Chris Hayes (Fowler, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I, too, rise on this very important motion. I thank the member for Macarthur in bringing it forward—and I acknowledge his service in the New South Wales Police Force—and, indeed, the member for Richmond, who spoke just before me. She was also a very proud member of the Queensland Police force.

National Police Remembrance Day is 29 September. It is observed on Saint Michael's Day, Saint Michael being the patron saint of law enforcement and, according to Christian tradition, the protector of good over evil. Since 1989, it has been one of the most significant days on the national police calendar. It is a time when we pause and honour lives and the memories of some very fine men and women whose lives were drastically cut short in the line of duty. But National Police Remembrance Day is also a significant opportunity not only for police but also for the general community to reflect upon the invaluable service rendered by our police officers and to express our gratitude for the significant work they do on behalf of our respective communities. We all know that policing comes with a very high degree of risk that thankfully most of us will never have to face. It truly takes a special type of person with a special type of courage to wear the police uniform. We are truly indebted to the men and women who choose to do so. The bravery and courage of our police men and women and their dedication to serving and protecting our communities should never be taken for granted. We are forever in their debt.

On National Police Remembrance Day we also think of the loved ones left behind, whose lives have been affected forever. We owe it to the fallen to ensure that their families are well protected and provided for. I know Police Legacy, particularly in New South Wales, where I come from, does a splendid job. I also know that it is replicated in each of the other states and territories.

Since the inaugural Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance in 2010, I have had the honour of joining the police commissioners, officers and friends of police, riding our motorcycles from the police memorial in Sydney to the national police memorial in Kings Park in Canberra. By the way, this year the theme of the ride was Remembering Mates. This year we had the largest number of riders participate. We had over 1,800 motorcycles turn up for that event. I congratulate Mark Burgess and the Police Federation of Australia on a most successful event. I would also like to particularly acknowledge the contributions of Assistant Commissioner Mick Corboy and Senior Sergeant Paul Bousfield, both with the New South Wales Police Force; retired Inspector Brian Rix from Victoria Police; and the chair of the organising committee, Senior Sergeant Brayden Murphy of the Queensland Police. I would also particularly like to thank ACT policing and the respective government departments in the ACT for allowing the ride to assemble in Northbourne Avenue and to proceed around Parliament House before arriving at the National Police Memorial in Kings Park.

This ride is a major charity fundraising event. The funds raised will go towards Police Legacy, who support the families of officers who have been killed on duty. It was a most successful event and, as a result of this year's ride, the Police Federation of Australia will be donating over $100,000 to the Police Legacy fund. This brings the total amount of donations by the Police Federation of Australia to Police Legacy since the inaugural ride to over $400,000. I think that shows the amount of support to Police Legacy, who in turn ensure that young people and their families are provided for into the future. This was an opportunity for all of us to show not only our respect for those who have lost their lives in the service of their duty but also acknowledge the extraordinary contribution that police make day in and day out and to show our gratitude for their efforts on our behalf.

Debate adjourned.

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