General News
6 October, 2026
Police remembered at Ararat service
A MEMORIAL service was held in Ararat last week to remember police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Victoria Police marked National Police Remembrance Day with a service at Ararat’s Anglican Church, led by Father Martin Nadarajan.
During the service, Senior Constable Jeremy Forde read out the names of officers who had died on duty across the Australasia region over the past 12 months.
The day served as a reminder that police officers, despite the nature of their work, are members of the wider community and are not immune to tragedy.
“We remember the men and women who, since the formation of Victoria Police in 1853, have paid the supreme sacrifice while serving the Victorian Police. We especially remember young Constable Mia Lay,” said Father Nadarajan.
The 20-year-old New South Wales Police officer died on September 25th when the police car she was travelling in crashed into a tree in Redfern while responding to reports of a car theft.
“We honour their memory and support their loved ones by our words, our personal presence, our thoughts, and our prayers,” he said.
Acting Superintendent Gary Best said the day served as an important reminder of the challenges faced by police officers.
“It reminds us all of the difficulties they face in bearing these responsibilities.”
The annual remembrance service provides an opportunity for police, families and members of the community to reflect on the officers who have lost their lives while serving. “It’s really good to see the support from the community,” Acting Superintendent Best said.
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said the Ararat service was an important opportunity to stand alongside local police.
“It’s always a really moving service and the Anglican church does a beautiful job here in Ararat. It’s a really important moment to stop and be with the police officers here locally.
“We know the profession of being a police officer is really dangerous and a risky job and people put their lives on the line every single day.”
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