MANSFIELD paused last Friday, September 27, for National Police Remembrance Day.

The annual event, observed across Australia, honours police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, including those who died due to illness or other circumstances over the past 12 months, and provides colleagues and the community a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made by officers and employees.

A wreath-laying ceremony took place at the Police Memorial Monument on the High and Highett Street roundabout, with local police, community members, and dignitaries gathering to pay their respects.

In the lead-up to the event, Leading Senior Constable Michelle Stevens reflected on the day's significance for the Mansfield Police Station.

"Police Remembrance is especially poignant for the members at the Mansfield Police Station who honour and acknowledge their fallen colleagues," she said.

She recalled the deaths of Constables Thomas Lonigan, Michael Scanlon, and Sergeant Michael Kennedy, who were killed at Stringybark Creek in 1878, as well as Inspector Alan Dickens, who was killed in a car accident while on duty in Bonnie Doon in 1989.

"We know it’s important to the families of the fallen police and veterans alike that their service and sacrifices are never forgotten,” said Leading Senior Constable Stevens.

“National Police Remembrance Day stands as a reminder that policing will never be without its risks."

Since the establishment of Victoria Police in 1853, 175 officers have died in the line of duty, and their service is commemorated each year.

This year’s service coincided with Victoria's Blue Ribbon Day, organised by the Blue Ribbon Foundation, which honours the memory of police officers who have died in the line of duty while supporting public projects named in their honour.

Inspector Rachael Goss welcomed the attendees, acknowledging special guests and the importance of the day for the Mansfield community.

Local MP Cindy McLeish attended and spoke of the risks police officers face daily.

"Police are our first port of call,” she said.

“You never know if someone is armed or not armed.

“Police provide protection, and with protection comes risk because some things don’t always go right.

“I’m so thankful for the work the police do.”

Acting Superintendent Troy Hargadon also spoke about the significance of the day for the community, as did shire mayor, Cr Steve Rabie.

The event included a minute of silence led by the chaplain, a roll call of fallen officers, and the national anthem performed by students from Mansfield Secondary College.

The service concluded with morning tea at the Mansfield CFA building, where attendees gathered to reflect on the importance of the day.