Several Queensland Police Service (QPS) detectives have been acknowledged for the compassion they’ve shown to the families of homicide victims at the 2026 Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group Annual Night of Recognition.
Detective Superintendent Sonia Smith, Detective Sergeant Gary Hall and Senior Sergeant Katrina Clark were awarded the Damian Leeding Compassion in Policing Award.
The trio were honoured for the ongoing support they provided to the family of Toyah Cordingley following her murder at Wangetti Beach in 2018, including throughout the police investigation and trial in the Cairns Supreme Court in December 2025.
Toyah’s mother Vanessa Gardiner said the Cairns detectives involved in the case showed unwavering compassion, strength and dedication, and their kindness, patience and understanding helped carry them through some of their darkest times.
“I can say with complete honesty that our family could not have navigated this without them. The impact that they have had on us goes far beyond their role, it has been deeply personal and meaningful,” Ms Gardiner said.
“What stands out most is that their support has never wavered. Even as time has passed, they have continued to show up for us, ensuring we never felt alone in this journey. Their professionalism is exceptional, but it is their humanity that has made the greatest difference.”
Detective Superintendent Sonia Smith said police will always support the families of homicide victims and will never stop seeking justice for them.
“Words can’t articulate the pain and hurt Toyah’s family have endured over the last eight years, yet they showed incredible resilience and continued to put their faith in us to deliver justice for their daughter,” Detective Superintendent Smith said.
“I am incredibly proud of the hard work and compassion shown by the entire investigative team, and the personal sacrifices they made to support Toyah’s family throughout the extensive investigation, the international extradition, and judicial process.”
Detective Inspector Damien Hansen from the Homicide Group received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition for his service to Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group.
Detective Inspector Damien Hansen of the Homicide Group said he was deeply humbled and honoured to be recognised by QHVSG.
“Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of seeing first-hand the extraordinary care and support the organisation provides to families and loved ones affected by homicide,” Detective Inspector Hansen said.
“Over the past 15 years, I have attended hundreds of homicide investigations and witnessed the profound and lasting impact these tragedies have on those left behind. In every case, families have needed compassion and support beyond what police are able to provide, and time and again QHVSG has been there for them.
“Their support extends far beyond the immediate aftermath of a loss. They continue to stand with families through the challenges of court proceedings and the difficult journey that follows. I have also seen many families return to QHVSG events year after year, a powerful testament to the enduring care, connection and sense of community the organisation provides.
“To receive this recognition from an organisation that makes such a meaningful difference in the lives of so many is truly an honour.”
Nominees for the Damian Leeding Compassion in Policing Award:
- Detective Senior Constable Derek Hicks from the Tablelands Criminal Investigation Branch was nominated by the family of a 70-year-old Dimbulah man following his alleged murder in March this year.
- Former Detective Senior Constable Lee Harnden and Detective Senior Constable Stuart McLean were nominated by the family of a 74-year-old woman following her death in Molendinar in March 2022.
- Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Barry Karamujic from the Cairns Child Protection and Investigation Unit was nominated by the family of a five-year-old boy who was killed in Yarrabah in 2022.
- Inspector Michael Coulson was nominated by the family of Constable Matthew Arnold for the support he provided following Matthew’s death, Matthew and Rachel’s memorial service, Police Remembrance Days, and a coronial inquest earlier this year.
- Detective Senior Constable Adam Pommer and Sergeant Matthew Damro were nominated by the family of a 22-year-old man who died at Burleigh Heads in September 2024.
