I want to thank Assistant Commissioner Brett Schafferius for the invitation and a warm welcome to dignitaries, the senior officers of the Queensland Police Service and Ambulance services as well as the award recipients and their families, and community members who have joined us.
Our communities in Far North Queensland face some of the harshest and most complex challenges in the state. The geography alone makes policing unlike anywhere else. Our region spans almost 287,000 square kilometres – from Cairns, north to the Torres Strait, and west to the Gulf Country.
It is vast, diverse, and unique. And so are our challenges.
Tackling crime, managing emergencies, responding to natural disaster such as cyclones.
Our Police are there. Always present. Always serving.
What unites us all is a shared commitment to community safety and support.
Every day they are out there and this ceremony honours long and diligent service, acts of bravery, and even the unique contribution of our police dogs.
These awards – the National Medal, the Queensland Police Service Medals and Clasps, the Canine Medal and the Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate – reflect courage, loyalty, and service well beyond the call of duty.
I congratulate and thank all the recipients for the work you do every day to protect and serve our community.
