An honour board, made by Brauer College students, was unveiled in the foyer of the Warrnambool station by Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Tess Walsh on Wednesday.

Senior Sergeant Deon Townsend-Booth initiated the award, which was won by First Constable Aaron Toulmin.

“Upon commencement at Warrnambool I put to the leadership group the idea of recognising a person (sworn or VPS) who is chosen by his or her peers who goes above and beyond their role,” Senior Sergeant Townsend-Booth said.

“The award is to recognise leadership and excellence. There has never been such an award at Warrnambool uniform.”

Mr Bagg, who was joined at the unveiling by his wife Daryl, said the naming of the award had come as a big surprise.

“It’s a hell of an honour,” Mr Bagg said. “It was completely unexpected. I still don’t understand what all the fuss is about.”

Mr Bagg joined the police force in 1958 when he was 21-years-old. He served for 34 years, six months and three days.

He began at the police depot training in St Kilda Road, Melbourne before being stationed at Port Melbourne.

He left the force to go back to the family dairy farm at Timboon in 1964, before rejoining in 1972.

In 1975 he was transferred to Warrnambool, where he worked for the next 25 years. He started the iconic Blue Light Disco with Sergeant John Wade and now-Inspector Brian McKenzie.

Senior Sergeant Townsend-Booth said Mr Bagg displayed all the leadership attributes and qualities of a frontline member.

“He worked the van into his 60s I am told and was a well respected member of the community,” he said.

First Constable Toulmin said he hadn’t worked with Mr Bagg, but knew of him.

He said he was “surprised” to win the award.

“Everyone here works hard and deserves to be recognised,” he said.

“I try and work hard and do what I am told.” 

First Constable Toulmin joined the force four years ago. “It was something I had always wanted to do,” he said.

Brauer students Todd Saffin, 16, and Luke Smith, 16, were at the unveiling. The pair helped make the honour board. They said it took about six to seven hours of work to complete.

The board is made from Victorian ash and finished in a golden oak stain.