Warrnambool police Superintendent Martin Hardy said this year's National Police Remembrance Day was restricted by the coronavirus environment but a small group had gathered at the city's memorial stone in Gilles Street to remember the 174 Victorian police officers who had died in the line of duty since 1853.

"Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten," he said.

"The memorial stone honours the memory of all our colleagues that have lost their lives while on duty and serving the Warrnambool district community."

Superintendent Hardy said four officers were listed on the memorial stone.

The first is Constable Daniel O'Boyle who was struck in the head with a mason's hammer by an escaping prisoner at the Warrnambool Court House on August 4, 1863. He died hours later.

Sergeant George Dodds was stabbed in the abdomen while arresting a drunk at the Star of the West Hotel Belfast in May 1958. He died of his wounds in August 1959.

Constable William Sharrock drowned in the Hopkins River on January 9, 1921, while trying to save a group of people aboard a sinking vessel 'The Nestor'.

And First Constable James Brewis, of Lismore police, was killed in a motor vehicle collision while on duty on November 28, 1954.

"We also remember the police personnel who have died in the previous 12 months and the important work Victoria Police legacy does in support of police families," Superintendent Hardy said.

Blue Ribbon Day is held on the same day each year to coincide with National Police Remembrance Day.

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