Ballarat Lodge was the venue for locals to enjoy the warmth of large wood fires, the cheery company of fellow legatees and an overall fine dining experience. They were joined by local divisional commander, Superintendent Andrew Allen and a long time supporter of Police Legacy and genuine friend to local legatees, Senior Constable John Maloney. Andrew brought us up to date with the good work of the Purana Tast Force while John stimulated dreams and envious sentiment from the travellers and adventurers amoungst us with tales of his recent trip to Daly Waters in the Northern Territory.
Always on the alert to sing the praises of Police Legacy, Heather Annand recounted a recent conversation with two young constables she ran into at the football at Telstra Dome. Heather, “Do you contribute to Police Legacy?” One constable looked nervously at the other and answered, “I do” while the other less confidently replied, “I think so”. Heather responded, “Well I just wanted to let you know, I am a police widow and on behalf of everyone who benefits from the good work of Police Legacy, I want to thank you for what is provided for legatees. Heather then let them go on their way after they promised to barrack very hard for her Blue Boys!
Heather says she will continue praising police and the good work they do through Police Legacy. She regularly visits Telstra Dome so if you are there in uniform and have a friendly but not-so-little, not-so-old lady approach, be ready!
Superintendent Andrew Allen with Heather (on his left) and other legatees
Senior Constable John Maloney and legatees
A letter from Verna
We were fortunate to share a very ‘newsy’ letter from Verna Shackell, police legatee and great friend to many of those present. Verna is teaching on a remote cattle station in the Northern Territory and her vivid portrayal of the unique lifestyle of the communities she lives and works in was very enlightening. Keep up the good work Verna!
Victoria Police Legacy lunches continued today with a gathering at Eastern Beach, Geelong. Twenty five legatees came together with our staff (Laurie, Barbara and Kate) at the popular Beach House Restaurant overlooking a wind-swept and choppy Corio Bay. Geelong legatees and those from the region as far afield as Anglesea, Clifton Springs and Lara were joined by others who travelled from Bacchus Marsh and Melbourne to enjoy the day.
Constable Susie Francis, Geelong with local legatees at the Geelong lunch
Our legatees and special guests were welcomed by the Chief Commissioner’s representitive on the Police Legacy Board, Commander Ashley Dickinson. Inspector Bill Mathers, Geelong, represented the local Assistant Commissioner Sandra Nicholson with backup from Constable Susie Francis from Geelong. Bill endorsed Ashley’s words and added a special welcome to those who had travelled long distances to get to the lunch. He suggested that Geelong had turned on the wild weather to impress visitors to a very ‘lively’ Corio Bay. Susie thoroughly enjoyed her time with legatees and gave Police Legacy a ringing endorsement for what was being done for legatees young and old.
Pictured from left – Cmdr. Ashley Dickinson, Insp. Bill Mathers and Police Legacy Field Officer Barbara Brand
Tags: Police Legatees lunch, Warnambool
To end their 2008 tour to Adelaide in style, legatees from Melbourne and other parts of the state, joined with local legatees and police representatives for a great meal and fellowship at a Warrnambool restaurant. Our president Roger Schranz travelled down to join the largest group of legatees to ever meet in Warrnambool. Local police representatives included Superintendent Shane Cole who spoke of the commitment police had to look after those left after their partners had died and thanked the Board and staff present for the work they do for ‘the wider police family’.
Local legatees Pam Wade and Diana Peyton enjoying the night with the tour group
Victoria Police Legacy tour to South Australia
Forty five legatees visited Adelaide last week for the South Australia Police Tattoo. Many were on their second trip to the Tattoo, having been on our last tour in 2006. This year was special for everyone as our own Pipe Band featured amongst the very talented local and international acts.
Elsie Collings with Senior Constable Dave McNamara
A surprise visit by members of the band to our group in the audience was appreciated by everyone but none more so than Mrs Elsie Collings whose husband Keith served as Drum Major in the band for over 20 years. She caught up with two pipers who had played at Keith’s funeral. It was one of many highlights for the Victorian visitors.
Bands from around Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Europe thrilled the 4,000 strong audience for over three hours. The finale was spectacular and will leave a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to witness it.
