By Hannah McNamara
Acquiring a police badge isn’t easy, in fact it comes with great grit and resilience…but when the uniform comes off, it’s important to remember those who died wearing it. Last Friday numerous marches and memorials took place across the region, honouring the sacrifices made by officers who laid down their lives in the name of duty, while also celebrating the remarkable mateship within the Queensland Police Service. Current and former officers gathered with family, friends and community members to pay their respects to those who served over the past 160 years, and Commissioner Steve Gollschewski reflected on the fallen officers, affirming the enduring legacy of bravery and commitment they left behind.
Last Friday, both current and former police officers came together with family, friends and community members to pay their respects to those who have lost their lives in service over the past 160 years. Photo credit: Mackay Police
By Hannah McNamara
Diligence, Selflessness and Integrity, are just a few of the many heroic qualities demonstrated by our local law enforcement officers.
On Friday, September 27, the Mackay community gathered to honour National Police Remembrance Day, beginning with a march held at 9.30am, commencing from Brisbane Street and proceeding to River Street. This solemn parade brought together current and former police officers, their families and community members, all united in remembrance of the sacrifices made by those who served and continue to protect.
Following the march, a service was held at 10am at Saint Patrick's Catholic Church on River Street, providing a reflective space for all involved to pay their respects to the past 160 officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
“With honour they served”, Commissioner Steve Gollschewski remarked, “On National Police Remembrance Day, we pause to reflect and remember the police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while demonstrating their unwavering dedication to keeping our communities safe.”
Commissioner Steve Gollschewski also reflected on the recent fallen officers and how the family in blue “never fades.”
“In the 160-year history of the Queensland police, we’ve tragically lost 150 members.
“Today we stand in solidarity as a blue family to ensure the legacy of our fallen officers in Queensland and across the state never fades.
“I recognise the profound impact of recent deaths of Constables Rachel McCrow, Matthew Arnold and Senior Constable Dave Masters has had on our organisation, their family and friends, and community.
Police Minister Mark Ryan added that “National Police Remembrance Day is a reminder to us all about the challenges police officers face each time they put on their uniform.
“I am honoured to be at this event to remember our fallen police, and extend the gratitude of Queenslanders to them for their courage and commitment.
“I ask the Queensland community to remember our fallen officers, not just on National Police Remembrance Day, but throughout the year.”
In the Mackay Whitsunday District, the Remembrance Day service and march were met with overwhelming public support. Community members gathered to show their gratitude to the officers and staff involved in the day's events.
Mayor Greg Williamson even remarked on the emotion felt by many, particularly at the sight of young officers now serving the region.
"Policing is a tough job," he said, “but their dedication means the world to our community.
“Thank you to every officer - past and present - for your service.
“You protect not just us, but our families, and for that, we are forever grateful.”
Former police officer and LNP candidate for Mackay, Nigel Dalton, expressed his gratitude for being able to stand alongside his ex-colleagues on this significant Police Remembrance Day, acknowledging the importance of these tributes to fallen officers.
Andrew Willcox MP noted that “We also give our thoughts and prayers to their loved ones, family, friends and colleagues, all whom feel their loss every day.
“We thank you and we honour you.”
Held annually on September 29, this national day offers a chance to recognise the risks associated with policing and honour those who chose to take up the badge and serve their community
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