‘Absolute gentleman’: Tributes for Cairns cop

A Cairns policeman is being remembered as a “gentleman” and a “caring, compassionate” officer who had time for anyone after he was tragically found dead.

Cairns senior constable Scott Duff went missing from Edmonton on Monday, April 8, 2024. Picture: Supplied

A Cairns policeman is being remembered as a “gentleman” and a “caring, compassionate” officer who had time for anyone after the community was rocked by his tragic death.

Members of the emergency services and the wider community paid tribute to Senior Constable Scott Duff, who was found dead on Monday after a massive week-long search in the southern suburbs.

His death is not being treated as suspicious.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Far North region Chief Superintendent Adam Gwin said Mr Duff was an “absolute gentleman”.

“He was a significant supporter of State Emergency Services and the fire services,” Mr Gwin said.

“We will certainly miss Scott.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Kylie and the family.”

Cairns senior constable Scott Duff went missing from Edmonton on Monday, April 8, 2024. Picture: Supplied

Queensland Police confirmed Mr Duff’s death in a statement.

“It is with great sadness the Queensland Police Service confirm the death of Senior Constable Scott Duff, who was reported missing from Edmonton on April 8,” the statement read.

“Our thoughts are with the senior constable’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”

“The public and the media are thanked for their assistance.”

The father-of-two was well-known in the south of Cairns, having served for more than 20 years as an officer in the suburbs of Edmonton and Gordonvale.

Residents of Mr Duff’s beat described him as someone always willing to go the extra mile.

“I’ve dealt with a lot of police officers in my time and Scott was the most decent, compassionate, caring and thoughtful that I’ve come across,” said Bentley Park woman Gina, who asked to remain anonymous.

Mr Duff helped Gina with a personal family problem during his time as an officer.

“Nothing was too much for him. He made the time to make me feel better. A lovely, lovely man.”

Police from Townsville and the South East had helped to look for Mr Duff, who was last seen at a Slipper Street address in Edmonton about noon on Monday, April 8.

His disappearance was described as “very out of character” at the time by Police Superintendent Monique Ralph.

Queensland Police Union Far North rep Dion Readman said Mr Duff was well-liked within the force.

“He was an extremely well respected, much loved member of the police community,” Mr Readman said.

“Not just the police community, but the wider community. This is a big loss for everyone in the southern corridor.”

Far North Region Assistant Commissioner Brett Schafferius said Mr Duff’s fellow officers were being offered support.

“The Far North police community has been deeply impacted by this loss, particularly those who knew and worked with Scott during his many years as a highly regarded police officer,” Assistant Commissioner Schafferius said.“Our officers are being provided with a range of support services as they come to terms with this terrible news.”

Senior Constable Scott Duff was beloved by the Edmonton community. Photo: Police Media

Edmonton health administrator Charmaine Alderson had known Mr Duff for more 18 years.

She first met him working the beat when she worked in retail, and said she’s never forget how selfless he was with his time.

“He was always lovely, always had a hello for everyone and a smile for everyone,” Ms Alderson said.

“I often bumped into him in IGA and Coles, things like that. He was just a very nice, genuine person.”

Ms Alderson said the news of Mr Duff’s death had shaken the community.

“He was very much loved. It’s very upsetting news.”

Division 2 Councillor Matthew Tickner offered his support to those who lived and worked with Mr Duff.

“The fact that he’s done over 20 years with the police – we know how hard they work, especially in our part of the world – gives this a particular impact,” Mr Tickner said.

“My condolences to not only his family and friends, but also to the police officers who worked with him.”

Mr Tickner was full of praise for the SES crews who had led the search for Mr Duff, and for the public who had turned out in their droves to help.

“Local SES have done an amazing job,” he said.

“They’ve been inundated with community support to the extent that they actually had to turn people away. That really shows community togetherness at such a difficult time.”

Mr Duff is survived by his wife Kylie and their two children.

If you or someone you knows needs help call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

Originally published as ‘Absolute gentleman’: Tributes for Cairns cop