Gold Coast police gather to remember fallen colleagues

Officers from the Gold Coast and surrounding areas gathered at St Augustine’s Church at Coolangatta this morning to honour their colleagues.

Bagpipes sounded as police marched from Goodwin Park to Coolangatta to remember the 147 officers who have fallen in the line of duty.

South-East Assistant Commissioner Brian Wilkins says days like today show what our police really go through.

“Policing is a very hazardous occupation and officers go to work every day not actually knowing what they’re going to be confronted with,” he said.

“Being in charge of the South-East my drive is to get them all home safely.”

Gold Coast police marching for Remembrance Day. pic.twitter.com/klhCztKDtE

— Mitchell Van Homrigh (@Moosk) September 28, 2018

The Assistant Commissioner knocked back any suggestions that the community doesn’t fully realise the risks police undertake daily.

“The community is well aware of the risks that come with policing,” he said.

“Since the inception of the Queensland Police Service we’ve lost 147 officers in the line of duty.

“147 officers is a lot of officers over 150-year history.”

There were marches across the country to remember for National Police Remembrance Day.

In Brisbane, officers spoke about Constable Peter McAulay, who was injured in the line of duty this week.

Assistant Commissioner Wilkins said the police force still has concerns for his welfare.

“A tragic incident occurred in Boovall yesterday with Constable Peter McAulay getting struck by a stolen vehicle,” he said.

“Young Peter is still in hospital fighting for his life as we speak.”