Stephen Clark said beginning his career in Dandenong and Springvale had helped him to achieve high results at Victoria Police.By Melissa Meehan
A FORMER Dandenong and Springvale police officer who headed Australia’s largest terrorism investigation has been recognised for his contribution to the community on Australia Day.
Detective Inspector Stephen Clark was among six police officers who were awarded an Australian Police Medal for commendable service on Monday.
In his 27th year as a police officer, Det Insp Clark is now officer in charge of the Homicide Squad after heading the terrorism investigation, Operation Pendennis, from 2004 to 2006.
“To be presented with this award is such an honour,” Det Insp Clarke said.
“It’s obviously the highlight of my career so far.”
Before tackling high-profile terrorism investigations and cases with the homicide squad, Det Insp Clarke was stationed with the Dandenong Police.
“I joined the force in September 1982 and did my training at Dandenong,” he said.
“I then spent the majority of my career working in Springvale, Dandenong and Frankston.”
He said the assignments at those stations were challenging but important to his career.
“They were great places to work and learn,” Det Insp Clark said.
“Without those challenges I may not have got as far as I have in the force.”
