The Australian Federal Police (AFP) joined police forces across the country on Monday, 29 September to pause and reflect on National Police Remembrance Day (NPRD), a solemn occasion dedicated to honouring officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities.
This year’s commemoration held a particularly sombre significance following the brutal murder of two Victoria Police members in Porepunkah on 26 August 2025, a tragedy still weighing heavily on the minds of police and the public alike.
Closer to home, Belgrave acting Sergeant Bradley Raaymakers and his father, Robert Raaymakers, a retired Victoria Police Inspector who once served as Officer in Charge at Belgrave, shared their reflections on the importance of this day and what policing means to them.
Mr Robert Raaymakers spoke of his 48-year career with Victoria Police as a time of great personal growth and connection.
“National Police Remembrance Day is an opportunity for me to remember those that we have lost along the way,” he said.
“I am particularly fortunate to be involved with Victoria Police Legacy who look after police families who have lost a loved one, so NPRD is a prominent activity on our calendar.”
Reflecting on his time as station manager at Belgrave, Mr Raaymakers said police officers build deep community connections beyond their official duties.
“Our members were heavily involved within the Belgrave community, through local sporting clubs, community groups and schools,” he said.
“What has stayed with me was the outstanding work during the Black Saturday fires where they often put themselves in harm’s way for the good of the community.”
Mr Raaymakers expressed pride in his son’s decision to pursue policing.
“It is more than a job, it is a vocation and an honourable one at that,” he said.
“These are different times now with more complex community expectations, but Victoria Police will always be seen as leaders within the community.”
Acting Sergeant Bradley Raaymakers echoed his father’s sentiments, describing NPRD as a chance to pause and acknowledge the inherent dangers of policing.
“Police members said goodbye to their families, went to work to serve their communities and keep them safe, yet didn’t make it home after their shifts,” he said.
“It’s a sombre reminder of the risks Police face daily and the grief shared by the whole ‘Blue Family’ when we lose one of our own.”
Having grown up around policing, Mr Raaymakers said his father’s example inspired his own career.
“Dad was always there for his members and the community through major events like the Black Saturday Fires, that’s the foundation of why I do what I do,” he said.
In his current role at Belgrave, Mr Raaymakers emphasised the importance of building strong community relationships.
“We are heavily invested in our local schools and broader community,” he said.
“As leaders within our community, enhancing these relationships is so important.”
Both father and son acknowledged the challenges and risks that come with the job.
Mr Robert Raaymakers reflected on the difficult moments police officers face, often unseen by the public.
“There have been too many who have not made it home after incidents that have gone dramatically wrong,” he said.
“You cannot put a price on that sacrifice.”
Yet, despite the dangers, both agreed policing remains a rewarding vocation.
“When you help fix things and restore faith, that’s what keeps you going,” Mr Robert Raaymakers said.
As the nation paused on 29 September to remember those lost in the line of duty, the Raaymakers’ story serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication, sacrifice and community spirit at the heart of policing in Victoria and across Australia.
