National Police Memorial

In 2001, it was resolved to establish a National Police Memorial in Canberra.

The Memorial pays tribute to Australian Police Officers who have been killed on duty or have died as a result of their duties since the advent of policing in Australia and to recognise the unique nature of police service and the dangers that police face in their daily pursuits.
The $2.4million memorial was jointly funded by the Australian Government (through the Australian Federal Police), State and Territory Police Services and Police Federation of Australia.

The Memorial was completed and dedicated on 29 September 2006 (National Police Remembrance Day). Following the dedication ceremony, a criteria for future inclusion of names on the National Police Memorial was agreed upon together with a National Police Memorial Co-ordination Committee.

On this day

Constable

Thomas KNIBBS

YEAR OF DEATH

12 February 1855

JURISDICTION

Western Australia

DETAILS OF DEATH

Constable Knibbs was murdered en route to the Beaufort Hills Police Station in Perth. Knibbs relieved Mounted Const. Phillip McGuire who had escorted prisoner Stevens from Albany. The party, including coach driver Septimus Robert Toovey stopped for water at the Williams River. Toovey and Knibbs collected water and returned to the coach where Stevens was waiting with a pistol in each hand. He placed a pistol at Knibbs’ chest and shot him dead. Toovey ran for cover and returned with David Grainger and overpowered Stevens. The party continued to Perth with Knibbs but because of the decomposing body were forced to bury him on February 13th, 1855 at Bannister.

Complete Honour Roll

Affiliated events

Remembering mates – Wall to Wall Ride is held in September each year.

Click here for more information.

National Police Remembrance Day is an annually recognised on 29th September.

Please note for 2025, services will be held on Monday 29th September.

Check with your State/Territory police organisation for local information of services to be held, or click here for more information.