Mackay’s Officers In Blue Celebrated

Photo supplied: Queensland Police Service – Mackay District  

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Recognition was given to the service and bravery of those who have dedicated their careers to protecting the community last Wednesday 2^nd September, as 73 Queensland Police Service members from across the Mackay Whitsunday District received medals, certificates and awards during a special ceremony.  

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With more than 100 individual honours presented throughout the event, the awards recognised a broad range of service and achievements. Awards included the National Police Service Medal, National Medal and Clasps, National Emergency Medal, Queensland Police Exemplary Conduct Medal, Queensland Police Valour Medal, Queensland Police Emergency Response Medal, Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner Certificates, and District Officer Certificates.

Among those recognised was Northern Beaches Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Mitch Benson, who received a Queensland Police Valour Medal for an act of exceptional bravery performed during the devastating Scenic Rim bushfires in 2019.

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On 6^th September 2019, then-Senior Constable Benson and fellow officers volunteered to evacuate residents as raging fires rapidly spread throughout the region.

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Working through thick smoke and falling embers, the officers faced significant difficulties breathing and communicating, while visibility was severely reduced. Flames behind properties reached approximately one metre in height and intensified with each gust of wind.

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As the emergency continued into the early hours of 7^th September, officers were again tasked with driving through affected estates and broadcasting warnings about the rapidly approaching fire, with winds predicted to reach up to 90 kilometres per hour. As homes began to ignite, officers continued clearing the estates, running from door to door to ensure residents were safely evacuated.

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Their actions ensured all residents were safely accounted for despite the life-threatening conditions.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, himself a former police officer, attended the ceremony and said it was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with former colleagues and reflect on the stories behind the medals.

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He particularly acknowledged Senior Sergeant Benson’s courage and ongoing community engagement.

“His bravery was helping people out of their houses, who had basically been reluctant to leave their house until the flames were almost at their back door,” Mr Dalton said.

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“He went way beyond what he could safely do, but he did it to get those people out, because he loved the community.”

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Mr Dalton also highlighted the recognition of Dan Goldberg, who established an innovative learner driver program designed to help young drivers better understand how to interact with police and remain safe on the roads.

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The initiative provides learner drivers with practical advice and guidance, with Mr Dalton describing it as “a really good program” and noting hopes for it to eventually expand further afield.

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Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh commended every recipient recognised on the day of the ceremony.

“Everyone awarded today should be proud of their hard work, sacrifice and dedication they deliver each and every day,” said Superintendent Cavanagh.

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“Their integrity and professionalism has a profound and lasting impact on the communities they serve.”

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“I am pleased to recognise and honour both officers and civilians for their significant contributions to the Queensland Police Service.”

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The ceremony provided a moment to pause and recognise the people behind the uniform, celebrating exceptional service alongside acts of courage that have helped protect communities both locally and across Queensland.

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