Greater Geelong police officers honour those who have died in the line of duty and their families ahead of a national remembrance day.
National Police Remembrance Day, which coincides with the state’s Blue Ribbon Day, will be held on Monday, September 29, for Victoria Police and the community to pay their respects to police who have died while serving their community.
Geelong Leading Senior Constable Melissa Varker said National Police Remembrance Day was one of the most important days on the policing calendar.
“As a serving member, I know first-hand that when we walk out the door, donning that badge, there are risks that come with this job,” she said.
“Wearing the blue and white ribbon proudly isn’t just a gesture; it’s a symbol of unity, sacrifice, and respect, so when I pin it to my chest, I feel the weight of what it represents.
“For me, the day is deeply personal as it is a chance to reflect on the courage and selflessness of those who have worn the uniform before me, and those who tragically never returned home from a shift.
“We don’t dwell on it day to day, because you can’t, but on September 29, it hits home, and it is a reminder that policing is not just a job; it is a calling that asks us to put the safety of others before our own.
“It inspires me to uphold the values of policing, to serve my community with compassion, and to never forget the sacrifices that have shaped the path we walk today and never letting their sacrifice fade from our memory.”
Ms Varker said the day was a mixture of pride in her colleagues’ courage, dedication, and sorrow for the lives cut short.
“It’s a day when the names, faces, and stories of those who gave everything for their community are front and centre in my mind,” she said.
“It is a solemn and significant occasion, not only for police officers but also for their families, colleagues, and the communities they serve.
“This day is not just about looking back, but also about carrying forward… and it’s a reminder to serve with integrity, compassion, and resilience because that’s the legacy we’ve inherited.
“(It’s) not just the officers we’ve lost, but also the families they left behind as… they carry an enormous burden, and they deserve to know their loved ones are remembered and honoured.
“Behind every officer is a network of loved ones who live with the uncertainty that comes with this career, so their resilience, support, and sacrifice deserve recognition as much as the bravery shown on the frontline.”
Geelong Senior Constable Lawrence Earl said it was important to honour the lives of officers lost in the line of duty while also recognising the ongoing contribution of those who continue to serve.
“Police Remembrance Day is an opportunity to give thanks to all the dedicated men and women of Victoria Police who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities,” he said.
“In 2025, this year more so than ever, the day is especially important following the recent murders of our colleagues Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart.
“When events like these occur, it hits home, and I am more acutely aware of the dangers police face protecting our community each day.
“It makes me appreciate the comradery of my fellow brothers and sisters in blue and reminds me how proud I am to wear the uniform.”
Visit policelegacyvic.org.au for more information and to support the loved ones of officers who died during their service.
