2026 Recognition of Excellence Awards - winners
Brilliance in Policing Award
Selected from the Recognition of Excellence winners by the Commissioner of Police Col Blanch APM:
Individual winner - Senior Sergeant Dan Clark
Senior Sergeant Dan Clark was the Police Forward Commander for the Invasion Day rally at Forrest Chase, where large crowds and heightened tensions were anticipated.
When there was an imminent risk to public safety, Senior Sergeant Clark immediately took decisive control, leading his team into the area and making the difficult decision to halt the rally to prevent panic and harm.
His calm, rational leadership ensured the offender was arrested, the device secured and the public and officers protected, resulting in a landmark terrorism charge and averting what could have been a major tragedy.
Team winner - Fitzroy Crossing Police Station
The Fitzroy Crossing Police Station serve one of the state’s most expansive and remote policing areas.
Despite this, the team has built strong, trusted relationships through genuine collaboration and community led initiatives, including the successful Wangki Police Catch Up radio program, youth night spaces, weekly football activities and place based community safety planning.
By prioritising transparency, cultural respect and consistent engagement, officers have strengthened community trust, reduced youth crime, promoted safety across the region and empowered local communities to take ownership of solutions that create lasting positive change.
Metropolitan Award
Individual winner – Senior Sergeant Dan Clark
Senior Sergeant Dan Clark was the Police Forward Commander for the Invasion Day rally at Forrest Chase, where large crowds and heightened tensions were anticipated.
When there was an imminent risk to public safety, Senior Sergeant Clark immediately took decisive control, leading his team into the area and making the difficult decision to halt the rally to prevent panic and harm.
His calm, rational leadership ensured the offender was arrested, the device secured and the public and officers protected, resulting in a landmark terrorism charge and averting what could have been a major tragedy.
Team winner – Midland Detectives
In January 2026, Midland Detectives conducted a detailed and time critical investigation into the theft of a firearm safe containing twelve firearms, posing a serious risk to public safety.
The team conducted a meticulous investigation using intelligence‑led techniques which led to the arrest of six individuals, the recovery of all twelve firearms and the seizure of additional weapons, drugs, cash and vehicles.
The investigation demonstrated exceptional dedication, attention to detail and effective use of intelligence led policing, resulting in a significant harm prevention outcome for the community.
Regional Award
Individual winner – Senior Sergeant Scott Starkie
Senior Sergeant Scott Starkie’s steady leadership has transformed Australind Police Station into a confident, high‑performing workplace.
Under his guidance, staff morale increased, performance strengthened and confidence among stakeholders and the community grew.
By investing in people and culture, he has strengthened outcomes for both staff and community.
Team winner – Fitzroy Crossing Police Station
Policing one of the State’s most remote regions, the Fitzroy Crossing team has built enduring community trust through respect, transparency and collaboration.
Their community‑led initiatives, such as the successful Wangki Police Catch Up radio program, youth night spaces, weekly football activities and place-based community safety planning, have created safer outcomes driven by local voices.
State Award
Individual winner – Senior Constable Oliver Taylor
Detective Senior Constable Oliver Taylor has demonstrated relentless dedication and exceptional skill in investigating serious offences against children, consistently pursuing offenders through complex and intrusive investigations to protect vulnerable victims.
His work has led to significant custodial sentences, including a 13-year imprisonment and lifelong offender reporting conditions, reflecting his commitment to protecting the most vulnerable and upholding the highest standards of investigative policing.
Team winner - Operation Aground – Major Crash Investigation
Through innovation and perseverance, Operation Aground transformed a long‑standing unsolved fatal hit and run crash, into a successful prosecution, delivering and reinforcing public confidence in police resolve.
The operation delivered justice and closure to the victim’s family and reinforced community confidence in the WA Police Force’s commitment to solving serious crimes, regardless of how much time has passed.
Lance Martin Technology Award
Individual winner – Senior Constable Charlie Jenkins
Senior Constable Charlie Jenkins has modernised land search and rescue and emergency management capability through innovative mapping and coordination systems. His work enhances responder safety and strengthens statewide operational readiness.
Team winner – Firearms Act Reform Program
The program delivered a landmark transformation of firearms regulation in Western Australia, strengthening public safety through modern legislation, streamlined systems and enhanced regulatory oversight.
Improving security, efficiency and real time data sharing, this work has positioned the WA Police Force at the forefront of firearms regulation nationally and strengthened law enforcement capability and community safety outcomes.
Agency Services & Development Award
Individual winner – Sherileen Martin
A cornerstone of trust in Derby, Community Liaison Officer Sherileen Martin bridges has made a lasting impact by building strong, respectful relationships between police and the local Aboriginal community.
Her daily engagement empowers communication, strengthens safety and supports successful policing outcomes.
Team winner – Operation Podcast - Media and Content team
By telling authentic policing stories in a fresh, accessible way, the Media and Content team transformed engagement through Operation Podcast.
The initiative strengthened internal connection and opened a new channel for community transparency and trust.
Minister’s Community Confidence Award
Selected from the Recognition of Excellence Finalists by the Honourable Reece Whitby MLA Minister for Police; Road Safety; Tourism; Great Southern:
Metropolitan team winner – Mandurah Detectives
Tackling a deeply entrenched criminal network as part of Operation Scelestus, Mandurah Detectives demonstrated outstanding investigative discipline and collaboration.
Their work dismantled organised offending, responsible for large scale fraud, burglary, coercion and exploitation, including the systematic abuse of NDIS funding and vulnerable individuals while prioritising the protection and recovery of vulnerable victims.
Regional team winner - Broome Inquiry Team
By shifting from reactive response to persistent offender‑focused investigations, targeting high harm and repeat offenders, the Broome Inquiry Team has delivered long‑term safety outcomes.
Their disciplined approach has halted high‑harm offending, including dismantling organised crime, disrupting drug supply and fraud and in turn, has strengthened community confidence.
Wheatley-Coulter Crime Reporter Award
Short Form winner – Amber Wilkinson
Amber Wilkinson’s nomination highlights fast, accurate and responsible reporting on a disrupted terror plot in Perth, delivered under tight deadlines.
Her coverage quickly informed the public there was no ongoing threat, while clearly outlining key facts and allegations.
Balancing speed with accuracy, ethics and clear storytelling, the reporting provided timely updates and a comprehensive, accessible overview of a high interest and sensitive breaking news event.
Long Form winner – Jerrie Demasi
Jerrie Demasi’s nomination highlights a sustained, long form investigation into domestic violence, following a single case over time to reveal how offenders, victims and the justice system interact.
Through multiple reports and an accompanying opinion piece, the coverage explored coercive control, digital stalking and the challenges of enforcement, while maintaining balance by clearly outlining the roles of police and the courts.
By combining detailed storytelling with accountability and context, the reporting deepened understanding of domestic violence as a complex issue and reinforced public confidence in both policing and the justice system.
Analysis winner – Nine News Perth
Nine News Perth’s nomination showcases clear, balanced coverage of Western Australia’s first terrorism charge, helping audiences understand its significance and impact.
The team explained the police investigation, legal context and risks to the community, while drawing on expert insights into radicalisation and extremist ideologies.
By presenting verified facts, multiple perspectives and accessible analysis, the reporting informed public debate and strengthened understanding of both the case and broader community safety.
Past winners
2025
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Brilliance in Policing Award
Selected from the Recognition of Excellence winners by the Commissioner of Police Col Blanch APM:
Individual winner - Senior Constable Gemma Pick
Detective Senior Constable Gemma Pick led the investigation of Operation BILBAO, which uncovered drugging and sexual offences against nine young women by one offender.
Her careful management, use of new forensic techniques, and strong support for the victims contributed to the accused being found unanimously guilty and receiving a 15-year prison sentence.
The investigation also led to the introduction of new drink spiking test kits for the public and strengthened the WA Police Force’s stance on sex crimes.
Team winner - Anywhere Communications Project
The Anywhere Communications Project is a large-scale, multi-division initiative delivering high-speed satellite connectivity to frontline police operating across Regional Western Australia.
Involving teams from across the Technology portfolio, the project has successfully installed satellite systems in over 130 vehicles, upgraded 107 police stations, and distributed 26 portable Starlink kits, significantly improving officer safety, communication, and access to critical systems in remote areas.
Through outstanding collaboration, innovation, and technical excellence, this project is transforming operational capability in the most isolated parts of the state.
Metropolitan Award
Team winner - Joondalup Detectives Rapid High Harm Offender Response
The Joondalup Detectives RHHOR Team led a fast-moving and complex investigation after a violent home invasion in Girrawheen, where offenders impersonating police officers assaulted an elderly couple and stole a large quantity of gold and jewellery.
Through outstanding investigative work, the team identified and charged six offenders within weeks, executed eight search warrants, and recovered much of the stolen property.
Their professionalism, tenacity, and commitment to supporting the victims earned them a Certificate of Outstanding Performance and demonstrated the highest standards of policing under intense public and media scrutiny.
Regional WA Award
Individual winner - Constable Zachary Wyatt
Constable Zachary Wyatt is a dedicated police officer who served the Moora community, recognised for his proactive efforts to combat illicit substances and return stolen property to rightful owners.
He was nominated for his initiative in organising multiple raids that led to significant drug seizures, charges, and pending court cases. His work has made Moora safer, reducing drug-related incidents and improving community trust and safety.
Team winner - Constable Ebony Seale and Senior Constable Travis McDiarmid (Roebourne Police Station)
In May 2024, Constable Ebony Searle and her partner Acting Sergeant Travis McDiarmid responded to a vehicle crash in Roebourne where they bravely rescued a man who was on fire, pulling him from the flames and performing CPR until paramedics arrived.
Despite the man later passing away, their quick actions gave him a chance to be transferred to hospital, earning praise from both the WA Police Force and St John Ambulance staff.
Together, they showed exceptional courage and embodied the WA Police Force’s values of duty, integrity, teamwork and care.
State Award
Individual winner - Senior Constable Gemma Pick
Detective Senior Constable Gemma Pick led the investigation of Operation BILBAO, which uncovered drugging and sexual offences against nine young women by one offender.
Her careful management, use of new forensic techniques, and strong support for the victims contributed to the accused being found unanimously guilty and receiving a 15-year prison sentence.
The investigation also led to the introduction of new drink spiking test kits for the public and strengthened the WA Police Force’s stance on sex crimes.
Team winner - Cold Case Investigations Squad
The Cold Case Investigation Squad, including Detective Investigators, the Investigative Genetic Genealogy cell, and the Operational and Tactical Intelligence cell, played a pivotal role in solving a 1991 aggravated sexual assault case involving a 13-year-old victim.
Through advanced genetic genealogy and meticulous intelligence work, the team identified and arrested a suspect after nearly 33 years, restoring the victim’s faith in the justice system.
Their efforts not only led to the prosecution of a previously unidentified offender but also safeguarded the community from further harm and demonstrated an exceptional commitment to victim support and justice.
Lance Martin Technology Award
Awarded in honour of Commander Lance Martin:
Individual winner - Senior Sergeant Cameron Johnson
Senior Sergeant Cameron Johnson was nominated for his outstanding work developing a new Sudden Death application aimed at reducing the time officers spend attending jobs, saving tens of thousands of frontline hours annually.
Senior Sergeant Johnson used his expertise in Coronial matters and Power Apps skills to create a mobile app that cuts the processing time from an average of five hours to just two.
The app was successfully trialled starting in May 2024, received positive feedback, and has now been rolled out across the entire agency.
Team winner - Anywhere Communications Project
The Anywhere Communications Project is a large-scale, multi-division initiative delivering high-speed satellite connectivity to frontline police operating across Regional Western Australia.
Involving teams from across the Technology portfolio, the project has successfully installed satellite systems in over 130 vehicles, upgraded 107 police stations, and distributed 26 portable Starlink kits, significantly improving officer safety, communication, and access to critical systems in remote areas.
Through outstanding collaboration, innovation, and technical excellence, this project is transforming operational capability in the most isolated parts of the state.
Agency Services And Development Award
Individual winner - Sergeant Randall Worthington
Sergeant Randall Worthington is a dedicated Drill Sergeant at the Joondalup Police Academy, known for shaping recruits into skilled, ethical officers through strong leadership and mentorship.
He was nominated for his outstanding contribution to recruit training and for establishing and leading the police ceremonial team, which has become a key part of the department’s public presence.
His work has left a lasting impact on both new officers and the broader community, earning him wide respect within the force.
Team winner - Firearms Buyback Team
The Firearm Buyback Team successfully delivered Western Australia’s first state-wide firearm buyback program, collecting and safely disposing of over 38,000 firearms and providing $15 million in compensation.
Their work involved the development of innovative IT systems, safety training modules, and operational procedures that enabled real-time processing, secure handling, and timely payments, even in remote areas using satellite technology.
The team's efforts not only ensured the program's success but also set a new standard for firearm safety and project delivery within the WA Police Force.
Minister's Award For Community Confidence
Selected from the Recognition of Excellence Finalists by the Honourable Reece Whitby MLA Minister for Police; Road Safety; Tourism; Great Southern:
Metropolitan team winner - Cannington Police Station
The team at Cannington Police Station demonstrated exceptional compassion and community spirit when they came together to support a local family facing hardship.
After learning about a young boy, Brayden, who was grieving the loss of his older sister to Batten Disease and coping with his younger sister’s terminal diagnosis, the team rallied behind an idea initiated by Sergeant Hayley Worland.
Together with Sergeant Evan Jackson and his charity, the team arranged funding and spent a full day, volunteering their own time, to build, paint, and assemble a cubby house to give Brayden a quiet space of his own.
Their collective effort provided comfort to a family in need and reinforced the important role police play in caring for their community.
Regional team winner - Fitzroy Crossing Police Station
Fitzroy Crossing Police Station went above and beyond after a local home was vandalised and burgled, not only securing the property and cleaning up the worst of the damage but also showing compassion and support to the victims.
Their actions helped the affected family feel safe enough to return to the town, restored their faith in the community, and led to the apprehension of some offenders.
Beyond this incident, they actively support local youth engagement and work with the Education Department to improve staff safety and community relations in Fitzroy Crossing.
2024
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These awards provide an opportunity for the acknowledgment and appreciation of their extraordinary commitment to providing trusted and valued policing for the WA community.
2024 winners announced!
Brilliance in Policing Award
Individual
- Detective Sergeant Annette Herod
Team
- Kellerberrin Police Station
Metropolitan Award
Community recognition
Individual winner
- Detective Senior Constable Daniel SNEDDON
Team winner
- Perth Detectives
Operational Achievement
Individual winner
- Sergeant Dan TORDOFF
Team winner
- Tactical Response Group
Regional Award
Community Recognition
Individual winner
- Sergeant Lee BURGESS
Team winner
- Kununurra Community Liaison Officers
Operational Achievement
Individual winner
- Sergeant Andrew GALBRAITH
Team winner
- Kellerberrin Police Station
Agency Services & Development Award
Corporate Recognition
Individual winner
- Jeff HUMPLEBY
Corporate Recognition
Team winner
- Office of Information Management
Operational Achievement
Individual winner
- Senior Constable Dave PERT
Team winner
- Interagency Access - Family Court
State Award
Community Recognition
Individual winner
- Sergeant Jennie JANNINGS
Team winner
- Sex Crime Division
Operational Achievement
Individual winner
- Detective Sergeant Annette HEROD
Team winner
- Child Exploitation Operations
Technology Award
Innovation Recognition
Team winner
- Family Violence Division
Operational Achievement
Team winner
- Infrastructure Operations and Radio Electronic Services
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