UPDATE: Today marks a deeply significant moment as the families of two police officers brutally murdered gather for the National Police Remembrance Day memorial service in Melbourne. Officers Neal Thompson and Vadim de Waart-Hottart, who were shot while executing a search warrant in Porepunkah on August 26, are being honored for their ultimate sacrifice.
In a poignant tribute, hundreds of their colleagues will gather at the police memorial on St Kilda Road to pay respect to those who have tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. Thompson, a veteran of 38 years, was set to retire just one week before his untimely death. The alleged shooter, Dezi Freeman, remains at large, with police continuing their search.
Victorian police chief Mike Bush emphasized the profound impact these losses have on the entire police force, stating, “When a police officer is killed in the line of duty, the impact is felt across every force in Australia.” He noted the devastating loss of Thompson and de Waart-Hottart, who are “deeply missed by us all.”
In addition to Thompson and de Waart-Hottart, the ceremony will recognize another 11 officers and support personnel who have died due to illness or other causes. The names of Thompson and de Waart-Hottart will be permanently added to the national police memorial in 2026.
The memorial also pays tribute to Keith Anthony Smith, a Tasmania Police Constable shot while on duty in June 2023, and Trevor Price, who at 97 years old, will honor his grandfather, Constable Albert Price, murdered in 1905. Price’s story continues to resonate in policing communities, serving as a reminder of the dangers faced by officers.
Across Australia, various remembrance events are taking place today, including a march from the AFP Headquarters to a service at the police memorial in Parkes, ACT. These events not only honor those lost but also foster community solidarity in the face of such tragedies.
As the nation pauses to reflect on the bravery and commitment of its police officers, the emotional weight of these memorials serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced daily by those in uniform. The impact of today’s tributes will echo across the country, reinforcing the importance of remembering and honoring the fallen.
