Feature
Issue No. 16 - April/May 2004
Conquering the fear factor
Coinciding with the 10—year anniversary of the event this May, he plans to publish a book on his experience and embark on a seminar program to pass on the tools that served him so well.
Derrick’s keynote speaking has taken him around Australia, as far afield as Townsville and Hobart. Most of his work is with the corporate sector, with some charity and service club engagements.
Most listeners want to hear about the shooting in detail, how Derrick dealt with it then and since. No problem — people expecting a disturbed trauma story will be disappointed.
“I tell them, it doesn’t matter what happens to us: it is how we deal with it that determines our future," Derrick says.
Derrick’s take is interesting. It was extremely dangerous to approach the gunman’s house under the circumstances, he says, but as a member of STAR force it was a likely eventuality for him. He was responsible for his choice to be there.
He feels no hatred towards the person who shot him and has no time for defeatist attitude.
“I’m not a victim – I was in control. I have had a very positive outcome in life because of that attitude."
Derrick accepts two engagements per month on average, which is a fair commitment for a full—time Senior Constable in the South Australian Police. (Derrick is divorced with two children and a “great" relationship with his ex—wife).
After hearing him speak, people relate their own s...
