Community joins police remembrance after Porepunkah tragedy

VICTORIAN Police Officers and community members gathered at St Peter’s Anglican Church today to recognise National Police Remembrance Day.

Held annually on 29 September, the day provides an opportunity for police, their families and the public to pay tribute to officers who died while serving in the last year.

Acting Superintendent Jason Templar said it was important to recognise the efforts of police officers, particularly following the deaths of Senior Constable Vadim de Waart‑Hottart and Detective Leading Constable Neal Thompson at Porepunkah.

“I would just like the community to remember that each day, police go out there to do their job, and they face significant risk,” he said.

“They do their job without fear or favour, knowing that at any point they may be in danger.”

The service included the reading of the honour roll with the names of police officers who have died since 29 September 2024, the Police Ode, and a speech from guest speaker Roland Rocchiccioli.

“Today is a day where other emergency services along with the community come together to show their support for the police as we remember those who have paid the supreme sacrifice,” Mr Templar said.

“It’s really important at this time that Victoria Police see support from the community and it’s also a time where we can acknowledge the family and friends and other emergency service partners that really do support us.”

National Police Remembrance Day is held concurrently with Victoria’s Blue Ribbon Day, led by the Blue Ribbon Foundation.