Police from across the Territory gathered at Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts & Culture Centre Tuesday night to celebrate 150 years of policing in the NT.
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Currently at Godinymayin is a travelling exhibition celebrating the Police Force's history in the Territory.
The exhibition is free of charge and can be visited at Godinymayin until 3pm this coming Saturday.
Superintendent Daniel Shean presided over a special Honours and Awards ceremony recognising not only Police officials but members of the community for their contributions.
Northern Commander Janelle Tonkin said the ceremony looked beyond serving police officers.
"This event is a wonderful way to recognise the tireless and often courageous efforts, members of the police, fire and emergency service go to, to protect the community every day," she said.
As well as recognise the sacrifices and support provided to front line workers by their families and friends," Commander Tonkin said.
The awards presented were as follows:
National Police Service Medal
Sergeant Jeremy Brunton joined the NT Police Force in 2004 and is currently the Detective Sergeant of Northern Investigations, Katherine.
National Medal
Mataranka FERG Volunteer Desmond Barritt initially joined the NT Emergency Service at Maranboy Police Station in 1989. He is currently Captain of the Mataranka Fire and Response Group.
Sergeant Jeremy Brunton (see National Police Service Medal).
Sergeant Carney Ganley joined the NT Police Force in 2003 and is currently Senior Constable at the Katherine Police Station.
Mark McAdie was given the additional 'clasp' honour. Mr McAdie joined the NT Police Force in 1975 and served for 35 years. He resigned at the rank of Assistant Commissioner in 2010 and is now the President of the National Police Historical Society.
150 years of policing in the NT citation
Police Auxiliary Christopher Nurse joined the NT Police Force in 2020 and is currently an Auxiliary in the Katherine Watch House.
Police Auxiliary Melissa Spain joined the NT Police Force in 2018 and is currently an Auxiliary in the Katherine Watch House.
Remote Service Ribbon
Remote Sergeant Nathaniel Wessling joined the NT Police Force in 2013 and is currently the Remote Sergeant at the Ngukurr Police Station.
Commissioner and CEO's Letters of Recognition
Supervisor Matt Connolly of Downer was recognised for his contribution to the safety and comfort of police operating the Bio-security Control Points 55 kilometres North of Katherine.
Upon seeing the conditions Police were working under, Mr Connolly sought permission from Downer management to establish a mobile camp site.
This site provided amenities including air conditioning, a kitchen, a satellite TV and large amounts of fuel and water.
Commander's Commissions
Commander Janelle Tonkin was promoted to Commander in March 2020 and is the current Commander Northern Command.
This promotion builds upon a long and diverse work history which has seen Commander Tonkin preside over high profile and public investigations.
Special Mention
Allan 'Spot' Brennan was recognised by Commander Tonkin and Superintendent Shean for his service as the Katherine Police Station's go-to handyman since 2006.
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