General News
26 September, 2025
Police, community unite to remember
Amidst a tragic year for the policing and broader community alike, the upcoming National Police Remembrance Day is set to be a moment of reflection and mourning across the country.
National Police Remembrance Day, observed on September 29, honours the police officers who have died in the line of duty.
It also coincides with Victoria’s Blue Ribbon Day, held by the Blue Ribbon Foundation, who offer a way for the community to show their support by contributing to community fundraising.
But what can’t be overstated, Maryborough Police’s Acting Sergeant Crystal Clark explained, was the importance of having a dedicated day to reflect.
“A day we can all come together and recognise the sacrifice police members have made to protect and serve the community and allow their legacy to live on,” she said.
Always an important date for the nation’s policing community, its significance was felt by Acting Sgt Clark before even joining Victoria Police.
“Being raised by a family who had several family members who served in the Australian Army, I know the importance of reflecting, remembering, and continuing the legacy of those people who have made the ultimate sacrifice to serve the community,” she said.
That sacrifice looms large this coming Monday following the tragic deaths of Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart and Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson near Porepunkah.
“[Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart] was stationed at the Maryborough Police Station during his junior career, with several current police members at the Maryborough Police Station working with him. Reminding us personally of the importance of the day and its continuation in the future,” Acting Sgt Clark said.
Recognising the day’s far reaching significance, she invites the community to join some local police members attending memorial services in the region.
Ballarat. 11.30 am, Monday, September 29. St Peter’s Anglican Church 1307 Sturt Street.
Bendigo. 10 am, Friday, September 26. St Paul’s Anglican Church, 4 Myers Street.
The Maryborough Police Station’s flag will also be lowered as a reflection of respect.
“Maryborough Police members want to thank our local community for the support you have shown us not only with the recent tragic events but on a continual basis,” Acting Sgt Clark said.
“Knowing we have your support makes such a difficult job at times rewarding and we are so thankful that many of you will join us in reflecting not only on this year’s Police Remembrance Day, but for many to come.”
