August 14, 2014
Former Yarraman police officer Perry Irwin – murdered 11 years ago – was remembered today with the official naming of a new water police catamaran in his memory.
Police Commissioner Ian Stewart attended the naming ceremony for the “Perry Irwin” in Brisbane.
Senior Sergeant Perry James Irwin served with the Queensland Police for 23 years and seven months from January 1980 until he was killed in the line of duty on August 22, 2003.
“Today is a very proud but sad day for the Queensland Police Service,” Commissioner Stewart said.
“(Perry) was a great leader and a good bloke. He will be keeping Queenslanders safe on the water.”
The “Perry Irwin” will initially operate out of Cairns and will replace the recently decommissioned “Russell A Wilson”.
It is the first of three new 24 metre vessels commissioned by the Queensland Police Service.
Commissioner Stewart said the three vessels would have multiple roles.
“They will be deployed as mobile command posts in disasters and major events, as search and rescue platforms and as floating police stations,” he said.
“The vessels are fitted with modern electronics and will significantly enhance the capability of the Water Police.
“They are designed for police officers to stay at sea for extended periods for patrol and other duties.”
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The anniversary of the death of former Yarraman police officer Snr Sgt Perry Irwin will be marked in Yarraman later this month.
Snr Sgt Irwin was ambushed and shot dead by a criminal during a police search of bushland near Caboolture in 2003.
A ceremony will be held at his graveside in Yarraman Cemetery from 5:30pm on August 22.
All members of the community are invited to attend, especially Yarraman residents.
A small social gathering will then follow at the Yarraman Bowls Club.
