A new exhibition at the Queensland Police Museum is shining a light on the service and sacrifice of Queensland police officers during World War I.
War and Police opens on August 28 and will run until February, featuring more than 30 artefacts, including historical photographs, rare documents, replica medals and police and military uniforms from 1915.
The exhibition explores the stories of officers who left their policing duties to serve overseas, including four who resigned from the Queensland Police Service and were killed on the battlefields: Edward Walsh, Michael Roache, William Burnell and Billy Elsdale.
Elsdale’s story is particularly significant. An Aboriginal tracker and the only QPS Aboriginal tracker known to have resigned to serve during the First World War, he died on the Western Front in 1916, just four days after joining his Australian Imperial Force unit.
Visitors can also discover the contrasting story of Constable William Turner, who ultimately chose to remain in Queensland and continue serving his community as a police officer.
The exhibition also features the stories of Arthur Bock and Donald McDonald, who returned from the war to pursue long and distinguished careers with Queensland Police.
Curator Lisa Jones said the exhibition offered an opportunity to connect with original records and uncover previously untold stories.
War and Police will remain on display through significant commemorative occasions including National Police Remembrance Day and Remembrance Day.
Image source and original story: mypolice.qld.gov.au