Victoria’s longest-serving police officers have been honoured at a special event at Parliament House, celebrating distinguished careers in the force spanning more than 40 years.
Minister for Police Lisa Neville and Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton congratulated some of our most experienced police at a morning tea at Queens Hall – thanking the officers for their long-standing dedication and service to keeping the community safe.
About 50 police were part of the celebrations including Assistant Commissioner Jack Blayney and Highway Patrol Sergeant Bruce Buchan.
Sergeant Buchan is one of several officers marking 40 years to the day since joining the force.
Other officers celebrating their service include Sergeant Giovanna Campana, Gisborne Police Station’s Senior Sergeant Paul Cliffe, Sergeant Leo VanAndel and Leading Senior Constable Kevin Oakley.
A total of 242 police officers have served more than 40 years.
These officers have witnessed revolutionary changes in modern crime fighting, including the introduction of random breath testing, drug testing and DNA profiling.
Victoria now has more than 13,000 police officers – and thanks to the Andrews Labor Government’s continued investments – their ranks continue to grow.
Over the next 12 months, 1000 police personnel will be in training at the Victoria Police Academy, including police, Police Custody Officers and Protective Services Officers.
The Labor Government is spending a record $227 million on police technology to equip officers with the tools they need to fight crime in the 21st century. Since November 2014, the Government has funded 1156 new police personnel.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Police Lisa Neville
“Today is about honouring the police officers who have given more than four decades to the uniform – an incredible accomplishment.”
“Each officer has a different story, and many have witnessed crucial change in the way crime is investigated. We thank them for their extraordinary dedication and service to the community.”
“The Government will continue to support Victoria Police by giving them the resources, the technology and the powers they need to fight crime and keep the community safe.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020