290 Honoured for Bravery at Wieambilla Awards Ceremony in Dalby

Dalby, Queensland - More than 290 police officers, emergency service personnel and civilians have been recognised at a special honours and awards ceremony in Dalby, commemorating the courage and professionalism shown during the tragic Wieambilla incident.

Held at the Dalby Events Centre today, the ceremony paid tribute to those involved in responding to one of the most significant and confronting events in Queensland policing history.

On 12 December 2022, Constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow were fatally ambushed by two armed offenders while attending a rural property near Wieambilla as part of a missing persons inquiry. Neighbour Alan Dare was also killed before responding police officers fatally shot the offenders.

The ceremony acknowledged the efforts of Queensland Police Service members who faced extreme danger during the response, along with partner agencies and members of the community who provided vital support during and after the incident.

A total of 292 honours and awards were presented, including:

• 37 Queensland Police Valour Medals
• 15 Queensland Police Bravery Medals
• 1 Queensland Police Blue Heart Medal
• 17 Queensland Police Exemplary Conduct Medals
• 25 Commissioner's Certificates
• 7 Commissioner's Certificates of Notable Action

Acting Commissioner Brett Pointing said the awards reflected the dedication and bravery of those involved.

"These awards represent more than acts of bravery - they reflect our members' unwavering courage and commitment during one of the most significant and confronting incidents in Queensland's policing history," he said.

"Today we honour not only the actions taken on that day, but the integrity and dedication of the men and women who stood together."

Wieambilla Honours and Awards Committee Chair, Assistant Commissioner Katherine Innes, said the ceremony was an important moment of reflection and gratitude.

"While no award can fully capture the weight of the events of that day, today's ceremony recognises those who faced extraordinary danger and those who continue to uphold the proud traditions of policing," she said.

South West District Officer Superintendent Mick Thiesfield praised the unity shown by officers during the crisis.

"It was not just courage that defined our response - it was the bond between officers. You relied on each other, protected one another and stood together," he said.

"That unity and trust saved lives and reflects the very best of policing."

Today's event follows earlier posthumous honours awarded to Constables Arnold and McCrow in December 2022, including the Queensland Police Valour Medal and National Medal. In March 2023, neighbour Alan Dare was posthumously awarded the Queensland Police Bravery Medal.

The Queensland Police Service said it remains deeply proud of all those involved, whose actions continue to inspire colleagues and the wider community.