The Waikato Police District Pay Parade and Awards Ceremony took place on Friday morning (29 July) at Hamilton Gardens. The tradition of the Pay Parade comes from the requirement for Police officers to march to the local magistrate’s office every fortnight in their dress uniform and pass inspection before getting their pay packet.
A number of Long Service and Good Conduct Awards were presented, with one recognising an officer’s 42 years of service.
Acting Waikato Area Commander Greg Nichols, Raewyn McLachlan and RGR 4 with NZ Police Commissioner Mike Bush. Image from Facebook – Rangi Stevenson
Constable Raewyn McLachlan from Raglan received her Good Conduct and 14 years of service medal.
Raewyn said, she would like to thank the Raglan community for the awesome support over the years to help look after our lovely town and hopes to be around for many more years.
Well done and congratulations Raewyn from Raglan.
Two members of the public were presented bravery awards.
The event was attended by Commissioner Mike Bush, Acting Deputy Commissioner Allan Boreham, Acting Assistant Commissioner Bruce Bird, invited dignitaries and guests. Commissioner Mike Bush said he always enjoys these events and seeing staff show so much pride in Police and their community.
Among others, the 45 awards presented included National Diplomas, Overseas Service Medals, Certificates of Promotion and District Commander Awards. Sir William Gallagher presented the Gallagher Trophy.
Acting District Commander Inspector Greg Nicholls thanked the 200 members of the public who came along to watch the parade. He said, “These awards are an opportunity for Police to recognise the great work and bravery of staff, members of the public and our local heroes. The bravery awards going to members of the public were awarded to an off-duty volunteer fireman and to a seven-year-old girl. The young girl was being awarded for running across farmland to get assistance from emergency services when her grandfather had an accident on a quadbike.”
The Master of Ceremonies for the parade was Inspector Kent Holdsworth and the Parade Commander was Senior Sergeant Dave Litton.
