For the first time since the formation of the new district, Hunter Valley Police District Awards Ceremony was held at Club Singleton early December 2018.
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The ceremony recognised outstanding service and achievements of police and civilian employees and was attended by a large crowd of family and well wishers.
Singleton High School featured prominently at the Ceremony with a choral group leading the National Anthem and Banda-ra Aboriginal Dance group assisting Uncle Warren, Elder of the Wonnarua people during Welcome to Country.
Special guests also included Mayors from all four councils across the District as well as Assistant Commissioner Max Mitchell, Northern Region Commander.
A total of 20 police officers received medals recognising long service, good conduct and dedication to duty.
These medals included the National Police Service Medal, the National Medal and the NSW Police Medal.
The NSW Police Medallion was also presented to three civilian police employees for diligent and dedicated service over many years.
A number of police were also recognised for acts involving outstanding police work with Sergeant Darren Waters receiving a Commissioners Unit Citation for his role in the police operation regarding the capture of Malcolm Naden in 2012.
Constable Marnie Lawson received a Region Commander's Commendation for her involvement in the arrest of an armed offender in Ashfield in 2015.
Senior Constable Simon Harmer received a District Commander's Commendation for the arrest of two offenders in the act of committing a break and enter at Bulga in 2017.
Sergeant Todd Hobson, Senior Constable David Barry, Senior Constable Cassie Shakespeare and Constable Dominic Cavallaro-Laverty received a District Commander's Commendation in recognition of their life saving actions responding to seriously injured young person at Muswellbrook in 2018.
Commander of Hunter Valley PD A/Superintendent Chad Gillies said in his opening remarks "Since I arrived at Hunter Valley in July this year, I have been nothing but impressed with the work delivered each day. We work within a complex policing environment and you consistently deliver great arrests, great response to crime and support to our communities on a daily basis.”
“Police traditionally shy away from fanfare when it comes to individual recognition. Being applauded for the dangers you face, your selflessness and the sacrifices you make in your private lives, you deserve this praise and recognition from the communities you serve."
