Ray Hastings had his grandsons in the audience when he was honoured for more than 40 years service in the police force.
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Sergeant Hastings has ridden the challenges of the job but has also enjoyed it for the friendships he’s made.
“I’ve made lots of friends. Going to work, it’s always a challenge. But the people I work with make it so much more enjoyable,” he said.
The Portland sergeant was among about 60 police officers and members from the south-west and surrounds to be honoured at an awards ceremony at Warrnambool’s City Memorial Bowls Club.
The annual ceremony honoured police officers and members from Western Region Division Two.
It encompasses the Warrnambool, Moyne, Corangamite, Glenelg, and Southern Grampians local government areas.
That division has 24 police stations and about 200 staff members.
Acting Superintendent Paul Marshall hosted the event while Assistant Commissioner Cindy Millen presented the awards.
Acting Superintendent Marshall acknowledged that police had come from near and far for the occasion.
“Today’s where we honour our services and the commitment and dedication of our members,” he said.
“They’re all standouts. They’ve all achieved something.”
Among the awards were the Victorian Service Medal, National Medal, National Police Service Medal and the 35 year service award.
The National Police Service Medal is for 15 years service.
