Police Minister Mark Ryan and Commissioner Ian Stewart attended the naming ceremony of Polair 2 at Mary MacKillop Catholic College, Highfields today, Queensland Police say.
The Minister and Commissioner joined the late Senior Constable Brett Forte’s wife Susie Forte and Brett’s children, parents and family for the ceremony.
The QPS helicopter, Polair 2, based out of Brisbane, was formally named ‘Brett A Forte’ in honour of Senior Constable Forte.
On May 29, 2017, Senior Constable Brett Forte was shot and killed on duty by an armed offender while executing his duties with the Toowoomba Tactical Crime Squad.
On this date and the subsequent day, Polair 2 provided aerial overview enhancing the situational awareness of the siege incident which enhanced the safety of all officers on scene.
Polair 2 was the initial helicopter which responded to the incident and is now named in Brett’s honour.
Commissioner Stewart said today’s ceremony was a testament to the courage and sacrifice that Senior Constable Brett Forte gave to our service.
"Polair Queensland is an asset to the QPS and it is a great honour that Polair 2 is now named after an officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty," Commissioner Stewart said.
"I would like to acknowledge Brett’s wife Susie and family members today for their ongoing support throughout this naming process."
Polair Queensland was established in August 2012 and in July 2014, a second helicopter was engaged to service the greater Brisbane area.
This section provides support to areas covering south-east Queensland, which ranges from the border of New South Wales to the Moreton District encompassing Redcliffe and Caboolture.
Polair also supports the Southern Region, including Ipswich and Toowoomba.
Police Minister Mark Ryan acknowledged Brett’s family, particularly his wife Susie, thanking them for their continued support of the Queensland Police Service and the Queensland community.
"Today we recognise the bravery and sacrifice Senior Constable Brett Forte gave to the QPS and the Queensland community."
"The Queensland community can be assured that Polair Queensland are protecting us from above and providing support to police officers on the ground."
