SEPTEMBER 2020 Corrections
Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre transitions to QCS operations
Community Corrections office opens in Maroochydore
COVID-19 response Recruitment campaign Confirmed COVID-19 cases moves facilities into lockdown launched Front cover: A representation of a coronavirus protein. Corrections News is published by the Media and Communications Unit Queensland Corrective Services GPO Box 1054 Level 21, Northbank Plaza, 69 Ann Street Brisbane QLD 4001 (07) 3565 7824 [email protected] corrections.qld.gov.au
Contents Messages from the Minister Capricornia Correctional Red benches raise domestic and family and the Commissioner...... Centre capacity increases violence awareness as new units come online...... Messages from the Working to reduce Deputy Commissioners...... Recruitment campaign launched hepatitis C in prisons......
Message from the Assistant Drug and Alcohol Strategy QCS officer receives Commissioner Central and 2020-2025 launches...... bravery award...... Northern Region Command New Strategic Plan 2020-2024 Farewell Superintendent COVID-19: Coming together outlines commitment to enhance Steve Simmons in crisis...... safety Following in their footsteps: Our response to COVID-19 Officer Safety (Use of Force) a legacy in corrections...... Review begins rollout...... Keeping prisoners and QCS officer Barrie makes a families connected...... New skills for prisoners difference...... recycling bikes into Minimising risk: wheelchairs...... QCS officer Garry celebrates QCS' recovery is underway...... 36 years in corrections...... Partnership delivers world- History made on July 1: class training...... Senior officer remembered transition of correctional after dedicating over 60 years centre to public operation...... Acknowledging National to corrections Reconciliation Week during the The history of Arthur Gorrie pandemic In memoriam...... Correctional Centre...... Smart Pups graduate at Welcome to new officers...... Maroochydore Community Palen Creek...... Corrections office opens...... Corrections dogs trained to keep North Queensland prisons safe...... Message from Message from the Minister the Commissioner for Corrective Services Queensland Corrective Services
The whole community is living through the most challenging This year has been a remarkable one as we navigate a one times, but I know no-one faces a greater challenge than those of in one hundred year pandemic which has impacted every you working in Queensland Corrective Services. aspect of our operations.
I want to thank you sincerely for the way you have gone above and Of course those impacts were felt closer to home after a beyond the normal scope of your duties to minimise the threat of number of our officers tested positive to COVID-19. Following COVID-19 to our community. I know this has not been easy. identification of the first positive case, we moved swiftly to lock down prisons from Rockhampton south to the New I know that the, at times, strict restrictions on access to South Wales border with Stage 4 restrictions. Community Corrections offices and correctional facilities has made your work even more challenging. And my thoughts are with My absolute priority is and will always be the safety of our those officers who have been infected with the virus, and their officers, and those in our care and under our supervision. To families. ensure this to the best of our ability, these restrictions were These are difficult times.But the fact you have managed the most necessary and based on advice from Queensland Health. challenging and complex members of the community through a period unlike any other is a massive achievement. Even in On their advice and in abundance of caution, the decision ordinary times, your working life is anything but ordinary. was made to test a broader group of people at the Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) Academy and at Arthur In my time as Minister, I have visited all of Queensland’s Gorrie Correctional Centre (AGCC). correctional facilities and many Community Corrections offices, and I have seen first-hand the work you do. You deal, on a daily This was a difficult and unique situation, but vital for the basis, with the most difficult individuals imaginable. safety of our officers and the 7000 prisoners locked down to prevent further transmission. I can’t thank you enough for your dedicated efforts to keep the community safe. I would also like to thank you all for embracing With more than 400 of the staffing group of 530 in the historic reforms we have seen Queensland Corrective Services quarantine, AGCC faced significant operational challenges – undertake. which were exacerbated by a number of incidents of unrest amongst prisoners. The work to reform the parole system is well underway. I would like to thank all of our officers who stepped up to The establishment of the first Care Management Unit at Townsville support their colleagues at AGCC. I am incredibly proud of Correctional Centre is a significant milestone. the way our officers worked together, often in unfamiliar The transition of the Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre from infrastructure, to keep the prison operating during this time. private to public operation was a massive project and one that Teams from the Escort and Security Branch and Borallon, supports enhanced safety for staff and prisoners. Wolston, Woodford, Brisbane Women's and Brisbane correctional centres worked alongside their AGCC colleagues The $241m expansion of Capricornia Correctional Centre is rapidly to get through a challenging time. nearing completion. The near doubling of capacity at Capricornia will provide greater capacity across the entire Corrections Our officers across the agency have worked hard to ensure network. we are in the best possible position, with contingency planning commencing in February. We have a thoughtful plan And I think we can all be excited about the soon to be constructed in place, guided by Queensland Health, and as this situation new $650m, 1,000 bed Correctional facility near Gatton. This develops, we will respond as necessary to respond. project will be a game-changer. It will massively boost the network’s capacity and it will create hundreds of full-time, I want to thank every officer for their resilience and permanent jobs for Corrections officers. continuing to undertake their challenging work in these particularly difficult circumstances to ensure our prisons and And I know the newly opened and soon to be completed new communities are safe. Community Corrections offices will make a big difference to supporting the work you do.
Infrastructure matters greatly in our Corrections network. But people matter more, as all of you have demonstrated during this most extraordinary and daunting era of the pandemic.
To you all, I want to say a heartfelt thanks, for your dedicated professionalism and commitment to keeping the community safe.
CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 3 Messages from the Deputy Commissioners
James Koulouris Paul Stewart APM Deputy Commissioner Deputy Commissioner Organisational Capability Community Corrections and Specialist Operations
As you all would be aware, the Covid-19 pandemic 2020 has shaped as another transformational year for continues to bring great loss and uncertainty, impacting QCS. I would like to acknowledge the resilience and all our lives and posing many challenges. QCS has a dedication of our officers as we continue to embark on special responsibility to all Queenslanders to never falter a number of programs and reforms while continuing to in its mission of securing public safety. In such times, maintain business as usual workloads in challenging our purpose and values matter to the community that we circumstances due to the COVID-19 pandemic. protect. The QCS Intelligence Review (the review) is another critical I’m inspired by the way our officers have risen to the body of work that has continued in 2020. The review challenge of this unprecedented global health emergency was conducted by an experienced Specialist Intelligence with focus, resilience and courage. Analyst from the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC). The review is currently being QCS in this new world will look different. Throughout considered and provides a number of recommendations 2020, the Organisational Capability Division (OCD) has relating to capacity, capability, sensitive intelligence and directly shaped this future, delivering many significant technology to provide a whole of agency response to milestones in landmark QCS and government initiatives. intelligence.
I’m proud of the way officers within OCD working across The implementation of the review will be managed by the QCS have spearheaded the: ACIC Specialist Intelligence Analyst and will involve further engagement across a wide range of internal and external • design and planning for the construction of the stakeholders and subject matter experts to identify a new $653 million, 1,000 bed prison in Gatton. preferred QCS intelligence model and framework for This flagship infrastructure project will deliver the service delivery. prison of the future. At its peak, there will be 900 construction and 500 ongoing custodial officer jobs The review and resultant implementation will determine current and future strategic and organisational • delivery of the world’s best corrective services intelligence requirements necessary to develop QCS into a operational training, with the QCS Academy (Tactical proactive and agile department that is positioned to meet Skills and Weapons Training Group) training all the increased demands of a growing prisoner population, custodial officers in the use of oleoresin capsicum whilst adapting the intelligence capability across spray, starting from early September 2020 custodial and community portfolios to ensure a mature, sustainable and corruption-resistant culture of fearless • delivery of a global first by planning for the transition information sharing. to public operation of the Southern Queensland Correctional Centre, following the successful I would like to acknowledge and thank all QCS officers completion of Phase 1 of Operation Certitude across Custodial Operations, Organisational Capability and Community Corrections and Specialist Operations • $241 million expansion of Capricornia, on track for their support of the review to date, in addition to for completion by June 2021. In early August, we our colleagues across Australia and internationally who commissioned two secure units and eight residential assisted in shaping the review. The engagement and blocks (288 cells) are due to be opened in late enthusiasm has been greatly appreciated. August. This major project has delivered significant benefits for the Central Queensland economy
• running of the State Corrections Operations Centre to help coordinate the ongoing QCS operational response to COVID-19.
These significant milestones are testament to our dedicated and passionate officers across QCS, and I thank everyone for their enormous contributions.
4 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 4 CORRECTIONS NEWS | AUGUST 2020 Gary McCahon Peter Shaddock Deputy Commissioner Assistant Commissioner Custodial Operations Central and Northern Region Command
As we implement the strategic roadmap of Corrections The past few weeks in my new role as Assistant 2030 to position QCS as a top tier, front line public safety Commissioner Central and Northern Region Command agency, it is vital that we focus on the important role that have been incredibly dynamic and I appreciate the each of us perform every day to protect the community. support from all QCS officers during this transition.
I have previously stated that my focus is on improving The undertaking of this role complements the recent the safety and professionalism of our officers. It is our realignment of Assistant Commissioners and some responsibility to manage over 8700 of the most complex of our senior leadership roles within QCS. As we and challenging people in our society against the continue to strive for best practice within prisons, we backdrop of a global pandemic. To do this safely and will endeavour to deliver more comprehensive regional effectively, we need to confidently and consistently apply support and greater visibility of senior leaders in all the legislative and procedural framework that governs our correctional centres. day-to-day operations. It certainly is an exciting time to oversee correctional These challenging times require us to go back to the centres within this region, which covers Woodford, fundamentals of corrective services to ensure the safety north to Lotus Glen. Within this portfolio, I look forward of our facilities, colleagues, stakeholders, visitors and to investing in each centre through regular, ongoing prisoners in our care. I will be looking for opportunities to site visitations, engaging directly with officers and empower officers with the training and tools they need to being part of the overall leadership. effectively perform their duties. One of the key functions of my role is to engage with Upon taking up the Deputy Commissioner position on all the general managers from the central and northern June 1 this year, I was tasked by the Commissioner with regions. implementing the recommendations of the recently completed Officer Safety (Use of Force) Reviewwhich I recently hosted the first joined up regional command will position QCS as the best trained and equipped forum on site at Capricornia Correctional Centre. correctional jurisdiction in Australia. On July 3, I stood up the Officer Safety Committee which will steward and These forums offer an opportunity to get together with implement the recommendations from the review. senior managers and discuss the dynamic aspects and elements of our environment, including officer On July 6, I announced the realignment of the two investment, training, exposure, exchange programs Assistant Commissioner roles to a regional model. The and development opportunities across all the Assistant Commissioner Central and Northern Region portfolios. Command and the Assistant Commissioner Southern Region Command and I will be spending as much time as The forums also complement the great work being possible at our correctional centres so that we may better undertaken by Deputy Commissioner Custodial support officers at the grassroots level and understand the Operations Gary McCahon at the strategic level, unique issues faced at their location. supporting all general managers and leadership teams across the State. On August 10, QCS commenced Operational Performance Review meetings across all correctional facilities. These As leaders, we all have a deliberate shared focus and reviews present an opportunity to common goal of contributing to the strategic position hold managers to account for the delivery of services, of QCS, guided by our overarching principles in share innovation and good practice, identify opportunities Corrections 2030. to improve our performance, actively respond to emerging issues, maintain positive and productive workplaces, I look forward to the coming weeks and months as we and create safer communities through enhanced service continue to work together to deliver positive outcomes delivery. for QCS and forge safer communities for a safer Queensland. We will face many challenges in the weeks and months ahead, but I look forward to facing these with you and supporting your efforts in delivering safe and effective corrective services. CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 5 COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Coming together in crisis
During the past six months, COVID-19 has challenged our operations, health and human spirit, but we are proud of how our “The SCOC has held a key function of keeping all officers updated officers have responded to the pandemic. and informed as the pandemic unfolded over the last six months.
This has never been more true than the way our officers have “It will also continue to be a regular source of contact regarding banded together following a number of our officers at the major developments and will aid those with any concerns or Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) Acadmey and Arthur inquiries. Gorrie Correctional Centre testing positive to COVID-19 in late August. Our officers have shown tremendous resilience and From the start of the pandemic, all areas of QCS have demonstrated how QCS comes together in a crisis. collaborated and delivered important services and provisions needed to adapt to the changing operational needs of the Safety of our officers and everyone in our care is our absolute organisation. priority and will continue to be as we adapt to operations in a COVID-19 world. “Our response to the pandemic has been proactive, innovative and strategic, and I congratulate every single officer across QCS From the outset, the State Corrections Operation Centre (SCOC) for their ongoing work in keeping COVID-19 out of our prisons and was established to provide an agency-wide strategic approach to helping keep our communities safe during this unprecedented the pandemic. crisis,” Commissioner Martin said.
Representatives of every part of QCS formed the group to ensure “Sadly, we have a long way to go in this pandemic and our emerging issues and risks were managed strategically while new Hotspot Response Planning Tool, developed by the SCOC, preserving officer safety and our core business of maintaining provides clarity around restrictions in place at any facility at public safety. a certain time, including relevant policies and an at-a-glance summary across the State. Commissioner Peter Martin APM said the impacts of the pandemic were significant and long lasting, affecting every part “Thank you for continuing to support each other during this of the organisation and would do for some time to come. remarkable time.”
Our response to COVID-19
JANUARY • New isolation procedures prisoners to make and receive introduced in correctional phone calls through headsets • First case of COVID-19 confirmed centres requiring all new from within their cells during in Queensland prisoners to undertake 14 days their 14-day isolation period. of isolation upon reception in all Officers always maintain control FEBRUARY high security prisons of the phone and physical contact between all parties is • COVID-19 Taskforce established • Community Corrections begin limited to lay the groundwork for QCS’ operating under Stage 2 response to the pandemic restrictions by limiting direct • New Public Health Direction engagement with offenders, introduced by the Chief Health MARCH clients and stakeholders and Officer protecting front line introducing socially distanced public safety workers against • The State Corrections Operation practices the threat of spitting, coughing Centre stood up to provide an and sneezing during the agency-wide, strategic approach MAY COVID-19 pandemic • Temperature checking • In line with the Queensland • Virtual Personal Visits program introduced into correctional Government recovery program, rolled out across Queensland to centres QCS moves towards the first keep prisoners in contact with stages of COVID-19 recovery, APRIL family and friends revising polices involving • Financial Services and Strategic managing prisoner receptions • Prisoner email and electronic Sourcing Command source and managing vulnerable fund transfer services a secure supply of Personal prisoners introduced as another channel Protective Equipment for use of communication for prisoners • Brisbane Correctional Centre across the organisation to connect with family and pioneer the use of Bluetooth friends during suspension of technology which enable personal visits
6 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
• Prisoners remain connected to • Prisoner Voicemail System is • Due to cases of COVID-19 in the courts through video links launched for families and friends the community, six prisons across the State to facilitate to keep in touch with loved ones commence Stage 2 restrictions over 600 sentences, with only in prison. The system allows on August 20 six prisoners being required to prisoners to retrieve messages appear in court in person and reply with a voicemail • Due to cases of COVID-19 in the message community, a total of 11 prisons • QCS worked closely with a range commence Stage 3 restrictions of agencies to plan for the safe JULY on August 22 return of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people being • Thermal imaging technology • QCS supports the Department released from prison to their introduced into correctional of Youth Justice through meals communities of origin during the centres and laundry for the Brisbane pandemic Youth Detention Centre following • Recovery Commencement Plan an outbreak of COVID-19 in the • Domestic and Family Violence Stage 3 comes into effect on July centre prevention month and National 10 Reconciliation Week honoured Personal visits to correctional • Queensland prisons from the across the State with virtual centres recommence on July 10 New South Wales border up to events taking place at several and including Rockhampton correctional centres and • Personal visits to South East are locked down with Stage 4 community corrections offices Queensland correctional centres restrictions due to a positive test temporarily suspended on July at the QCS Academy on August JUNE 29 27
• QCS Recovery Commencement AUGUST • Further officers test positive to Plan Stage 2 comes into effect COVID-19 and testing expands to on June 12 • State Operations Correction a broader group of people at the Centre (SCOC) developed a new QCS Academy on August 28 • QCS announces the Hotspot Resource Planning recommencement of personal Tool for Custodial Operations • Following positive COVID-19 visits to correctional centres and Community Corrections tests amongst officers at Arthur from July 10 to address the next stage of Gorrie Correctional Centre planning and recovery during the (AGCC), all AGCC officers to be • Reception prisoners no longer pandemic tested following Queensland required to complete 14-day Health advice and restrictions isolation unless there are • Personal visits to South East amended based on centre (see suspected or confirmed cases Queensland correctional centres Figure 1) on August 30 of COVID-19, or specific at- recommence on August 13 risk prisoners determined by Queensland Health
Figure 1
CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 7 COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
Keeping prisoners and families connected
Embracing new technologies has back into the community, while minutes each, and 55 visit kiosks allowed prisoners and their loved ensuring the safety and security of have been installed in prisons. ones to stay connected during the our centres,” Deputy Commissioner recent pandemic, an important Koulouris said. Since they commenced in April, more part of their health, wellbeing and than 6700 virtual personal visits rehabilitation. Since April, over 2600 emails have have occured. been received by prisoners across Several new technological solutions the State, over 2100 replies have Deputy Commissioner Koulouris have been introduced in correctional been sent by prisoners and over praised QCS officers for their ability centres since the start of the 1600 secure electronic fund transfers to quickly adapt to short- and long- pandemic, such as virtual personal have been made into prisoner trust term solutions to improve outcomes visits, voicemail, email, Bluetooth accounts. for prisoners and increase the safety technology and electronic fund of prisons. transfer (EFT). For the month of May, over 800 virtual personal visits occurred Deputy Commissioner Organisational across the State, averaging 34 Capability James Koulouris said the pandemic was the impetus to fast-track new channels to allow prisoners more opportunities to keep in touch with their families during what had been a difficult time.
“The ability for prisoners to connect with family and friends, and access money for phone calls and buy-up items is important in ensuring prisoners continue their rehabilitation and reintegration
8 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 8 COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
Minimising risk: QCS’ recovery is underway
The impacts of the pandemic will be Queensland Corrective Services processing are already being used significant and long lasting and as (QCS) facilities. in correctional centres as part of a recent events have shown, outbreaks comprehensive health screening in the community will continue for Commissioner Peter Martin APM process. the foreseeable future. To manage said QCS was operating in a time the response to localised outbreaks of uncertainty and the new plan This process is mandatory for in the community, a new response highlighted necessary action if the everyone entering correctional planning tool has been developled risk of infection increased or there environments, including the QCS to help us respond quickly and was a confirmed COVID-19 case in a Academy and the secure unit at the appropriately to subsequent waves QCS facility. Princess Alexandra Hospital. of infection. “Our overall recovery approach Commissioner Martin said The Hotspot Response Planning Tool continues to be flexible and technologies such as thermal has been developed by the State responsive to community imaging provided QCS with a Corrections Operation Centre (SCOC) developments and local conditions, sustainable approach to use well and ensures relevant policies are and is in place to ensure the safety into the future. in place at correctional centres and and health of all our officers, community corrections offices. It also prisoners and the wider community,” “The landscape is constantly ensures restrictions and anticipated Commissioner Martin said. changing, but by working closely impacts to operations are addressed with Queensland Health and with the through the new four-stage approach Additional measures such as thermal support of our dedicated workforce, to manage the risk of COVID-19 in imaging automated temperature we are well placed for the challenges checks and digital biometric entry ahead.”
CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 9 History made on July 1: transition of correctional centre to public operation
A warm welcome was extended to the support in achieving this historical who have transferred from other newest members of the Queensland milestone and for their ongoing Queensland prisons and those new Corrective Services (QCS) family as efforts for a successful transition, to QCS, who joined the organisation Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre including the officers at AGCC, through one of the largest ever (AGCC) transitioned to public the operational teams and the recruitment campaigns undertaken operation on July 1. transitional leadership group,” in QCS history. Commissioner Martin said. The transition of Queensland’s The officers joined 5500 of their largest remand centre, formerly “After months of meticulous esteemed colleagues across the operated by the privately-run planning and the added challenge State who perform the vital role of organisation GEO, was one of of transitioning during the greatest keeping communities safe – a public the largest, most complex and global health crisis in 100 years, this service which forms an integral significant projects in the 170-year was a large undertaking with many component of the criminal justice history of QCS. moving parts. system.
Commissioner Peter Martin APM “I am incredibly proud of this “This is an exciting time to join praised the project team and remarkable achievement and QCS, and I look forward to working the staff at GEO who worked in congratulate everyone who had a with you all as we continue to partnership for over 12 months role to play.” strive towards becoming a top-tier to ensure the safe and secure public safety agency, committed transition. The foundational staffing group to protecting the people of consists of officers who have worked Queensland,” Commissioner Martin “I want to thank everyone for their at AGCC for many years, those said.
The Commissioner, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Leadership Team of Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre
10 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 THE HISTORY of Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre
When Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre (AGCC) opened its doors in 1992, the Wacol-based remand centre started with 380 beds.
The centre was largely commissioned to replace the notorious Brisbane Gaol at Boggo Road, which began operation in 1883.
AGCC was only the second correctional centre to operate under the private sector within the Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) Commission.
At the time, it briefly housed a youth detention centre and an immigration centre in the mid-2000s.
Over the years the centre has gradually expanded to accommodate about 1200 prisoners and is now one of Queensland’s largest remand centres.
As for Arthur Gorrie, the man for whom the centre is named, he was a distinguished Toastmaster who introduced Toastmaster public speaking groups to correctional centres across Queensland.
Mr Gorrie believed teaching prisoners communication skills would help in the rehabilitation process and open doors to a world of opportunity.
He set out to establish a Toastmasters group in every correctional centre in Queensland and donated considerable time to making this happen.
The Toastmasters groups had a positive impact on the prisoners, many of whom were illiterate and uneducated, but through the program were taught how to articulate their arguments and feelings and gain social skills and self-confidence.
When it came to choosing a name for the new centre in 1992, there was no question among the decision makers. Mr Gorrie’s contribution to prisoner rehabilitation throughout Queensland almost landed him unofficial naming rights and thus AGCC was established.
Sadly, Mr Gorrie passed away shortly before the centre opened, but his legacy lives on.
On July 1, AGCC became a publicly operated correctional facility under QCS.
CORRECTIONSCORRECTIONS NEWS NEWS | AUGUST| SEPTEMBER 2020 2020 1111 Maroochydore Community Corrections office opens
The new Maroochydore Community have access to a facility that enables “They are often the unseen part of Corrections office was officially them to conduct their business our business, but like all our officers, opened at a ceremony on the effectively and with appropriate their work is incredibly important in Sunshine Coast on August 5 by safety mechanisms in place,” keeping the community safe. I am Minister for Corrective Services Mark Commissioner Martin said. pleased we are able to provide them Ryan MP and QCS Commissioner this facility to support their work.” Peter Martin APM. Our Community Corrections officers The new office is a fit-for-purpose aid in the rehabilitation of offenders facility that will allow the 22 officers by providing support, access to to manage more than 700 offenders treatment programs, stable housing who are under the supervision and and meaningful community work that care of QCS in the Sunshine Coast helps them live crime free lives in community. their community.
It also allows officers to provide A part of this work includes offenders essential facilities, including completing unpaid community interview, program and urinalysis service, which benefits a range testing rooms as well as increased “Community Corrections officers of community groups, and gives CCTV for the safety of officers and act as agents of change and offenders life and vocational skills offenders. help offenders correct offending that assist them to avoid reoffending. behaviour, administering orders Commissioner Martin said the of the court and coordinating Between 1 July 2019 and 30 June relocation provided a safer and more community service orders that 2020, 8,139 hours of unpaid appropriate workspace for officers to enable and encourage offenders and community service was completed conduct their work. to live as productive members of the by offenders reporting to the community. Maroochydore office, valued at “It is important that our officers $226,223 to the community.
12 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 Recruitment campaign launched Our Be On the Look Out (BOLO) recruitment campaign is in full swing after its recent launch and encourages Queenslanders to Capricornia Correctional Centre ‘take a look inside’ to see if they have what capacity increases as new units it takes to help keep our communities safe. The recruitment campaign is offering more than 400 full-time jobs with a range of come online career opportunities across the State, with The capacity of Queensland’s “By expanding Capricornia a particular focus on filling new positions prisons increased, and officers Correctional Centre and building at Capricornia Correctional Centre. will be safer as two secure units a new 1004 bed prison in Gatton Advertised jobs are available in at Capricornia Correctional Centre as part of Southern Queensland key locations including Woodford, were officially opened on August 4. Correctional Precinct Stage Two, Maryborough, Townsville, Mareeba it will allow us to manage and and Rockhampton, which is currently As part of the $241 million move prisoners around the State undergoing a major expansion at expansion, the units were officially effectively and gives flexibility Capricornia Correctional Centre. opened by Minister for Corrective to manage fluctuation prisoner Services Mark Ryan MP and numbers. Positions available range from Custodial Queensland Corrective Services Correctional Officers and Trade Instructors (QCS) Commissioner Peter Martin “The increased capacity will also to qualified Psychologists. APM. free up our officers to actively drive Commissioner Peter Martin APM behavioural change by engaging encouraged officers who had friends The units will increase the centre’s with prisoners and focusing on impacted by redundancies and lay-offs as capacity by 100 cells with a further their rehabilitation and reducing a result of COVID-19 to encourage them 188 cells will be added as the the risk of reoffending when they to apply to join Queensland Corrective residential units come online in return to the community. Services, a top tier front line public safety coming weeks. agency. “The safety of our centres is my Commissioner Martin said that top priority as Commissioner and “This is a great opportunity, and I once the expansion was complete QCS as an organisation, and by encourage people from all walks of life to in 2021, the centre would have a increasing the capacity of our take a look inside and see if they are up to total of 945 beds and would almost centres, we are making them a the challenge of a career in corrections as double the capacity of the centre. we undergo transformational change and safer environment for our officers, growth,” Commissioner Martin said. prisoners and visitors. “Capacity constraints remain “Working for QCS is deeply meaningful one of the biggest issues facing – we transform lives, and communities, correctional services worldwide every single day. Working for QCS means and addressing this is a priority for working at the front line of public safety or QCS,” Commissioner Martin said. providing direct support to those who do.
“For those looking for work in this crisis, we are offering a chance to become part of a team in a stable environment and join the front line emergency services keeping Queensland safe.
For information on how to apply to join QCS, visit corrections.qld.gov.au
Inside the new secure unit CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 13 CORRECTIONS NEWS | JANUARY 2020 13 Drug and Alcohol Strategy 2020-2025 launches
One of the five key principles of 2025, custodial and community The Drug and Alcohol Strategy Corrections 2030 is safety, which is corrections officers will be safer, 2020-2025 is available at our absolute priority. and officers, prisoners and corrections.qld.gov.au offenders will have access to the This is evident following the recent support they need, resulting in launch of our Drug and Alcohol fewer victims of crime related to Strategy 2020-2025, which provides alcohol and other drug use. an overarching framework for preventing and deterring supply, “Achieving this vision is a reducing demand and reducing the critical step for QCS on our way harms associated with alcohol and to becoming a top-tier front line other drug use. public safety agency.”
Commissioner Peter Martin APM The strategy has been said reducing the harms associated developed in collaboration with alcohol and other drug use was with QCS officers and key an important step in increasing the external stakeholders safety of officers and those under including Together Queensland Corrective Services' Queensland, Queensland (QCS) care. Health, Queensland Police Service, Department of the “The strategy provides an Premier and Cabinet, and overarching framework for Queensland Network of preventing and deterring supply, Alcohol and Other Drugs reducing demand and reducing the Agencies. harms associated with alcohol and other drug use,” Commissioner It is supported by Martin said. international evidence-based practice and independent “It also supports the vision that by research.
Commissioner Peter Martin APM capacity, ensuring rehabilitation is New Strategic Plan said QCS remained focused on culturally-appropriate, evidence- safer correctional environments, based and aligned with best- 2020-24 outlines humane management of prisoners practice, and working with other and offenders, reducing crime and community safety agencies to keep commitment to partnering with the community and Queensland safe.” stakeholders to keep Queensland enhance safety safe. Commissioner Martin encouraged everyone interested in public Queensland Corrective Services “Our primary focus is to ensure safety to take the time to read (QCS) recently released its new every corrective services officer, the plan, underpinned by the five Strategic Plan 2020-24 with a visitor and stakeholder, and those principles of Corrections 2030, vision to enhance the safety of within our care or supervision which supports QCS’ commitment Queenslanders over the next four are supported through safer to becoming a top tier public safety years. correctional environments,” agency in Queensland. Commissioner Martin said. QCS will strive to achieve this The Strategic Plan 2020-24 and through evidence-based, effective “The Strategic Plan 2020- Corrections 2030 can be viewed at corrective services which maximise 24 outlines our commitment corrections.qld.gov.au opportunities for rehabilitation to overhauling safety in our and reduce reoffending, as well as correctional environments, performance indicators to be used bolstering accountability and to measure against. governance, increasing prison
14 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 14 CORRECTIONS NEWS | JANUARY 2020 Officer Safety (Use of Force) Review begins rollout
The Officer Safety (Use of Force) Deputy Commissioner McCahon review, recommendations, and the Review (the Review), endorsed by established the Officer Safety overarching implementation of the the Commissioner on September Committee (OSC) in July to provide Review's recommendations.” 1, will build safer correctional the governance and authorising environments, emergency response environment to steward and Deputy Commissioner McCahon said leadership capability, technology implement recommendations of one of the most significant emerging and security accoutrements, with the Review and ensure continuous outcomes from the Review was the initial training to begin rolling out in improvement in contemporary officer development and rollout of training the following weeks. safety practices. for officers in the coming months.
Project lead, Deputy Commissioner “A range of training designed to Custodial Operations Gary McCahon improve officer safety will be rolled said safety and security remained out through the QCS Academy, one of Queensland Corrective including training to support the Services (QCS) top priorities and introduction of OC spray to custodial the Review was an important step in officers in high security men’s continuing to enhance the safety of prisons by the end of this year,” he QCS officers across all correctional said. environments. Training in the use of OC spray will “This review is a key commitment commence from September and will linked to Corrections 2030 and the be delivered progressively across the QCS Strategic Plan 2019-2023, and State, with planned completion by is a critical step in QCS becoming the end of the year. a top-tier, forward thinking, front “The OSC will play a critical role in line, public safety agency,” Deputy ensuring the safety of our officers Commissioner McCahon said. and our workplaces through practice
CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 15 New skills for prisoners recycling bikes into wheelchairs
Our officers are helping prisoners prisoners with meaningful work as “On this project, prisoners are from Palen Creek Correctional part of a structured day. developing a range of skills including Centre (PCCC) learn new skills by welding, spray-painting, air brushing transforming unwanted bicycles “Our officers are extraordinary and bicycle repair. into wheelchairs to help people people who go above and beyond with mobility issues in developing to support prisoners in our care, “The project also gives prisoners a countries. building the skills they need sense of satisfaction as they know to improve their chances of they are helping to give the gift of The idea came about when officers employment when released from mobility to people in need.” at PCCC learnt of the Wheelchair prison, which in turn reduces their Aid Project run by the Rotary Club chances of reoffending. Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise of Surfers Sunrise, who started the Director of Service Projects Larry project 22 years ago. Murray said the work performed by PCCC was of very high quality and PCCC Acting Deputy General Manager much appreciated. Superintendent Dave Gordon said officers found out about the program “The officers do a tremendous job and decided they wanted to get in training and supervising the involved in this worthy cause. prisoners and the wheelchairs produced at Palen Creek are of a very “After learning how to recycle the high quality,” Mr Murray said. bicycles into wheelchairs, the officers have been training the PCCC sources the unwanted bicycles prisoners as part of a community from refuse transfer centres, with service program, which has since International research suggests permission from local authorities. produced over 2100 wheelchairs,” that when prisoners are released A/g Supt. Gordon said. into the community and have stable Since the program started, the accommodation, social support Rotary Club has supplied almost Community service programs, such and employment opportunities, 9000 of these mobility aids to people as bicycle recycling, play a vital role they have the best chance of not in need in East Timor, Vietnam, in improving the safety and security reoffending, which makes the Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa and of correctional centres by providing community safer for everyone. Africa. 16 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 undertake their critical role in crime Although the project is focused on prevention and ensuring community Community Corrections, many of Partnership safety. the developed training modules will benefit officers across the agency. delivers “This curriculum is an investment in our exceptional and dedicated Griffith’s Dr Lacey Schaefer said workforce, who work with the most the partnership was an exciting world-class difficult and challenging members opportunity for Community of society every day to keep our Corrections officers. community safe. training “The training packages being “Griffith University is recognised as a developed adhere to evidence- QCS has partnered with Griffith world leader in the criminology field based best practices in corrections, University to develop an innovative and has the largest community of bringing officers the knowledge training curriculum, positioning the criminologists in Australia, including and skills they will require to be organisation as an international many of our own officers. advanced practitioners,” Dr Schaefer leader in evidence-based said. corrections. “The university will work alongside the Community Corrections Training “The professional development The new curriculum will fulfil key team at the QCS Academy, whose opportunities this brings for officers recommendations of the Queensland role is to encourage superior will have important consequences Parole System Review (QPSR) to community corrections practices that for their wellbeing and performance, review and implement training for enhance public safety and prevent with subsequent benefits for Community Corrections officers, reoffending,” Deputy Commissioner corrections clients and their investing in reforms to Queensland’s Stewart said. communities. correctional system. The project will support the effective “Griffith University is excited to QPSR program lead, Deputy case management of offenders be partnering with QCS on this Commissioner Community through a new evidenced based impactful project.” Corrections and Specialist practice curriculum, including Operations Paul Stewart said the structured on-the-job training, The new Community Corrections partnership would ensure QCS specialised education for specific training curriculum is expected to officers were well equipped to roles, and professional development. commence roll-out in 2021.
Acknowledging National Reconciliation Week during the pandemic
The pandemic has challenged “Our officers honoured the week Mabo Day. our operations, but Community by engaging colleagues and Corrections officers from around the stakeholders and reflecting on Other officers across the region State have found innovative, mostly National Reconciliation Week’s participated in various livestreaming socially distanced ways, to honour rich historical significance and events and webinars on YouTube and significant events, such as National the important role we all play in Facebook. Reconciliation Week (May 31 to June reconciliation,” said Supt. Payne. 3). Officers from Maroochydore The messages were an opportunity Community Corrections learnt more In the Far Northern Region, Cairns to share symbolic milestones— such about the diversity, culture and District Office’s cultural liaison as the 1967 Referendum and the achievements of Aboriginal and officers, who play an important role High Court Mabo Decision – that Torres Strait Islander people through in connecting people with culture, led to reconciliation, and links to a presentation put together by acknowledged the week by sending relevant YouTube videos, articles Senior Case Manager, Joshua (with daily themed emails to colleagues and television programs about the endorsement from a local cultural in lieu of traditional face-to-face importance of reconciliation. contact). community events. Officers from Thursday Island Regional Manager North Regional Manager Far Northern District Office commemorated Coast Community Corrections Region Superintendent Gabrielle National Reconciliation Week with Superintendent Ursula Roeder ACM Payne said officers in the region an afternoon tea with colleagues said during these challenging times, did a wonderful job acknowledging and other agencies in the shared it was important to reflect on our National Reconciliation Week Government hub. The office was then country as a whole and understand remotely. closed on May 29 in recognition of that reconciliation was a journey that Torres Strait Flag Day and June 3 for all must take part in. CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 17 Smart Pups graduate at Palen Creek
The Smart Pups program is one way Prisoners at the low-security centre International research confirms that our officers are helping prisoners received remote training modules dog handling programs such as learn valuable skills, self-worth, during the COVID-19 lockdown to this are effective in helping improve confidence and what can be achieved continue training the dogs. prisoner behaviour while in custody, by investing in others less fortunate. as well as making prisoners less “Despite the pandemic, we've been likely to re-offend upon release when Golden Retriever Twiggy and able to find ways to continue the compared to those not involved in a chocolate Labrador Beau, trained by training so prisoners involved in the dog handling program. prisoners at Palen Creek Correctional program could continue to give back Centre (PCCC), will go to children to the community and specifically, Smart Pups Senior Dog Trainer Dayle with disability in the coming months children with disability. Telford said it was wonderful to after the prison’s first group of Smart partner with Queensland Corrective Pups graduated the program on Services again to establish the Smart August 13. Pups program in a third centre.
The prisoners taught the dogs basic “We are really happy with what has obedience skills and tasks such as been achieved with Twiggy and Beau retrieving items, opening doors and at Palen Creek. The quality of pups removing socks – their first step of are amazing, and this makes our training on their journey to becoming job of finalising their training much qualified working assistance dogs. quicker and easier,” Ms Telford said.
PCCC Acting Deputy General “Palen Creek should be very proud Manager Superintendent David of their work with the Smart Pups Gordon said the centre was excited program.” to receive the Smart Pups program “It is a win-win for the prisoners and following its success at Borallon the children in need. The prisoners The Smart Pups program is the first Training and Correctional Centre and involved were proud to give back step of training for the assistance Maryborough Correctional Centre. to the community and see the dogs dogs. Once all training is complete, graduate to go on to help children the dogs will be placed with a child “This program is another way we with disability.” in Australia or New Zealand based on are attempting to break the cycle of the dog’s individual abilities and the reoffending,” A/g Supt. Gordon said. needs of the child.
18 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 Red benches raise awareness of domestic and family violence Corrections dogs trained to We recently joined forces with Red Rose Foundation Australia, Townsville City Council keep North Queensland and Queensland Police Service to construct red benches for display outside of the Council prisons safe building and the Mundingburra Police Station to raise awareness of domestic and family violence. Lotus Glen Correctional Centre recently hosted a joint general purpose dog handler training course with officers from Townsville The benches were constructed by prisoners from Correctional Complex. Townsville Correctional Complex.
Our highly-skilled dog squad officers work closely with corrective Townsville Correctional Complex Acting General services officers to provide the highest security and response Manager Chief Superintendent Louise Kneeshaw capability to keep our prisons safe and secure. said manufacturing the benches was a great example of QCS’ commitment to taking a stand Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) Academy General Manager against domestic violence. Chief Superintendent Alan Butler said it was a practical decision for Lotus Glen to join forces with Townsville to enable operational “We deal with domestic and family violence at agility and minimise unnecessary travel during the COVID-19 many levels in QCS, with many prisoners being pandemic for training usually completed onsite at the Dog Squad perpetrators of domestic and family violence. Complex in Wacol. We were happy to be involved and have the opportunity to help raise awareness of this “Due to the importance of our dog squad program and the value important issue,” A/g Chief Supt. Kneeshaw QCS dogs add to correctional centre security, this essential said. training could not be delayed,” said Chief Supt. Butler. The benches provide a permanent presence in “The pandemic has shifted how we conduct all of our operational public spaces and act as a symbolic reminder training, and I commend our agile training officers for their work of domestic and family violence in our to complete these vital regional certifications, while minimising communities. essential travel.” For prisoners, constructing the benches The 12-week general purpose dog handler training program has a provides them with an opportunity to learn key strong focus on safety and security, with graduates playing a vital life and vocational skills, which gives them a role in emergency response and de-escalation on deployment to better chance of employment once released a correctional centre. Core competencies of the course include from custody, while also giving back to the obedience, agility, searching, bite work and handler scenario community. training. The collaboration of the red benches helps raise Chief Supt. Butler said there was a high level of skills and public awareness and keep this important issue commitment invested in the training of the handlers and their visible in communities. dogs. The first red bench was installed in Rockhampton “General purpose dogs and their handlers require specific skills and was constructed by prisoners from to manage risks and contain situations safely within correctional Capricornia Correctional Centre. centres,” he said. Keep an eye out for one near you and help “Our world-class course is designed to ensure these skills are us take a stand against domestic and family attained to the highest standard to ensure the safety and security violence. of our centres and the broader community.”
CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 19 Working to reduce hepatitis C in prisons
July 28 marked World Hepatitis Day, an international event “Prisons are recognised worldwide as incubators for aimed at increasing awareness and influencing positive blood-borne viruses which presents a real risk to officers, change in the testing and treatment of hepatitis C and prisoners and to the community when a prisoner is hepatitis B. released.
This year’s theme was to ‘Find the Hero Inside You’, which “Reducing the prevalence of hepatitis C in our correctional drew attention to the issue of prevention (vaccination facilities will have a positive effect on rates not just in the for hepatitis B) and early detection (testing and cure facilities, but also in the general community.” for hepatitis C), particularly for those living with viral hepatitis – those most at risk of sever liver disease In 2018, Queensland Corrective Services, in partnership including liver cancer. with Hepatitis Queensland, released three educational videos to all correctional centres across Queensland. The We are committed to raising awareness and reducing the videos are specific to the correctional environment and spread of hepatitis C within the correctional environment. explain how the disease is contracted, why it is worth getting tested and how easy and effective treatment is. Assistant Commissioner Northern Region Command Peter Shaddock said hepatitis C was more common among prisoners than in the general community.
According to Hepatitis Queensland, hepatitis C is more prevalent in a correctional centre 20-40 times higher on average than the general community, which is about one per cent.
“The safety of officers and prisoners in our care is our absolute priority,” Assistant Commissioner Shaddock said.
A message from Hepatitis Queensland: Treatment for hepatitis C is available to everyone and is as simple as taking tablets daily for 8-12 weeks with little to no side effects and cures around 95 per cent of people. Hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination.
For anyone concerned about whether they have been exposed to hepatitis B or C, or already diagnosed, visit your doctor today or call Hepatis Queensland on 1800 437 222.
20 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 and a highly agitated and aggressive Between 1 January and 1 August 2018, QCS officer man who was armed with a knife, 41 women were killed as a result of yelling threats of violence. domestic and family violence. Without Kyle’s brave actions, it may have been receives bravery He used his training as a Custodial 42. Correctional Officer to disarm and award restrain the man until police arrived. Congratulations to Kyle on receiving the Bravery Medal. Commissioner Peter Martin APM said it was appropriate that Kyle’s brave Our officers play a vital role in actions be recognised at a national keeping the community safe. Their level. commitment and dedication to helping people stretches beyond “As a front line public safety prisons walls, as was the case with agency, the safety of Queensland Kyle Patrech. is our core business and purpose,” Commissioner Martin said. On March 31, Kyle from the Escort and Security Branch was awarded “Kyle, despite the clear risk to his the Bravery Medal by the Governor- own safety, likely saved a woman General His Excellency General the from further serious harm and made Honourable David Hurley AC DSC his community safer, using his (Retd) for his heroic act in helping a training to de-escalate and restrain victim of domestic violence. the man.
In 2018, Kyle heard a loud argument “I congratulate Kyle for his bravery outside his residence and went and his service to his community. He outside to assist a woman who was in is a role model to all our officers, and I distress while calling police. am very proud that we have officers of his calibre at Queensland Corrective Kyle, with little regard for his own Services.” safety, put himself between a woman
Farewell Superintendent Steve Simmons
After 34 years of dedicated service • the construction and “While the correctional environment in Queensland Corrective Services commissioning of the Maximum is dynamic and can be challenging, a (QCS), we say thanks and farewell to Security Unit at Sir David career in corrections can be rewarding Superintendent Steve Simmons. Longland Correctional Centre and is an opportunity to make a (now Brisbane Correctional difference,” he said Supt. Simmons started his career in Centre) the Queensland Prisons Department • the integration of terrorism- “You need to be resilient, an effective in 1986 as a probationary Prison related risks into existing risk team member, respectful and as a Office at the Brisbane Prison Complex management arrangements. public servant, serve the public.” (Boggo Road). During his time at QCS, Supt. Supt. Simmons now plans on Throughout his career, Supt. Simmons has seen many finishing a major building project and Simmons performed in various improvements, including the going camping to fish and drive off- roles, including First Class Custodial modernisation of infrastructure in a road in the four-wheel-drive. Correctional Officer, Manager (Special custodial and community setting, the Projects), Deputy General Manager introduction and provision of offender We thank Supt. Simmons for his and General Manager across several rehabilitation and management, service and wish him well for future. locations including low and high and a range of safety and security security correctional facilities. equipment now available to officers.
He has managed and participated Supt. Simmons said he was in a several projects and reviews, passionate about protecting the including but not limited to: community and providing a safe and caring environment for all.
CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 21 Following in their footsteps: a legacy in
corrections Ross, Mark, Tom and Peter at Mark's graduation
Brothers Ross and Mark Copland were often still outside working on east Queensland, and held an who work at Wolston Correctional supervised jobs and I was able to see impressive portfolio of roles in the Centre are custodians of a significant what a prisoner looked like, what areas of training, assessment and Queensland Corrective Services dad looked like in his uniform and mentoring and provided support (QCS) family legacy. what he was doing. I was very proud and guidance to his fellow officers of my father,” said Ross Copland. throughout his career. The Copland family legacy has five members working for QCS across Ross joined Boggo Road Gaol as a Peter met his wife Sarah at the old three generations. prison officer in 1985 – two years Moreton B Correctional Centre in after his father retired. He has 1999. They worked directly together The Copland family share something held diverse roles throughout his for years and used to carpool into special. They all started their careers almost 35 years at QCS. A highlight work having lived near each other. in a trade and later followed in their was being chosen as part of the The rest is history! father Tom’s footsteps, joining QCS commissioning team for Sir David at various stages of their lives. Longland Correctional Centre which More recently and prior to Peter’s was the first brand new facility built retirement, they went in different Collectively, the Copland’s careers in Queensland. His trade background directions work-wise – Peter spent span over 100 years in corrections. led him to the role of trade instructor, more time training at the QCS where he was responsible for setting Academy and Sarah took on the role While they have not all worked up workshops for prisoners to work of acting supervisor at Brisbane under the same roof, paths not often and learn skills. Women’s Correctional Centre. Her crossed and different roles held, career has also gone from strength they all share a love of protecting Eldest brother Peter, a former marine to strength and she is now a the community, which is what engineer, retired from Brisbane correctional supervisor within the drove them to a career in corrective Women’s Correctional Centre early Escort and Security Branch (ESB) services. last year after 42 years of service. where she joined late last year. During his time at QCS, he worked Tom, a builder by trade, started at various centres throughout south Sarah recently discovered that out at the old Brisbane Gaol, today known as Boggo Road Gaol, where he worked as a prison officer and trade instructor for 17 years.
Ross, Tom’s youngest son and Manager of Business Services at Wolston Correctional Centre, was only six when his father joined the Prison Service and remembers thinking his father was a police officer for many years because the uniforms were the same colour!
He doesn’t recall when that changed, but as he got older, he became more curious about what his father did and what being a prison officer was like.
“Dad was a quiet man who didn’t talk much about the job so when I would pick him up from work, his work team Peter in the office at Numinbah
22 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 was offered an acting supervisor the QCS Academy and is now on roster role. He continues to successfully at Brisbane Women’s Correctional juggle both roles on and off today and Centre. although the role can be challenging, it is rewarding. Ross said that for people joining the organisation now or for those already “Having my father and brothers in QCS in the job, it’s an exciting time to be in gave me a good indication of what it corrections. was like working in corrections, but if you didn’t have that connection, it “With the implementation of would be very hard to understand what Corrections 2030, our 10-year strategic we do and how we go about doing it,” roadmap, we are already seeing said Mark Copland.
Mark said they were all very proud of what their father did. He was very positive and secure about being a prison officer and was proud in himself for what he achieved.
Peter in uniform in 1977 It’s important not to forget about mum, who has also been a huge her office at ESB was also shared supporter of her husband, three by husband Peter and brother-in- sons and daughter-in-law working in law Ross in previous years as the corrections. centre has gone through several transformations. Peter said their mother understood what the job could be like, but has Last but not least, middle brother always been supportive of her sons Mark was the last Copland (brother) following in her husband's footprints. to join QCS back in 2010 after a long She was proud her family had taken on career in the automotive industry. He good, long-term careers that are very was also looking for a career change highly-regarded. Mark and Ross Copland and saw first-hand what a successful and rewarding career his father and While the Copland’s do their best to positive and innovative changes in brothers had, and the diversity of roles leave work issues at work, knowing cultivating safer communities and offered. what the roles entail, they are there reducing the number of victims of for each other when support is needed crime,” said Ross Copland. He jokes that it was inevitably only a and share a camaraderie like no other. matter of time before he ended up at “So much more is planned for the QCS, given the family connection and It must be something in the water or future, which is a significant step the life his family knew in some shape the fact that all the Coplands rank QCS forward for our organisation.” or form for so many years. as a top employer, but the Copland legacy continues with Ross’ daughter Mark joined as a custodial correctional having recently completed the officer and in a short space of time, Correctional Officer Entry Program at
Sarah Copland
CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 23 He said the role was challenging the ‘Netball Queensland Community at times, but he enjoyed engaging Coach of the Year Award’ in 2018. QCS officer with people and making a difference by promoting pro-social behaviour Barrie makes and safe working environments for officers and prisoners to co-exist a difference safely together. “It’s easy to do your job when you Townsville Correctional Complex have good and dedicated people (TCC) Residential Accommodation around you who understand what it Manager Barrie is one of many takes to work in this industry,” says Queensland Corrective Services Barrie. officers who consistently go above to make a significant contribution to the Making a difference is Barrie’s community. passion, which is evident within his workplace and in the community, He has been part of the QCS family for where he has been an active 33 years, joining North Queensland’s volunteer since the 1990s. Her Majesty’s Prison, (now Townsville Correctional Complex) as a Clerk in Barrie said it was important to be a 1987. positive influence on young people in the community and encourage them Barrie started in Human to make good choices, follow their Resources and later progressed dreams and achieve whatever they to operational roles such as put their mind to. Industries Adviser, which gave Barrie loves playing cricket and has him a greater understanding of His first volunteering experience was been President of the local cricket prisoner management functions with Camp Quality as a Companion club for 12 years and also started that helped pave the way for future in the mid-1990s. The camp provides playing rugby league last year when acting opportunities within the kids battling cancer a chance to have his colleague from TCC, Custodial Accommodation portfolio. fun and be kids. Correctional Officer Russell, started a team mostly from TCC to participate Barrie now proudly works as a He was then ‘roped’ into volunteering in the annual Masters Rugby event in Residential Accommodation Manager as a Netball coach and having basic Townsville. managing an accommodation knowledge of the game, he developed capacity of over 500 prisoners across a passion for coaching and umpiring, The evolution of the team, Townsville five areas within mainstream and which he has been doing for the past Chiefs, has brought fundraising protection. 17 years. Coaching also won him opportunities to the community as all of the profits made are donated to charitable causes, including Black Dog Institute and The Oasis Townsville.
Barrie said working at TCC and volunteering in the community had almost certainly galvanised his desire to make a difference in people’s lives.
“I have a strong belief about empowering people in any situation to make their own choices and if I can help them in the smallest way to achieve that than our community will be a better place to live for everyone,” he said.
We are proud of all our officers for their dedication to keeping the community safe.
24 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 ’
WANTED PEOPLE TO JOIN THE FRONT LINE OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND KEEP QUEENSLAND SAFE
IDENTIFYING FEATURES: Queensland Corrective Services has issued a ‘be on the lookout’ (BOLO) alert to recruit people to • Act as a role model to drive rehabilitation while join the front line of public safety and protect working to ensure prisoners are managed safely commuities as custodial correctional officers. and securely Queensland’s most wanted people from all walks of life should approach the opportunity with • Must have empathy and undertake their role caution. ethically and professionally They will be tasked as agents of change to stop the • Excellent communication skills cycle of reoffending. • Strong desire to make a difference in crime Be advised, there is an amnesty period over the prevention and community safety month of September for these wanted persons to hand themselves into QCS.
For more information visit corrections.qld.gov.au/careersCORRECTIONS NEWS | AUGUST 2020 25 QCS officer Garry celebrates Senior officer remembered 36 years in corrections after dedicating over 60 years Congratulations to Garry from Palen Creek Correctional to corrections Centre (PCCC) for celebrating 36 years with Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) and for his contribution to Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) was keeping the community safe. saddened to learn of the passing of Former Assistant Comptroller-General, Mr Lothar Wilhelm ‘Bill’ Deichsel Garry has dedicated his career to helping others and (Retd.). applying the skills and knowledge he has gained through the years to supporting the rehabilitation of Commissioner Peter Martin APM said Mr Deichsel was prisoners in custody. well known and respected by many QCS officers for his ongoing and remarkable service to protect the people A former police officer, Garry joined QCS in 1984 at Etna of Queensland. Creek (known today as Capricornia Correctional Centre) as a Prison Officer and supervised prisoners working “Mr Deichsel dedicated his 60-year career to on the prison farm. Titles may have changed over the corrections (then known as the Queensland Prison years, but the aspiration to give back and protect the Service), starting as a prison officer at H.M. Prison community is still the same, which is what drove Garry Townsville in 1961 and serving Queensland at H.M. to join corrections. Prison Rockhampton, H.M. Prison Wacol, H.M. Prison Woodford, and H.M. Brisbane Prison Complex (Boggo Within a few years, Garry took up a role as a Senior Road Gaol) throughout the years,” Commissioner Custodial Correctional Officer at Lotus Glenn Martin said. Correctional Centre (LGCC) where he worked closely with prisoners on supervised projects within the He also represented the Queensland Prison Service community. He played an instrumental role in driving internationally on several occasions, undertaking a the Work Camp program forward and worked closely secondment to Papua New Guinea in the early 1970s, with prisoners to rebuild communities in the Far North working in prisons near Rabaul, Lae and Port Moresby. after devastating natural disasters, including the Charleville flood in 1990. He spent time abroad completing a Senior Management Course in Penal Administration at His work with Aboriginal youths in the mid-1990s won H.M. Prison Service College in England and took the him and the team at LGCC a Human Rights award – a opportunity to visit prisons as an official observer first for a correctional centre to receive. The award representing Queensland Prison Service in the United recognised the innovative programs implemented to Kingdom, Germany, Singapore and Hong Kong before help young people break the cycle of offending. returning to Australia.
Today, Garry is a Field Supervisor at the Mitchell Work Although Mr Deichsel officially retired in 1988 Camp (aligned to PCCC) and said the projects the after working as an Assistant Comptroller-General prisoners participate in give them a sense of belonging and Acting Deputy Comptroller-General, he never and he was proud that many of the skills he had taught completely left corrections and was asked to return a them have had positive, life changing impacts. few short years later in 1991 as an Inspector reviewing systems at prisons. He also spent some time working “Everyone deserves a chance and when people are in youth detention. willing to learn, it is our duty to teach them,” said Garry. Mr Deichsel was also exceptionally regarded by “I am proud of what our prisoners can achieve with QCS officers stationed across the State for his work with the support and how many of them have found meaningful QCS Academy. In 2008, Mr Deichsel was recognised work in the community upon release.” with an Australia Day Certificate for his dedication to developing aspiring officers and he continued to lend his knowledge and experiences to training at the QCS Academy until recently.
Commissioner Martin said Mr Deichsel was not only respected by officers across the State, but internationally as well, and was highly regarded as a custodian of our history as an organisation.
“Many of us have had the privilege of visiting the curated historical hallway at the QCS Academy and have observed Mr Deichsel’s service record, photo and set of uniforms hanging on display,” he said.
“Mr Deichsel will be deeply missed in our community and I express my sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”
26 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 In memoriam
It is with sincere regret that we advise of the passing of the following officers. We recognise their dedication to upholding and ensuring community safety and their honourable service for Queensland.
Our deepest condolences go out to families, friends, loved ones and work colleagues. They will be sadly missed.
Mr Lindsay ‘ROK’ Allen, former Mr Arthur McDonald, former Mr Leslie Ephraims, retired Custodial Trade Instructor from Maryborough volunteer prison chaplain at Palen Correctional Officer. Mr Ephraims Correctional Centre. Mr Allen played Creek Correctional Centre. Mr worked across Custodial Operations a vital role in the prevention of McDonald supported prisoners for in a range of positions. Throughout crime through the rehabilitation and 35 years and will be remembered his career, he demonstrated education of prisoners. He was a as a ‘man who loved God and loved professionalism and commitment highly regarded officer amongst his people’. to community safety and will be colleagues and will be remembered remembered for his passion and love for his positive attitude to all Mr Phillip Story, Correctional for the work he did. situations. Supervisor who served QCS at the Capricornia Correctional Centre for Mrs Sarah Bishop, former Supervisor Mr Reginald Poelitz, Custodial over three decades, commencing in Southern Region Community Correctional Officer, Palen Creek 1989. Corrections. Mrs Bishop was a much Correctional Centre. Mr Poelitz loved and admired member of the dedicated his career to the Southern Region team for over 10 rehabilitation of prisoners and Ms Lee Shumack, former years. She will be remembered for protecting the people of Queensland Administration Officer from Brisbane her infectious energy, exceptional for over two decades. Women’s Correctional Centre. Ms case management skills and Shumack touched many lives during willingness to help anyone in her Ms Brenda Martin, former District her career at QCS and in 2018 was sphere. Manager from the Innisfail District awarded a National Corrections Office. Ms Martin loved life and Day Certificate of Recognition for Mr Allan Kinsey, former people and will be remembered her dedication and reliability in the Superintendent. Mr Kinsey started for serving QCS honourably, delivery of administration functions his career at QCS in the mid 1960s receiving awards for her service and and positive contribution to the and worked across a range of dedication. BWCC Welfare Association, of which positions, before retiring in 1990 she was a founding member. as the Superintendent, Escort and Security Branch.
We would also like to pay tribute to Corrections dogs who have passed away this year.
The QCS dog squad plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of our correctional centres and are valued members of QCS. Our deepest condolences go out to the handlers and their families and colleagues who have worked closely with the dogs.
Corrective Services Dog Edge, former Corrective Service Dog Rip, former Corrective Service Dog Cilla, former general purpose dog from Townsville general purpose dog who joined passive alert drug detection dog who Correctional Centre. Edge was the dog squad in 2009. Rip worked commenced duty at Arthur Gorrie certified as a fully operational GP across many of our correctional Correctional Centre in 2008 before dog since 2013. He was always there centres protecting officers and the being re-teamed and joined the to support officers at Townsville community. He was an excellent Wolston and Brisbane Women's Delta Correctional Centre and was work dog with a lovely nature and Unit. She was a high achiever in her courageous and loyal. Loved by his tremendous will to succeed and vocation and kept her colleagues handler and family, Dog Handler Tony protect. He retired in 2011 due to safe up until she retired in June 2015. was undergoing training of his new health reasons and passed away She passed away in August this year dog when Edge passed away in April earlier this year. after a short illness. this year.
Grief is a natural reaction when we lose those closest to us, but you need not go through it alone. If you are experiencing distress with the loss of a friend, family member or colleague, of you are experiencing any other personal concerns, confidential counselling and support is available through SMG Health.
This service is available to all Queensland Corrective Services officers and their families, 24 hours a day, seven days per week by calling 1800 273 865 or [email protected]
CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 27 Welcome to new officers
The COVID-19 pandemic has to ensure the safe transition of training and joined our teams on presented challenges across the Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre the front line of public safety this board, including training operations, to QCS operation and required year! Whilst graduation ceremonies however the QCS Academy has training teams to transform have been suspended over the past overseen the biggest cohort of 440 operations in a volatile and rapidly few months, our local teams have Custodial Officer Entry Program changing environment. Sessions recognised the achievements of our (COEP) graduates to date in 2020. delivered during the COEP were new officers and welcomed them modified to reduce the risk of for duty at small, socially-distanced Safety remains QCS’ top priority, COVID-19 transmission and all events. and the QCS Academy has driven an the operationally critical training innovative approach to the delivery was conducted under Queensland We look forward to resuming our of training to ensure new officers can Health’s guidance for social formal graduation ceremonies to be deployed for duty state-wide. distancing requirements. recognise the work of our officers and their commitment to protecting Operation Certitude Phase One Congratulations to all of the new the community in the future. saw the delivery of critical training officers who have completed their
Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre graduates - May 2020
28 CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 Lotus Glen Correctional Centre graduates - July 2020
Capricornia Correctional Centre graduates - May 2020
Capricornia Correctional Centre graduates - March 2020
CORRECTIONS NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2020 29 Corrections GPO Box 1054 Northbank Plaza, 69 Ann Street Brisbane QLD 4001 (07) 3565 7824 [email protected] corrections.qld.gov.au
Follow us @QLDCorrections