The Queensland Police Service has formally recognised more than 290 people at a special honours and awards ceremony held in Dalby today, paying tribute to the extraordinary courage and bravery shown during one of the most significant and confronting incidents in state’s policing history.
On 12 December 2022, Constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow were ambushed by two armed offenders after being tasked to attend a rural property near Wieamabilla in relation to a missing persons inquiry. Both officers suffered fatal gunshot wounds.
Neighbour, Alan Dare, was also shot and killed before the offenders were fatally shot by responding police.
Today’s ceremony held at the Dalby Events Centre acknowledged the actions of Queensland Police Service members, who responded on the day to one of the most confronting and dangerous incidents faced by police in recent years.
The ceremony also acknowledged the important contributions of partner agencies and community members who supported the response.
Acting Commissioner Brett Pointing reflected on the extraordinary courage of those who responded and the devastating impact the event had on the QPS and the community.
“These awards represent more than acts of bravery, they reflect our member’s unwavering courage and commitment during one of the most significant and confronting incidents in Queensland’s policing history,” Acting Commissioner Pointing said.
“Today we not only honour the actions taken on that day but the integrity and dedication of the men and women who stood together – each of them should be proud.”
A total of 292 awards have been conferred in recognition of the actions of Queensland Police Service members, emergency service partners and members of the public during the incident and in its aftermath.
These honours include:
- 37 Queensland Police Valour Medals
- 15 Queensland Police Bravery Medals
- 1 Queensland Police Blue Heart Medal
- 17 Queensland Police Exemplary Conduct Medal
- 25 Commissioner’s Certificate
- 7 Commissioner’s Certificate of Notable Action.
Wieambilla Honours and Awards Committee Chair, Assistant Commissioner Katherine Innes said it had been a privilege to serve as Chair of the committee responsible for acknowledging those involved.
“While no award can fully capture the weight of the events of that day, today’s ceremony serves as a moment of reflection, gratitude and recognition honouring those who faced extraordinary danger and those who continue to uphold the proud traditions of policing,” Assistant Commissioner Innes said.
South West District Officer, Superintendent Mick Thiesfield said his officers commitment to duty and unwavering support for one another during the event stood as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve to protect the community.
“On that day it was not just courage that defined our response it was the bond between officers. You relied on each other, protected one another and stood together,” Superintendent Thiesfield said.
“That unity and trust is what saved lives and reflects the very best of policing.”
Today’s awards follow earlier honours recognising those who lost their lives in the incident.
In December 2022, Constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow were posthumously awarded the Queensland Police Valour Medal, Queensland Police Service Medal, National Police Service Medal, and National Medal in recognition of their bravery and sacrifice.
In March 2023, neighbour Alan Dare was posthumously awarded the Queensland Police Bravery Medal.
“The Queensland Police Service remains profoundly proud of the courage and dedication shown by all those involved, whose actions continue to inspire both their colleagues and the community they serve,” QPS said in a statement.
