Warrnambool landmarks will be lit up blue tonight, April 22, in remembrance of the Eastern Freeway tragedy in which four police officers lost their lives in the line of duty a year ago today.
Member for South West Coast Roma Britnell and Warrnambool Mayor Vicki Jellie worked together to ensure the Lighthouse Theatre and Archie Graham Centre could be lit up in memory tonight.
Landmarks across Victoria will be bathed in blue to remember Constable Glen Humphris, Senior Constable Kevin King, Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor and Constable Joshua Prestney who were killed in the tragic crash on the Eastern Freeway while attending a routine traffic stop.
It was the greatest loss of life in a single incident in Victoria Police's history.
Member for South West Coast Roma Britnell said she felt it was important the south-west took part in the memorial.
"The tragic death of these four officers sent shockwaves through the whole state and I thought it was important that we in the south-west took part in this state-wide memorial," Ms Britnell said.
"I called Mayor Jellie and we both agreed Warrnambool needed to mark the tragedy and join with other Victorian towns and cities in this memorial and worked to make it happen.
"Our police are there when we need them most and these four brave Victorians made the ultimate sacrifice keeping the community safe- they, and every police officer lost in the line of duty, should never be forgotten."
Warrnambool City Council Mayor Vicki Jellie said lighting local buildings in blue was a poignant way to show solidarity with Victoria Police.
"I'm pleased we have been able to ensure Warrnambool is part of the state-wide memorial, because it's important we all remember the sacrifice and service of these four officers," Cr Jellie said.
"The Eastern Freeway tragedy was a reminder of the risks the men and women of our emergency services face while serving the community and this is a way we can all show our respect.
"We can never forget them and the many other members of Victoria Police, who have died keeping us safe."
