In honour of Blue Ribbon Day and in memory of the recent passing of Neal Thompson and Vadim de Waart-Hottart, police members, volunteers and community groups across Victoria have stepped up to show their support for the Blue Ribbon Foundation.

In Melton, the Police’s volunteer group — the Melton Community Safety Register (MCSR) — continues to make a meaningful impact by phoning some of the area’s most vulnerable and elderly residents each weekday morning. At their annual dance last week, the group took the “Blue Ribbon Tin” and merchandise along, selling nearly all of their pins and ribbons. With generous donations from attendees, the fundraiser is believed to have raised hundreds of dollars, helping to support the foundation’s important work.

At Wangaratta Police Station, staff and community members created a powerful display to mark Blue Ribbon Day, honouring fallen officers and raising awareness of the foundation’s mission. The display drew steady attention throughout the week, encouraging locals to pause, reflect, and donate. Officers reported that many members of the public contributed to the cause, with donations flowing directly to the Blue Ribbon Foundation.

Meanwhile in Bendigo, the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s local branch partnered with Bendigo Health to host a fundraising event. Volunteers and staff sold ribbons, pins and merchandise at the hospital, with a steady stream of patients, staff and visitors showing their support. The initiative raised significant funds for the foundation while also strengthening ties between the police, the health service and the wider Bendigo community.

At Craigieburn Library, a dedicated Blue Ribbon Day display was set up to raise awareness and honour those who have given their lives in the line of duty. The display attracted the interest of many library visitors, sparking conversation and community engagement. Even after the Blue Ribbon Day materials were removed, the display continued to draw attention — now featuring a bright pink cap as a new point of interest. The library hopes to keep the display in place until the end of October, with plans for the CFA to contribute materials to promote bushfire awareness heading into summer.