In many of our towns, the local police officer isn't a stranger. They're part of our community – you see them at local events, at the footy, and when something goes wrong, they're among the first to respond.

On National Police Remembrance Day, I joined Inspector (acting Superintendent) Owen Hill, Inspector Lee Grey, Inspector Falkiner, Mr Tony Abbott and Mr Michael McCormack, in remembering the officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, and the families, friends and colleagues who carry that loss.

To the police serving across our region, and to the families who support them – thank you.