SA Police Officer of the Year for 2008: Senior Constable First Class Andrew Murphy with Unley Rotary President Jerry Casburn and District Governor Peter Shipp looking on

The award for South Australian Police Officer of the Year 2008 was presented to Andrew Murphy from the Elizabeth Police Station in Rundle Mall on Tuesday 12 May 2009.

Senior Constable Murphy, affectionately known as Spud, grew up in Elizabeth and has spent most of his 34 years in the service policing the northern suburbs of Adelaide. He is a Crime Scene Investigator at the Elizabeth station. Spud joined the force in January 1975 and graduated in 1977. After a short period patrolling the city he was posted to Para Hills and over the ensuing years moved between neighbouring stations. He is reputed to be the longest serving police officer in the Elizabeth area. For his diligent and ethical service to the community he has already been awarded the South Australia Police Medal and the National Medal.

Such accolades as ‘conscientious and effective’, ‘selfless attitude’, ‘a true inspiration’, ‘friendly, honest and reliable’, ‘a credit to the Police force’, ‘caring, concerned and focused’, ‘wonderful kindness’ have been cited in relation to his policing efforts.

His nomination for Police Officer of the Year by the Country Fire Service was inspired by his dedicated volunteer service, particularly with Dalkeith CFS. Other areas of volunteering include Hillbank Neighbourhood Watch, Health-watch at Lyell McEwin Hospital, the Adopt-A-Cop program, Blue Light Disco and other worthwhile causes. He is married to Lauretta and they have 3 daughters.

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