By Peter Douglas
Victoria Police is calling on the community to take a few moments on Friday 29 September to remember the 150 of its members who have been killed while serving and protecting the community.
Among those honoured will be Senior Constable Tony Clarke, who was stationed at the Knox traffic unit, when he was killed at age 37 while conducting a routine traffic check at Launching Place.
On Sunday 24 April, 2005, Senior Constable Clarke was on patrol on the Warburton Highway, where it is alleged he intercepted a vehicle and was about to administer a preliminary breath test, when at some point the driver managed to gain possession of Senior Constable Clarke’s gun.
The driver fatally wounded Senior Constable Clarke, then stole the police car and absconded.
The driver’s body was located in nearby bushland, where he had apparently committed suicide.
Former Monbulk Sergeant Mark Knight said he worked alongside Senior Constable Clarke and couldn’t speak highly enough of the Victoria Police member.
“He was just one of those special ‘fellas’ and a ripper of a policeman, too,” Sergeant Knight said.
“He was a larger-than-life character. Tony was one of our colleagues and a great friend.
“I wasn’t with Tony at the time, but was certainly in and around the traps. It hit many of us really hard.”
Sergeant Knight said it was important to reflect on those who had paid the ultimate price for their service.
“The day 29 September was also the day I graduated from the academy, so it has extra special meaning for me. Blue Ribbon Day is a great way to acknowledge our fallen comrades,” he said.
Meanwhile, there are other ways for Victorians to support the Blue Ribbon Day.
Badges of Remembrance and other items will be on sale through police stations and retail businesses, including all Woolworths supermarkets.
Memorial services will be held around Victoria.
A visit to www.remember.org.au will show people how to make a donation to the Blue Ribbon Foundation, which will assist in building new and improved emergency facilities in public hospitals.
