A Tasmanian police officer who has spent nearly four decades supporting some of the state’s most vulnerable communities has been recognised with a new award honouring a colleague killed in the line of duty.
Senior Constable Annabel Shegog has been named the inaugural recipient of the Keith Smith Community Policing Award, celebrating her 38 years of service with Tasmania Police.
Announced in Launceston on Tuesday, the award was created in memory of Constable Keith Smith, who was killed while on duty in the state’s north-west in June.
Commissioner Donna Adams said Senior Constable Shegog was unanimously chosen by a panel after receiving several nominations from both community members and colleagues.
“Senior Constable Shegog is a trusted and familiar face in northern Tasmania,” she said.
“Nominations outlined numerous examples of how Senior Constable Shegog’s dedication to community policing has helped build safer, more connected neighbourhoods in the north of the state and consistently makes a real difference in people’s lives.”
“Senior Constable Shegog is known for her genuine care, cultural awareness and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.”
Senior Constable Shegog works closely with refugee families, regularly visits schools to talk about online safety and respectful relationships and is a familiar face at community events.
She is also a regular at Crime Stoppers activities and Cuppa with a Cop sessions and collaborates with Neighbourhood Watch, Lions and Rotary clubs across the region.
“She leads by example, and her quiet strength, kindness and integrity have earned her the respect of colleagues and community leaders alike,” Adams said.
“Her service to the community reflects the compassion, service and trust that Constable Smith embodied throughout his 25-year career and demonstrates an outstanding commitment to community policing.”
The selection panel included Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman, Assistant Commissioner Robert Blackwood, Community Engagement Commander Jo Stolp and Northern District Commander Marco Ghedini.
