Part of the family

Editorial: Jesse Wray-McCann

Photography: Riley Upton, The Maryborough District Advertiser

A posthumous Victoria Police Star more than 161 years in the making has been awarded to a senior constable killed during Victoria’s gold rush period.

Senior Constable Edward Barnett was murdered on 1 February 1858 at the White Hills Goldfield near Carisbrook when trying to arrest robber William Brook.

Brook, who had just shot dead restaurateur Charles Lopez during a bungled robbery attempt, shot Sen Const Barnett in the heart while escaping.

The police officer was buried at Carisbrook Cemetery and his grave site was the location of the Victoria Police Star presentation ceremony held in August this year.

Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam presented the award and said that while Sen Const Barnett has no known relatives, he would always be part of the Victoria Police family.

“One of our commitments is to honour the memories of members who have made the ultimate sacrifice, as we’re doing here,” DC Steendam said at the ceremony.

“This ensures that Sen Const Barnett, just like so many years ago, is still acknowledged and valued as part of the extended Victoria Police family.”

DC Steendam also commended Avoca Leading Senior Constable Chris Trimble (pictured below) for his efforts in championing the honour for Sen Const Barnett.

Sen Const Barrett’s grave was also dedicated and the award now hangs inside the nearby Maryborough Police Station.