“It’s a real honour but without the support of all the police, the community and my family it wouldn’t have happened,” he told the Yarrawonga Chronicle/The Free Press.
In a police career spanning over 33 years, Commander Smith was initially posted to the Albury Police Station then served at Mulwala from 1989 to 1994.
“I was a very junior police officer then and appreciated the support of Mick McInerney who passed away last year, Bill (Bulldog) Drummond and Frank Giacopelli – they certainly set me on the right path,” he said.
“It wasn’t just New South Wales Police, including Corowa, but Victorian Police who have also helped me. I’ve had good mentors.”
Commander Smith has also performed general duties and criminal investigations in Dareton, Hay, Deniliquin and Barham, and “really enjoys the Riverina/Murray River area”.
One officer he singled out for appreciation was former Mulwala Public School and Corowa High School student Michael Corboy. Michael retired as NSW Police Force Assistant Commissioner in July 2020.
In early 2020, Commander Smith was transferred to Murray River Police Division (Albury) where he has been instrumental as the Forward Commander in establishing NSW/Vic border closures in respect of the COCID-19 pandemic health orders.
