Police officer celebrated with inaugural award

THE late Senior Constable Merv Atkinson has been honoured with an inaugural Victoria Police Aboriginal Service Medal.

The award recognises Aboriginal police men and women’s contributions to the community.

Mr Atkinson served as a police officer in Ballarat for 24 years, after starting with the police cadets on his 17th birthday in 1976.

“He was coming up to the time of finishing school and he didn’t really know what he wanted to do and some of his mates at Buninyong Football Club suggested why don’t you join the police force,” said Mr Atkinson’s daughter, Darcy Atkinson.

“I think what he enjoyed the most was being able to give back to his community and being involved with the Aboriginal community as well, it really meant a lot to him that he could set a certain example and try to make things better for Aboriginal people.”

Ms Atkinson, her brother and son Noah travelled to Melbourne to receive the medal on Mr Atkinson’s behalf.

“It was a little bit overwhelming, and it was a very emotional day because obviously dad wasn’t there to receive his medal with us,” said Ms Atkinson.

“We were really, really proud to be there on his behalf.”

Ms Atkinson said the inaugural medal provides an important message for generations to come that Aboriginal people and Victoria Police can work together.

“Going back to the Stolen Generation it’s pretty significant because I know that for a lot of Aboriginal people who chose to become police officers it was a really huge decision for them,” she said.

“It’s really, really special and I think it’s really inspiring as well for other Aboriginal people to show that we are all trying to work together and bridge the gap.

“Victoria Police aren’t the enemy, the here to support and guide and to provide assistance.”