1976-77
VICTORIA
POLICE DEPARTMENT
ANNUAL REPORT
AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT for the Year e11ded 31st December, 1976
Presented to both Houses of Parliament
by His Excellency's Command
By Authority: F. D. ATKINSON, Government Printer, Melbourne
No.90-1555f77.-Price $1.30
The Hon. Vance Dickie, M.L.C.,
Chief Secretary,
Parliament House,
Melbourne, Vie.
Dear Mr. Dickie,
I have pleasure in submitting to you for .the information of Parliament, the
annual report and statement of accounts for the year ended 31st December, 1976.
The report provides explanatory information and statistics about continuing
policies and established practices ; and summarises accomplishments of the year.
I would like to express too, my appreciation and thanks to all personnel within
the Police Department for their marked courtesy and dedication to public service
throughout the year.
Yours faithfully,
R. JACKSON,
Chief Commissioner,
Contents
Page
General Review
Page
9
Appendices :
Services Department
10
A. Police Establishment
68
Crime Department
17
B.
Ratio of Police
69
Operations Department
30
c.
Extraneous Positions
69
Traffic Department
43
D. Awards
Personnel Department
60
Administration Department
63
Public Relations
66
70
Valour Awards
Queen's Police Medals
Chief Commissioner's Certificates
E. Discipline
71
F. Finance
71
G. New and Amending Legislation
72
PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
R. JACKSON, C.M.G., M.V.O., O.St.J., Q.P.M.
Chief Commissioner
R. M. BRA YBROOK, O.St.J., Q.P.M., J.P.
Deputy Commissioner
L.
J.
NEWELL,
S.B.St.J.,
Q.P.M.,
E.D.,
.I.P.,
F.A.I.M.
Assistant Commissioner (Traffic)
S. I. MILLER, S.B.St.J., Q.P.M.
Assistant Commissioner (Operations) to
19.11.1976
Assistant Commissioner (Crime) from
20.11.1976
J. R. G. SALISBURY, Q.P.M., J.P.
Assistant Commissioner (Personnel)
D. J. SWANSON
Assistant Commissioner
appointed 25.6.1976
(Services)
R. A. KELLETT, Q.P.M.
Assistant
Commissioner
appointed 20.11.1976
(Operations)
A. T. RUNDLE, J.P.
Director of Administration
J. O'CONNOR, Q.P.M. Assistant Commissioner
(Services) retired 23.6.1976
W. D. CROWLEY, Q.P.M., J.P. Assistant
Commissioner (Crime) retired 19.11.1976
GENERAL
REVIEW
The Victoria Police Force has maintained a satisfactory standard of progress and community
service throughout 1976. When overall commitments are taken into account, the degree of
efficiency maintained with the manpower and
resources available, is a credit to members of
all ranks.
and provides good experience for constables
when they graduate from the Police Academy.
The recruiting level for the Force continues to
improve, but as yet does not approach the
desirable annual intake of one thousand recruits.
As I have stated previously, an intake of approximately one thousand men and women each year
is necessary to enable us to maintain a reasonably steady growth rate and to compensate for
wastage of personnel due to superannuation,
resignation and ill health retirements. Ill health
retirements continue at a disappointingly high
level and a significant factor appears to be the
great stress members of the Force suffer in
carrying out their duties.
The force experienced the loss of two very senior
and capable officers-Assistant Commissioner
J. O'Connor, Q.P.M. (Services) and Assistant
Commissioner W. D. Crowley, Q.P.M., J.P.
(Crime) who retired after long and distinguished
service.
The adverse response by the overwhelming
majority of Police to the Board of Inquiry into
allegations against members of the Police Force
(conducted by Mr. B. Beach, Q.C.) has been a
source of great concern.
An equally adverse and very emphatically
demonstrated response to reported findings of
that Inquiry necessitated a great degree of tact,
skill and diplomacy on the part of management
to maintain the morale of all members and as
effectively as possible, maintain their services
to the community. All aspects of the Inquiry
are being carefully watched and very considerable research is being undertaken into procedures
to assess whether any changes relevant to the
Inquiry or otherwise are necessary.
The Crime Department has been hard pressed
in its efforts to contain the crime rate. An aspect
which must be viewed with great concern is
the increase in offences of armed robbery,
despite the satisfactory solution rate.
This situation is extremely distressing to victims
who are directly concerned; it is a matter of
great seriousness for the police and it is very
disturbing to public security. The granting of
bail for the perpetrators of serious crimes should
Police
in the police view be very restricted.
look with interest to the implementation of new
bail provisions scheduled by the Government
for 1977.
Despite the earnest endeavours of police I regret
to record an increase of 27 deaths due to traffic
accidents over the 1975 figure. Police resources
are stretched to the utmost to supervise traffic;
there must be increased driver responsibility if
we are to achieve the desirable aim of a reduction in the number of accidents, fatalities and
injuries.
The new Police District of Melbourne Ports
marked a further stage in the metropolitan
districts reorganisation and commenced operations
on the lOth October, 1976. This district with
headquarters at Montague, embraces the municipalities of St. Kilda, South Melbourne, Port
Melbourne, Footscray, Williamstown and part of
Melbourne.
The move of police from North Melbourne and
Bourke Street West police stations to the new
building at 380 William Street, Melbourne, gives
great satisfaction.
These members now man
from this building, with its excellent facilities,
the police station known as City West. The
station commenced operations on the 19th
September, 1976.
lt is expected that the remainder of the premises
at 380 William Street will be utilised as a new
headquarters in the latter part of 1977.
I am grateful for the very fine support given
to this Department by members of the Public
Service staff. lt would be impossible to cope
with the administrative workload without their
valuable help.
Drug offences have increased quite substantially
and this again is a matter of concern. No doubt
there is some connection between this increase
and the incidence of armed hold-ups. Some
persons desperate for drugs are prepared to go
to great lengths to obtain the means to purchase
same.
Extensions to the Police Academy at Glen
Waverley are proceeding, but it appears that we
wi!l have to wait many years for the provision
of adequate police training facilities on this site.
Training is a vital part of our police programme
and the need is increasing.
The Probationary Constables Extended Training
Scheme designed to offset enforced inadequacy
in our training facilities has been working well
The Victoria Police must face 1977 with many
potential problems as well as many which
remain unsolved. In spite of the Inquiry into
our activities the Force has emerged in quite
good shape.
Manpower and other resources
are generally not to be criticised because of
quality, but quantity.
The problems of the ensuing year will be tackled
with vigour and dedication. The extent to which
they are overcome will, to a large degree, be
the measure of our success.
9
SERVICES
DEPARTMENT
380 William Street, Melbourne,
New Police Headquarters
The Superintendent at Bendigo transferred his
office from the police station to leased premises .
This allowed ex tra accommodation to be available
in the police station area .
The new City West 24-hour police station commenced operating from the ground floor of the
new Police Headquarters complex at 380 William
Street, Melbourne.
The establishment of a Criminal Investigation
Branch Division at Mornington has been complicated by a lack of suitable accommodation .
This has meant that the Cr iminal Investigation
Branch personnel have had to cover this area
from Frankston .
lt is expected that premises
for the division will become available at Mornington early in 1977. At Kyneton accommodation
for the Criminal Investigation Branch is in the
State Government Offices which was formerly
the old police station.
Bourke Street West and North Melbourne police
stations were closed and the personnel from
these two stations were amalgamated to form
the new City West police station . Adaptation
works to the other nine floors in the building to
accommodate the administrative headquarters
staff will commence ne x t year.
GLEN WAVERLEY PROJECT
The garage and workshops and circuit tra1n1ng
track were completed. Planning and documentation for the gymnasium complex and two residential blocks were also completed and the work
which will co st approximately $5 · 5 million will
commence early ne x t year.
LICENCE TESTING AND MOTOR REGISTRATION
BRANCH OFFICES
Commencement of building for a new Motor
Registration Branch and Licence Testing Comple x
at Dandenong has been delayed because an
agreement has not been reached with the Country
Roads Board regarding the cost of the area designed for licence testing .
WELLINGTON STREET, COLLINGWOOD
Adaptation works to this property co sting $1 · 5
million were completed. The Police Workshops,
Radio Electronics Division and the Building Maintenance Division are now occupying this accommodation.
The transfer of the General Store
from the former Police Depot in St . Kilda Road
to Collingwood will be completed early ne x t
year .
Licence testing officers at Shepparton are being
accommodated in a former police residence .
lt is hoped that this is only a temporary arrangement pending provision at Mooroopna of portable
modular units.
COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION
Due to economic circumstances the purchase of
urgently needed residences in country areas
where housing is difficult to obtain was severely
curtailed.
ST. KILDA ROAD DEPOT
The Brass Band, the Pipe Band, the Mounted
Branch and the General Store continue to occupy
buildings at the rear of the former Police Depot.
In order to continue with the transfer of all police
units from this site arrangements are being made
for the Brass and Pipe Bands to occupy the former
Army Cadet Training Establishment at Westgarth .
Negotiations were continued in an endeavour to
acquire part of the Showgrounds area in which
to re"locate our Mounted Branch .
TECHNICAL SECTION
Expenditure for 1976 year for approved Works
and Services Programme-$7,292,976 .
MAJOR PROJECTS
Police Academy-Glen Waverley
Continuing adaptation work-$95,000.
Construction of physical training complex and two
residential blocks to commence early 1977.
Cadet Academy Spencer Street-Melbourne
Assistant Commissioner (Services), J. O'Connor.
Retired 23.6.76.
Renovation work still in progress .
Prahran District Headquarters
OFFICE ACCOMMODATION
24 -hour police station to be completed in 1977.
Problems have again been encountered in providing suitable office accommodation in country
areas.
At Gisborne the re sidence form erly
occupied by the Sergeant was resumed for
office accommodat ion . This allowed police personnel to be moved from the inadequate and
antiquated court house building.
Sale
Completion 1977 for this 24-hour police station.
New Police Headquarters, 380 William Street
Adaptation plans completed, work to commence
early 1977.
10
Police Station and residence, Wycheproof.
Collingwood
Police Stations:
As at 31st December, 1976 :Government owned
360
Privately owned
4
Adaptation work completed . Transfer of Police
Vehicle Workshop, Radio Electronic Division,
Building Maintenance Division, now completed.
Transfer of General Store from St. Kilda Road is
in progress.
364
Greensborough Police Station
COMMUNICATIONS SECTION
Divisional Office Criminal Investigation Branch
and Licence Testing complex commenced operating December 1976; this bu ilding replaces the
old Green·sborough Police Station which was a
co nverted weatherboard house.
Increased demands were aga in made o n th is
section .
However, despite difficulties, an expansion of
service continued during the year. An intrastate
telex service commenced operation between D.24
and Geelong, Ballarat, Bend igo, Bairnsdale,
Morwell, Shepparton and Wangaratta . During
the nine months that the service has been
operating there were 21 ,498 transmi ssions .
Planning is well advanced to e xtend this serv ice
by nine more installatio ns.
There are a number of d ifficulties confronti ng this
section . Possibly, the major problem is tha t
Telecom Australia has advised that all existing
D.24 telephone consoles are obso lete and that the
only additional wiring whi ch will be underta ken
in the futu re will be the wiring necessary to
install and operate the multi-channel tape
recorder.
A 40 track " Dictalog " 4000 logging recorder
was installed at D.24 to record both radio and
telephone traffic through the control room. Due
to technical difficulties, Telecom has not bee n able
to connect the telephone consoles to the recorder,
although all radio frequencies and some
individual telephones were con nected.
Th is
facility has assisted in overcoming m any p revious
problems experienced at our comm un ication
centre and has proved to be an ex treme ly
valuable ope.·ational and adm ini strative aid .
Two additio nal Very High Frequency (V.H.F. )
channels comme nced operations on a 24-hour
basis. The total of V .H.F. opera tio nal frequencies
in the metropolitan area is now six . There is
also one V.H.F. channel for an emergency and
four Ultra High Freq uencies (U.H.F.) whi ch can
be used by d ifferent operational g rou ps . Cou ntry
areas are served by two V .H .F. cha nnels.
Progress has al so been made in the installation
of radio monitors in pol ice stations. Departmental
policy is that there be install atio ns at police
statio ns whi ch have a 24-hour v eh icle capabil ity .
There w ere 52 installations, wh ich brings th e
total number of install ati ons to 11 3 of which
there are 105 in urban areas and 8 located in
rural comm unities.
Construction Work in Progress:
Rushworth-Police Station and residence.
Essendon Airport Terminal-fitting out of
leased area for occupation by Air Wing.
Buildings Com ple ted:
Kilmore-Police Office.
St. Arn aud- Divisional Station and residence.
Alexandra-Station .
Frankston -Extensions to District Headquarters.
Culgoa-Station and residence.
Police Stations Opened:
City W est-24 hour Police Station, ground
floor, 380 William Street, Melbourne.
Stations Re-located:
Bayswater-transferred to Mountain Highway, Bayswater.
Ca stlema ine-to large premises.
Greensborough- new police station .
St. Arnaud- new police station.
M alvern District Headquarters- Hawthorn
Road, Caulfreld, adjacent to Caulfreld Police
Station.
Station Closed:
Bour k e St ree t W es t
th M lb
N or
e ourne
ama lgamated and are
.
.
as C1ty
~J Wnowest operat1ng
Police Station.
Bungaree- w as totally d estroyed as a result
of a veh icular accident.
Residence s purchased:
Ball arat.
Gisborne- Because former
been converted to Police Office.
residence
has
Sites purchased:
Springvale.
11
Presentation of Group Citation to the members of 0 .24 in recogn it ion of their outstand ing service.
METROPOLITAN NETWORK
Transmissions through the metropolitan control
room continue to rise rapidly. The following
figures show th is rise, with the base period used,
November, 1973, being prior to the introduction
of the new system.
TOTAL CALLS-WEEKLY
0 .24
Stat ion .
Serv ice.
Total.
%
Increase
Over Base
Pe riod (1973).
November 1976
..
..
.
.
3,682
3,556
6,578
13.8 16
150 ·7
November 1973
..
..
..
946
3,005
I ,560
5,511
..
SERVICE CALLS-
TELEX CENTRE AND REGIONAL ROOM
WEEKLY
November 1976
Total
Daily Average
6 ,578
939
lncrea~e in service
calls
November, 1976 = 321 '1o
N ovember 1973
The regional r adio together w ith the intrastate
telex network ha s increased communication
capability in cou ntry districts. The following
figures are ind icative of the use being made of
these fac ili ties by country perso n nel : -
1,560
223
November,
1973-
Intrastate
VISUAL DISPLAY UNIT TERMINALS
Telex
Received
Sent
The first ful l calendar year of compu ter operated
stolen v ehicle checks for operatio nal units
markedly increased the service demand on D.24
operators.
In 1975 monthly vehicle checks
averaged 14,057 with an average monthly
positive response of 263 . During 1976, monthly
checks averaged 19,148 with a monthly re sponse
rate of 373 . The 1976 figures are: -
Enquiries
10,717
Total
Regional Radio
Received
84,507
10,781
21 ,498.
Interstate and Overseas
Positive responses
Sen t
Received
Total
13,733
14,749
28,482
Total-
4,474
Total
Enq uiries through 0.2 4 represent 67 · 3 1'1o of
total enquiries through th e computer, wh i lst the
0.24 positive response rate is 67 · 98 '1o of the
total rate .
Telephone calls through the emergency number
000 tota ll ed 93,727.
229,773
Telex Centre
49,980.
A 24-hour se rvice for cou nt ry areas on both
te lex and reg ional radio has been in operation for
less than 12 month s. The amount of traffic
through these centres is therefo re qui te remarkable and illustra tes the need that exi sted for th ese
commun ication faci lities.
12
OPERATIONS-SPECIAL
counter terrorist organizations . The exercise was
instructive, informative and raised many interesting questions .
This section continued to play a maior and vital
role in numerous police operations. The lercwst
of these concerned the visits to Melbourne of
American nuclear warships. In this type of situation meticulous planning and extensive organisation were needed to provide a comprehensive
communication network . At the same time provision had to be made for covering special events
such as the Melbourne Cup carnival.
Senior Ll .:L4 personnel attended a number of
courses which, although conducted ex ternally,
were orientated towards co-ordination of communications . These courses included the Search
and Rescue Mission Co-ordinators' Course conducted by the Department of Transport and the
National Emergency College Disaster Organization course at Macedon.
A new vehicle was obtained for V.K.C.2, the D.24
emergency communications mobile headquarters.
This unit provides an immediate communications
centre for emergency situat ions and although
small in size it provides an adequate and
immediate service in the initial stage of an
emergency . The command caravan , V .K.C.3 ,
was used during a number of maior incidents .
A Group Citation was presented to members of
D.24 for special recognition of their devotion to
duty and marked efficiency. lt is believed that
the citation was the first ever awarded to a group
in the Victoria Police.
The authorised establishment of D.24 was
increased to a total of 128 members. The increase
was granted to permit the opening of two
additional
24-hour
metropolitan
operating
frequencies and the extension of regional radio
and tele x services .
The Communications Section was also involved in
other facets of police work. In addition to those
operations previously described, communications
were involved in the co-ordination of searches
for missing boats, bush searches for missing
persons, sporting events, political demonstrations,
special operations, maior crimes, fires, accidents
and, of cour se, the multiudinous number of
normal police duties.
COMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING DIVISION
This division which was established in February,
1976, is primarily employed on the development,
planning, designing and evaluation of future
communications requirements .
One specific item worthy of mention which has
been of great practical assistance in the apprehension of offenders relates to armed hold-ups.
In this type of crime the initial deployment and
co-ordination exercised by our communication
operators has resulted in the arrest of offenders
either at the scene or shortly afterwards. Prompt
action has also led to the quick recovery of
vehicles which were used in the commission of
these offences .
Radio tests were conducted using Very High
Frequency (V .H.F.) and Ultra High Frequency
(U.H.F .) mobiles and portables from strategic
positions in Port Phillip Bay to base transceivers
located at various positions in the city area .
Ultra High Frequency coverage from portables in
the Bay and from Station and Princes Piers proved
satisfactory when used between these points and
a base station sited in Melbourne.
In coniunction with State and Federal Departments
a large scale exercise, code-named " Bullfinch " ,
was conducted in our communications centre . lt
simulated mea sures which would be taken to
In coniunction with the Commonwealth Police one
Ultra High Frequency transceiver and twenty-four
personal portable transceivers have been ordered
and th is equipment is currently being delivered.
Launching of "Find Me " booklet.
13
..
Bungaree Police Station. Demolished by a runaway transport.
RADIO ELECTRONICS DIVISION
Glen Waverl ey . This is an Ultra High Frequency
(U.H .F.) Base Station which is now the second
operational U.H .F. Channel .
This Division which includes the Audio Maintenance Section is responsible for the purchase,
install ation and maintenance of electronic communications equipment.
Other equipment installed included 130 V.H .F.
mobile radio transceivers, 2 land mobile radio
H.F.S.S.B. transceivers and 10 low power V .H .F.
Radio Base Stations. Electron ic testing equipment
to the value of $62,547 was also purchased .
ACCOMMODATION
The outstanding highlight of the year was the
transferring of the division to more spacious
offices and workshops at Wellington Street,
Collingwood. This move stimulated the morale of
the division as personnel had previously been
working in inadequate and cramped quarters.
New Installations
Staff
A continual upgrading of co m munications continued and ten Radio Base Stations were instal led
at country police statio ns. The locations were at
Mitta Mitta, Marysville, Elmore, Wedd erbu rn,
Pyalong, Dunolly, Rushworth, Gisborne, Da rtmouth and Romsey.
There were a number of staff changes resulting
in a nett increase of four personnel.
Negotiations are proceeding f or a new major
installation at Werrimull.
Additional Equipment
Seven installations were upgraded. These we re
Euroa, Benalla, Alexandra , War rnambool , Kyneton, Rob invale and Cowes.
Two Very High Frequency (V .H.F.) Base Stations
w ere installed at Mount Dandenong. One Base
Station on V .H.F. Channel 2 has vastly improved
the coverage of the Mornington Peninsula while
the other which is tuned on Channel 6 now g ives
city-wide coverage.
Another Base Station has
been installed at the Police Training Academy,
14
Negotiations are proceeding w ith the upg rad ing
of ma jo r installations from Portland to Mount
Richmond , Corryong to M o unt Mittamati te
Mansfleld to the " Paps ", M orwell to Coalville'
Foster to Foster North.
'
RESEARCH AND PLANNING DIVISION
Computer Systems Division
One of the main functions of the Research and
Planning Division is the compilation of computerised station workload returns.
Some of the other tasks undertaken during the
year were:-
Stage One of the " PATROL " computer system
(police access to records on line) continued to
provide a 24 hours a day data base service.
Work has commenced on Stage Two of the
" PATROL" system and it is proposed to add the
following facilities to the On-Line system:-
( a) Investigation of centralised banking for
Police Station Trust Accounts and the
usage of residual amounts held in
those accounts.
( 1) an interface of the "PATROL" system
with the proposed Motor Registration
Branch system. This will permit police
access through " PATROL" terminals
to Victorian vehicle registration details.
(2) extension of the existing Vehicle-ofInterest file to permit enquiries by
engine and chassis number.
(b) Installation of an "Ansafon" telephone
answering machine at Criminal Investigation Branch Headquarters, enabling
information to be accepted from the
public at all hours.
(3) batch processing facilities output relevant
to the On-Line applications specified
above.
(c) Evaluation of portable warning signs and
strobe warning lamps, for use at
accident scenes and road blocks.
A Key-to-Disc data preparation system was
purchased and installed. This will provide the
capability of initiating a data preparation system
to convert information from manual records into
computer form.
(d) Assisting
the Inspectorate and Future
Plans Division with the alteration to
boundaries in " P" (Dandenong),
"U" (Highett) and "Z" (Frankston)
Districts and other enquiries.
Currently the Computer Systems Division is
successfully operating in relation to Stolen Cars,
Victoria and Interstate, Fraud Vehicles, Stolen
Plates, Warrants (access by registration number),
Frequency Allocation and Geographical Locality
displays for D.24 Terminal Operators, Location
Vehicle colour code for Stolen Motor Vehicles
Squad and D.24.
TRANSPORT BRANCH
The outstanding seven vehicles from the sixtynine additional vehicle:; approved for purchase
and ordered in 1975-76 were received. Approval
was also given for an extra nine vehicles to be
purchased.
These
seventy-eight
additional
vehicles increased the authorised strength of
police motor vehicles to 1,264.
A direct enquiry capability was made available
through the "PATROL" computer system to
thirty-three police Telex Centres throughout
Australia.
In the 1976-77 financial year approval was given
for the purchase of 78 additional vehicles. This
increased the authorised strength of police motor
vehicles to 1,342.
Other work carried out has been the design and
implementing of computerised data in respect
of:-Stolen colour television receivers, stolen
property-dealers squad, regional and police
station broadcasts and State Motor Accidents
Board.
Approval was also given for the purchase of one
caravan and one petrol trailer.
The petrol trailer will enable vehicles to be refuelled in remote areas when police are engaged
on emergency operations.
A staff increase enabled the Division to introduce
a six week On-site Operators Course and a three
week Programmers Course.
Police Vehicles
Enquiries totalling 342,243, were made by
police through the " PATROL" system and the
" PATROL" telex network, resulting in the recovery of stolen vehicles valued at $15,100,279.
Motor vehicles excluding Motor
Cycles
Motor Cycles
Total motor vehicles
1976
1975
1,216
126
1,131
117
1,342
1,248
11
10
Annual Analysis
Enquiries
342,433
Caravans ..
Petrol Trailer
Located
6,581
Collingwood Workshops
The Police Workshops, formerly located in Russell
Street, Melbourne, were transferred to Wellington
Street, Collingwood.
Enquiry Averages-Victoria Only
Annual
341,336
Weekly
Daily
Hourly
6,564·15
932·61
38·85
1
Kilometres travelled by all motor vehicles
Litres of petrol used by all motor vehicles
Running and maintenance costs for all motor
vehicles
Eight hundred and thirty-four vehicles were replaced.
IS
1976
1975
43,935,644
7,468,223
41,687,495
6,898,141
$2,205,048
$1,739,665
SUPPLY BRANCH
General
The following items of a specialised nature were
purchased:-
1x
Radio
1x
16x
1x
1x
6x
80x
4x
12x
1x
40x
Self-supporting Radio TowerRobinvale
V.H.P. Radio Base Stations
Standard Torch and Drill Resisting Safe
U.H.P. Radio Base Station
(petrol
Motor
Generators
engines)
V.H.P. Mobile Radio Sets
Systron Donner Pre-Selectors ..
U.H.F. Mobile Radio Sets
..
Audio Processor and Parametric
Equalizer
V.H.F. Mobile Transceivers
36x
$2,248
26,777
4x
2,271
3,934
1x
1x
2,201
48,760
1,908
9,434
2x
6x
1,470
25,412
1x
1x
$124,415
35x
Forensic Science Laboratory
1x
4x
1x
1x
2x
8x
1x
1x
Electric Digital Thermometer ..
Reference lamps for Atomic
Absorption Spectrometer
llfospeed Dryer
..
..
Alcometer Evidential and accessories
Evidential Type Alcometer
..
Head-Space Heads for Alcometer ..
Hewlett Packard Printer
Hydrogen Generator
1x
$980
736
718
2,569
1,974
800
1,075
1,538
$10,390
16
Dictaphone 4000 Communication Voice logging Retrieval
System Communications
Section
Radio Control Headsets-Communications Section
" Page Boy " Alerters-Communication Section
Electric Winch-Police Workshops . .
Computer Wheel BalancePolice Workshops
A.T.S. Tyre Changing Machines
-Police Workshop
Body Armour Vests-Criminal
Investigation Bureau
Vacuum
Head
ArtiscopeDrawing Office
Microfilm Reader-Information
Bureau . .
Vehicle Safety Equipment re
Children-Women Police . .
Audio Recording EquipmentPolice Service Board
$47,257
2,475
1,245
580
2,480
670
875
2,615
2,957
1,652
882
CRIME
DEPARTMENT
A new Criminal Investigation Branch Division
was established at Greensborough and this
helped to relieve the workload on the Eltham
Criminal Investigation Branch Division and it has
certainly increased efficiency in this area .
Mr. S. I. Miller, S.B. St.J ., Q.P.M., Assistant Commissioner (Operations), since 1971, assumed command of the Crime Department on November
20th, 1976. He succeeded Mr. W. D. Crowley,
Q.P.M ., J.P., who retired after more than 37
years service .
Major crime reported to the Criminal Investigation
Branch was 141,432.
A plan has been completed for the introduction
of an advanced detective training course which
will have to be successfully completed by all
sub-officers returning to duty in the Criminal
Investigation Branch.
The growing complexity
of the law and investigative requirements necessitate increased expertise to cope with changes
in crime technique and patterns.
This was an increase of 5 ·57% on the 1975
figures. The clearance rate of 46 · 49% is excellent .
Considering the generally expected
8% or 9 % increase, this is considered to be a
satisfactory containment after a year of hard work
and dedication despite major problems which
may easily have been allowed to become
obstacles.
A general trend towards a major increase in
crime manifested itself in the latter part of the
year .
Drug abuse has increased to a point where it is
now a common offence, handled frequently by
police from the local area. Increases in trafficking
offences involving hard drugs are most alarming .
There were 51 murders reported during the year
- 2 remain unsolved.
The Criminal Investigation Branch has forty-eight
divisions in the metropolitan area with twentysix in country areas.
The metropolitan area
consists of eleven Police Districts while there
are twelve in the country.
The Air Wing was of great assistance to
the Crime Department in transporting members
quickly to the scenes of major crimes and in
interviewing persons in distant places. A total
of 236 hours were flown on Crime Department
missions.
Aerial surveillance of scenes of hold-ups is
expected to be of vital assistance in the future .
A basic function is to observe and direct ground
personnel in the vicinity of major crime .
Features of the activities of the Crime Department
during the year were major searches for escaped
prisoners from gaols. In each case where prisoners were considered desperate and dangerous,
massive efforts were mounted.
The escape of a " Faraday kidnapper" is an example . Such large-scale operations constitute
a considerable drain upon the available resources,
because all normal operations must continue at
the same time.
DETECTIVE TRAINING SCHOOL
Eighty detectives attended the two courses held
during the year . The staff at this school are
engaged in a number of wide-ranging duties
including training, modernising police legal
training literature, acting as consultants on law
or prosecuting problems and advanced planning .
The results are widely known and respected .
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION BRANCH
The staff of the Criminal Investigation Branch
totals 749, of which 82 detectives are attached
to country districts and 667 are in the urban
area . This is 11 ·09% of the authorised police
establishment and 11 ·46% of the actual police
strength .
Within the Crime Department there are the
Forensic Science Laboratory (employing 28 police)
and the Information Bureau (which employs 98
members) : a total of 875 members or 13 · 39%
of actual police employed and 12·96% of
authorised strength.
The re-organisation of some areas has improved
efficiency . A new Criminal Investigation Branch
office opened at Castlemaine and for administrative purposes is controlled by the Officer in
Charge, "C" District.
The Criminal Investigation Branch Division at
Collingwood was closed and amalgamated with
the Fitzroy Criminal Investigation Branch Division .
This has increased efficiency.
The old Bourke Street West and the North
Melbourne Criminal Investigation Branch Divisions
were closed and merged to form the new City
West Criminal Investigation Branch Division. This
division is occupying quarters in the new police
building situated at 380 William Street, Melbourne
and in this instance the improvement in conditions is outstanding.
Assistant Commissioner (Crime), W . D. Crowley.
Retired 19.11 .76.
17
1555/77-2
AIRPORT DIVISION
The Metropolitan Airport Division continues to
operate satisfactorily and is included for crime
recording purposes with the Broadmeadows
Criminal Investigation Branch.
A major innovation was the secondment to the
squad of a qualified scientist who is able to prove
in court the presence of accelerants at the scene
of a fire. As an expert, his evidence in interpreting physical evidence is acceptable to the court.
LIAISON OFFICER
Good co-operation and liaison continues between
Police, the Fire Brigade, and members of the
Insurance Council of Australia and these three
organisations study closely modern developments in this field.
The appointment of a Liaison Officer at the Crown
Law Department has been of considerable
benefit to both the Police Department and the
Law Department.
There were 955 fires of which 679 were regarded
as "deliberate" and 276 as "cause not known ".
Fourteen persons were arrested and charged with
29 offences; a further twenty-one were charged
with 82 other offences, and two hundred and
fifteen persons were charged for arson related
offences. Losses estimated at $42,000,000 were
caused by a total of 25,000 fires.
The increased co-operation and liaison has
resulted in much less time lost at Court and less
interruptions to police rosters.
RAPE INVES-r!GATION SQUAD
This squad continues to operate successfully.
They perform normal duties unless specifically
required and they are "ON CAll " for Rape
Enquiries.
There were 309 rape reports and
this figure also includes attempted rape and allied
offences. One hundred and fifty-three persons
were proceeded against for this type of offence.
ARMED ROBBERY SQUAD
The resources of this squad were fully extended
during the year.
During the first six months, only six armed
robberies occurred on banks. In the latter part
of the year there were twenty-five. lt is feared
this trend will continue. Armed robberies in
addition to banks comprised Totalizator Agency
Board 13; chemists 25; hotels 16; shops 41;
payrolls 13; houses 3. Solution rate is 42%
(1975-46%). The percentage does not reflect
the true situation, as a number of offenders have
been identified but not yet located (e.g. one is
wanted for offences committed on five banks).
Property well in excess of $2 million was stolen
in armed hold-ups. Cash comprised $2,281,617
BEAUMARIS SEARCH
Eloise Worledge, an eight-year-old Beaumaris
girl was found to be missing from her home.
Since then one of the widest searches ever undertaken has been caried out. Although at one stage
up to 220 police personnel were involved in the
search all avenues of enquiry have been exhausted without success.
CRIME PREVENTION BUREAU
This Bureau combines the Crime Statistics Section,
Combined Operations Groups and the Crime
Prevention Bureau.
( 1975-$968,733).
The Combined Operations Group is an all States
organisation and is a central distribution channel
for dissemination of information. The Group
processed 84 enquiries, an increase of 30%
above 1975. The Crimes Statistics Section collates all data on crime trends and publishes
regular data sheets. Such information is necessary in the allocation of manpower and material
resources.
Members of the Crime Prevention Bureau test
and evaluate security systems. They inspected
and advised on 28 new security items which are
now generally available to the public.
Payroll robberies have been the most lucrative,
at an average of $15,364. The average loss
claimed as a result of armed robberies is $9,200.
Hold-ups on chemists shops have increased with
drugs or money to buy drugs being the general
target of these robberies.
CONSORTING SQUAD
This squad was heavily committed in searching
for escaped prisoners as ninety-nine persons
escaped from custody. Of these, ninety were
re-captured and seven escapees from previous
years were apprehended.
Since 1963 there are twenty-nine male escapees
and one female ecapee who have not been recaptured. lt is believed that three males drowned
whilst escaping from French Island. One hundred
and thirty-five offenders were arrested for a
variety of offences ranging from conspiracy to
possession of machine guns.
Many of these escapees were responsible for
armed robberies. Publicity and publication of
pictorial posters showing the "Top Ten " fugitives were given good media coverage and
only three of the original "Top Ten " are still
free.
POLICEWOMEN DETECTIVES
The number of Policewomen Detectives has been
increased to 26. They have been very well
received by their male counterparts and have
impressed with their energy and dedication.
They fulfil a valuable role in many types of
enquiry. They have more than proven themselves
and justified their inclusion in the Criminal
Investigation Branch.
PRESTON COMMITTAL COURT
This is the first full year of operation and 538
briefs, including 69 hand-up briefs, have been
prosecuted.
A total of 409 (76%) briefs resulted in committals for trial; 14 (2·6%) were dismissed; 69
(12·8%) were dealt with summarily; 13 (2·5%)
failed to appear; 4 ( · 7%) were withdrawn; 5
(·9%) were adjourned to other courts; 4 were
duplicated and 20 are pending.
Of the 69
summary hearings, 68 were convicted and one
dismissed.
BREAKING SQUAD
This unit is the co-ordinating centre for all major
breaking offences within the State.
There was a significant increase in major burglary
offencesSafes
ARSON SQUAD
1976-230
1975-202
This squad has been very active, and they
travelled 42,000 kilometres in the course of
making enquiries.
Breakings
1976-154
1975-82
This type of crime is generally perpetrated by
professional criminals.
18
stolen.
Eleven arrests were made for these
offences.
Goods valued at $44,000 were
involved.
Usually disposal of the goods has been prearranged before these criminals carry out the
crime. They use equipment at least as good as
that of the police cars, trucks, radios, and they
have often transported the goods interstate before the loss is discovered. Frequently the vehicle
used to transport stolen goods has been bought
under false names and addresses.
The following appendix illustrates the offences
cleared by arrests:-
Many of these enquiries are difficult because of
late reporting of losses.
HOMICIDE
There were 51 murders recorded.
remain unsolved.
The body of Ronald Gill was found in a creek
near Springvale Crematorium, his hands had
been tied behind his back, and he had been
slashed about the throat, and suffered head
injuries, but his injuries were not of them~elves
sufficiently serious as to cause death. He had
been gagged, and this had caused asphyxiation.
Enquiries are continuing.
BREAKDOWN OF OFFENCES CLEARED BY
ARRESTS
Assault and robbery
Assault O.A.B.H.
Accessory after fact . .
Assist in disposal of stolen property
Burglary
Burglary with intent
Breach of recognisance
Conspiracy
Compound a felony . .
Drug offences
Enter as trespasser . .
Escape (Breach of prison)
Harbour
Handling stolen property
loiter with intent commit felony
Malicious damage
Offences against Firearms Act
Perjury
Possess explosives . .
Possess implements of house breaking
Receiving stolen property
Rape
Street offences
8
2
1
100
100
4
1
8
1
26
4
2
1
88
4
1
14
2
3
10
4
2
16
Th~
~
Theh of motor car in commission of felony
Theft of motor car
Theft by deception . .
Traffic offences
Unlawful possession
Unlawful assault
Unlawful and malicious wounding
Vice offences
Warrants of apprehension and commitment
9
16
2
43
42
2
1
3
59
TOTAL:
661
Two cases
On the 17th November, 1976, taxi driver Nicola
Mercuri was found murdmed in his taxi in
Pakington Street, Kew. He had been shot to
death with a ·45 calibre revolver. Enquiries are
still continuing.
From the 51 recorded murders, 43 were directly
investigated by the Homicide Squad, and 8 were
attended by local Criminal Investigation Branch
units.
The offences were committed by the following
methods:-Shooting 18 (·22 rifle x 8, 12 g.
shotgun x 8, handgun x 2), Stabbing 12,
Bashing/Kicking 9, Blunt Instrument 5, Drowning
2, Petrol Explosion 2, Strangulation 1, Tomahawk
1, Other 1.
35 victims were male, 16 female.
Victims under 18 years were 5 males and
3 females.
Enquiries also continued into earlier cases.
Significant enquiries were made into the 1966
murders of Abina Madill and Gary Heywood at
Murchison. Further enquiries were made into
the murder of Albert Driscoll at Geelong in 1973.
Much time and effort was expended in
enquiries concerning missing persons where foul
play was thought possible.
Tere nee James Floyd
Julia Garciacelay
Eloise Worledge
Willi Koeppen
COMPANY FRAUD SQUAD
Maryborough
North Melbourne
Beaumaris
Olinda
Enquiries were also made into non-fatal shootings,
attempted
murders,
suicides,
some
unexplained deaths, conspiracy and subornation
of perjury by a solicitor and his clerk.
This squad was engaged on numerous complex
and difficult enquiries.
Over 200 investigations were conducted resulting
in 93 persons being charged with 1,669 offences,
involving over $3 million.
Two members were required to give evidence
in the United Kingdom at the trials of the former
Member of Parliament, John Stonehouse.
There has been a slight increase in the incidence
of "fly by night " business activities.
Another disturbing feature is the frequent
reports of dishonoured cheques. Consideration
is being given to raising a separate unit to handle
this class of crime.
A considerable part of the time of the members
was occupied in inquests and trials. There now
is a greater number of re-trials and appe,als. In
one case, an accused is awaiting his fourth trial
on two counts of murder.
Si nee 1943 there has been a total of 1,1 12
murders with 51 (4·5%) unsolved.
DEALERS SQUAD
This squad detected 500 offences, including the
execution of 1 1 warrants on wanted persons and
arrest of two escapees.
LIVESTOCK SQUAD
There were 386 offences of cattle stealing
reported, involving 6,886 animals-706 were
recovered. Forty-one persons were charged and
80 offences cl ea red up.
An additional 164
other offences of various kinds were reported.
Eighty-five animals were unlawfully killed, 37
bales of wool and 1,024 skins were reported
They liaise with and control the o~erations of a
wide ranqe of second-hand dealers m Melbourne.
There w~re 187 persons arrested, 500 charges
laid, 472 suspects interviewed and stolen
property valued at $96,499 was recovered.
Checks were made on 3,700 articles to ascertain
if they were stolen.
19
Cannabis was concealed behind the panels of this car.
RAILWAYS C.I.B. SQUAD
There were 57,806 new registrations in 1976,
whereas in 1975, the new registrations totalled
69,486. The increase in numb ers of cars sto len
of 909, as against the decrease in numbers of
new reg istrations illustrates the economic atmosphere pertaining to this period. Experience has
shown tha t this type of crime accelerates d uring
depression s, and it is anticipated that there wi ll
be a continu ing increase in the numbers of stolen
cars .
A Chief Inspector is attached to the Victoria n
Railways to control the operation of the C.I .B.
detachment and liaise with railways personnel
to reduce losses and provide co-ordinated action
between police and railways staff throughout
the State.
950 offences against railways properly were
reported.
This has been a full year of operation of the
" PATROL" Computer System.
This is a valuable ad junct to our operations and provides a
great service to the community . If is now difficult to imagi ne operations w ithout its benefits .
In addition to its direct recording of stolen
v ehicles, it is programmed to provide on demand
a considerable
amount of other valuable
inform at ion.
427 offences were cleared up by 576 arrests;
a rate of 45% .
Of eighty-one fires on railw ays property and
on trains, forty-one were deliberately lit.
Hundreds of thou sa nds of doll ars damage was
caused. Some arrests were ma<ie.
Records o f v ehicles stolen from all States are
prog rammed into the computer which gives an
instantaneous reply to all queries.
STOLEN MOTOR VEHICLE SQUAD
A total of 11 ,552 motor vehicles w e re reported
stolen. This is an increase of 909, an 8 ·54%
increa se over 1975, and 11,165 were recovered ,
a recovery rate of 96·65 % .
On si x occa sions the Air Wing was called upon
for survei llance and search operations . Thei r aid
was in v aluable.
Since th e fi tt ing of compulsory steering locks o n
all new cars, less than 100 vehicles so fitted
(and locked), have bee n stolen .
The locking
system req u ires expertise and time to defeat, and
thieves find other cars are usually more attractive
to steal.
There was a significant upward trend towards
the latter part of the year, mostly within the last
three months. This is consistent with reports of
major crime for th e same period. This accords
with our theory th at many stolen cars are used
in major crimes.
20
There were forty-one heroin and two hundred
and sixty cannabis traffickers detected and there
has been an increase of 32 · 6% in heroin trafficking and 50· 76% in cannabis trafficking over
1975.
DRUG BUREAU
There were 1935 drug offences detected, an
increase upon 1975 of 519 or 36·65%. This
represents an increase of 53· 8 '/0 in two years
and illustrates the alarming increase in drug
abuse within the community . The vast majority
of drug usage is by the younger members and
the future harm is incalculable.
Offences connected with drugs, by offenders
under 25 years of age, were 78 · 91% of the total
detected.
The most serious escalation is in the use and
trafficking of heroin and its derivatives.
it is
confidently predicted that this wil·l reach most
serious proportions in years to come, unless there
is greater public awareness, and strict action by
the Legislature and Courts.
There was a gratifying reduction in hold-up
offences on chemists, and there is justification
for hoping that this type of offence is being
contained.
Lectures were given to Police Training Courses
and at Country Police Centres . This will help to
improve knowledge and skills in locating and
detecting the use of drugs.
An increase in the numbers of drug traffickers
detected has become apparent . This offence is
feared as our greatest problem, and it will only
be contained by concerted action by all aspects
of law enforcement.
Lectures were also given to members of the
armed services, prison officers, social groups,
Justices Associations, Nursing Associations and
Service Clubs . Many of the talks were illustrated
by still and motion photography .
Armed Robberies on PharmJ.cies.
Therts from Doctors ' Cars and Rooms.
Burglaries at Pharmacies.
1976
21
1976
218 (down 41 ·23%)
1976
81
79
1975
39
1975
371
1975
34
68
Eighteen I lb . blocks of compressed cannabis seized by Drug Squad.
21
at 193 Spring Street, Melbourne, the increase in
staff functions and needs have experienced an
overall increase of approximately twenty percent per annum for eleven years.
The most
significant growth has been in the areas of
drugs, blood alcohols, biology services and
photography.
On occasions, information was received that crops
of drugs were being grown in remote areas.
Aerial searches established that this was not so,
at least in the designated areas. The availability
of aerial surveillance resulted in enormous savings in time and manpower.
The ingenuity of some offenders in concealing
drugs is remarkable.
Large quantities are
smuggled into Australia by various means,
including pre-packaging in canned foods, concealment in children's wearing apparel and toys.
The use of motor vehicles also poses a problem.
Panels are removed, drugs packed behind them
and the panels replaced.
The work undertaken by the Firearms Identification Section further draws attention to the use
of firearms in homicides and serious crime.
lt is generally conceded that the conditions within the laboratory building are of a sub-standard
nature and it is certainly gratifying to learn that
plans are being formulated to provide alternative
accommodation for the Forensic Science Laboratory.
The Drug Bureau is the co-ordinating body for
drug suppression, and is very effective against
organised trafficking organisations.
lt is a unit
which is vital to the Police Service and to the
community.
Operating costs in the Photographic, Chemistry
and Biology Sections have increased sharply as
a result of inflationary pressures and devaluations.
The Biology Section developed a new
technique of blood grouping (Gm., lnv.). This
means that if special grouping work is warranted,
and the sample is suitable, the following groups
may be determined:
FORENSIC SCIENCE LABORATORY
This laboratory is vital to the effective operation
of the Victoria Police Department.
As all phases of crime and crime prevention
become more sophisticated there is an increased
need for professional expertise in forensic science
techniques.
A-B-0 and Subtypes
Rh
MN
Rh
Lewis
it is therefore imperative that police exert all
their efforts and be given the equipment and
resources to continually develop knowledge of
forensic science.
In recent years there has been a steady increase
in the number of investigations submitted to
the laboratory for scientific examination-the
number of cases handled in 1976 beinq four
times the 1973 total.
·
p
PGM
AK
ADA
EAP
Es D
Haptoglobin
Haemoglobin
Gm
lnv.
The
Department
of
Agricultural
Chemistry
assisted with X-ray analysis of many soil samples
and their advice was invaluable.
Three breathalyser training courses were held and
sixty-six members qualified for operators' certificates.
Breathalysers maintained by the laboratory tested 16,178 drivers throughout Victoria.
Since 1965 when "The Norman McCallum
Police Forensic Science Laboratory "was first sited
Ballarat Railway Station fire. General view showing damaged shed.
22
FORENSIC SCIENCE LABORATORY-STATISTICS
1976.
1975.
Total number investigations submitted (excluding photography)
4,803
4,163
Total number (excluding blood alcohols and photography)
2,164
1,818
Biological (bloodjsemenjhairs)
6,716
4,449
Chemical-Drugs
3,409
2.832
Blood Alcohols
1,956
2,345*
Blood Drugs ..
18
13
Miscellaneous (arsons, glass, etc.)
514
448
Hospital Blood Alcohol Screeningt
683
Section Breakdown
Chemistry/Biology (exhibits examined)
Total Exhibits Analysed
Total Cases (including Blood Alcohols)
13,296
10,087
4,669
3,829
• Compulsory blood alcohols taken in accordance with Motor Cor (ilmendmrnt) Act 1973, commencing April, 1974.
~.10.76 ONLY.
t Screening of injured passengers and pedesrrians from
Document Section
Valueless Cheques
1.161
901
Handwritings
1.756
1.153
58
126
Printings
3
4
Paper Identification
4
Ink Identification
2
Typewriters
Restoration of Writing ..
95
43
Others
46
40
Accident Scenes
26
22
Armed Hold-ups
23
24
145
94
Bombs/Arson
19
18
Homicides
35
41
Assaults/Grievous Bodily Harm
18
22
Theft ..
12
6
Theft Vehicles
18
35
Sex Crimes
16
21
Wilful Damage ..
7
6
Vehicle Searches
64
56
9
21
Field Investigations
Field Assignments
Breakings
Others
23
1975.
1976.
Field Investigation
Laboratory Assignments
Chemical
100
57
Comparison Striations
27
23
Comparison Physical
27
56
Number Restorations
33
44
Drug
..
X-ray Examinations
5
Thief Traps Issued
Miscellaneous Examinations
Blood Examinations
105
57
41
29
800
Photography
Russe// Street Studio
No. Negatives (f/print and V.S.P.)
12,277
12,057
110,394
100,394
29
52
No. Assignments
3,342
2,858
No. Films
2,315
1,981
No. Negatives
26,768
21,030
No. Prints
70,688
55,547
Negatives
22,444
18,156
Prints
41,773
36,264
Homicide and Wounding
39
43
Accident and Suicide
27
25
Hold-ups/ Armed Offences
6
7
Comparisons
2
12
74
72
192
163
1,460
1,362
2
4
No. Prints (fjprint, V.S.P. Replen. and charts)
Spring Street
Movie Films
C.I.B. and Country Cameras
Firearms
Test Fire
Repairs
Confiscated Weapons
Departmental Shooting
24
There has been, overall, an increase in the workload of this section with the sub-sections varying
in their respective increases or decreases. lt must
be expected that this increase will continue.
INFORMATION BUREAU-RECORDS SECTION
INCLUDING FINGERPRINT BUREAU
This unit is the heart of any Police Force. Without detailed records no Law Enforcement Agency
cou Id function efficiently.
DOCKET ROOM
A total of 170,571 criminal offence reports were
received and processed.
The role of the Docket Room is to store recorded
data relating to the convictions and criminal
records of known offenders.
The appendices illustrate the activities of the
Children's Court Section and Missing Persons
Bureau.
In 1975, a record unbroken for 40 years was
broken with 3,700 new dockets raised, thus the
raising during 1976 of 3,350 new dockets was
still an achievement. This represents a reduction
upon 1975 of 8·1 %.
WARRANTS SECTION
The role of this section is to manually process
warrants and show cause summonses. This role
is performed by the issuing of receipts for
warrants received and keeping a record of their
movement; to receive, record and file warrants
from all other sources; receive, record and file
all show cause summonses which have not been
served; search records in an endeavour to locate
the offenders named on the warrant or summonses received; and to receive payments on
warrants executed from the section and keep
records to account for the transactions.
The use of microfilm "Miracode" and computer
" PATROL" systems were several major undertakings which were commenced so as to improve
and moderni~e storage and retrieval of data.
The following statistics demonstrate the volume
of work processed.
Criminal offence reports
170,571 (+ 6%)
processed
15,260
Warrants received
13,7 43
Show cause summonses
Criminal
record
en352,861 (+49·85%)
quiries
3,350 ( - 8·1%)
New dockets raised
3,408
Hours overtime worked
Cash value of warrants $164,710
Recording of offenders
58,369 (+ 7·49%)
detected
Crime publications prin3,178,925
ted
184,586
Statistic Section files
48,156
Fingerprints received
lndentiflcations from
crime scenes
890
Country trips to visit
scenes
300
Visits
to metropolitan
6,035
scenes
5,416 (- 6·2%)
Missing persons reported
5,353( 98·8%)
Missing persons located
13,742
Juvenile offences recorded
MIRACODE SECTION
The role of this section is to supply operative
crime investigators with names of suspects
from their known physical description and modus
operandi, using encoded data on microfilm
retrieved at random on an electro-mechanical
device known as Miracode Retrieval Unit.
The duties of this section are to prepare, verify
and encode selected data, record the prepared
data mentioned on microfilm for Miracode use,
and retrieve and supply, using Miracode equipment, data required by operative members investigating crime.
PROPERTY TRACING SECTION
FINGERPRINT BUREAU
This section is required to manua,lly collate,
classify and record all items of property coming
to the notice or possession of the police as lost,
stolen, recovered or found in an endeavour to
trace the rightful owner.
There has been a big increase (125% in four
years) in the workload at this bureau with 7,000
additional sets of fingerprints being received.
CRIME PUBLICATIONS
Results from the Single Print Section were
excellent, identifications totalling 890 (a record)
for the year and thus helping to solve about
5,000 offences at the average "clean-up" rate.
The role of the Crime Publications Section is to
publish, and distribute to police throughout
Victoria, information regarding both crime and
criminals.
MODUS OPERANDI CLASSIFICATION SECTION
RECORDS SECTION
The role of this section is to examine the
method(s) used by an offender in the commission
of a crime, record and collate information relating
to physical description, physical peculiarities,
particular acts committed and all other facts
which can be ascertained, to assist in identification of the offender.
The primary role of the Records Section is to
receive, process and file data (other than fingerprints) relating to both crimes and criminals
and to record, retain and disseminate items of
information supplied by members of the Victoria
Police and other law enforcement agencies.
25
WE ARE HONOURED BY OUR
GRACIOUS FRIENDS
His Excellency the Governor of Victoria, Sir Henry Winneke a nd His Grace, Archbishop T. F. Little.
at morning tea following the Annua l Church Service at the Police Academy, Glen Waverley.
26
JUVENILE Di:WJQUENCY
YOUNG OFFENDERS BEFORE THE COURT
1976.
Offence.
g
Homicide ..
Serious assau Its
Robbery ..
Sexual offences
Burglary
Theft
Other indictables . .
..
Firearms (including air rifles)
Street offences
Wilful and malicious damage
Other summary
373
41
197
2,468
5,694
598
274
1,194
640
613
12,092
Total
1,359
Protection applications
13,451
Total ..
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
N.B.
These opinions are expressed by members on Forms 276 and are collated accordingly.
1976.
3,722
4,562
129
368
465
668
3,838
Bad company
..
Lack of parental control
Sexual
Truancy
..
Clinical
Environment
Unknown ..
Total
13,752
CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 17 YEARS WHO
APPEARED ON PROTECTION APPLICATION
!
Male.
Type of Application.
Likely to lapse into career of vice or crime
Exposed to moral danger
Parental neglect
Other grounds
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Female.
Totals.
..
..
201
75
276
13
342
355
..
172
207
379
..
515
844
1,359
901
1.468
2.369
CHILDREN WARNED BY AN OFFICER OF POLICE
IN THE PRESENCE OF PARENTS
Male
Female
Totals
3,794
1,407
5,201
MISSING PERSONS BUREAU
I
1976.
1975
5,416
5,353
5,776
5,702
Missing Persons from Interstate and OverseasReported ..
Located
102
67
155
67
Absconders from Mental InstitutionsReported ..
Located
534
519
470
448
1,651
1,596
1,777
1,671
Missing PersonsReported ..
Located
Absconders from Social Welfare DepartmentReported ..
Located
27
MAJOR CRIME INDEX
Persons Proceeded Against
Number of Offences
Offence Type
Mates
females
Total
Under 17
Reported or
Becoming Known
17-20
2! and over
Under 17
17-20
21 and over
Cleared
Major Crimes
1976
Of
/0
0'
/o
5·26
104
1·88
1,013
114
1,299
1,324
Robbery
897
826
+
8·59
356
Rape
341
276
+23·55
277
Serious Assaults
Theft
Motor Vehicle Theft
----9,687
I 9·08
----19,754
54,313
53,331 I 1·84
--- --III.Si4 --4,527
10,912 I 8·26
36,075
Burglary
1'-...l
CO
-
108
Homicide
..
12,911
Obtain by Deception Offences against Trust/Currency
33,072
10,333
+
9·27
10,013
96·29
1975
1976
1975
1976
1975
3
2
8
54
57
16
7
998
75·37
84
85
258
561
509
5
a
39
29
14
10
10
12
I
307
37·16
58
60
104
110
91
81·23
211
76·4-4
19
25
61
82
60
26·85
8,586
25·96
2,602
2,403
621
779
733
31
38
1975
86
74
296
274
----893
930
178
147
38
4,264
3,967
36·37
18,234
34·19
3,579
3,027
1,290
2,350
2,398
496
476
2,589
11,974
11,187
18·31
3,620
33·17
1,139
1,025
834
386
368
13
17
11
2,529
2,282
88·68
9,206
89·09
189
165
213
1,035
969
88
73
229
1,859
1,678
Total All Crimes
8671
25,3191 30,6621
1976
%
96·49
Other Crimes
.. 1
1975
110
Major Crimes ..
Drunk and Disorderly ..
1976
1976
1975
24,418
29,647
2,933
2,765
20,502
402
391
10,428
3,3351
1976
1975
901
1,015
3,1561 32,9231 30,930
for the principal offence. " Cleared " offences
include all those matters which on investigation
proved to be " No Offence " and those matters
" Previously Reported and Now Cleared" either
as " No Offence " or by arrest.
SUMMARY OF OFFENCES
This summary covers those offences reported to
the Criminal Investigation Branch for 1976 and
includes comparisons for the same period of
1975.
In recording of offences all attempts to commit
an offence have been included with the figures
The figures are from crime statistics, which are
compiled from the Weekly Crime Returns.
Total Offences Reported to the Criminal Investigation Branch
The total figures for Victoria 1975 and 1976 are as follows:-
I
1976.
Metropolitan Districts
..
..
Country Districts ..
..
..
..
..
Victorian Totals
116,801
59,479
50·92
56·14
27,183
15,211
55·96
52·07
143,984
74,690
SI ·87
Per cent.
121,415
62,069
51·13
28,303
15,889
77,958
I
The figures show an increase of 3 · 98% in
reported crime 1976 over 1975. The rate of
clearance shows a 0 · 20% increase for 1976
as against 1975.
1
Per cent.
Cleared.
149,718
I
Cleared.
Reported.
- - -I
i
1975.
Reported~
• introduction of a Forensic Science laboratory
Advisory Committee to facilitate the future
development of the laboratory.
• implementation of a formalised Bureau of
Criminal Intelligence to cope with the
depredations of organised criminals, professional criminals and career criminals. lt is
proposed that the bureau should consist of
two elements:(i) information acquisition, collation, analysis
and dissemination;
(ii) field operatives.
Action has been taken to improve internal communication and supervision and this has been
achieved by the introduction of daily briefing
conferences between the Assistant Commissioner
(Crime) and heads of divisions of the Crime
Department and by monthly conferences of
Divisional Officers and Special Squad Officers.
During 1977, it is proposed to undertake a
number of surveys into-
Offence Groupings
Despite the proclamation of the Theft Act on
1st October, 1974, it remains necessary, for
comparison purposes, to retain old terminology
and to break down crimes into the old, and now
obsolete, offence groups.
This is a major crime index showing figures for
various categories of offences reported to the
C.I.B. throughout Victoria for 1975 and 1976.
larceny from cars and larceny of live stock are
included in larcenies.
REORGANIZATION OF CRIME DEPARTMENT
Following a survey of the functions and resources
of the Crime Department consideration was given
to the reorganisation of the functional responsibilities of this department in order to optimise
operational resources and to rationalise administrative procedures.
After a dose and detailed examination of all
aspects of divisional responsibilities it was
decided that there should be-• separation of operational and administrative
functions of the department under a
Detective Chief Superintendent (Operations)
and a Detective Chief Superintendent (Administration).
• an increase in the manpower establishment
of the Crime Department to approximate
15% of police manpower.
• introduction of an advanced course of retraining for Sub-officers returning to the
Criminal Investigation Branch.
• introduction of periodical seminars to disseminate information regarding innovations
in crime investigation.
•
•
•
•
optimisation of manpower resources
organisation of specialist squads
improved methods of supervision
more effective methods of crime reporting
and statistical recording and analysis
• methods of selection of personnel for
assignment as detectives
As well as introducing an advanced course of
detective training as a pre-requisite qualification
for Sub-officers returning to the Cl. Branch, it is
proposed to conduct further courses of training
in Rape Investigation and to introduce a specific
course of training for detective officers as hostage
negotiators.
CONCLUSION
Despite the adverse publicity emanating from the
Beach Inquiry, the morale of the members of the
Crime Department is surprisingly high. The record
of achievement for 1976, indicates a continuing
level of effective performance at all levels.
29
OPERATIONS
DEPARTMENT
DEVELOPMENTS
Due to retirements there were a number of
changes m the senior personnel of this Department.
New procedures introduced last year included
the Collator System, Traffic Accident Report Coordinator System and the Probationary Constable
Extended Training Scheme.
These systems are
now soundly based and, most importantly, they
have proved effective in the optimisation of
resources .
Mr. R. A. Kellett was appointed as Assistant
Commissioner (Operations) in the latter part of
1976, upon the transfer of Mr. S. I. Miller (who
had commanded the Operations Department
since 1971) to take charge of the Crime Department.
The Police Air Wing has transferred to the Essendon Airport. Training of observers and the developments of air-ground co-ordination will greatly
assist in the further development of this unit.
These changes were consequent on the retirement of Mr. W. D. Crowley who had been
Assistant Commissioner (Crime) since 1971 .
Other senior personnel changes were the
appointment of Mr. G. G. Haberman as Metropolitan Co-ordinator vice, Mr. L. N . Patterson
retired, and Mr. S. McKenzie who became Country Co-ordinator on the retirement of Mr. A.
Thomson .
The Dog Squad is now fully operational.
lt is
a most important addition to policing and has
been used effectively in searching for lost
persons , escapees, drugs and providing surveillance at schools, railway stations and carriages,
selected commercial premises and residences.
There were also a number of significant organisational developments, with possibly the most
important being the formation of Melbourne
Ports Police District. This new district covers the
bayside areas from St . Kilda to Williamstown, including the major seaports of our city .
Melbourne was visited by nuclear powered warships. This visit, while creating a new challenge
in terms of security and radio monitoring, also
provided an arena for a combined security operations exercise by all units . During the visit
by U.S.S. Truxton a helicopter was used to provide, at low level, aerial surveillance of the
warship during its entry into the bay and subsequent berthing at Station Pier.
Operational
techniques
have been
further
developed, including the increased involvements
of the Air Wing , Dog Squad, and Sea 1·ch and
Rescue Squad.
For six months the police endeavoured (unsuccessfully) to dissuade two men from crossing Bass Strait in this "cockleshell ".
Result-Tragedy-Two lives lost.
30
INNOVATIONS
aspects of crime prevention; searching for prison
escapees, lost persons, searching of premises for
offenders, guarding V.I.P's and their premises
and detecting drugs. The results obtained have
been extremely satisfactory and highly successful, assuring future development of this squad.
COLLA TOR SYSTEM
This system, having been primarily introduced
extensively throughout the metropolitan area has
now been extended to most country districts.
The enthusiasm displayed by "Crime Collators"
is reflected in the quality of their work and with
continued support from this scheme will prove
to be of great benefit and assistance to all police.
LICENSING, GAMING AND VICE SQUAD
The amalgamation of the Licensing, Gaming and
Vice Squad has proved to be a highly successful
operational and administrative change as it has
brought about better results and improved
efficiency.
Requests for legislative changes to
permit control of massage parlours have not
been successful and, consequently, the activity
of this type of business continues to require
strict attention. Unlawful gaming activities by
football clubs also came under notice but a
proposed change in the legislation allowing the
introduction of bingo will no doubt ease the
financial strain on club finances.
IRAFFIC ACCIDENT REPORT CO-ORDINATOR
SYSTEM
This system has now been fully introduced in
each metropolitan district. lt is another of our
new methods that has proved to be an asset in
that greater efficiency has evolved through the
centralising of records and standardisation of
policy in relation to prosecutions.
CRIME CAR SQUADS
The work value study initially conducted with
three Crime Car Squads was so successful that
it has now been introduced on a general basis
and is being used by all squads.
The cooperation of all police who have been concerned
in this survey has been appreciated.
MOTOR BOAT SQUAD
This squad continues to be actively engaged in
policing boat safety as it checked 12,039 boats
which resulted in 2,316 offences being detected.
They also participated in 235 rescue operations
involving 403 persons. Four new boats were
taken into use and they are giving good service
and adequate performance. In-service training
is being maintained at a high level. Police from
this squad gave lectures to approximately 900
persons at " The Sun "-Safe Boating Courses.
This study was designed to establish factors
such as the availability of crime cars, crime
patterns in districts and the operational profile
of crime cars in the metropolitan and Geelong
districts.
Much useful information has been
obtained and future development of these
squads will be considered against the background
of information contained in this programme.
SEARCH AND RESCUE SQUAD
The attendance of the Search and Rescue Squad
was required on 178 separate occasions for a
number of wide-ranging and diverse activities.
PROBATIONARY CONSTABLES EXTENDED
TRAINING SCHEME
This involved diving to recover drowned persons, bush searches for missing persons and the
use on several occasions of tear gas.
This scheme has been gradually developed and
we now have twenty-nine training stations
throughout the metropolitan area. This concept
has been well received. lt is of proven value to
the probationer, to the sub-officers delegated for
supervision of the scheme, and of course to the
community who benefit by the increase in manpower.
This squad continues with their twofold
and extensive training programmes.
and maintain a high level of operational
they continually practice their skills so
able to meet any emergency.
intensive
To attain
efficiency
as to be
In addit·ion to their operational responsibilities,
the members of this squad are widely sought
by private and commercial organisations to
demonstrate their practical skills and capabilities.
Their participation in public lectures and demonstrations and the provision of facilities enabling
theoretical and practical training of the community
provides an important adjunct to public relations.
Therefore, in addition to their normal policing
duties, they, in common with a number of other
squads, play an important part in making contact
with the public through community relation
activities.
SUPPORT GROUPS
INDEPENDENT PATROL GROUP
The Independent Patrol Group completed a very
successful year and gave support as and when
required to many of the districts. Police from
this group have received training as range
masters (weapons training), communications, trail
bike riding, driving of four-wheeled vehicles and
as air observers.
AIR WING
In the second year of its development and
operation, this section has become an integral
part of the police service. Included in its three
hundred and seventy operations was air support
to police on the ground (which has now achieved
a very high standard of efficiency), observer
training, pilot training and general transport
operations. The induction into the service of an
experienced helicopter pilot will enable further
development and greater operational efficiency.
MOUNTED BRANCH
The highlight for this branch was the visit to
New Zealand to participate in the Military Tattoo.
They also continued their involvement at political
demonstrations and
they also
participated
in a number of community activities which
emphasises the important yet diversified role of
the Mounted Branch. The breeding programme
at the Police Stud at Westmeadows was again
successful with seven foals being produced.
Twelve thousand, two hundred and fifty members of the public, including many school children, visited the Mounted Branch either at
St. Kilda Road or at Westmeadows. This aspect
of their activities also emphasizes the importance
of this branch in the public relations field.
The use of helicopters in field operations has
proved invaluable.
DOG SQUAD
The Dog Squad has now become fully operational
and is providing valuable support to all facets
of policing. Use was made of the dogs in all
31
:.·
..
Assistant Commissioner (Personnel) R. Salisbury accepts paintings from Miss. A. Beckwith of, the late
Sub-Inspector and Mrs . Beckwith .
32
Lord Mayor of Melbourne
presents
Chief Commissioner with
Ceremonial Flag,
31st May, 1976.
Presentation of Plaque by Salvation Army Commissioner, W. Goodier , to Victoria Police for services rendered.
33
1555/77-3
..
,
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r
..
...
. ., .
.. .
l'lOtf\er ilU~.S±rnti.c-r o+:· ik tm>.gi.(-t~ vlilttc
H'lt wi i. :\! $t't't•:r l$ dt>nrl,=>
t\li<lellt ird~ ·~.stiu1<'e .~tn ' . i~.~nfrot . M<tioE' <;f fr.1jfiC. lTH>.t~
aTlC l'~OV
!!f ~~L~~1 Ol\ $1.KrllCCa510l'S
M3!1t!6cur~ Jl'«<m(la..
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.:f'or ~· '?.Pm~ _l~~ in lh<' rrct~~t~N.· .t:f !i~- 1'1'CJ~tr. !h: ~-~~ at-J rf"C g·
.Ut t:t)<)ivt~l ut~ . ib~ J;,o,ro.~wr; tomX'1Hcr~ atX' (it~c.~ns 2f'JI)t!ool.U'1'1e rn'ltwl~'
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SHED SE V I
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··. VICTO~{~/\. ·p oLICE. · ...
..
. ..
City of Melbourne Commendation Scroll, Presented to Victoria Police 31st May, 1976,
34
'
..
......
..
VALOUR AWARD PRESENTATIONS
1976
Sergeant B. F. Murphy, 11885.
Constable H. V. Comley, 18563.
Sergeant Peter Backman, 12962.
Constable S. Taylor, 16519.
35
OPERATION SALAMANDER
Official Commencement
BRIGHTON POLICE STATION
19th December, 19 7 6
Chief Secretary, Hon. Vance Dickie, M.L.C. and Assistant Commissioner R. Kellett, inspect parade.
Chief Secretary, Hon . Vance Dickie addresses parade. Also shown, Assistant Commissioner (Operations) R. Kellett,
Hon. W. Fry, M.L.C., Mrs . Patrick, M.P. and Mr. M. Crellin, M.P.
A section of the parade.
37
A BRAVE POLICEMAN
AN HEROIC ACT
The motor vehicle owned by Constable Michael Pratt and used by him to block the exit and prevent the escape of armed
bank robbers.
Constable Michael Pratt shot by armed
bank bandits recovering in hospital
from his wounds.
38
A DEMONSTRATOR ARMED WITH MORE THAN A LOUD VOICE-
Note : Offe nder has knife tied to body.
39
OUR
TRAINING
GROUNDS
Tough training grounds it is true
but they are the only type we dare use
..
-
-
.·.
'.
40
-
-
- - -
BECAUSE
we never know when it will be
the real thing.
~
DOG SQUAD
41
~
SPECIAL OPERATIONS
FIRES
SALAMANDER
The incidence of fires at schools is a constant
worry. When all factors are taken into account,
the total cost is so great it is possibly inestimable
and involves the community in an expenditure
of millions of dollars.
Originally commencing in December 1974, this
exercise was continued in December 1975, and
again during December 1976. The main object
behind this operation is to enable the community
to relax and to enjoy the Christmas-New Year
holiday period. Consequently this operation is
mainly a Police peace-keeping role with the aim
of reducing problems of crime and maintaining
traffic and public order at the many holiday
resorts, especially on the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas. Personnel from the support
groups were effectively involved with Police
from the local districts and it is pleasing to
report that again favourable public reaction was
received.
In an endeavour to counteract this problem, there
was an increase of police patrols which did
help to reduce this problem.
The petrol bomb incident outside the Essendon
Police Station and the attempt to set fire to the
Ascot Vale Crime Squad Office resulted in the
arrest of the offender.
CONSTABLE PRATT-BRAVERY AT
ARMED ROBBERY
CRIME BEAT
On the 4th of June, 1976, Constable Pratt,
18182, whilst off duty and driving in his own
car, witnessed three armed offenders entering the
A.N.Z. Bank at Clifton Hill. Whilst endeavouring to
apprehend the offenders, Constable Pratt was
shot in the back and sustained serious injuries.
This operation was conducted in March and
December and again there was very favourable
public reaction to the uniform policemen on
patrol. The use of uniformed poHce equipped
with portable radios on foot patrol in commercial areas has proved to be very successful in
preventing crime and in maintaining a good
relationship with the public.
VALOUR AWARDS-OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT
Depending on the availability of manpower,
Crime Beat will continue to operate at various
times throughout the ensuing year.
Other outstanding acts of courage occurred which
resulted in two members of the Operations
Department being awarded the Police Valour
Award. Constable Noel Comley at Yarraville
confronted for a number of hours, an armed
offender who had just been involved in a shooting incident-in which a man was killed. Constable Comley quietened and disarmed the
offender. Sergeant Peter Backman at Belgrave
prevented a serious crime when he disarmed a
mentally deranged man armed with a loaded
rif1e.
SPECIAL EVENTS
DEMONSTRATIONS
lt is pleasing to report that there was a marked
decrease in the incidence of demonstrations. The
most significant problem encountered being
when the Governor-General, Sir John Kerr
attended at the Leonda Restaurant, Hawthorn,
where some 2,000 demonstrators attended.
The Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. J. M. Fraser,
M.H.R., was also under duress when approximately 1,000 demonstrators displayed a violent
attitude during a visit by him to the Monash
University.
ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION
The introduction of closed circuit television into
the City Watch House has proved invaluable
for security and supervision purposes. lt is
intended to expand this service in the near
future.
MOOMBA
This annual parade attracted an enormous
crowd. Although a serious drain on manpower,
the event highlights the valuable interaction
between the police and the public in this carnival type of atmosphere. The diversification of
activities arising from this festival attracts many
sporting internationals and because of this is
attracting large crowds. Consequently, police
resources are often " stretched " to provide the
necessary control.
MAGISTRATES SUMMARY PROCEEDINGS ACT
Initially this Act which streamlines procedures
and is of valuable assistance to police, did cause
some administrative problems but these have
now been resolved.
SEARCHES-PRISON ESCAPEES
SUMMARY
The involvement of police in searching for
prison escapees is a constant concern. Apart
from the large amount of manhours spent in
1976 searching for escapees, most of them whilst
at large commit other offences.
The many and varied tasks undertaken by members of the Operations Department were carried
out in an efficient and capable manner. The
deployment of limited resources was such as to
provide the most effective policing possible.
42
TRAFFIC
DEPARTMENT
The Traffic Department had a very busy year
with ever increasing demands on personnel.
This will enable an offender who continually
transgresses to be put off the road-not only
for his own welfare but for the safety of the
community in general.
For the second year in succession there was an
increase in the number of persons killed in road
accidents. This is most disappointing in view of
the tremendous efforts put forward throughout
the State by police in an endeavour to reduce
the road toll.
Then before these people could be re-licensed,
it would be necessary for them to undertake a
training course in driver education.
A Safety Campaign conducted by "The Sun"
newspaper over the latter part of the year no
doubt did assist to some degree but, unfortunately, all our combined efforts to reduce the
number of road deaths in 1976 was not as
successful as was hoped.
ORGANISATION
The use of civilian licence testing officers increased throughout the year.
Testing stations were opened at Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Mildura, Morwell, Shepparton
and Wangaratta.
Our programme to reduce the road toll has
included the conducting of a large number of
lectures and the showing of films to a wide crosssection of the community.
The testing stations at lvanhoe and Ringwood
were closed with the opening of new premises
at Greensborough.
The value of driver education is apparent and
it is a theme which we continually emphasise,
as there is little doubt that increased driver education by whatever means is adopted yields
beneficial results.
Traffic wardens on school crossings are carrying out their duties in a very satisfactory manner. Their services provide a continuing safety
factor for children and release police to perform
other duties.
In the interests of efficiency, the Accident Appreciation Squad has been decentralised and divided
into three different units.
it is one important aspect of our policing operation which we are desirous of expanding but to
further develop our plans in this area we would
need a substantial increase in funding.
They are now attached to Dawson Street, Brunswick; Nunawading and Frankston.
lt is estimated that the road toll is annually
costing
us one thousand
million dollars
($1 ,000,000,000) nationally and any programme
that produces more responsible drivers has much
to commend it.
HEADQUARTERS TRAFFIC BRANCH
There was a severe shortage of police personnel
in these offices. Active police are not interested
in office work and accordingly the Traffic
Department is hard pressed to obtain sufficient
suitable staff.
The provision of adequate facilities for driver
training is an important area of activity which
has not been fully explored or developed.
The volume of typing throughout the various
offices was very considerable, but was handled
very competently by the typists employed in the
Traffic Department.
Driver education requires a large initial capital
works programme and a substantial yearly funding.
The dividend payable from this investment
would be increased driving skills and a new
awareness amongst drivers of road dangers.
ADMINISTRATION
A very important phase of our operations is
programmed to commence early in 1978. As
from next year all motor vehicle drivers'
licences will be recorded on a computer. The use
of this electronic equipment will provide for
ease of access to accurate and current records.
The recording and extracting of information by
manual methods is a fairly unwieldy and labour
intensive task. Although it has been effective
the manual method has had to operate within
certain limitations. Many of these problems will
be overcome by the use of the computer.
This was the first complete year in which learner
permits operated. The advent of this system
has increased the workload of the administration section due to the lack of authority under
the Motor Car Act for courts to cancel learner
permits.
ACCIDENT RECORDS SECTION
The number of enquiries by solicitors, loss
assessors and insurance companies showed a
decrease. However, with the increase in fees for
this service there has been a substantial rise in
the revenue received.
The information provided from this new source
will be invaluable in highlighting those motorists who are either accident prone or problem
drivers.
A comparison of figures for 1976 and 1975 is
as follows:-
it is anticipated that with the computer operating it will provide us with a facility for quickly
detecting the driver who presents the community with a sociai or moral hazard.
Enquiries
1976
1975
43
30,936
33,805
Revenue
$398,544.92
$296,988.56
Assistant Commissioner (Traffic) L. T. Newell and Chief Inspector J. 0 . Thomas explain workings of breathalyser un it to
Chief Secretary, V. 0. Dickie, M.L.C.
ACCIDENT STATISTICS
A total of 42,413 accidents were reported to police during t he year; comparative figures with those
of 1975 are shown hereunder.
ROAD TRAFFIC COLLISIONS
(Showing a Comparison with 1975)
Year.
Fatal
Persons
Accidents.
Killed.
Injury
Accidents.
Persons
Injured.
Non-Injury
Accidents.
Total
Acc idents.
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT
4
1976
4
1975
1976
METROPOLIS OF MELBOURNE
373
408
1975
325
358
234
305
807
1,045
240
265
893
I, 134
7,649
9,796
15,870
23,892
7,848
10,052
15,277
23,450
NON-METROPOLITAN
1976
... . I
1975
448
520
6,032
8,926
9,991
16,471
448
547
6,345
9,342
9.480
16,273
CATEGORY OF THOSE KILLED IN ROAD
ACCIDENTS, 1976
Drivers.
354
Passengers.
252
Motor Cyclists.
Pillion Passen gers .
Pedal Cyclists.
Pedestrians.
Horse Riders.
88
11
38
190
Nil
44
Total.
933
ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT TOTALS
Vehicular
Accidents.
Year.
1976
00
00
..
1975
00
..
..
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
Persons
Killed.
Persons
Injured.
Accidents
Other
Than
Vehicular.
Accidents
During
Year.
41,768
933
19,727
645
42,413
40,857
906
19,659
787
41,644
ACCIDENT COMPARISONS
Year.
1976
1975
1974
1973
..
..
..
..
00
00
00
..
..
..
00
00
00
00
..
0
0
..
00
0
0
..
00
0
0
00
00
Population.
Motor Vehicles.
3,646,981
Accidents.
Casualties.
2,141,683
41,768
20,660
3,667,700
2,064,247
40,857
21,274
3,626,800
1,972,008
38,151
21,171
3,586,600
I ,837,881
36,849
22,794
In addition to the 933 persons killed in road
accidents, 181 persons died from other types of
accidents, viz:DROWNINGS
SHOOTINGS
TRACTORS
RAILWAY
41
3
15
28
FALLS
BURNS
ELECTROCUTION
OTHERS
In addition a further 52,012 ordinary briefs were
processed.
31
7
12
44
PROSECUTIONS OFFICE AND TRAFFIC BRIEF
REFERENCE ROOM
PENALTIES PAYMENT OFFICE
During the year this office dealt with 205,162
traffic infringement notices compared with
200,119 during 1975.
The Prosecutions Office dealt with a steady flow
of briefs, in addition to unpaid traffic and parking infringement notices.
All unpaid traffic infringement notices
checked for prosecution in this office.
Nett revenue collected:-
are
1976
1975
The following figures show the volume of parking infringement notices dealt with by the Brief
Room and Prosecutions Office:Parking infringement notices received
Paid
Not paid
Prosecutions authorised
Not authorised
I
$5,101,811.48
$3,420,536 73
0
Whilst an appreciable rise in revenue is shown
this can be attributed mainly to the increase in
penalties which came into effect on the 2nd
March, 1976.
31 '141
21,004
10,137
9,582
444
The following statistics set out the work performance of the Penalties Payment Office during
1976 with comparative figures for 1975.
Year 7976
Year 7975
Traffic infringement notices issued
205,162
200,119
Infringements detected
205,162
200,128
Infringements for which prescribed penalties were paid
190,363
185,780
Infringements for which penalties were NOT paid
* 14,799
14,348
54,560
52,328
12,225
15,062
Drivers' licences not produced at time of issue of traffic infringement notices
*Includes percentage still current-28-day period not expired.
Prosecutions
Briefs prepared for prosecution for non-payment of penalties
Briefs prepared for prosecution for non-production of drivers'
licences within seven days at a police station designated ..
1,337
1,312
Traffic infringement notices cancelled because they were incorrectly
issued or for some other valid reason ..
941
1,004
Briefs prepared for " Unlicensed driving " arisin::J from the issue of
a traffic infringement notice ..
964
743
Briefs prepared for " Driving an unregistered ve!licle" arising from
issue of a traffic infringement notice
11
21
45
CIVIC RECOGNITION DA V
Police parade from Police Headquarters to Melbourne Town Hall
Mounted Branch line up prior to parade.
Combined Police Bands set off from Headquarters.
Motor cyclists arrive at Melbourne Town Hall.
New Police Headquarters , 380 William Street, Melbourne. To be completed and occupied 1977.
NUMBER OF INFRINGEMENTS
Number Detected.
Paid.
Not Paid .
Nature of Infringement.
Year 1976.
Driving over double lines
..
..
..
..
..
Failing to give way at intersection
Exceeding any speed limit by more than 10 miles an
hour but less than IS miles an hour
..
..
..
..
Disobeying any traffic control signal
..
..
..
Passing stationary t ram ca r
Use on highway motor car or trai ler not in good
mechanical order or not in safe or thoroughly
servicea ble condition
..
..
..
..
Unlawfully turn ing to right or left
..
..
Exceeding any speed limit by not more than 10 miles
..
..
..
..
an hour
..
..
..
Failing to keep to the left
..
..
..
Failing to dip headlights . .
Failing to give signals
..
..
..
..
Disobeying traffic sign
..
..
..
..
..
..
Failing to have prescri bed lights . .
No number plate, obscured number plate or number
not eas ily distinguishable
..
..
..
Having no rear vision mirror or having in effective rear
vision mirror
..
..
..
..
Throw down or d r op litter from motor car on highway
Failing to wear a properly adjusted and fastened safety
belt
..
..
..
..
..
..
Totals
Revenu e collected for period shown:
Year 1975.
Year 1976.
Year 1975.
Year 1976.
Year 1975.
3,401
3,203
3,789
3,245
3,174
2,953
3,554
2,998
227
250
235
247
61 , 105
12,563
56
59,729
12,490
75
57,940
11 ,285
56
55,885
11 ,462
71
3, 165
1,278
3,844
1,028
4
1,767
5,837
1,946
5,560
1,5 18
5,562
1,627
5,257
249
275
.3 19
303
48,967
1,411
980
7,608
26,999
7,975
48,194
1,341
893
7,256
23,215
8,393
46,089
1,285
871
6,926
24,88 1
7,01 9
45,815
1, 194
805
6,569
21,191
7,470
2,878
126
109
682
2. 118
956
2,379
147
88
687
2,024
923
4,699
4,301
4,238
3,969
461
332
1,364
331
1,253
297
1.208
280
1,205
232
156
SI
48
65
16,896
18,151
15,078
16,476
1,818
I ,675
205, 162
200,128
190,363
185,780
14,799
14,348
$5, 101 ,811 . 48, as against $3,420,536 .73 for 1975.
47
TRAFFIC OFFENCES
under each particular offence. For example,
" Drive in manner dangerous," " Reckless driving," and "Speed dangerous" are all combined
under the heading of "Drive manner dangerous."
The same system applies to speeding offences,
both in this item and the Points Demerit System.
A total of 376,195 traffic offences were detected.
The following figures of the more serious type of
offences vary somewhat to that of 1975 in that
certain types of offences have been combined
under the one heading instead of being shown
Offence.
1976.
Drive against automatic traffic signals
Disobey traffic sign ..
Drive over double lines
Drive under influence of liquor or drug
Drive with blood alcohol content in excess of · 05'/o
Drunk in charge of motor vehicle
Drive manner dangerous, speed dangerous and reckless drive
Driving carelessly
Exceed 60/75 and 90 k.p.h.
Exceed 100 k.p.h. absolute speed
Drive during cancellation, suspension or disqualification
Drive without licence ..
Drive unregistered vehicle
Drive without headlamps or lamps lit, &c.
Fail to give stop turn or diverge signal
Fail to stop after accident, &c.
Fail to give way to vehicle on right*
Fail to keep left of carriageway ..
Incorrect right turn
School and pedestrian crossing offences
Number plates obscured or damaged, &c.
Parking offences
* Due to the implementation of a new statistics
form in April, 1976, the number of offences
shown for Fail to give way to the vehicle on the
right are for the period January to April only.
This entry will not be shown on future returns.
Figures are no longer kept for the offence of
Motor car driver without Third Party Insurance."
1975.
14,175
21,802
4,714
1,289
14,967
276
2,364
5,752
110,692
29,893
1,849
10,526
6,573
10,907
10,681
2,744
1,890
2,859
7893
799
6,004
70,865
13,642
8,039
5,289
1,294
14J61
387
1,567
5,276
35,382
27,093
1A51
9,930
5,217
10,712
14,174
1,015
1,047
2,558
6,173
394
4,022
31,714
POINTS DEMERIT SYSTEM-OFFENCES DETECTED
There were 346 licences suspended through the
Points Demerits System.
11
11
Number of suspensions ..
6-month suspension
3-month suspension
Number warned
Traffic infringement notices processed
Convictions processed
Surcharge imposed on demerit points
Surcharge paid
11
MOTORISTS EDUCATION
Ten sessions of the motorists educational hour
were held to which 1,673 persons were invited
to attend in lieu of prosecution.
A further 957 persons attended voluntarily.
346
23
323
8,071
171,104
20,193
1,183
864
POINTS DEMERIT SYSTEM-OFFENCES DETECTED
Number of Offences.
Offence or Class of Offence.
Act or Regulation.
Inflammable Liquids Regulations 1968
Driver transporting in excess of 540 gallons of inflammable
liquid failing to stop at railway crossing
..
..
..
..
..
..
Careless driving
Road Traffic Regulations 1973
..
Fail to give way at pedestrian crossing
Fail to stop at school crossing when person on ..
Disobey traffic control signal ..
..
..
Overtake or pass on bridge when not permitted
Keeping left of vehicle travelling in opposite direction
Exceeding a speed limit
..
..
..
Fail to obey stop sign
..
..
Fail to give way to pedestrians and vehicles
Drive unlit vehicles between sunset and sunrise
Passing stationary tramcar
..
..
Fail to keep left of double lires
..
..
Fail to give stop or turn signals
..
..
Licence suspended under Points Demerit System
Motor Car Act 1958
..
..
..
48
1976.
1975.
..
..
..
5,752
5,276
..
..
..
..
799
14.175
394}
403
13,642
..
..
..
..
..
140,585
21.802
23,692
10,907
..
..
..
..
..
..
4.714
10,691
346
..
140,081
13,929
6,929
10,712
264
5,289
14,174
252
DO YOU
WANT
HELP
WE
PROVIDE
YEAR
ROUND
ERVICE
PHONE
'000
EVERY DAY
ALL DAY
49
USS/77.-4
MOTOR DRIVING SCHOOL
The Motor Driving School which has an authorised
strength of 31 members has operated throughout
the year with an actual strength of 29.
Staff at this school has the responsibility of training and testing all police and public servants who
will be required to drive police vehicles.
Police required to drive the powerful pursuit
vehicles are given very comprehensive instruction and stringent tests at the completion of the
course. Two members from the Royal Australian Air Force (R.A.A.F.) and one member of the
New Zealand police were trained in addition to
police and public service personnel.
The standard car course is for a four weeks'
period; the motor cycle course extends over a
period of five weeks, with the " pursuit " course
taking three weeks.
As in past years a police team from our motor
cycle squad was trained in precision riding. They
performed with great distinction at the Royal
Melbourne Show and the Adelaide Show.
A total of 283 persons were tested for civilian
motor driving instructors licences. Of this number
92 were successful, with 191 failures.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS
Passed
87
Police students
2
R.A.A.F.
Passed
Pursuit Car Course
Standard Car Course
Police students
R.A.A.F.
four-wheel Drive Course
72
2
Passed
36
2
Testing Station Su,pervisors
New applications received {City and
Country)
370
New licences issued (City and Country)
207
Complaints attended to
296
Reports submitted to the Safety Inspection Advisory Committee . .
77
Approximate time spent at the Safety
165
Inspection Advisory Committee {hours)
Premises visited re supervision
1,426
Kilometres travelled during the year
102,768
Of the 77 reports submitted to the Safety
Inspection Advisory Committee in regard to
allegedly irregular or improperly issued roadworthiness certificates, the results were:Cancellations
Suspensions
Reprimands
Dismissed
No further action
Pending
2
3
8
STAMP DUTY AND TRANSFER SECTION
All cases of failure to forward Transfer Fee,
Stamp Duty and Notice of Acquisition to the
Chief Commissioner of Police, as required under
section 21 B of the Motor Car Act, are checked
by this section.
Failed
The section received from the Motor Registration
Branch 23,629 flies for enquiry, an increase of
approximately 10% over 1975.
36
Failed
After completion of enquiries action was
in the following manner:1976
10,624
Briefs submitted ..
600
Briefs not authorised
7,094
Briefs prosecuted successfully
75
Cases dismissed by courts ..
Briefs filed " Unable to locate
37
by police"
2,777
Briefs still pending
4
failed
4
Police students
R.A.A.F.
Licence Testing Officers
Of 28 Officers who attended a course, 27 were
successful.
"C" and "D" Police Driving Authority Tests
A total of 1,388 tests were conducted.
"C" Class Tests
348 passed
" D" Class Tests
384 passed
Failed
656
Total
5
37
22
taken
1975
9,569
460
6,157
30
63
2,922
Fines and fees resulting from successful prosecutions amounted to $252,750, an average of
$35.63 per prosecution.
Using this figure as a basis, a further $98,944
remains to be collected which will give a total
figure of approximately $351,694.
1,388
Although the workload increased, the introduction of a more efficient system assisted the staff
in coping with the problem.
CONTROL TRAFFIC POLICY AND INFORMATION
SECTION
The Central Traffic Policy and Information Section
is responsible for providing the Assistant Commissioner (Traffic) with a support staff of a technolegal nature. lt maintains a central agency for
the dissemination of information on matters of
traffic control, road law and motor vehicle construction. The section also includes five testing
station supervisors who supervise licensed
vehicle testers.
A resume of the activities carried out by these
two groups is set out hereunder:873
Written techno-legal enquiries
10,000
Phone enquiries (inclusive)-approx.
317
Personal enquiries
208
Vehicle inspections
Applications for exemptions (lighting,
braking, left hand drive, over dimen2,093
sions)
12
Technical lectures given
58
Technical committees attended
218
Technical and legal research
Trade and industry interviews (imported,
" one of " vehicles, new develop17
ments, inventions, etc.) ..
CENTRAL LICENCE AND REGISTRATION OFFICE
The volume of licence tests at the Central Licence
and Registration Office No. 1 and Fisherman's
Bend has shown a slight decrease during the year
whilst applications for learner permits at the
learner permits section have shown an increase
over the previous year.
Civilian operated Licence Testing Stations have
been extended to the following country areas
during 1976-Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Mildura, Morwell, Shepparton and Wangaratta and,
without exception, are functioning most satisfactorily.
The current strength of civilian licence testing
officers is 105. This figure includes nine senior
testing officers and nine Grade 11. testing officers.
There has been an increase in the number of
vehicle registrations at the Central Licence and
Registration Office and bulk registrations have
shown an increase.
so
CADETS
On parade.
Parade being reviewed by Assistant Commissioner R. Salisbury. Accompanied by Cadet Bearland.
A. R. Andrew being prese nte d with vocational award .
52
(Graduation Parade) December, 1976
G Gauci receiving Special Art Award.
Preparing for Akido display.
S. W Lane receiving Akido Award.
53
OUR PROVING GROUND
THE STREETS
Fair weathe r or foul , day and night whether the community is at work or p lay
54
•
members of the Victoria Police are out there, watching, protecting.
ss
The following figures show the volume of work carried out at these stations during the year:-
Motor Vehicle Licence Tests!
Total
Tested.
Passed,
Failed.
!
Central Licence and Registration Office No. I
Fisherman's Bend
..
..
..
..
Central Licence and Registration Office No. 2
..
Totals
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
12,840
9,619
3,221
6.184
4,550
1,634
nil
nil
nil
19,024
14,169
4,855
Total
Passed.
Failed.
Incomplete.
Motor Vehicle Learner Permits (Not included above)-
Tested.
··-----
..
..
..
1,378
1.121
257
..
..
222
183
39
..
Central Licence and Registration Office No. 2
..
..
68,465
56,983
10,616
866
..
..
..
70,065
58,287
10,912
866
Central Licence and Registration Office No. I
Fisherman's Bend
Totals
..
..
..
..
..
-
·-Persons with Physical Disabilities Tested for
Licence and Permits (Included in above)
Total
Tested.
Central Licence and Registration Office No.
53
Fisherman's Bend
17
Central Licence and Registration Office No. 2 . .
407
Total . .
477
Motor Vehicle Registrations.
!
Central Licence and Registration Office ..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Fisherman's Bend
..
Bulk Registrations
Total
..
..
Motor Cars
(inc. S/trailers
and heavy).
Motor Cycles.
Trailers.
Recreation
vehides~
..
..
43,120
3,481
988
496
..
..
..
..
8,285
302
174
2
..
48,793
71
..
100,198
3,854
Grand Total of all Registrations :
nil
1,162
12
510
105,631 vehicles.
fees Collected
Licence and Permit Fees to Motor Registration Branch
$
$
1,646.00
74,527.00
113,966.00
Central Licence and Registration Office No. 1
Fisherman's Bend
Central Licence and Registration Office No. 2
190,139.00
Total
Fees to " T " District
Central Licence and Registration Office No. 1
134,240.50
51,170.00
633,384.00
Fisherman's Bend
Central Licence and Registration Office No. 2
818,794.50
Total
287,983.40
fees Collected for Bulk Registration
1,296,916.90
Total of all fees
56
ACCIDENTS TO POLICE VEHICLES
All accidents involving police vehicle are fully
investigated.
BREATH ANALYSIS TESTS BY COUNTRY
OPERATORS
1976
1975
Particulars of these accidents are collated and
summarised to enable an investigation to be
carried out into all aspects of the collision.
An Accident Investigation Committee is convened
to enquire into appropriate accidents.
Total tests for metropolitan and country areas
were:-
Accidents
Incidents
Total
1975
685
56
871
741
Metropolitan
Country
Total
9,234
9,444
6,819
6,713
16,053
16,157
1976
1975
Summary of Accidents
1976
793
78
6,819
6,713
POLICE PERSONNEL ATTACHED TO COUNTRY
ROADS BOARD
Six members of the Traffic Operations Group are
seconded for full-time duties with the Country
Roads Board and they dealt with 1,412 prosecutions. A further 78 cases were withdrawn,
offenders warned or cases not proceeded with.
Fines totalling $166,968 were recorded in the
above matters.
BREATH ANALYSIS SECTION
Equipment for this section includes nine motor
vehicles on a permanent basis, supplemented on
weekends and holiday periods by additional
vehicles from the Transport Branch.
A total of eighty-six operational breathalyser
instruments are on issue. Forty-seven being in
country districts and eighteen used in this sedion.
The remainder are held at the Forensic Science
Laboratory for replacement, whilst maintenance
repairs are carried out on defective units.
The section gave forty-five
lectures and
demonstrations to various organisations at which
approximately 2,300 persons attended.
Full time instruction was provided for Breathalyser Operator Courses.
Another important aspect of the work performed
by this group is their attendance at the St.
Vincent's Hospital Rehabilitation scheme for Convicted Young Drinking Drivers where they discuss
and assist this group with the law and associated
problems.
Some members were detailed for temporary duty
at holiday resorts during holiday periods. Other
members were rostered to assist Traffic Operations personnel at the Preliminary Breath Testing
Stations.
Two members engaged in the State Warrant
Section executed 1,294 outstanding warrants with
$147,297 being collected in fines.
COMPLAINTS AGAINST POLICE
A total of 55 complaints were received against
"T" District personnel during the year. This is
23 more than in 1975.
The majority were from motorists who were
intercepted for various traffic offences.
After due enquiries the following results were
obtained
31
18
3
Not substantiated.
Pending.
Members were counselled.
The increase in complaints was probably due to
the press publicity given to the police enquiry
which was proceeding at that time.
A comparison of the work performed in 1976 as against 1975 is set out hereunder:-
Interviewed.
Year.
1976
1975
..
..
Comparison •.
..
..
..
..
..
..
Tested.
Char ed
Refu•ed.
:
Charged
Exceeding
' ·OS per cent.
1 Driving ~nder ;'
Influence.
Not Charged
Under ·OS
per cent.
..
9,521
9,234
287
239
7,914
1,038
..
9.679
9,449
235
346
8,009
961
..
-158
-215
+52
107
95
+77
57
1555/71.-5
I
DISTRIBUTION OF PERSONNEL WITHIN TRAFFIC OPERATIONS GROUPS AS AT 31.12.76
Officers.
Sub-Officers.
Senior
Constables and
Total.
Policewomen.
Constables~
..
2
2
2
..
6
..
2
6
-47
4
59
Western Hwy. Patrol (under command of No. I Div.)
..
2
12
..
14
2
7
49
4
62
2
7
44
4
57
2
7
44
4
57
2
12
..
14
I
13
..
14
..
..
..
No. I Div. (Metro.)
..
..
Headquarters
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Princes Hwy. East Patrol (under command of No. -4 Div.)
..
2
9
..
11
24
No. 2 Div. (Metro.)
..
No. 3 Div. (Metro.)
..
..
No. -4 Div. (Metro.)
No. 4 Sub-Div. Frankston ..
No. 4 Sub-Div. Dandenong
..
..
..
I
5
18
..
..
..
..
..
..
6
13
..
..
I
7
2-4
2
Seconded to Country Roads Board
..
..
..
..
6
..
6
Seconded to Transport Reg. Board
..
..
..
I
..
I
Hume Hwy. Patrol
Ace. Appreciation Squad
Breath Analysis Section
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Instrument Development and Maintenance Section
Brief and Summons Administration
·-
19
II
34
I
3
..
4
3
4
..
7
Relieving Staff
..
..
..
..
..
..
I
..
..
I
Vacancies
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
390
17
-.
..
..
..
12
59
301
18
407
Totals
TRAFFIC OPERATIONS GROUP
Personnel in Four Metropolitan Divisions
307
Personnel in Three Highway Patrol Groups
49
Breath Analysis Section
34
Total personnel
390
Traffic Operations Group personnel stationed in Country Police Districts
-47
1976.
Total Personnel engaged full time on traffic law enforcement
1975.
437
-433
165
253*
99
99
Number of Vehicles in useMotor cars
Motor cycles
Motor Vehicles checked
I 36,8-4-4 **
153,126
Traffic Offences detected
167,410
155,740
33,898
31,947
122,134
112,828
Amphometer Bookings ..
Traffic Infringement Notices issued
9,619
10,965
7,425,770
6,902,670
24,781
21,835
Escorts-Wide Loads
1,788
1.744
Men Involved
1.681
1,682
Hours
6,656
6,754
62
44
254
330
3,203
1,671
Parking Infringement Notices issued
Kilometres travelled
Total hours spent in Court
V.I.P. Escorts-Number of Escorts
Men Involved
Hours
*
**
Figure of 253 given in 1975 Annual Report should have read I 54
1976 figures now include only vehicles checked-not offences.
58
This movement required an additional eight Senior
Constables to bring the Squad up to efficient
strength.
ACCIDENT APPRECIATION SQUAD
Members of this Squad investigate and assist in
the investigation of serious traffic accidents. They
may be called upon to travel to any locality
throughout the State.
This Squad was decentralised with new branches
being situated at Nunawading and Frankston.
The following figures are a guide to the work
carried out by the Squad during 1976 with comparative figures for 1975:-
-
..
..
Deaths resulting from
..
..
..
..
Injuries resulting from
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
ACCIDENTS INVESTIGATED
1976.
1975.
..
310
227
289
218
361
314
40
32
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
OFFENCES DETECTEDCulpable Driving
..
Grievous Bodily Harm
..
..
..
..
..
..
Manslaughter
..
Drive Under Influence
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Exceed -05%
..
..
..
..
..
Careless Driving
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Manner Dangerous
Hit-Run
..
Miscellaneous ..
Total Offences
Full Mechanical Inspections
..
..
..
..
..
Hours Spent in lecturing
..
Hours Spent in Court
..
..
..
59
nil
I
8
9
7
13
42
41
..
39
34
..
..
52
51
..
..
..
..
15
13
..
..
..
411
359
614
553
126
105
..
..
2,268
1,750
18
36
..
..
..
..
..
..
-
PERSONNEL
DEPARTMENT
PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT
Claims by the Chief Commissioner, Police
Association and individuals for duty
allowances, variations and amendments
to Determinations
This Department is directly responsible for all
personnel matters affecting members from
recruitment to discharge. This includes transfers, promotions and attendance at in-service
training courses.
19
lt is interesting to note that of the appeals listed,
thirty-one were withdrawn, twenty-two were
dismissed and one was upheld. This emphasises
that the method of and criteria used in the
selection of personnel for promotions and
transfers is based on sound reasoning.
The degree of selectivity in recruitment and subsequent training of young members to a high
level of efficiency is reflected in the overall performance of the Police Service. lt is very pleasing to report that the Training Stations Scheme
which was introduced in 1975 has now developed into an integral and very important part
of our basic training. Under this scheme Probationary Constables undertake twelve weeks of
on-the-job training after completing the twenty
weeks intensive recruit course at the Police
Academy, Glen Waverley.
Probationary Constable Files
This Division is the central collating point for the
handling and processing of Probationary Constable Files. lt is this section where all information regarding the progress of the probationer
is assessed and confirmation or termination
of appointment is recommended. Probationary
Constable Files totalling 563 were commenced.
Because of the widely separated geographical
locations at which our training facilities are
located, we have this continuing problem of
duplication of our administrative and training
resources; Cadet, Recruit, Sub-Officer and Officer
Training Courses are all conducted at different
locations.
Retention Examination
Retention examination results are submitted to
the Personnel Assessment Division and these are
correlated with the Probationary Constable Files
to form part of the criteria for recommendations
regarding confirmation or otherwise of appointment.
PERSONNEL ASSESSMENT DIVISION
Promotion Boards
Administrative arrangements for all Promotions
Boards are undertaken by the Staff Office to the
Assistant Commissioner (Personnel). The Personnel Assessment Division provides all previous
assessments and other relevant documentation
regarding members seeking promotion.
Due to fragmentation of the Personnel Department this division occupies offices at 380 Russell Street, Melbourne. Although the offices are
adequate for present needs and are in close
proximity to Police Headquarters, organisational
efficiency would be improved if accommodation
could be provided adjacent to the Assistant
Commissioner, Personnel.
General Comment
This Division is working at a very high level of
efficiency and reflects great credit on all concerned.
This division controls the Personnel Assessment
Scheme which is a valuable adjunct in the selection of personnel for promotion and for specialist positions. The Police Service Board acknowledges the reliability and accuracy of these
assessments by using them as a gauge when
deciding appeals against appointments and
promotions.
PERSONNEL AND AMENITIES DIVISION
Police Hospital
67
The medical staff comprises Sir Geoffrey NewmanMorris and Mr. A. Beech, Matron M. Dugan and
seven Nursing Sisters. All staff carried out their
duties in an exemplary manner.
Statistical information for the hospital is as follows:Outpatients
2,803
Daily Inpatients
1,841 (bed days)
Inpatients
343
Major Operations
36
Deaths at Hospital
Nil
Anti Tetanus Consultations
750
An average of 25-30 outpatients a week were
treated for minor illnesses and injuries at the
hospital dispensary by the nursing staff.
In addition, Officers from the Division represented the Chief Commissioner at hearings before
the Police Discipline Board as under:-
The dispensary at the Recruit Training Academy,
Glen Waverley, received 3,500 requests for
remedial treatment.
The system has also proved of advantage in
creating among personnel, particularly the
higher ranks, an awareness to improve or
maintain a high level of work performance. This
professional approach makes for a general improvement in efficiency.
The Division dealt withIndividual Assessments
Objections to Assessments requiring
review
Adverse Assessments requiring counselling of members by Officers-inCharge of Districts
3,646
Appeals against non-selection for transfer
Appeals against non-selection for promotion
133
22
The dispensary at the Cadet Training Academy,
Spencer Street, Melbourne, received 1,850 requests for minor ailments.
32
60
Lounge Room
The lounge room is a necessary adjunct to the
barrack accommodation providing a place for
relaxation and television viewing.
All personnel when commencing training at the
Academies have their blood typed and recorded.
A disturbing element which seems to be increasing is the incidence of patients suffering from
anxiety complex; 40 were admitted for inpatient treatment and many others were treated
as outpatients.
There is an increasing need for the appointment
of a Deputy Matron to assist Matron Dugan with
the excessive work load which she is required
to maintain because of the high standard of
personal service which is so necessary in such
an establishment as a hospital. Matron Dugan
has at great personal cost maintained her dedication and availability at all times.
Reading Room
Used extensively and fulfils a useful purpose.
Auditorium
The Auditorium which was used for 135 functions has been renovated. The provision of new
seating and stage fittings have also been provided.
Gymnasium
The Victoria Police Boxing and Wrestling Club
with a membership of 400 made good use of
the excellent facilities at the Gymnasium.
After a lapse of 16 years the Club resumed its
boxing and wrestling championships which were
held at Festival Hall. The function was a great
success; the proceeds being donated to a very
deserving charity.
POLICE BANDS
The Victoria Police Brass Band
The Brass Band paraded at the following functions:Police Service Parades
20
Police Funerals
3
Agricultural Shows
2
Others (State and Charity Functions)
40
Rehearsals
40
Total
Welfare Services
The Welfare Officer, with two assistants, continues to provide a valuable service to police. They
assisted in arranging for the attendance of ninety
police in ill-health before the Government Medical Officer, eighty-nine of whom were found to
be unsuitable for further police service.
105
This was a difficult year for the Brass Band due
to an acute shortage of musicians. As a result
the band has had to perform below strength
and to meet its commitments has on occasions
employed musicians from outside the Victoria
Police Service. An amount of ~.7 40 was expended
from band funds for the employment of 73
musicians.
If this band is to continue as a viable unit there
is an urgent necessity for the appointment of
full-time musicians to enable them to form the
nucleus of a band. A number of active operational police often have difficulty reconciling the
conflicting demands of band and operational
duties.
Assistance in obtaining housing accommodation
was given to a number of our members, particularly in country areas.
The Chaplaincy Service supported by 43 Honorary Chaplains throughout the State is providing
a much needed service for many of our members with personal problems of many kinds.
Frequently the Chaplains provide active support
to the Welfare staff.
Special Duties List
This list contained the names of fifty-six members who are engaged as staff at the various inservice training courses.
The Victoria Police Highland Pipe Band
Pipe Band parades were:Police Service Parades
Police Funerals
Agricultural Shows
Others (State and Charity Functions)
Rehearsals
Total
TRAINING DISTRICT
17
3
4
43
46
Recruiting
The Recruiting Division is located at 380 Russell Street, Melbourne and this central location
has proved to be ideal for recruiting purposes.
2,896 recruiting applications were received,
which is an increase of 669 over last year.
Applications were received from 1,638 adult
males, 320 females and there were 938 for
cadet training.
113
The accommodation for the bands has continued to be a problem as the Band Room sites
have been occupied by the Victorian College
of Arts. lt is anticipated that both bands will
occupy premises at Westgarth early in 1977.
Both bands were judged " Best Turned Out
Band " in their respective categories in the
Anzac Day March. Both bands maintain the
highest traditions and reflect great credit on the
Victoria Police whenever and wherever they perform and the members are to be congratulated
on their dedication under adverse conditions.
Statistics-Recruiting
Adult Males Females Cadets
Applications received
Called for examination
Number attended
Failed education
Failed medical
Under height
Failed Selection Board
Tentatively accepted
Withdrew
Police Library
The library staff continued to provide good service. A further 245 new books were added at
a cost of $740.00.
1,638
1,419
1,169
470
94
27
60
518
320
202
152
59
2
13
22
46
10
938
786
700
206
94
60
111
229
Advertising
In addition to press advertising, a short film depicting police functions and skills was shown in a
number of theatres.
Billiard Room
Continues to be popular and is fully utilised.
61
Cadet Training
squads were still in training. The 635 recruits
inducted comprised 53 policewomen, 144
former cadets, 422 male recruits and 16 shrine
guards.
Of the actual total 529 probationary constables
who graduated, 59 were policewomen, 116
former cadets, 354 male recruits and 10 shrine
guards.
Cadet strength was increased to 346 with the
appointment of an additional 249 cadets. 144
cadets were transferred to probationary constable training.
The system of phase training for vocational
course cadets was continued with four weeks'
duty at police stations followed by four weeks'
training at the Academy. In addition to Acadamy
training and duty at police stations and specialist branches, cadets also, performed duty at
Moomba, Football Matches, Racing, Test Cricket,
the Royal Show, Youth Leadership Camps and
Careers Exhibitions. They were also involved in
the Tullamarine Disaster Exercise and participated
in searches for missing persons and stolen property.
In the academic section of cadet training 40
cadets successfully completed form five studies
and 19 cadets were successful at the Higher
School Certificate level.
The Police Cadet Adventure Camp at Portsea
was attended by 143 cadets. They received
specialised training and instructions in the many
diverse skills associated with police activities.
The adventure camp was followed by the
involvement of a group of cadets as "extras "
in the locally produced film "Break of Day".
Study tours undertaken were to New Zealand,
Central Australia, Mootwingee, Grampians, and
Wyperfield Park.
In excess of seven hundred people attended the
cadet graduation parade which was held at
Olympic Park on 1Oth December, 1976. After
a ceremonial parade, the cadets gave a very
impressive display of Aikido and gymnastics.
Retention Course
Nine retention courses and examinations were
attended by 522 probationary constables including 53 policewomen.
Sub-officers' Course
Four sub-officers' courses were held and attended
by 220 male and 3 female personnel.
Officers' College
Since its inception in 1958, 456 members have
attended the Victoria Police Officers College.
Visitors trained at the College this year came
from New Zealand and Tasmania Police Forces.
There were also two officers courses each of
twenty weeks' duration. Of the 36 members who
attended 35 successfully reached the required
standard.
Correspondence Tuition
Correspondence classes at H.S.C. level are conducted for mature age students within the service. The results were very satisfactory and
included a special distinction in English, ten A's
and thirty-nine passes out of the fifty-one subjects attempted.
CONCLUSION
lt is anticipated that the accommodation available at our new premises at 380 William Street,
Melbourne, will allow for a consolidation of all
segments within this Department and should
result in greater efficiency and the streamlining
of many procedures.
Recruit Training
Twenty-five squads compnsmg 635 recruits
commenced training at the Police Academy, Glen
Waverley. At the end of the year 9 of these
62
ADMINISTRATION
DEPARTMENT
provide banking and fund allocation details and
a wide range of statistical data.
Partial delivery of this equipment has been
effected preparatory to its phased implementation in the ensuing year.
Initial development was also undertaken on the
installation of an on-line data base system for
vehicle records which are to be included on a
new computer figuration installed at the Electronic Data Processing Centre, Public Service
Board.
lt is proposed to continue the development of
this system in conjunction with the project team
of the electronic data processing centre. This
development is aimed at providing by means
of terminals located at the Motor Registration
Branch the facility to gain immediate access to
vehicle data which is stored on the Public Service
Board computer. The information which is to be
available from this source is to be maintained
at a completely up-to-date level at all times.
MOTOR REGISTRATION BRANCH
The work associated with this branch continued
to grow with the financial transactions increasing
by 15 · 5% to more than three hundred million
dollars ($300,000,000). The number of licensed
drivers increased by 3 · 6% over the previous
year and the number of vehicles on the register
by 3·7%.
A very wide ranging investigation was made into
the accounting methods and validating procedures which have been in use in this area
for some years. This enquiry was primarily
directed to the replacement of the existing cash
register and accounting machines with modern
and more efficient electronic equipment.
After a number of experiments the equipment
finally selected will combine into one operation,
accounting procedures, cash register operations
and data entry functions. This new system in
addition to replacing the present manual procedures will at the end of each day automatically
MOTOR REGISTRATION STATISTICS
Vehicles Registered.
At 31.12.76.
At 31.12.75 •
•
Motor Cars-
..
Private
Commercial and Hire
Primary Producer
Motor Cycles
Trailers
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
.
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
'
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
1.562,744
1.510,330
..
..
..
..
..
156,225
150,176
86,200
87,405
..
46,228
45,700
..
..
290,286
270,636
2.141,6S3
2,064.247
216,677
210,901
13.052
13,542
229,729
224,443
New Registrations-New and Second-hand Vehicles
(included in above figures)
Motor Cars
..
Motor Cycles
..
..
..
Recreation Vehicles Registered
Licence Permits lssued-1976
Drivers licences Issued
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
'
..
..
..
..
..
.
'
.
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
1.922
119,905
1.991.988
1,922.337
RevenueExcluding Third Party Insurance ..
..
..
..
..
'.
..
..
Third Party Insurance
..
..
..
$
$
..
155.066,649
135,228,538
..
145,566,571
124,962,270
Financial Yeat.
1975-6.
1974-5.
$
$
146,202,140
117,624,181
Finance-Receipts
63
• Three typists to provide additional assistance
at three locations-the new City West
Police Station, Malvern Criminal Investigation Branch Division and Hawthorn Police
Station.
STAFF OFFICE
The authorised establishment of Public Service
personnel increased by 44 to a total of 2,069
and the work and responsibilities of the Staff
Office increased accordingly.
Prior to the Budget of September, 1976, 15
additional positions were created at the Motor
Registration Branch to cope with the increased
volume of work. There were 3 additional positions of lift attendant created at the cadet training
academy.
The Premier, in his Budget speech, stated that
the growth rate in the staffing establishment of
the Public Service would be limited to 1%. This
was a governing factor in only 22 additional
positions being approved for the Police Department from a total of 268 positions sought in the
draft estimates of expenditure.
• Two telephonists to assist in coping with
the increasing amount of telephone traffic
as a result of the growth of the Communications Section and the expansion of police
operations and activities.
• Two clerical assistants at the Traffic Department to cope with the increasing workload
in that area.
• Six clerical assistants to assist in coping with
the increasing workload at the Motor Registration Branch.
Subsequent to the increases granted in the
Budget, the Police Department was required to
assume responsibility for the preliminary testing
of all blood samples taken from road accident
victims at hospitals. As a result of this decision,
positions for two technical assistants, one typist
and one clerk were created.
The 22 positions created were:• One motor mechanic leading hand, three
motor mechanics, one garage attendant and
one storeman for the expanded motor
vehicle workshops occupied at Wellington
Street, Collingwood, in the latter part of
the year.
• One clerical assistant and two typists to
provide clerical and typing assistance in
the newly established Melbourne Ports
District.
A total of 296 left the employ of the Department
compared with 311 in 1975. Of those who
left the employ of the Department, 197 were
employed in the police area and 99 were employed in the Motor Registration Branch.
PUBLIC SERVICE STAFF
As at 31st December.
-
Chief Commissioner's Office
Actual Strength
..
Authorised Strength
1976.
1975.
..
..
..
....
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
212
217
209
216
District Offices and Police Stations
Actual Strength
Authorised Strength
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
956
968
934
949
Forensic Science laboratory
Actual Strength
..
Authorised Strength
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
36
36
33
33
Motor Registration Branch
Actual Strength
..
Authorised Strength
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
819
848
802
827
..
..
..
..
..
2,023
..
..
..
2,069
..
..
..
..
..
Total Authorised Strength
..
Total Actual Strength
..
..
..
CENTRAL CORRESPONDENCE BUREAU
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
1,978
I
-
2,025
Workflow and efficiency within the Bureau has
been improved as a result of a decision requiring
a small number of the staff to commence duty
orior to the normal starting time, collect and open
the bulk mail and have it sorted and ready for
processing when the maiority of the staff commences duty.
There has not been any significant change in
the type of work handled by the Bureau.
However, the volume of work being processed
has increased because of the ever increasing
requests for reports by the Crimes Compensa·
tion Tribunal, and the number of applications
being received from persons requesting to be
re-licensed to drive motor vehicles following
convictions for exceeding · 05% blood alcohol
content.
A vastly improved file storage area has been
provided in the new departmental complex at
Wellington Street, Collingwood and this will
result in greater efficiency in the storage and
handling of files in future.
64
TRAINING AND METHODS OFFICER
BUILDINGS BRANCH
The duties of this position are to plan, organize
and conduct training activities to meet general
and specific needs and to review the work
methods of Public Service staff.
In conjunction with the Technical Section of the
Services Department, the Branch was responsible
for the administration of the annual Police Works
and Services Programme on which a record
$7,293,000 was expended.
New Police Stations were completed during the
year at Culgoa, St. Arnaud and Greensborough.
The conversion of the building at Wellington
Street, Collingwood, was completed and occupied
by the Garage and Workshop Section, the Radio
Electronics Division, the Radio and Transport
Stores and the Buildings Maintenance Division.
At the Police Academy at Glen Waverley, the
athletic track and the maintenance workshop
were completed and work commenced on the
erection of two residential blocks estimated to
cost $2,000,000.
Methods Activities
The main programme undertaken was a review of
the payment system at the Penalties Payment
Office, Traffic Branch, Dawson Street, Brunswick.
The main reason for this survey was to provide a
system so that parking, boating and traffic fines
could be paid to the Penalties Payment Office.
After a detailed investigation it was concluded
that the basic system was satisfactory, but it was
recommended that processing by computer
methods be introduced as soon as possible. During the course of these investigations the procedures used to prepare summonses in the
Traffic Department were also analysed.
Arrangements were made for additional telephone, teleprinter network and radio system
facilities.
lt is considered that the procedural changes
recommended will, when implemented, give
substantial benefits to the Police Department.
CEN'rRAL FIREARMS REGISTRY
During the year under review, 75,000 new
licences and permits were issued and at present
there are approximately 295,000 persons holding
current shooters' licences.
Since the introduction of shooters' licences and
permits on the 1st January, 1973, in excess of
500,000 licences have been issued. The difference between the 500,000 licences issued and
current licence holders is represented by Junior
Permits upgraded to full shooters' licences, subsequent licences issued as late renewals, and those
who have neglected to renew shooters' licences.
Training Activities
The Public Service Board has quite significantly
changed its approach to training. The emphasis
is now on staff development and it is anticipated
that this new programme will include training of
staff to more adequately carry out their present
tasks and prepare them for responsibilities at
higher levels, furthering their education, a continuing and systematic appraisal of staff performance, development of leadership qualities and
manpower forecasting.
The Chief Secretary's Department has set up a
Staff Development Committee and the Police
Department is repreEented on this Committee.
The Police Department's plans in regard to
Public Service Staff Development include:-
Since the commencement of the scheme on the
1st January, 1973, to the 31st December, 1976,
revenue in excess of $2,200,000 has been
collected.
(a) introducing a system of staff appraisal;
(b) setting up of inter-branch committees, at
all staff levels to investigate particular
problems;
(c) staff visits to Departments that are connected with Police Administration, e.g.
State Accident Insurance Office for
workers compensation discussions;
(d) movement towards a staff exchange
arrangement with the New South
Wales Police Department;
(e) staff meetings and discussions involving
staff at all levels.
RESEARCH AND RELIEVING BRANCH
The functions of the ReEearch and Relieving
Branch are of a varied and complex nature.
Included in its functions is the provision of
secretarial assistance to committees, meetings and
conferences.
They prepare amendments to
Standing Orders, Acts,
Regulations,
Police
Manuals and answers to questions asked in
Parliament in relation to police matters.
At present the branch is involved in providing
secretarial assistance to the Police Manual Review
Committee and for the Conference of Commissioners of Police of the South Pacific Region to be
held in Melbourne during March, 1977.
There was also a steady increase in the amount
of work involved in providing secretarial assistance for the monthly Superintendents' Conferences.
ACCOUNTS BRANCH
There were no general revisions of salaries, either
in the Police Service or the Public Service, outside
the guidelines of wage indexation. There were
four National Wages decisions during 1976.
Other allowances were adjusted by various
Determinations issued by the Police Service Board
and Public Service Board.
SUPPLY BRANCH
The Supply Branch which is encompassed within
the province of the Services Department is responsible for the arranging, purchase, storage,
service and issue of a diverse range of equipment.
This includes motor vehicles, communication
equipment, general stores, scientific equipment
and printing requirements. One important undertaking was the revising of forms pertaining to the
Magistrates (Summary Proceedings) Act 1975.
The radio and transport stores transferred to new
and better equipped premises at Wellington
Street, Collingwood.
As at 31st December, 1976, there were 2,062
employees on the Public Service payroll and 6,802
members on the Police Service payroll.
The work in the General Accounts and Revenue
Sections continued to increase.
Contributors to the Police Association Credit CoOperative Limited increased from 1,862 contributing $83,165 at 1st January, 1976, to 3,964
contributing $247,121 at 31st December, 1976.
65
PUBLIC
RELATIONS
The Public Relations Division continues to play an
important role in bringing before the public many
aspects of police work especially items of specific
interest. The enterprise shown by this division
has reached new heights and the manner in
which it has presented police activities has
enabled the public to learn at first hand of the
multiplicity of police operations.
The demand for radio and television interviews
is constant. The request for general interviews on
specific areas of departmental activity are a steady
source of favourable publicity.
LECTURE SQUAD
A comprehensive program of lectures on a wide
variety of police activities has been given to
schools ranging from kindergarten to tertiary age
and also to many adult organizations. In the
school curriculum the subjects covered by this
squad were road safety, bicycle riding and
maintenance, stranger danger, anti-vandalism and
good citizenship.
Impact lectures dealing with defensive driving
techniques, road trauma and road safety based
primarily on speed, alcohol, and problems at
intersections were given to adult groups and
were of immense value to all who attended.
This squad has recently been provided with some
excellent equipment and other materials to
illustrate and support its verbal message. lt is
anticipated that such equipment will be used to
the betterment and benefit of the Police Department.
The versatility of this squad can best be illustrated
by its involvement with the Police Exhibition at
the Royal Melbourne Show. Members were
responsible for construction of the exhibition and
were fully engaged in its manning.
A summary of the lectures given by the squad
and attendance figures are listed below:Lectures Audience
8,500
177
Adult Lectures
3,750
Road Safety Campaign
15
61,500
486
City Schools
24,000
311
Country Schools
Miscellaneous Schools (by
13,500
68
invitation)
2,400
10
Lord Mayor's Camp, Portsea
2,100
9
Guest Nights
2,700
10
Motorist Education Sessions
3,200
Miscellaneous Engagements
44
Statistically, it was indicated that public acceptance and public demand for police participation
in community affairs is continually increasing.
This trend is very pleasing and gives a great
amount of personal satisfaction to ail members
of the Victoria Police.
Endeavours have been made to meet as many
requests as possible for the attendance of police
at lectures, displays, discussion groups and expert
research assistance has been provided for authors,
script writers and film producers, who desire
authenticity with the productions. A large
amount of general information has also been
supplied to school children and the public.
Where it has not been possible for these requests
to be fulfilled by the Public Relations division, its
personnel have co-operated with police from local
stations and co-ordinated arrangements so that
members from the area have been able to conduct
lectures and provide information on police
activities to various groups.
Satisfying many of these requests is a very important factor in police-community relations and
every opportunity is taken to promote a better
police image.
Community opinion of the police fluctuates to
some degree with the image projected by the
press. Not only must there be public acceptance
and support for police and their role but there
must be an increasing community involvement in
law enforcement.
A very important aspect of police work is the
maintenance of a close and harmonious relationship with all sections of the media. This has been
achieved by the holding of regular news conferences, especially where the items are of wide
public interest. The rapport and close liaison
which exists has facilitated the dissemination of
information to the public and has assisted in the
maintenance of a high level of public confidence.
RESEARCH OFFICE
Apart from general research, enquiries from
school children, students and the general public
a great amount of time has been spent in locating
old police books, documents, photographs and
equipment. lt is intended that at some future
time many of these items will be displayed in
a police museum.
As it is becoming more widely known that
historical material is being sought by the Police
Department, it is pleasing to report that there
are many offers of material being received from
serving police, former members and the public,
especially from those sections of the community
who, in the past, have had some affiliation with
the Police Department.
PRESS LIAISON BUREAU
As is happening in all sections of the Police
Department work and output is increasing. News
releases totalling approximately 250 have been
distributed by the Bureau. These have covered
all aspects of police work, including those subjects considered to be of public interest and in
other instances where we have sought public
co-operation.
66
Recruiting Academy, Glen Waverley. The displays
were of a high standard and drew favourable
comment from those for whom the display was
presented and from the viewing public.
DISPLAY SECTION
Various types of pictorial, practical and static displays totalling twenty-six, were planned, organised and presented as a result of requests from external organisations and from within the department. The major functions at which displays were
mounted included Moomba, the Boat Show and
the Police Careers Day which was held at the
This section also assisted with the staffing of the
police exhibition at the Royal Melbourne Show.
The exhibition, which was attended by 87,830
persons, was again awarded second prize.
Section of Police Display- Royal Melbourne Show.
67
APPENDIX A
ESTABLISHMENT
POLICE RESERVISTS
POLICE
As at 31st December
As at 31st December
Chief Commissioner
Deputy Commissioner
Assistant Commissioners
Commanders
Chief Superintendents
Superintendents ..
Chief Inspectors ..
Inspectors
Inspectors (Brevet)
Senior Sergeants
Senior Sergeants (Brevet)
Sergeants
Sergeants (Brevet)
Senior Constables (foot)
Senior Constables (mounted)
Constables (foot)
Constables (mounted)
Policewoman
Constables
(mounted)
Policewomen
1976
1975
1
1
5
2
1
1
5
2
24
19
82
165
20
27
81
156
9
9
364
400
7
5
1,193
1,183
7
5
1,947
14
2,330
16
1,819
14
2,133
17
6
295
6
272
Total actual strength
6,487
6,156
Total
6,500
6,250
authorised
strength
1976
Actual strength
1975
125
79
POLICE CADETS
As at 31st December
1976
Strength
Appointments to Police Force
1975
190
112
178
129
APPOINTMENTS
As at 31st December
1976
1975
644
9
Recruits
Re-appointments ..
607
12
RETIREMENTS AND DISCHARGES
Assise.
Comm.
Com·
manders.
Chief
Supcs.
Supts.
Chief
lnsp.
lnsps.
Brevet
lnsps.
Senior
Sgts.
Sgts.
Senior
Conscs.
Conscs.
Total.
------ - - - - - - - - - - -----------\------1----
Died
..
..
SuperannuatedRetiring Age ..
2
2
8
3
Ill-health
..
Resigned
..
Dismissals
..
Termination
of
Appointment
.. _ _
2 ___
2 ___
8_1----~-3Totals
3
2
..
I
I
6
68
3
5
11
10
14
I
28
5
I
18
46
24
I
25
48
94
9
10
110
I
2
57
100
142
3
2
124
313
APPENDIX B
RATIO OF POLICE (AUTHORISED STRENGTH) TO
POPULATION
Estimated population of Victoria as at
30th September, 1976
Ratio of Police to population
3,754,200
1 to 578
APPENDIX C
EXTRANEOUS POSITIONS
Two hundred and ninety-two members of the
Force held six hundred and thirty-three extraneous appointments divided as follows : Sheriff's Bailiff . .
62
Prosecuting Officer
258
County Court Bailiff
244
Wharf Manager
39
Coast Watcher . .
13
17
Commissioner of Supreme Court
69
APPENDIX D
POLICE VALOUR AWARDS
June, 1976, Queen's Birthday List.
Chief Superintendent: Stanley McKenzie.
Chief Superintendent: Sidney John Olsen.
Chief Superintendent : Gerald Guy Habermann.
Chief Superintendent :
Patrick
Francis
Cash in.
Chief Superintendent:
Ronald
Arthur
Kellett.
Chief Inspector : Frank Thomas Lawrence.
6. 7. 1976 Constable N. V. Comley, No. 18563
received the Award for outstanding courage,
restraint and devotion to duty in confronting
for a number of hours an armed offender
who had recently killed a man and who had
threatened to kill himself and three young
children, and other persons if interfered
with in any way.
13.9.1976 Sergeant P. W. Backman, No. 12962
received the Award for devotion to duty,
initiative, calmness and courage in disarming
a mentally disturbed and dangerous man
armed with a loaded rifle and thereby preventing a serious crime.
21.9.1976 Sergeant B. F. Murphy, No. 11885
received the Award for outstanding courage,
restraint and devotion to duty, when, with
grave risk to his own life, he confronted and
subsequently arrested an armed offender
who threatened to kill anybody who came
near him.
1. 10.1976 ConstableS. W. Taylor, No. 16519
received the Award for bravery displayed
and outstanding dedication to duty in the
rescue of several persons from the Goulburn
River during a heavy flood. He entered the
river under hazardous and dangerous conditions without regard to his own safety, to
assist a number of people whose lives were
endangered.
19. 10. 1976 Constable L. E. E. Constandinou,
No. 18298 received the Award for the use
of initiative, resourcefulness and courage
when he jumped from a 15 foot high parapet
to arrest an armed and distraught offender
who was holding his wife as a hostage and
threatening to shoot her.
8. 11 . 1976 Sergeant R. C. Martin, No. 15460
received the Award for devotion to duty,
initiative, calmness and the display of
exemplary bravery whilst disarming a man
who was armed with a loaded rifle and had
threatened his life and other members of
the Police Service who were in the vicinity.
24. 11 . 1976 Senior Constable R. J. Daly, No.
16997 received the Award for courage,
initiative and devotion to duty, displayed in
his apprehension of a mentally disturbed
person, who had menaced him with a rifle
and who had immediately beforehand fired
rifle shots towards police and other persons.
CHIEF COMMISSIONER'S CERTIFICATES
Certificates were awarded for devotion to duty
and
marked efficiency to the following
members:Chief Inspector E. Mudge.
Inspector J. A. Cook.
Inspector G. Bruce.
Inspector R. J. Mason.
Inspector W. W. Little.
Inspector K. J. Snodgrass.
Senior Sergeant F. M. L. Findlay, No. 10437.
Senior Sergeant R. M. Bartrop, No. 10153.
Senior Sergeant S. F. Little, No. 9764.
Senior Sergeant A. F. C. Glover, No. 10740.
Senior Sergeant R. Barclay, No. 11172.
Senior Sergeant E. F. Johns, No. 11136.
Sergeant C. M. Hammond, No. 9855.
Sergeant G. A. Cottam, No. 9648.
Sergeant J. W. Boldiston, No. 9636.
Sergeant B. G. Thompson, No. 12747.
Sergeant T. W. Mangles, No. 13761.
Sergeant T. A. Trounson, No. 12084.
Sergeant B. F. Fennessy, No. 13192.
Sergeant N. K. Middlemiss, No. 12557.
Sergeant R. S. Parsons, No. 14116.
Sergeant N. J. Willmott, No. 12478.
Sergeant R. Scrimgeour, No. 10530.
Senior Constable A. M. Smith, No. 12220.
Senior Constable G. K. Martin, No. 9163.
Senior Constable L. V. Purser, No. 9643.
Senior Constable H. B. Grogan, No. 9650.
Senior Constable K. R. Hately, No. 10370.
Senior Constable J. R. F. Sullivan, No. 15832.
Senior Constable F. J. Hamilton, No. 14123.
Senior Constable G. D. Johnston, No. 11957.
Senior Constable G. D. Stock, No. 11877.
Senior Constable J. F. Slattery, No. 13602.
Senior Constable G. C. A. Birkett, No. 11154.
Senior Constable F. J. Reilly, No. 9608.
Senior Constable J. E. White, No. 9726.
Constable D. R. Carver, No. 16638.
Constable H. Steigler, No. 18004.
QUEEN'S POLICE MEDALS
The following members were awarded the
Queen's Police Medal for outstanding Police
Service:January, 1976, New Year's List.
Chief Superintendent :
Martin
Hubert
Vereker.
Chief Superintendent :
William Joseph
McBride.
Chief Superintendent:
Wesley Batman
Carter.
Chief Superintendent: Thomas Matthew
Owens.
Chief Inspector : Phillip Eric Chandler.
Brevet Inspector : Roy Kyte-Powell.
COMMENDATIONS
Three hundred and thirty-six members of the
Force received commendations for meritorious
service.
70
APPENDIX E
DISCIPLINE
'
Members
Charged.
Chief Commissioner Summarily 1975
Chief Commissioner Summarily 1976
..
..
13
22
Not
Charges
Dismis.sed.
Preferred. Proceeded
with.
28
35
-
2
3
5
Repri·
manded.
Fined.
I
2
Reduced
in rank.
[r~j·~F;~~~:.
Adjourned
1-4
2-4
6
"'
APPENDIX F
FINANCE
Financial Year
1975-76
197-4-75
$
$
RevenuePolice
17.033,297
1-4,839,06-4
ExpenditurePoliceSalaries and allowancesPolice
Public Service Staff
Overtime and penalty rates
Payments in lieu of long service leave, retiring gratuities
Travelling and subsistence
Office requisites, printing and stationery
Books and publications, other incidental expenditure
Postal and telephone expenses
Motor vehicles-purchase and running expenses
Fuel, light, power and water
Personal equipment, uniforms, clothing and bedding ..
Radio, photographic, scientific and training equipment and materials
Contributions to Central Fingerprint Bureau, Sydney
.
Transport of prisoners, search parties and traffic school-travelling expenses. etc.
Burials ..
Provisions for Police Hospital
Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medals
70,7-45,811
1-4,878,921
1.90-4,016
1.181,912
1,256.452
816,973
563.037
1,803,650
3,-481.893
57·4.007
510,537
583.993
172,30-4
89,501
11,223
10,999
800
56,056,961
11,527,610
1,661,828
96-4,219
1,08-4,97-4
759,996
-469,807
1,309,88-4
2,98-4,638
.ol.ol5,486
438,833
561,198
90,000
75,835
12,771
8,994
500
98,586,029
78,453,534
18.822
300
15,636
19.122
15,786
98.605,151
78,469,320
Police Service BoardSalaries and allowancesPublic Service Staff
Postal and telephone expenses
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
Seven hundred and seventy-one members of the
Police Service were authorised to use their
private motor vehicles for official purposes, for
which they were paid the prescribed rates. The
distance travelled by the cars on duty totalled
1,100,088 kilometres at a cost of $174,418
compared with 1,185,861 kilometres in 1974-75.
ISO
On an estimated population of 3,720,000 for
Victoria the cost of Police protection per head of
population (calculated by deducting Police
Department revenue from expenditure) is
$21 . 93 per annum. This represents an increase
of $4. 59 per head per annum on the amount
shown for 1974-75.
71
APPENDIX Ci
NEW AND AMENDING LEGISLATION
The following is a summary of new and
amending legislation affecting the work of the
Victoria Police which came into operation during
1976:Motor Car (Learner Drivers' Permits) Act 1972,
No. 8345
Provides that a person cannot become the holder
of a probationary licence unless he has been the
holder of a learner's permit (motor car) (motor
cycle) for a period of three months.
Lotteries Gaming and Betting (Amendment) Act
1975, No. 8755
Provides for an interpretation of a " Multiple
coin machine".
Road Traffic Amendment Act 1975, No. 8765
Various amendments to the Road Traffic Act 1958
relating to which authorities may make Regulations as to the control of traffic, and provides
increases for certain penalties under the Act.
Motor Car (Child Seat Restraints) Act 1975,
No. 8810
Legislation for the use of child seat restraints.
Social We/fare (Amendment) Act 1975, No.
8701
Allows informants and arresting members to
furnish to a court, evidence relating to periods of
time a person has been held in custody prior to
conviction or whilst awaiting the determination
of an appeal, so that these times may be
reckoned as a period of imprisonment.
Magistrates (Summary Proceedings) Act 1975,
No. 8731
Legislation re-enacting with amendments the law
relating to the procedure and practice of
Magistrates' Courts.
Motor Car (Breath Testing Stations) Act 1976,
No. 8865
This legisl·ation empowered the Chief Commissioner to appoint police as testing officers
enabling them to conduct random breath tests
on persons driving motor cars.
Second-hand Dealers (Amendment) Act 1975,
No. 8862
Amends the Second-hand Dealers Act to control
and licence collectors of articles for and on
behalf of Charitable Organizations.
Crimes Act 1976, No. 8870
The Crimes Act 1958 amended in respect of
certain procedures relating to evidence of alibi,
and for other purposes.
By Authority : F. D. ATKJNSON, Government Printer, Melbourne.