The Western Australia Police Force has announced the finalists for its 2026 Recognition of Excellence Awards, following an impressive response from the community and police personnel across the state.
A total of 253 nominations were received from members of the public and WA Police Force employees, recognising outstanding professionalism, dedication and service demonstrated by individuals and teams across a wide range of policing environments.
From this year’s nominations, 14 individual officers and 15 police teams have been selected as finalists across agency, metropolitan, regional, state and technology award categories.
The calibre of nominations reflects the breadth and impact of policing across Western Australia, the organisation said in a statement.
Among this year’s finalists is Senior Sergeant Dan Clark, recognised for his decisive and calm leadership during a major public safety incident in Perth’s CBD.
The Major Crash Investigation Unit has also been recognised for Operation Aground, a landmark cold case investigation that delivered justice five years after a fatal hit and run.
The winners will be announced in June 2026.
Metropolitan Award
Individual Finalists:
- Senior Sergeant Steve Carter
- Senior Sergeant Haydn Farrow
- Senior Sergeant Dan Clark
Team Finalists:
- Perth Watch House
- Midland Detectives
- Mandurah Detectives
Regional Award
Individual Finalists:
- Senior Constable Kayley Florence
- Senior Constable Clinton Moore
- Senior Sergeant Scott Starkie
Team Finalists:
- 1/C Constable Peter Reith and Constable Kaylahni Klemke
- Fitzroy Crossing Police Station
- Broome Inquiry Team
State Award
Individual Finalists:
- Sharon Lyons
- Sergeant Stoney Steenkamp
- Senior Constable Oliver Taylor Â
Team Finalists:
- Operation Aground – Major Crash Investigation Unit
- Tania Belcastro and Charlotte Norris
- Operation Moorhead
Agency Services & Development Award
Individual Finalists:
- Senior Constable Angie StuddÂ
- Jess Bertilone
- Sherileen Martin
Team Finalists:
- Kevin Askew and Kate Hughes
- The Freedom of Information (FOI) team
- Operation Podcast – Media and Content team
Lance Martin Technology Award
Individual Finalists:
- A/Sergeant Charlie Jenkins
- John Craig
Team Finalists
- Data Science & Analytics – IRIS teamÂ
- Firearms Act Reform Program
- Radio Electronic Services Project team.
