Widely acknowledged and recognised for his level of expertise in traffic policing and implementation of significant projects, Inspector Mark Beech-Jones has been recognised in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

Inspector Beech-Jones began his career in policing as a Junior Constable in April 1978. He has worked in a variety of locations throughout the State, choosing which positions to apply for with forethought and deliberation.

“I grew up in Wynyard on the North West Coast and made a conscious decision throughout my career to be stationed in many smaller locations including the Derwent Valley, on the West Coast at Rosebery and Queenstown, Circular Head and East Coast,” said Inspector Beech-Jones.

“I felt it was important for my family and I to be an integral part of a community and we really enjoyed those opportunities,” he said.

In 1983, he received his first commendation from the Commissioner of Police for courage, initiative and perseverance in relation to apprehending an offender at Macquarie Plains, Tasmania on 24 April 1982. There are also many complimentary reports and letters of appreciation from community groups, members of the public, peers and senior officers contained within his dossier.

Inspector Beech-Jones has been recognised for his motivation and leadership which has played a significant role in improving road safety and public safety outcomes in recent years.

“He is well-respected and recognised for his pragmatic approach, high-level work ethic and commitment to the diverse roles he has undertaken,” said Commissioner Darren Hine.

Those roles have included a secondment to the State Emergency Service in 2006 to assist in the delivery of key projects and his appointment in 2007 as Games Director for the 2010 Police and Emergency Services Games, hosted by Tasmania for the first time.

“Organising the games provided many challenges however it was a great opportunity to collaborate with members for all Emergency Services, pulling together our collective skills,” said Inspector Beech-Jones.

“The Games were a great success for the State and showcased how fantastic Tasmania and Hobart are to all the participants and their families, but more importantly demonstrated the excellent cooperation between the Emergency services in this State,” he said.

“Inspector Beech-Jones has given outstanding and distinguished service, in his career spanning some 36 years to date. His devotion to duty, diligence and commitment has been acknowledged throughout his career and he is a worthy recipient of the Australian Police Medal,” Commissioner Hine said.