ECHUCA's men and women in blue will join forces this month to support Police Legacy in the aftermath of last week's horror crash in Melbourne that killed four officers.
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A group of about 10 will take part in the second Run4Blue virtual event which raises fundsto support the families of fallen police officers across Australia.
Echuca's Leading Senior Constable Darren George said after the tragic loss of four of their own, the blue family across Australia was in mourning.
“The blue family has no borders, all state and territory police forces feel the loss of any serving members, as do all emergency services,” he said.“Working in the police force is inherently dangerous and people may recall the Kangaroo Flat incident 20 years ago, when four police members were shot, luckily none fatally.”
Since joining the force 30 years ago, LSC George can recall at least 12 police members being killed on duty and about 40 by suicide.
“Some of these members have been friends and colleagues of mine,” he said.
“The funds we're raising will help look after the families of police members who have died and or killed on duty.”
As part of Run4Blue, LSC George and his colleagues will pay $35 each and pledge to run, jog or walk their own set distances of kilometres for the month.
Participants are also being encouraged to set a goal of 159km - which represents the killed officers’ registration numbers added together.
“We are encouraging the public to donate to the Run4Blue event and support our police force. Any amount, large or small, is much appreciated,” LSC George said.
“We at Echuca Police Station, and I know this has been statewide, are eternally grateful for the public outpouring of grief and well wishes we have received after last week’s tragic event.
“It has made us walk a little taller and prouder, knowing our community is supporting us at this time.”
Information about the event and how to donate can be found at run4blue.net
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