Queensland Police Union Of Employees

17/06/2026

Her Excellency, the Governor of Queensland this afternoon held a reception in honour of National Police Legacy Day.

Police Legacy holds a special place in the hearts of police families.

Established by the QPU in 1971, the organisation was founded by police officers who recognised the importance of supporting the families of colleagues who have passed away or are coping with a terminal illness in the family.

What began in Queensland has since grown into a movement that now operates in every state and territory across Australia and benefits police families.

Her Excellency spoke warmly of the work Police Legacy does, including those who donate and volunteer for this essential charity.

Tonight Government House will be saturated in blue light in honour of Police Legacy.

QPU President Shane Prior, Vice President Andy Williams & North Coast Regional Rep Jake Lacy who all also contribute to the QLD Police Legacy Board attended the reception on behalf of all serving & retired police.

16/06/2026

Today is National Police Legacy Day. Established by the QPU in 1971, QLD Police Legacy has spent more than 50 years supporting police families through life's challenges, ensuring they remain connected, supported and never forgotten.

The QPU proudly stands with the families who continue to carry the legacy of their loved ones.

Pin on a daisy today to show your support and honour those who have lost their lives in service. National Police Legacy Daisy badges are available for purchase through the QLD Police Legacy e-Store.

https://policelegacyqld.org.au/shop/

14/06/2026

This Wednesday is National Police Legacy Day.

It is a day dedicated to recognising the vital work of Queensland Police Legacy and raising awareness of the support they provide to police families.

If you would like to support to the cause, National Police Legacy Daisy badges are available for purchase through the QLD Police Legacy e-Store. The Michaelmas daisy, the flower of St Michael, the patron saint of police, is the emblem of National Police Legacy Day.

You can also make a direct donation via the website if you’d like to contribute further.

https://policelegacyqld.org.au/

10/06/2026

Today is Thank a First Responder Day, and we want to recognise all first responders and the work they do every single day.

Our emergency services are often first on the scene when our communities need help the most. They face unpredictable situations with courage, professionalism, and compassion, putting the wellbeing of others before their own.

Behind every call-out, every late night shift, and every critical moment is a person dedicated to keeping Queensland safe.

If you’re not a police officer, take the opportunity to say thank you if you see them on duty today.

From all of us at the QPU, thank you for your service.

08/06/2026

Today we congratulate three outstanding Queensland police officers who have been awarded the Australian Police Medal in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours.

Representing very different areas of policing, a dedicated Highway Patrol officer, a highly respected Special Response Team operator, and a recently retired Senior Sergeant whose work with the Coroners Support Office touched countless families.

All three have demonstrated exceptional commitment, professionalism and service throughout distinguished careers.

QPU President Shane Prior said the awards to Sgt Christopher Sullivan, Snr Sgt R (SERT) and Snr Sgt Ritchie Callaghan (Retd) were fitting recognition of officers who have consistently represented the very highest standards of policing in Australia.

Mr Prior said “On behalf of the QPU, congratulations to all three recipients. Their dedication to protecting and serving the Queensland community has been outstanding and this honour reflects the significant contribution each has made throughout their careers.”

These awards are not only recognition of individual excellence, but a reminder of the extraordinary work performed by police officers every day across Queensland.

05/06/2026

After more than 37 years of dedicated service to the people of Queensland, this week Detective Sergeant Darrin Padget concluded one remarkable chapter of his policing career.

Sworn into the QPS in 1989, Darrin served across metropolitan Brisbane before taking his skills and experience to Far North Queensland.

In 2005, he became the inaugural Sergeant of the Cassowary Coast Child Protection and Investigation Unit, a role he has held with distinction ever since. For more than two decades, he has been a tireless investigator protecting vulnerable children and families and along the way earning the respect of colleagues and the community alike.

On his final day as OIC, Darrin was afforded a traditional piping out and guard of honour from fellow officers in a fitting tribute to a career built on professionalism, compassion and commitment.

Darrin’s contribution extends well beyond operational policing.

He was instrumental in re-establishing the Innisfail Branch of the QPU and has spent many years supporting and advocating for fellow members, always willing to lend his experience, guidance and support when it was needed most.

While he has reached age retirement from full-time service, this is far from a farewell.

Darrin will continue serving the Queensland community as a Special Constable, returning to the frontline as a General Duties Officer three days a week.

Few people can claim a career that has left such a positive mark on both policing and their local community.

Congratulations Darrin and thank you for your outstanding service.

The uniform may look a little different in coming weeks but your dedication to the job remains exactly the same.

On behalf of all QPU members, thank you.

23/05/2026

The QPU critical incident response team are assisting members after an incident at Narangba early this morning.
No police officers have been physically injured but a person has died after officers used their fi****ms.
QPU members involved are receiving support and care.

22/05/2026

Retention. Mandatory sentencing. Judicial accountability.

Three issues. One conversation. Zero excuses from those in power.

This is what policing in Queensland actually looks like right now and why it has to change.

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21/05/2026

The QPU is providing legal and support services to members involved in an operational incident in Cairns this morning.
No police were physically injured but their wellbeing is a priority for our team.
The QPU will respond no matter the time of day or location to support our members.

12/05/2026

The QPU has legal representatives and support staff heading to Hervey Bay following an incident early this morning where an officer used their firearm during an arrest.
All QPU members are safe and unharmed. The alleged offender is in custody.
The QPU will respond no matter the location or time of day with whatever resources are required to assist members.