I’m often asked what elements make a truly memorable event for everyone who attends – Is it a superstar performer, amazing AV, great food and wine, a beautiful setting or lots of famous people.

There is some truth with all of those elements but we were recently involved in an event that had none of them. In fact it didn’t need any as it was designed around two key messages – respect and honour.

I didn’t personally know the names Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King, Constable Josh Prestney and Constable Glen Humphris but like the rest of us we all knew them for the tragic events that transpired almost two years ago.

Due to COVID, it took until last week for the Victorian Government and the Victoria Police to be able to hold a memorial for them. After a number of attempts we thought at some stage it  might not happen but it did and it was truly memorable and inspirational in its own unique way.

To witness the many wonderful eulogies was one thing. To witness over 1,000 police of all ranks forming a guard of honour as the four officer’s caps, medals and photos were carried past there was a moment I’ll never forget nor will anyone else who was there.

It simply puts life into perspective.

It was a similar experience I had standing next to Neale Daniher at the first Freeze at the G and then for Breast Cancer network among 15,000 men and women in the shape of the pink lady.

You are particularly proud to be involved with events that have a personal reason for those attending as they are usually not ones you do on a regular basis. So thank you to the Department of Premier and Cabinet, the Victoria Police, Marvel Stadium, the team of key suppliers and everyone else that assisted in the delivery of this memorial. I know I speak on behalf of all of them to say it was an honour to be part of it.

Next time I get asked what makes a memorable event, maybe all I have to do is show them one of these photos. A picture paints a thousand words.