5 September 2025
Parliament House will be lit up blue tonight and Monday to honour the lives of Victoria Police Officers Vadim De Waart and Neal Thompson, who were tragically killed in the line of duty last month in Porepunkah.
Our thoughts are with the officers' families, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
Chief Minister and Police Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the Territory stands united with Victoria in grief.
"The loss of Officers De Waart and Thompson is felt across the entire nation. Every day, police officers put their lives on the line to keep us safe, and their service and sacrifice must never be forgotten. On behalf of all Territorians, I extend my deepest condolences to their families and colleagues."
Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Robyn Lambley, said that as a mark of respect, Parliament House will be illuminated in blue on 5 and 8 September 2025, in tribute to the valour, steadfast service and ultimate sacrifice of the fallen officers.
"On behalf of the Legislative Assembly, I express our deepest sorrow at the deaths of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, who were killed in the line of duty in Porepunkah, Victoria on 26 August 2025. We honour their courage and service, and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families, loved ones, and policing colleagues. Their dedication to protecting the community will not be forgotten."
NT Police Acting Commissioner Matt Hollamby APM, attending today's funeral service in Melbourne, said the tragedy has deeply affected policing families across Australia.
"The loss of two officers is devastating, and it reverberates throughout the entire policing community. Lighting Parliament House in blue is a symbol of our collective grief, respect, and support for our colleagues in Victoria Police," Mr Hollamby said.
With honour, they served.
