General News
27 January, 2026
Cop signs off
THE Mission Beach community has farewelled a long-time police officer who had served in the town for nearly 30 years.
Leading Senior Constable Tony Cliffe, who retired after 41 years of dedicated police service, with 29 of those years spent at Mission Beach, was given a fitting send-off involving more than 50 community members.
They attended a special ceremony late last month, at the beach’s police station, which included local ambulance, fire and rescue personnel, police officers and day care children.
A piper and police car led Mr Cliffe and his wife from the station with a special guard of honour formed, followed by speeches and cake cutting.
Mr Cliffe was born in Queensland and worked as a police officer in Rockhampton, Blackwater and Mission Beach.
Before entering the police force, he completed his secondary education at Caloundra and he worked in a retail clothing store and furniture removal.
After finishing year 12, Mr Cliffe entered the police academy in Oxley, Brisbane as a cadet, where he completed 18 months of training, which included Queensland laws, typing, driver training, physical education, community service, as well as police and station duties.
He started as a first-year constable at Rockhampton police station, a regional training centre. During this time, he returned to the police academy and completed in-service training before his confirmation as a police officer.
During his first year of training, Mr Cliffe married his wife Kellie who he met during his cadet training.
Externally, he completed an Associate Diploma in Business (justice administration) and continuously undertook re-qualification in police equipment, as well as upskilling courses to perform additional duties.
“Early in my life, my father was a police officer for a brief period, which likely influenced my decision to do the same,” Mr Cliffe said.
“I decided to become a police officer as I wanted to keep the local community safe and contribute to helping others in times of need.
“The police service also offered stable employment and exciting career opportunities which appealed to me.”
Mr Cliffe said what he found the most rewarding was knowing he made a positive impact in people’s lives during crucial times and helped prevent a tragic outcome.
When he arrived at Mission Beach station in June 1996, it was newly opened and he saw it expand from a two-officer station to five officers.
His accolades include Queensland Police Service, National Police Service and Emergency Response medals (COVID 19).
He also received an Assistant Commissioner’s certificate for his response in a dangerous incident and a domestic violence prevention award, as well as a certificate of special commendation for relief efforts during Cyclone Larry.
Throughout his policing career, Mr Cliffe said he would not have clocked up 40-plus years as an officer without the unwavering support of his wife.
“After almost 42 years of full-time work, I am looking forward to easing into retirement life and enjoying the freedom it brings, with Kellie and I planning to travel overseas,” he said.
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