National Police Memorial

In 2001, it was resolved to establish a National Police Memorial in Canberra.

The Memorial pays tribute to Australian Police Officers who have been killed on duty or have died as a result of their duties since the advent of policing in Australia and to recognise the unique nature of police service and the dangers that police face in their daily pursuits.
The $2.4million memorial was jointly funded by the Australian Government (through the Australian Federal Police), State and Territory Police Services and Police Federation of Australia.

The Memorial was completed and dedicated on 29 September 2006 (National Police Remembrance Day). Following the dedication ceremony, a criteria for future inclusion of names on the National Police Memorial was agreed upon together with a National Police Memorial Co-ordination Committee.

On this day

Constable

John BURKE

YEAR OF DEATH

30 January 1846

JURISDICTION

Tasmania

DETAILS OF DEATH

John BURKE was a Constable and part of a band of five constables engaged in the pursuit of convict Bush rangers in the Police District of Oatlands, Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) in January 1846.
BURKE had been sent by the constable in charge of his party to the township of Oatlands to inquire about a rumour that men had recently been captured in the area. Arrangements were made for BURKE to meet the remainder of the party at a bridge the following day.
BURKE arrived at the bridge some hours before the rest of the party and whilst kneeling by the water to get a drink, his foot accidently kicked his carbine, which was leaning against a nearby log. The carbine fell and discharged a shot, which struck BURKE in the back. John BURKE managed to drag himself under the bridge, seeking shelter from the hot sun and was discovered by the rest of his party several hours later. BURKE survived long enough to describe what had happened before succumbing to his injuries about an hour after being found.

Complete Honour Roll

Affiliated events

Remembering mates – Wall to Wall Ride is held in September each year. Click here for more information.

Please check with your state/territory police organisation for local service information – Services to be held on 29 September or click here for more information.