29 September 2026

Held at sunset on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, with significant monuments lit in blue, the Governor-General was honoured to attend the solemn commemoration of National Police Remembrance Day and the 20th anniversary of the National Police Memorial.

Alongside Acting Australian Federal Police Commissioner Ian McCartney APM, she paid particular tribute to the families of those lost, pausing to remember the four officers whose names have been added to the Memorial alongside 832 others:

Sergeant Mark Anthony Bransgrove
Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson
Senior Constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart
Detective Senior Constable Maxine Bembridge

In light of the recent tragedy in Sydney, Constable Mia Lay’s memory was also honoured and reflected upon by all those present.

To the sound of the pipe band, wreaths were laid by AFP associates and officials, but especially poignant were those laid by families and loved ones. The Memorial continues to welcome those who have gone before, providing a place for families to return, reflect, and keep the stories of their loved ones alive.

For the fallen.

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