Extraordinary deeds recognised

Ordinary people who do extraordinary deeds were celebrated at the Rodney Police Awards last week.

Police officers, non-sworn staff, volunteers and people who have risked their lives to save others were recognised at the ceremony in Silverdale on 22 April.

Eight officers were awarded medals for Long Service and Good Conduct.  Rodney Area Commander Inspector Mark Fergus said they demonstrated bravery, courage, and empathy, broke down barriers and built trust in the face of adversity.

“We are likely to see the worst of humanity. What our people do every day many would refer to as extraordinary, yet our people simply say ‘it’s my job’.”

“You pick yourself up, dust yourself off each day and step into the fray.”

 

Inspector Fergus said it was a privilege to serve but it can also be a burden, especially for families and partners, who received a round of applause at the awards.

He said non-sworn staff were the “oil in our big blue machine” and they make the community a safe and better place to live.

Member of the public were also recognised as unsung heroes “who have become entwined in our less than ordinary job.” It included security officer Stephen Ramsay who helped police constables who were being assaulted in Whangaparaoa on 24 December last year.

“Bad things do happen in the world but out of those situations always arise stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary acts,” said Inspector Fergus.

A man who saved a woman and her dog from drowning in Orewa Estuary received the District Commanders Commendation from Superintendent Bill Searle.

On 21 February, David Black rescued Linda Black and her dog Conan after her kayak capsized.

“Despite being with your own family at the time, you did not hesitate to put yourself into a dangerous situation, to rescue a person who was a stranger to you,” said Superintendent Bill Searle.
 

Long Service and Good Conduct medals

14 years
Youth and Community Supervisor Sergeant Steven Perris
Watch House Officer Kumeu Bruce Fenton
 
21 years
Mahurangi CPC Snr Constable Hamish Buick
Watch House officer Whangaparaoa Charlotte Jones
 
28 years service
Watch House officer Warkworth Celia SOWMAN
 
35 years
RPT supervisor Rodney Sergeant Bede HAUGHEY
YES officer Senior Constable Bernie WATT

42 years
Mangawhai Station Senior Constable Graham GOUGH
 

Certificates of Appreciation

Margaret Stevens
Kay Tipling-Rathe
Bjorn Modigh
Stephen Ramsay
Constable Simon Brown and Constable Shanon Robertson

District Commanders Commendation

David Black
Kumeu Constable Rob Bailey