June 2023
As we closed off the month of March, we were fortunate to come together and commemorate all that is good in policing at the 2023 Blue Ribbon Ball, held at the International Convention Centre at Darling Harbour. We were able to showcase the best of the Police Family, and were extremely fortunate to have Phil Burton of Human Nature, himself a Police Legatee, perform for us on stage. The NSW Police Band played the backing, and the duet between Belinda Parsons and Phil brought the house down. Another highlight was the story of our Police Legatee Constable Chris McCue, who is attached to Sydney City PAC. He told his amazing story from being a young legatee to becoming a Police Officer. Truly inspirational.
In mid-April, our 18-25 Camp was held, and was attended by 30 young adult legatees. They had a great time in the Hunter area, and the event was attended by our Community Support Team staff, who work tirelessly for our legatees.
Also in April, eight legatees left Australia for the arduous walk across the Kokoda Track. They were joined by Director of NSW Police Legacy John Yates. Lifelong friendships were forged, and in the spirit of the diggers on the track, the trek over the Owen Stanley Ranges remains life changing.
On Saturday 6 May 2023, we had the annual Beat the Blue competition, where members of the public register to face off against the Highway Patrol police drivers on the track. The event was held at the Sydney Motorsport Park at Eastern Creek. Beat the Blue is run by car enthusiasts with the intention of making the roads a safer place for all users, and we thank them for the difference they make, and for their enormous support of our Police Family.
Regrettably, we lost Sergeant Luke Stephenson and Probationary Constable Harrison Holford at the end of April. Both officers were dearly loved and cared for in their Commands. Vale.
At the end of last year we farewelled Kellie Cooper, our former Chief Operating Officer from NSW Police Legacy. I take this opportunity to welcome to the NSW Police Legacy Family Sharyn Frawley, who joins us from Eastern Beaches PAC.
Finally, I am in the Chair until July whilst our Chair Donna McCarthy takes a well earned break. Donna is currently trekking the Camino Trail in Spain, and we wish her every success in completing this pilgrimage.
~ Craig Partridge, Acting Chair
