Blue Ribbon Day provides the opportunity for the community to say thank you to those who protect and serve our community and ensure that those who have fallen are never forgotten.
Sadly, 170 members of Victoria Police have made the ultimate sacrifice.
North East Branch Blue Ribbon Foundation President, Graeme Simpfendorfer said Blue Ribbon Day always holds a special place in the state’s hearts.
“Blue Ribbon Day holds a special place in the hearts of Victorians because it’s the community’s chance to pay tribute to our police; to its members who have paid the ultimate price and to acknowledge all those who continue to serve,” Mr Simpfendorfer said.
This year Blue Ribbon Day means more than ever.
2020 has been especially challenging for Victoria Police, tragically losing four members in April and now supporting our efforts in the fight against COVID-19. Their role in protecting us all can be very difficult and challenging, impacting on them and their families. The support of the community means so much.”
The Foundation first launched Blue Ribbon Day in 1999, after the outpouring of community support for Senior Constable Rodney Miller and Sergeant Gary Silk who were tragically killed on August 16, 1998.
Blue Ribbon Day also raises much needed funds to assist the Foundation to continue its work in funding emergency and life-saving medical facilities in public hospitals that are named in honour of Victoria Police officers who have died in the line of duty.
Blue Ribbon Foundation is so grateful for the support of the Victorian community, Victoria Police members, veterans and families and their 17 volunteer branches.
With their amazing support the foundation has proudly contributed over $10 million to Victorian public hospitals.
The public is encouraged to participate in Blue Ribbon Day and show Victoria Police your support through September by performing one of the following:
Wear a blue ribbon – The blue ribbon is a visual symbol of your remembrance of the police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. It is also a symbol of support for serving members.
Help Turn Victoria Blue - Decorate your workplace, home, front fence or balcony in blue ribbons to show your support for Victoria Police. Visit the website for Remembrance Kits and Ribbons.
Donate to the Blue Ribbon Day Appeal – You can donate any Woolworths Store in Victoria or online at www.remember.org.au. Your donations will support the appeals work in funding emergency and life-saving medical facilities in public hospitals that are named in honour of Victoria Police officers who have died in the line of duty.
Get involved on social media – Show your support via social media using the hashtags #BlueRibbonDay2020, #BRD2020.