Graeme Simpfendorfer the new president of the Blue Ribbon Foundation North East branch

Detective Sergeant Graeme Simpfendorfer has taken over the position from Senior Sergeant Colleen Sheridan who has been at the helm for 12 years.

And his plan is to "continue to connect with the community".

"This foundation gives us the vehicle to show the community what we can do to assist them but also to assist those members and past members who unfortunately do pass away on duty or off duty," Detective Sergeant Simpfendorfer said.

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"We have a lot of events planned in the next six months which we want everyone to get on board with us and support that foundation because in turn the money does come back into the North East.

"Colleen has done a sterling job with her committee getting projects off the ground and completing projects such as the oncology unit at Wangaratta, and other work at Benalla hospital."

Detective Sergeant Simpfendorfer said his 25 years policing experience will help him in his new position.

"It isn't just my experience but that of my committee as well and we will aim to work together to better serve what projects our community want," he said.

"We serve our community all the time and that is why we become police officers in the first instance so this foundation is just another way we can contribute.

"We unfortunately do see the bad end of the world a lot and here is a great time and opportunity for us to see the good and provide some good by connecting to our community."

Much of the foundation's fundraising has been directed towards public hospitals for the building of new and improved emergency facilities named in memory of police officers who have died, including six in the North East.

The branch is also launching social media accounts to better connect with all demographics and Detective Sergeant Simpfendorfer said the community can get involved with the branch through these channels.

"This will be the way you can find out how to help and what events we have coming up," he said.

The branch are encouraging new members and volunteers to join them.