Sophie Conlon
Sergeant Michael Hutchinson and Constable Rebekah Cass have received Highly Commended Mayoral Awards for their “tremendous courage” in the line of duty.
Tatiara District Council mayor Liz Goossens presented the pair with the awards at the Australia Day celebrations in Wolseley last week.
The two officers were involved in a call out in Senior last November that saw Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig fatally shot and Sgt Hutchinson injured.
Ms Goossens said as the community grieved the loss of Sgt Doig, it’s thoughts were also with Sgt Hutchinson and Con Cass.
“Policing is difficult and challenging work and I would like to recognise Sergeant Michael Hutchinson and Constable Rebekah Cass for the dedication and commitment to the service and our community by awarding them a Highly Commended Mayoral Award,” she said.
“Thank you for your dedication and unquestionable service to the community and South Australia Police.”
She said the award had only been presented once before, but felt it was deserved this year.
Speaking for Con Cass and himself, Sgt Hutchinson thanked the community for the support shown since the November 16 event.
“It is really easy for us to look after you when we believe and respect you and we thank you for the way you have embraced us,” he said.
“Policing is not an easy job, but it is made a lot easier when you have got a supportive community.
“We have both enjoyed being a part of the Tatiara and the connection we have with most of you.”
He thanked everyone who helped care for them on the night of the shooting and for the support they had received since.
“All I wanted in the hours after the event was just to see my daughters and my grandkids, and once I saw them I knew life was alright and everything was safe,” he said.
Sgt Hutchinson said it was his and Con Cass’ wish to be remembered for what they had achieved in the region and not the shooting.
“Regrettably, Jason, Bec and I are going to be defined by the events on that night, but it is not the a epitaph on our policing career that we wish to have,” he said.
“I have only one request, please treat us and speak to us like you did beforehand.
“I don’t want to be treated like a victim, some say I’m strong willed, stubborn is another word, but it is my intention to return to Bordertown as a police officer before I retire.”
The alleged shooter was Jadyn Stimpson and Sgt Hutchinson said his family had “been put in a position that no one should have been put in.”.
“As far as I am concerned they are victims as much as I am, they should be respected and our thoughts go out to them,” he said.
“They’re great people, and I just don’t want them to be ostracized.
“They’re wonderful people who’ve been caught up in a situation that beyond their control.”
Remembering his friend and colleague, Sgt Hutchinson said Sgt Doig was a wonderful and generous person.
“He saved my life, he should be remembered as such,” he said.
