Mackay policeman dies in hospital after being hit by car
A central Queensland police officer who died in hospital after being hit by a car last week has been remembered as a larrikin and family man who loved his job.
Sergeant Brendan Poustie, 44, was knocked down in the Mackay suburb of Glenella last Wednesday before being airlifted to Townsville Hospital in a critical condition with head injuries.
Queensland Police confirmed on Tuesday Sergeant Poustie, who was jogging before work when he was hit, died overnight.
Mackay Police Superintendent Bruce McNab addressed the media on Tuesday morning and said: "It's a very very tough day for Queensland Police Service, and in particular not just the Mackay police family but also the Poustie family".
Superintendent Bruce McNab said Sergeant Poustie was a father of two, who had been a police officer for 15 years after coming from a military background.
He met his wife Jakki, a police prosecutor, when they started together in Townsville and worked in remote areas before settling in Mackay last year.
A police officer who was hit by a car last week has died in hospital. Source: 7 News
"Sergeant Poustie was known as a larrikin who was passionate about his job and the community," Superintendent McNab said.
He said it was an extremely difficult time for the police community, with Sergeant Poustie's death coming a fortnight after Senior Constable Brett Forte was gunned down in the line of duty.
Sergeant Brendan Poustie, who was jogging before work when he was hit, died overnight. Source: 7 News
Sergeant Poustie was known for sporting a "very proud" red beard and Supt McNab was hopeful a 'Red Beard Challenge' could be used to raise funds for the family.
Superintendent McNab said: "He was very very proud of his red beard and it was a fine piece of facial hair. I think he was a bit of a larrikin."
The young woman who was driving the car was on her way to work at the Mackay Hospital at the time of the accident.
She is being offered counselling, Superintendent McNab said.
Queensland Police Union Of Employees posted about Sergeant Poustie online. Source: Facebook
"Today we remember one of our brothers Sergeant Brendan Poustie of Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station," the Queensland Police Union wrote on its Facebook page.
"Brendan will be sorely missed by all who know him. RIP mate".
"Thank you for your service for humanity, for us, for me, mate. Much love to your friends and more so, your family," wrote Neesha Hill.
"Thank you from the community for your service RIP Brendan," said Vyv Dance.
A coronial investigation will commence into his death.
