A time to pay respects

Held annually, National Police Remembrance Day celebrates the lives of those who have died on and off duty.

While no officers have been killed during service in Australia this year, the event paid tribute to former superintendent Karl Feltham who died in the past 12 months.

Pastor and former officer Peter Dart, who led the service, said police were often placed into hazardous and life-threatening situations.

“Most young people when they join the police force have a desire to make a difference,” he said.

“I think the training prepares them to go into any crisis situation.

“They never know from one day to the next what their duties will entail.

“They have to ensure the safety of everybody, even when it means putting their own lives in danger.”

Officers from both sides of the Border attended Tuesday’s ceremony and laid wreaths and lit a candle in memory of those who have died.

More than 250 police have been killed on duty in NSW since 1852 and 159 officers killed while working in Victoria since 1853.

The last officer killed on duty in the North East was Anne Brimblecombe, who died in a car crash in August 2006.

Inspector David Ryan said the job was dangerous, but added that Victoria Police was constantly working to make it safer.

“We hope that everyone goes home safe at night, and we work towards that,” he said.

“This is a chance for local police, from both NSW and Victoria, to come together to share thoughts on those that have been lost.

“It can be a dangerous occupation.

“We are working hard every day to make sure no-one gets hurt on duty and ensure that no-one loses their lives.”

Member for Benambra and former policeman Bill Tilley said he still thought of an officer who died during a traffic stop every time he passed the scene of the incident.

Services were held around the country on Tuesday for the remembrance day. 

About 80 officers attended the local event at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.