from Sergent Darren Hunt,
Officer in Charge, Boulia Police Station.
He said the state of relations between police and the community was
brought home during a visit he made to the primary school to give a
talk, when he encountered a lot of negative feedback from the
children.
By enlisting the help of other government agencies and local
community groups, a plan was designed to shed light on the
challenges faced by police and locals so each could gain a greater
understanding of the other.
The project was conducted in two parts, with the first taking place in
Boulia. Recruits from the Queensland Police Academy, Townsville flew
to the town to take part in a number of activities in the local
community.
This enabled the recruits to be involved in partnership policing
activities and gave them exposure to conditions they would not
otherwise have had.
In the second phase, schoolchildren from the town, along with parents,
teachers and police, travelled to Townsville to experience a way of life
very different from anything they had known before.
The children toured the Queensland Police Academy, went to a North
Queensland Cowboys training session and game, visited The Strand
water park and Reef HQ aquarium, went to the movies, and had
barbecues and lunches on the beach.
It was the trip of their young lives when you consider Townsville is an
1,800km round trip from Boulia, and many of the children had never
seen the ocean, let alone a live Cowboys game.
More importantly, it also gave the Boulia locals a greater
understanding of the adjustments new residents, such as police, had
to make when they came into their community.
There is now a new sense of openness and cooperation in Boulia, with
better relations between police and community groups, and a much
greater willingness on the part of the children to approach and interact
with officers. Truancy rates and juvenile crime have also fallen
significantly.
Sergeant Hunt said greater involvement with the local people had
made the job of police much easier.
“Things are about a thousand times better now, and we have been
able to improve the way we deliver services to the people of the
community,” he said.
Perhaps best of all, the children of Boulia now realise the world is a
much bigger place; full of opportunities they might never before have
dreamed existed.
16/ PoliceBulletin 292

Advertisement

High
on Life
Healthier Lifestyles Project is a
community initiative in
Toowoomba aimed at educating
youths and adults about making
healthy life choices.
The project aims to encourage
people to make wise life
decisions, especially steering
clear of licit and illicit drugs.
Project Coordinator Sergeant
Cam Crisp, Officer in Charge,
Toowoomba Police District Crime
Prevention Unit said the
campaign had been a way of
encouraging positive choices by
young people and their families.
“We wanted to highlight to people
that the use of drugs, both licit
and illicit, was an unwise option
that impacted on not only
themselves, but their family,
friends and the community,” he
said.
“It is our aim to show them that
there are other choices out there
besides drugs, that there are
safer options for having fun and
enjoying their lives.
“Sometimes they do not realise
just how serious the
consequences of their actions
could be to their health and future
careers,” Sergeant Crisp said.
Stage one of the project involved
the Toowoomba District Crime
Prevention Unit, Toowoomba
Crime Prevention Partnership
Inc., the QPS Media and Public
Affairs Branch, the QPS Graphic
Design Services, the Queensland
One of three posters designed to encourage young people to make healthy life choices by not getting involved in drugs.
Police-Citizens Youth and Welfare
Association and Queensland
Health working together to
produce three stickers and
posters with the slogans: Live
Life; Keep them high on life and
Hugs are better than Drugs.
The posters and stickers were
distributed within the Toowoomba
Police District and also to District
Crime Prevention Coordinators
within Southern Police Region.
“The posters showed pictures of
young people participating in
healthy activities, such as sports,
music and options that do not
involve breaking the law,”
Sergeant Crisp said.
“Stage two involved the
development of a community
education presentation with
representatives from the QPS and
Queensland Health delivering the
talks to various schools and
community groups.
“Everyone from senior citizens
who were concerned about their
grandchildren, to members of the
teaching fraternity, children and
18/ PoliceBulletin 292

community groups were targeted.
“We have spoken at numerous
schools, both public and private,
and talk to them about options
they have in their lives.
“It would be fair to say that kids
don’t truly realise the implication
of using drugs, particularly
cannabis.
“At presentations to school
children and Medical
Practitioners on the Darling
Downs, we were lucky to have a
physiologist present.
“You could feel the mindset
change among the audience
when the links of cannabis use to
schizophrenia and depression
were explained from a medical
perspective.
“The success of the project was
highlighted when I was invited as
a member of the Toowoomba
Safe Community Task Force to
present at the World Health
Organisation Conference in Hong
Kong in 2003 and also the
Australian Institute of Criminology
Conference in Toowoomba.
Stickers devised for the program promote healthy living.
“These were amazing
opportunities because we did not
realise just how well received the
program had been and how such
organisations held it in high
regard,” Sergeant Crisp said.
“Stage three of the project
involved developing three radio
and four television community
service announcements, which
were launched in 2002 prior to
‘Schoolies’.
“The Toowoomba community has
worked in unison to bring these
concepts to a reality with an
advertising consultant from River
FM writing and producing the
commercials, a production team
from WIN Television making the
commercials, and the University
of Southern Queensland
Performing Arts providing the
actors.
“Other key players in the
community that freely gave their
time and services, were the
Queensland Ambulance Service,
Queensland Fire and Rescue
Service, Col Wilkie Body Works,
Symonds Towing and Tusconny
on Tor.
“Without their help, this program
would not be where it is today. As
evidenced from the response we
have had, Toowoomba is a
tremendous city with an
outstanding community
conscience.
“Everyone here is dedicated to
improving the atmosphere and
safety of the town, as well as
providing the young people some
positive development. It has also
meant the young people of
Toowoomba have a say in their
future, not only for themselves
but for the community,” Sergeant
Crisp said.
“Self esteem is an essential
character trait which can
ultimately lead to addictive
tendencies in youth.
“The project built up self esteem
within our youth, providing them
with answers to a number of
questions.
“As with all crime prevention
initiatives involving social change,
we will see in the upcoming
years if the advice offered has
made an impact on the future of
our youth.
“With the continued support of
local government, State and
Federal members and local
business, crime prevention will
continue to strive within the
community,” Sergeant Crisp said.
By Karen Crook, Media and Public Affairs
Branch.
Encouraging young peolpe to get
involved in healthy activities, like
sports and music, was the
motivation behind the design of the
posters for the Healthy Lifestyles
Project.
PoliceBulletin 292 /19

New recruits put best paw forward
By Jacinda Brown, Media and Public Affairs Branch
Photo by Adelle O’Donnell, Media and Public Affairs Branch.
Sergeant Dean Hansen, Police Dog Instructor introduces Minister for Police and Corrective Services Judy Spence to one of the recruit police dogs during the
opening of the new Police Dog Development Complex.
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has welcomed seven new
recruits of the four-legged kind with the opening of the Police Dog
Development Complex at the Dog Squad, Oxley.
Minister for Police and Corrective Services Judy Spence recently
opened the kennels, which were developed due to a shortage of quality
dogs being donated to the QPS.
Police Dog Instructor Sergeant Dean Hansen said in the past the Dog
Squad had advertised in newspapers and on television for the donation
of dogs and could receive up to 100 responses from the public at a
time.
Sergeant Hansen said out of those replies, the squad would consider
ltesting 10 to 15 dogs, however, at times only one dog would be
suitable to be recruited.
Senior Sergeant Pat Collins, Officer in Charge, Brisbane Dog Squad
said the shortage of suitable dogs was because those offered were
aged from one to two years and had acquired behavioural traits not
appropriate for a police dog.
The QPS found the most cost effective way to ensure an ongoing
supply of quality dogs was to buy purpose-bred German and Belgian
Shepherd puppies and train them to become police dogs. There will,
on occasion, also be Labradors trained there.
Senior Sergeant Collins said only through extensive training would
puppies and young dogs develop the correct behavioural traits and
temperament to become a police dog.
In March 2004, the QPS received funding to build the centre, which
will house the puppies throughout their training.
20/ PoliceBulletin 292

The Dog Squad accepts puppies from eight weeks of age. At the age of
15 months, the puppies will be partnered with a handler and begin to
develop their work drives.
Dog/handler teams will play ball games to motivate the puppies to
chase and retrieve, and play tug-of-war to develop their grip and bite.
During this time, the puppies are also socialised with their surrounding
area.
Senior Sergeant Collins said handlers exposed the puppies to high
traffic areas such as bus and train stations and shopping centres so
they could be confident when they began their working lives.
Between the ages of 17 and 18 months the puppies will undertake the
final stages of their training.
Sergeant Hansen said that by having the puppies participate in the
14-week training course, they would be taught the foundations to their
future role as general purpose police dogs.
The puppies will be taught to track missing people and trace offenders
who have left scenes of crimes.
They are also taught obedience, agility, how to apprehend an offender
and protect their handler, as well as search vegetation for hidden
property.
Sergeant Hansen said there were a number of reasons as to why the
QPS chose particular breeds.
“German and Belgian Shepherds are chosen because they are a large
dog and are aggressive on the job. If they are threatened they are
willing to stand up for themselves and apprehend an offender. They
Sergeant Dean Hansen and a dog recruit demonstrate grip manouvres as
taught to the animals during their initial dog training at the complex.
have good sensitive noses and are easily trained. They are a good
all-round dog,” he said.
Sergeant Hansen said Labradors were selected as drug and explosive
detection dogs as offenders were more willing to allow the dogs to
search them as the dogs were not aggressive or intimidating.
A police dog generally will work with the same handler for the entirety
of its career.
However, the dog/handler relationship does not end there.
When a police dog retires after a career of about eight to nine years,
they will continue to live their handler as a pet.
Currently, there are 67 dog/handler teams throughout the State.
Commissioner Bob Atkinson and Minister for Public Works, Housing and Racing Robert Schwarten watch on as Minister for Police and Corrective Services Judy
Spence unveils the plaque to officially open the Police Dog Development Complex.
PoliceBulletin 292 /21

Clarification of
new road rules
New road rules that came into effect in Queensland on January 1 were
initiated to improve safety for road users and establish national
compliance.
Superintendent Ian McIntosh, State Traffic Support Branch said the
rules would complement current laws being enforced by QPS officers.
“The new changes were made to reflect amendments to the nationally
agreed Australian Road Rules. In the coming months, every State and
Territory will adopt the Australian Road Rules,” he said.
“Announced in 1999, the Australian Road Rules were developed by the
National Road Transport Commission in conjunction with State and
Territory police, transport agencies, motoring bodies and other
organisations.
Hitch hiking from median strips, traffic islands, painted islands and the road
shoulder has been banned.
Photo by Karen Crook, Media and Public Affairs Branch.
“In August 2003, the National Transport Commission approved changes
to improve road safety and create uniform traffic laws across Australia.
“The rules cover the basic road laws that drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists,
pedestrians and other road users need to observe when using our
roads,” Superintendent McIntosh said.
Some of the new amendments include:
Hitch hiking
Hitch hiking from median strips, traffic islands, painted islands and the
road shoulder has been banned. Hitch hiking from one of these areas
attracts a fine of $30, consistent with the existing fine for hitch hiking
from a road.
Pedestrian crossings
A driver must not enter a children’s crossing, pedestrian crossing or a
crossing for pedestrians at traffic lights if the driver can not drive
completely through the crossing because the crossing, or the road
beyond the crossing, is blocked. For example, the crossing, or the road
beyond the crossing, may be blocked by congested traffic, a disabled
vehicle or a fallen load on the road.
Heavy/long vehicles
Drivers of trucks can now pass a ‘No Trucks’ sign if their destination
lies beyond the sign and there is no other route by which the driver
can reach their destination. A driver must not, however, drive past a
‘No Trucks’ sign that specifies a vehicle length if the driver’s vehicle
(including a combination vehicle) exceeds that length.
Vehicles over 7.5m in length (including any load or projection) that
display a ‘Do not overtake turning vehicle’ sign can take up adjacent
lane space when approaching and entering a roundabout, provided it
is safe to do so.
Drivers of heavy or long vehicles are permitted to stop for more than
one hour in a built-up area, provided they are actively engaged in
dropping off or picking up goods for the whole period.
Wheeled recreational device
The use of wheeled recreational devices like scooters, skateboards and
rollerblades is now prohibited on any road with a speed limit above
60km/h. This is in addition to any road with a dividing line or median
strip and any one-way road with more than one marked lane that was
already in legislation.
Overtaking to the left
A driver may now overtake to the left of a vehicle if the vehicle is
stationary and can be safely overtaken to the left. For example, a driver
wanting to turn left at a set of traffic lights may overtake to the left a
line of traffic waiting to proceed straight through the intersection,
provided it is safe to do so.
Parking restrictions
The amendments clarify where a parking sign allows a driver to park
on a section of road or in a particular area for a period of time, a driver
must move their vehicle from that section of road or area once that
time has expired. It will not be sufficient for a driver to simply move the
vehicle to another space within the same section of road or area.
Superintendent McIntosh said police had been making motorists aware
of the changes and their responsibilities to abide by these new road
safety rules.
To read the amendments go to
www.legislation.qld.gov.au/LEGISLTN/SLS/2004/04SL300 and read
the Transport Legislation Amendment Regulation (No.3) 2004,
Subordinate Legislation 2004 No. 300 made under the Transport
Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995.
22/ PoliceBulletin 292

Advertisement

Police innovations combat CBD crime
By Brett Davis, Media and Public Affairs Branch
Constables Tom Wilson and Mark Eaton, City Station, patrol the Brisbane central business district.
Photo by Karen Crook, Media and Public Affairs Branch.
24/ PoliceBulletin 292

also contain protocols on who to contact and how to obtain the footage
from that particular establishment.
“For instance, you can go to a place and say ‘Your cameras may have
captured an offence taking place and can we please view your
footage?’”
Senior Sergeant Ferguson said while the database would primarily be
used to assist with investigations, it also had other positive
applications.
“We can use the database to liaise with businesses and let them know
of particular crime trends in their area, or provide information so they
can be on the lookout for anything suspicious or for certain people if
we have a description,” he said.
Officers working the city streets are forever vigilant when faced with unknown
circumstances.
Safety, levels of violence and other crime in Brisbane’s inner city are
issues that have come under increasing scrutiny in recent weeks.
“It will be a method to distribute intelligence bulletins and is a very
quick and effective means of transmitting that information to all those
people on the Project Atlas list.
“But it is also a two-way street and enables them to contact us and let
us know if there is something going on,” Senior Sergeant Ferguson said.
Two fatal assaults and a number of violent incidents since the
beginning of the year has focused public and media attention on the
role of police and other key groups in responding to such problems.
After a summit convened by Premier Peter Beattie and attended by
government agencies, police, community leaders and industry
representatives, the 17-point Brisbane City Safety Action Plan was
released.
Part of the plan relates to police and the allocation of resources and
rostering, the creation of a district liquor strategy and enforcement
program, liaison with the Brisbane City Council and a review of the
Bail Act.
Brisbane Central District Acting Superintendent Glenn Horton said a
range of strategies were in place, with others being advanced to
actively prevent crime and increase public safety in the central
business district (CBD).
“Guided by research, intelligence and other relevant information, we
have developed some innovative police responses to combat crime in
the CBD,” he said.
PROJECT ATLAS
One of the new initiatives is Project Atlas, which will result in the
creation of a database detailing security camera resources of all
government departments and private organisations in the city.
This system would contain detailed information of the areas captured
by each of the security cameras in the CBD.
Senior Sergeant Darin Ferguson, Officer in Charge, Brisbane City
Police Division, who is overseeing the project, said the database would
PoliceBulletin 292 /25

Police innovations combat CBD crime
(continued from previous pages)
Data collection for the project began last
month with general duties officers from
Brisbane Central Police District allocated
certain areas to survey.
It is expected that phase one of the project,
covering the area bounded by Ann Street and
the Brisbane River, will be completed by
June 30.
Phase two, including from Ann Street,
Boundary Street and to Countess Street will
be finished in September.
Senior Sergeant Ferguson has also carried out
a reorganisation of the rostering system in the
district, which was one of the 17 points put
forward in the Brisbane City Safety Action Plan.
“Through using intelligence and problem
solving, we ascertained when our busy times
were -- which is between 10pm and 4am --
and altered the rostering accordingly.
“Now we have greater flexibility and a better
capacity to put extra officers on in peak times
while not compromising the functions we
have to perform during the day,” he said.
OPERATION TAXI WATCH
Another initiative to be launched in Brisbane
Central Police District is Operation Taxi
Watch, developed by Inspector Ben
Hanbidge.
another way we can gain more assistance
and help from the community,” Inspector
Hanbidge said.
“The taxi companies have been only too
happy to be involved and to take part in the
initiative.”
If the trial in the city proves to be a success,
it could be expanded into other suburbs.
As with many new policing initiatives, the idea
for the project came out of the regular
problem solving process.
“We continually scan the local environment
and look for ways to improve our policing
responses, and the idea for this initiative
arose out of that process several months ago.
“The QPS is always looking for new strategies
to implement in the city to improve the
service we provide and increase the
effectiveness of our operations,” Inspector
Hanbidge said.
Positive policing and public safety strategies
are not restricted to special initiatives but are
part of everyday police work in the city.
BRISBANE CENTRAL CRIME PREVENTION
OFFICE
At the forefront of this effort is the Brisbane
Central Crime Prevention Office (BCCPO),
which undertakes numerous approaches to
anticipate and deter criminal activity.
Various groups within the unit meet to share
information, develop proactive strategies to
deal with ongoing situations and also to
design responses to specific incidents.
For example, in conjunction with the Brisbane
City Council, the BCCPO conducts events,
such as barbecues and sporting activities
(basketball and rock climbing), in King
George Square for street kids.
Sergeant Don Dull, BCCPO said the main aim
of these events was to get at risk youths into
This is an initiative between the Queensland
Police Service and the Yellow and Black and
White cab companies being trialled in the
CBD from April.
When an incident such as a serious assault
or robbery occurs in the city or Fortitude
Valley, the Police Communications Centre
would pass on the information to the taxi
despatch centre, which would in turn relay
the information to their drivers on the street.
“There can be in excess of 1,600 taxis in
Brisbane at peak times on a busy night, so
this gives police a lot more “eyes and ears”,
and is
Senior Sergeant Ferguson talks to officers within his division as they patrol Brisbane streets
and parks.
26/ PoliceBulletin 292

Senior Sergeant Darin Ferguson,
Officer in Charge, Brisbane City
Police Division.
activities to better occupy their time and
break down barriers between them and police.
“The BCCPO also runs a service for business
owners or victims of burglary, where they
conduct a security audit of a premises and
give advice on how to best protect the
building,” he said.
“We also work closely with licensed premises
in the education process with management,
staff and security personnel to train them on
matters like responsible service of alcohol
and general security.
“Basically, there is a lot of prevention,
education and working with interested groups
to try and come up with some common
ground and devise solutions for situations
where there are not always easy answers,”
Sergeant Dull said.
LEAPS PROJECT
The liquor and hotels industry has been
under the spotlight because of the role
alcohol has played in many of the recent
violent incidents in the city.
A Queensland University of Technology study
commissioned by the QPS in 2004 found
that of the more than 31,000 incidents in the
sample period, 24% were alcohol-related and
officers spent 26% of their time on these
matters.
The QPS Liquor Unit was established in the
Central Brisbane Police District at the
beginning of December last year, and
introduced the Liquor Enforcement and
Proactive Strategies (LEAPS) Project.
Establishing the unit and introducing this
project was another suggestion in the 17-point
Brisbane City Safety Action Plan released at
the end of February by the state government.
Inspector Joe Joyce from the Central Brisbane
Liquor Unit said the LEAPS Project was a
strategy that involved gathering intelligence,
forming committees to work with other
government agencies and engaging the
community to deal with iquor-related issues.
“This has a positive effect on things like
assaults and public disorder offences,”
Inspector Joyce said.
Historical data and intelligence gathered from
officers submitting Liquor Incident Reports is
analysed to identify trends and potential
trouble spots.
Officers then liaise with other agencies such
as the Office of Fair Trading, Brisbane City
Council, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service
and Liquor Licensing to formulate action
plans and conduct inspections.
Inspector Joyce said officers also worked with
patrons, staff and management at licensed
premises to encourage them to regulate
themselves rather than having to be
constantly policed.
“Prevention is better than cure and that is
pretty much accepted right across society.
“If we can prevent these alcohol-related
incidents by engaging with the community,
enforcing the regulations and using the
powers we already have then that has to have
a positive effect,” he said.
PoliceBulletin 292 /27

BizSafe gives boost to
crime prevention
By Sergeant Steve Keeling, Media and Public Affairs Branch
Crime prevention received a boost recently with the six-month
evaluation of the BizSafe initiative being hailed a success.
BizSafe is an innovative eduction program designed to help small to
medium business operators reduce the risk of crime against their
business, reiterating the Queensland Police Service’s commitment to
crime prevention and reflecting the emphasis of developing
partnerships with the community.
The BizSafe program has been trialled in the Southern and North
Coast Police Regions with introductory workshops being held in
Ipswich, Toowoomba, Redcliffe, the Sunshine Coast, Gympie,
Maryborough, Kingaroy and Bundaberg.
The 90-minute introductory workshops have been presented by officers
and are designed to get small business operators thinking about some
simple steps they can take to make their businesses more secure.
Speaking at the launch of BizSafe in March last year, Commissioner
Bob Atkinson said that pre-empting and averting crime, rather than
just reacting to crime once committed, provided many benefits.
“Crime Prevention is as much a community responsibility as it is the
job of the police and through the BizSafe program, businesses
operators can work together with the QPS to help reduce the risk of
crime,” Commissioner Atkinson said.
BizSafe is the first program to be rolled out under the new Queensland
Government initiative, Smart State, Safe State: Partnerships for a Safer
Queensland.
NRMA Business Insurance is part of the Insurance Australia Group --
the first corporate entity to partner the Government under this
agreement aimed at reducing risk and promoting safety.
NRMA Insurance State Manager Dan Musson said small businesses
were often exposed to crime because many operators did not have the
time or resources to evaluate and reduce security risks.
“Research by NRMA Business Insurance has shown small business
owners are working harder at just running their business day to day
and don’t feel capable of proactively preventing crime.
“BizSafe gives them first-hand help from police and risk experts and
helps them take simple, positive steps to reduce the risk of being a
victim of crime,” Mr Musson said.
The workshops have provided business owners an understanding of
the nature of crime, the conditions that make crime possible and the
extent of the problem of crime committed against businesses in the
local area.
Feedback hinted that business owner participants felt the workshops
were relevant to their business with the topics thought to be most
important, including identifying and assessing business risks,
shoplifting and stealing, preventing burglary and personal safety.
The six-month assessment also indicated the key workshop aims were
fulfilled as the majority of participants made changes to their business
security after attending.
It was also found that the victimisation rate of the participants who
made changes after the workshop was half of the participants who
had not made changes.
The most significant change made by businesses following the
introductory workshops related to cash handling procedures,
landscaping, the introduction of surveillance cameras and application
of height identification markers on entry/exit doors.
BizSafe will be implemented statewide with about 47 workshops to be
held by the end of the 2005-2006 financial year.
During the trial, the average number of businesses represented at
each workshop was 28 and it is hoped the BizSafe message will reach
at least 1,300 businesses throughout Queensland when fully
introduced.
BizSafe is based on a Western Australia Police initiative, which was
first conducted in 2002-2003 by the New South Wales Police Service
in conjunction with NRMA Business Insurance and the New South
Wales State Chamber of Commerce.
For further information about BizSafe, contact the Queensland Police
Service Crime Prevention Unit on 3234 2111.
28/ PoliceBulletin 292

Sergeant Ashley Hull, Ipswich District Crime Prevention Coordinator
discusses BizSafe with a member of the public.
PoliceBulletin 292 /29

Seniors Task Force goes online
A Seniors Task Force handbook is
now available online to cater for
the growing number of seniors
who are gaining computer skills.
Minister for Police and Corrective
Services Judy Spence said an
electronic version of the popular
seniors’ safety handbook
Confident, Safe and Secure
Living in Queensland was
available online at
www.police.qld.gov.au, providing
practical information and tips on
personal and property security.
“Senior women are more likely to
be victims of bag snatching than
any other age group, with the
most common locations being
supermarkets, hospitals, cafes
and restaurants.
“The handbook contains steps
for women to protect their
handbags, such as not leaving
them in shopping trolleys or at
their feet in public places.”
Ms Spence said the Task Force
also planned to conduct a Fear of
Crime survey later this year,
which would be an important
information gathering tool.
“Over the past few months, the
Seniors Task Force has been
working with the CMC to
formulate a survey that will
provide an up-to-date snapshot.
“The results of the survey will
help develop further strategies
that will assist seniors to live life
to the full, without fear.
“The last time that comprehensive
research into fear of crime among
seniors was conducted in
Queensland was in 1991,” Ms
Spence said.
“All Queenslanders have the right
to feel safe and secure, whether
it’s in their own home or in the
community, yet the fear of crime
prevents some seniors from
participating fully in day-to-day
activities.”
“Seniors have been one of the
fastest growing groups in the
community in terms of computer
use, so this will provide a
convenient option for many
seniors to access the important
information in this booklet,” Ms
Spence said.
“It has been a big success since
its launch in October 2004, so
much so that the first 10,000
copies have already been
distributed and the Seniors Task
Force is planning a further print
run this year.
“The Task Force is also speaking
with ethnic community groups
about reprinting the booklet in a
number of other languages,” she
said.
Ms Spence said the Task Force
had recently marked its first
anniversary, and in its second
year would continue research
with the Crime and Misconduct
Commission (CMC) into seniors’
fear of crime, and strategies to
target personal theft such as
purse snatching.
“While statistics show seniors to
be at a low risk of crime, purse
snatching is one of the most
common offences against older
people,” Ms Spence said.
Design National Police Memorial and win
Queenslanders are being encouraged to enter a competition to design a National Police Memorial to
commemorate and pay tribute to Australian police officers killed in the line of duty.
Minister for Police and Corrective Services Judy Spence said the memorial would be an important
reminder of the hundreds of police who had died while serving the community.
“We are fortunate to live in a country where some police go well above and beyond the call of their
duties in helping others,” she said.
“Sadly, all too often that comes with the price of lives that are lost. In the past 203 years, more than
700 police officers have died on active duty in Australia -- and more than 130 of those were
Queensland officers.
“By establishing a National Police Memorial we are enabling their memories to live on, and providing us
all with a physical expression of our sorrow and gratitude.”
Ms Spence said the Australasian Police Minister’s Council had decided that a National Police Memorial
would be built at Kings Park in Canberra, overlooking Lake Burly Griffin.
“This memorial will be a focal point for special events and services related to the various police
services, such as National Police Remembrance Day on September 29,” she said.
“It will also be a place for quiet reflection.”
Ms Spence said the memorial would feature an honour roll containing the names of police officers
killed in the line of duty from each State and Territory.
“While we would hope that no further names will be added to this list, we are all aware of the nature of
police work and the inherent risk officers undertake in fulfilling the commitment they make to the
people of this country,” Ms Spence said.
Competition details can be obtained at www.nationalcapital.gov.au. Submissions close on April 29. The
winner and cash prize will be announced in July.
30/ PoliceBulletin 292

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Australia Day honours for
Disaster Victim Identification Squad
Senior Sergeant Ken Rach and Sergeant Stephen Cook,
Disaster Victim Identification Squad, Coronial Support Unit
helped identify victims of the Bali bombings in October 2002.
32/ PoliceBulletin 292

Four Queensland police officers will receive the Medal of the Order of
Australia (OAM) for their actions following the Bali bombings in October
2002.
Superintendent Ross Dwyer, Senior Sergeant Ken Rach and Sergeants
Stephen Cook and Scott McLaren are being honoured for the roles they
performed in the joint investigation and victim identification process
that followed the bombings.
The OAMs were announced on Australia Day and will be presented
during an upcoming ceremony at Government House in Brisbane.
Senior Sergeant Rach from the Coronial Support Unit said he was very
proud of the award.
“It was quite unexpected. I think the award is more recognition for the
other members of the squad who worked in Bali and their families,” he
said.
“I just did what was expected of me as everyone else did.
“We were there to ensure the successful identification of all those who
perished in the bombings so their loved ones could have some closure.
“The lack of plumbing and drainage, the hot humid conditions and the
less than hygienic surrounds were not going to deter us from doing our
jobs. There was also the threat of more terrorist activity,” Senior
Sergeant Rach said.
Senior Sergeant Rach was part of a Queensland Police Service (QPS)
team that arrived in Bali two days after the bombing -- undertake four
tours of duty in four months.
He and Sergeant McLaren, Coronial Support Unit, have both recently
worked in Phuket, Thailand, where their expertise was an important
part of the victim identification process following the Asian tsunami
disaster on Boxing Day.
AUSTRALIAN POLICE MEDALS
Australian Police Medals have also been announced for Assistant
Commissioner Ian Stewart, Chief Superintendent Alan Davey, former
Superintendent Michael Huddlestone, Detective Senior Sergeant
Gregory Daniels and Senior Sergeant Michael Pearson.
Assistant Commissioner Stewart was acknowledged for his leadership
and strategic planning skills and commitment to the ongoing
education, training and development of police officers.
He was recently appointed as Assistant Commissioner, Ethical
Standards Command.
Chief Superintendent Davey, the Operations Coordinator for the South
Eastern Police Region, was recognised for his leadership and
excellence in organisational improvement, change management and
operational training.
Former Superintendent Huddlestone retired in April 2004 after 34
years with the QPS.
He was responsible for policing one of the most remote and diverse
police districts in Queensland and was recently commended for his
leadership by achieving a peaceful outcome during the occupation and
protest at the Century Mine near Karumba.
As officer in charge of the Sunshine Coast District Juvenile Aid Bureau,
Detective Senior Sergeant Daniels established a police and community
network to provide an effective policing partnership in response to
offences committed by juveniles.
Senior Sergeant Pearson has been recognised for his extensive
commitment to improving social standards in the Logan community
through such successful projects as Urban Renewal, Problem Oriented
Policing Partnerships, Safe House for Substance Abuse and Police
Beats.
Sergeant Cook (pictured here in the morgue in Bali) and his colleagues had to
work in basic conditions compared to the forensic facilities available in
Australia.
Sergeant Scott McLaren, Sergeant Stephen Cook and Senior Sergeant Ken
Rach take a minute during their busy schedule in Bali to relax.
PoliceBulletin 292 /33

“Scariest day” ends with QPS Valour Awards
By Louise Allen, Media and Public Affairs Branch
Acknowledged for exceptional bravery by Assistant
Commissioner Pat Doonan (second from left) and
Commissioner Bob Atkinson (second from right) were
(from left) Constable Mark Woitowitz, Senior Constable
Bruce McKinnie and Senior Constable Andrew Bailey.
Photos by Sergeant Stuart Cross, Photographic Section.
For Senior Constables Andrew
Bailey and Bruce McKinnie and
Constable Mark Woitowitz, March
12, 2000 was the “scariest day of
their lives”.
While on patrol in Gympie, the
three officers intercepted a vehicle
involved in a traffic offence.
The offender got out of the car,
threatened the officers with a
semi-automatic pistol and then
pointed his weapon directly at
Senior Constable McKinnie.
The officers’ quick thinking
enabled them to disarm the
offender.
Late last year they were
presented Valour Awards for
displaying exceptional bravery and
professionalism when
apprehending the offender.
During the presentation,
Commissioner Bob Atkinson said
courage, valour and bravery
represented the work that was
undertaken daily across the State.
“It is the role of our police
officers to provide for the safety
and security of Queenslanders.
“By doing their job, police officers
risk their lives every time they
start their shift,” Commissioner
Atkinson said.
Senior Constable Bailey and
Constable Woitowitz both agreed
that it was the most frightening
situation in which they had been
involved.
“It could have happened to
anyone though,” Constable
Woitowitz, who had only been in
the Service for 18 months at the
time of the incident, said.
Eight Task Force Argos detectives
were also awarded
Commissioner’s Certificates
during the ceremony for displaying
professionalism, resourcefulness
and dedication to duty.
In March 2003, Detective Acting
Inspector Jon Rouse, Detective
Sergeants Denzil Clark, Mark
Hamilton, Peter Jory; Detective
Senior Constables Rees Folpp,
Kirsten Helton, Lea-Ann McNeil
and Plain Clothes Senior
Constable Darren Cowles were
responsible for the arrest of an
internationally wanted man in
relation to serious sexual offences
against children.
A Commissioner’s Certificate of
Appreciation was also presented
to Senior Sergeant Craig Huxley
in recognition of his service to the
East Timorese community during
his six-month deployment with the
United Nations Police in 1999.
Commissioner Bob Atkinson (fourth from right) presents Task Force Argos detectives with Commissioner’s Certificates for
their professionalism, resourcefulness and dedication to duty.
Caboolture resident Mr Richard
Lohse was also honoured with a
Commissioner’s Certificate of
Appreciation for his actions when
rescuing a man from the
Pumicestone Passage at Bribie
Island on November 6, 2002.
34/ PoliceBulletin 292

Advertisement

Queensland Police Pipes & Drums
at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo
By Paula Hedemann, Media and Public Affairs Branch
A once in a lifetime opportunity for the Queensland Police Pipes & Drums who
performed at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo held in Sydney in February.
Photos by Senior Constable Deon Williams, Forensic Services Branch.
Queensland Police Pipes & Drums musicians
were proud participants in the Edinburgh
Military Tattoo held in Sydney in February.
The event featured more than 1,300 performers and was the largest
single gathering of military bands, pipe bands and dancers ever held
in Australia.
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo has a long history of pageantry and
tradition, having been held annually in Scotland since 1950.
Staging the tattoo in this country is likely to have been a once in a
lifetime occurrence as the event has only left British shores twice in its
55-year history. The previous occasion was in New Zealand in 2000.
Titled A Salute to Australia, the tattoo was held in Sydney’s Telstra
Stadium, from February 3 to 8. As well as attracting 160,000
spectators over the six days, an estimated one million Australians
tuned in when it was televised on February 20.
In its homeland, the tattoo is performed at historic Edinburgh Castle
and, in keeping with tradition, a replica of the castle was built at
Telstra Stadium. The structure was more than 25 metres high and
represented the guardhouse, drawbridge, gates and walls of the castle,
and provided a stunning backdrop to the spectacle of the
performances.
The Queensland Police Pipes & Drums sent a contingent of 20
performers to help form the 300-strong massed pipes and drums.
The massed band comprised eight Scottish bands and seven
Australian bands from organisations including the Queensland Police
Service (QPS), Tasmania Police, Royal Australian Regiment, Australian
Army Reserve, Federation Tattoo, Scots College and Royal Caledonian
Society.
Coordinating rehearsals with so many performers from opposite sides
of the globe presented a unique challenge.
36/ PoliceBulletin 292

“Being part of the tattoo gave our members the opportunity to forge
new friendships and perform with other world renowned pipe bands.
“It was a wonderful experience and represented a milestone in the
careers of individual players as well as enhancing the image of the
QPS,” Acting Senior Sergeant Flexman said.
The Queensland Police Pipes & Drums was formed in 1958 and
serves the community by performing at charity events and festivals
across the State, as well as at a variety of official engagements.
The band has initiated an aged care program which includes visits to
hospitals and nursing homes, and the Kops in Kilts program for
schools where they perform traditional, modern and popular children’s
music.
They are also the teachers and mentors of the Queensland Police
Juvenile Pipes & Drums -- a group of 28 youths aged from seven to 19
years, who recently began winning awards in their own right.
The Queensland Police Pipes & Drums helped fund their attendance at
the event through various fundraising initiatives. They were kindly
supported by thme Queensland Police Union of Employees, and by the
many members of the Service and local community who bought raffle
tickets and took part in other fundraising activities.
Queensland Police Drum Major Senior Sergeant Peter Flexman.
Apart from practising the set pieces prior to arriving in Sydney, the
massed pipers and drummers had less than a week together to
prepare for their world class performance.
They achieved it by spending three days rehearsing at Sydney
University, followed by two full dress rehearsals at Telstra Stadium,
which included a public preview the night before the official opening.
The tattoo is held for charitable purposes and the funds raised from
the public preview were donated to the Tsunami Appeal.
The Queensland Police Pipes & Drums has won numerous state,
national and international championships, and is highly regarded as
one of Australia’s finest pipe bands.
Officer in Charge and Drum Major Acting Senior Sergeant Peter
Flexman said the invitation to perform at the tattoo was a credit to the
band’s reputation.
“The Edinburgh Military tattoo is the biggest and best known tattoo in
the world and to be invited was an honour,” he said.
“Queensland Police Pipes & Drums previously accepted an invitation
to perform in Edinburgh in 1975, but most of the current performers
were not around at that time.
Queensland Police Pipe Major Roddy MacDonald.
PoliceBulletin 292 /37

New technology
puts finger
on crime
By Louise Allen, Media and Public Affairs Branch
Many offenders will no longer have
inked fingers after being nabbed by
police thanks to the introduction of
a new fingerprint scanning device.
Alternatively, police forensic
officers will no longer have to
spend hours processing paperbased
fingerprints.
The LiveScan technology will
allow officers stationed in
watchhouses throughout
Queensland to scan an offender’s
fingerprints and get a match within
15 to 20 minutes.
Senior Sergeant Ray Knight from the
LiveScan Project said this improvement in
services would have a tremendous benefit for
policing.
“It will positively identify an offender and highlight any outstanding
paperwork concerning that individual in a matter of minutes,” he said.
The State Government has committed funding for 15 units to be
introduced to watchhouses and stations throughout Queensland.
LiveScan devices have the ability to capture and record fingerprints
directly from the offender’s fingers and palms. The images are then
converted to an electronic format for transmission and search.
Initial results from the CrimTrac’s Australian 10-print database will be
available, after confirmation by a fingerprint expert, at the time the
offender is in police custody.
Senior Sergeant
Knight said speed and
accuracy were the main
features of the new
technology.
“This is part of improving the
professionalism of biometric collection,
including fingerprints, DNA (Deoxyribonucleic
Acid) and digital photography.
“As our world moves further into digitalisation, it is imperative for the
Service to be in accord with modern day policing,” he said.
The introduction of LiveScan will be systemically introduced during the
middle of this year. The Queensland Police Service is currently
negotiating with a number of vendors to supply and install the devices.
In the initial roll-out, LiveScan devices will be placed in the Brisbane,
Richlands, Caboolture, Ipswich, Toowoomba, Beenleigh, Southport,
Maroochydore, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Mackay, Cairns, Mount Isa
and Townsville watchhouses. One will also be installed in the Logan
Police Station.
38/ PoliceBulletin 292

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