Constable Richard Douglas has been announced as the 2026 recipient of the Keith Smith Community Policing Award for his outstanding commitment to the Tasmanian community.
Announcing the award in Burnie today, Commissioner Donna Adams said Constable Douglas was selected unanimously by a panel after receiving multiple nominations from community members and within Tasmania Police.
"Tragically one of our own, Constable Keith Smith, was killed in the line of duty in the state's North West in June 2025," Commissioner Adams said.
"Keith was a well-respected and dedicated police officer who was committed to providing meaningful support to individuals while building lasting relationships founded on trust and service.
"As a fitting tribute to Keith, the Keith Smith Community Policing Award honours those who go beyond traditional policing by building trust, fostering partnerships, and improving the social cohesion of their communities."
Commissioner Adams said Constable Douglas had made a lasting impact through his dedication to community engagement, public safety, and service to others since joining Tasmania Police in 1995.
Of note, his coordination of the annual Tasmania Police Charity Trust Bike Ride has resulted in more than $1 million being raised for charity since its inception in 2007.
He has also made a significant contribution to community sport, particularly through his support of women's football across North West Tasmania.
"His leadership, mentoring and commitment to inclusion have helped create opportunities for participation and development, strengthening community connections and positively influencing young people across the region," Commissioner Adams said.
Commissioner Adams said Constable Douglas's service extended beyond fundraising and sport.
"Through more than 20 years of involvement in search and rescue, operational skills and police training, he has played an important role in the development of hundreds of police officers, helping improve operational capability, officer safety, and community outcomes," she said.
"Respected by colleagues and community members alike, he consistently leads by example and demonstrates the spirit of service that the Keith Smith Community Policing Award seeks to recognise.
"His outstanding record of service, his lasting contribution to the Tasmanian community, and his ability to bring people together make him a worthy recipient of the 2026 Keith Smith Community Policing Award."
Nominations for the Award came from members of the Tasmanian community as well as within Tasmania Police for a currently-serving police officer who demonstrates an outstanding commitment to community-focused policing and engagement and whose service to the community reflects the compassion, service, and trust that Constable Smith embodied throughout his 25-year career.
Congratulations to Constable Richard Douglas on this well-deserved recognition.
For more information about the award visit https://www.police.tas.gov.au/about-us/keith-smith-community-policing-award/
