Twenty one local NSW Police Force officers and employees were recognised for their commitment and service at an awards ceremony held at the Deniliquin Police Station in December.

Murray River Police District Commander Superintendent Paul Smith presented the awards, personally thanking each recipient for their hard work and dedication in their various positions.

‘‘We came together to recognise officers for their long service and their dedication,’’ Supt Smith said.

‘‘We also recognised some of our new officers who recently joined the New South Wales Police force, and their affirmation to office as a constable to police.

‘‘It is very important to recognise all of that good work as police put themselves at risk every day.’’

Families were unable to attend the traditionally large celebration because of Coronavirus restrictions, which is also why the ceremony was held over two days.

But Supt Smith said the fanfare was not lost, and thanked the families for their own sacrifices.

‘‘We don’t have the big extended families here which is unfortunate, so hopefully in 2021 our awards day can open a bit so we can recognise those police and their families for the work they give us.

‘‘That is an important thing that is often lost; the sacrifice families give whether it be not having someone at home, having someone working on Christmas Day etcetera, there is a lot of sacrifice that goes on for families.

‘‘I thank them for letting me have their loved ones to serve the people of New South Wales.’’

Award recipients are as follows:

Sergeant Peter Buckley (Deniliquin) – Awarded the National Police Service Medal, National Medal, 1st Clasp to the NSW Police Medal, Blue Mountains Commander Citation and Warrant of Appointment to the rank of Sergeant.

Sergeant Roger Campton (Deniliquin) – Awarded the 2nd Clasp to the NSW Police Medal.

Leading Senior Constable David Connolly V.A (Deniliquin) – Awarded the 4th Clasp to the NSW Police Medal.

Leading Senior Constable Stephen Baker (Deniliquin) – Awarded the National Police Service Medal, National Medal and 1st Clasp to NSW Police Medal.

Senior Constable Colin Smith (Finley) – Awarded the National Police Service Medal, National Medal, 1st Clasp to the NSW Police Medal and a Certificate of Commendation for his involvement in the arrest of a wanted male offender in possession of a firearm.

Senior Constable Greg Lawler (Finley) – Awarded the National Police Service Medal, National Medal, 1st Clasp to the NSW Police Medal.

Senior Constable Ian McGuirk (Deniliquin) – Awarded the National Police Service Medal, the National Medal and 1st Clasp to NSW Police Medal.

Senior Constable Ian North (Deniliquin) – Awarded the NSW Police Medal for ethical and diligent service.

Senior Constable Jane Wall (Barham) – Awarded the NSW Police Force Ethical and Diligent Service Medal.

Senior Constable Nat Jones (Tocumwal) – Awarded the NSW Police Force Ethical and Diligent Service Medal.

Senior Constable Paul Ebsworth (Deniliquin) – Awarded the National Police Service Medal, National Medal and 1st Clasp to the NSW Police Medal.

Senior Constable Rob Mayo (Deniliquin) – Awarded the 2nd Clasp to the NSW Police Medal.

Senior Constable Steven Wall (Barham) – Awarded the National Police Service Medal, National Medal, 1st Clasp to the NSW Police Medal.

Constable Christina Williamson (Deniliquin) – Presented with the Oath of Office.

Constable Nicholas McRae (Deniliquin) – Presented the Affirmation of Office

Probationary Constable Blake Shorrock (Deniliquin) – Presented with the Oath of Office.

Probationary Constable Kira Steward (Deniliquin) – Presented with the Oath of Office

Probationary Constable Patrick Lowe (Deniliquin) – Presented with the Affirmation of Office.

Probationary Constable Tailey Beaver (Deniliquin) – Presented with the Oath of Office.

Aboriginal community liaison officer Des Morgan (Deniliquin) – Presented with the Commander Commendation for the Copper Punch Program.

Retired executive officer Joy Tebbens (Deniliquin) – Presented with the NSW Police Force 15 year Medallion and lapel pin, NSW Police Force long service award for 15 years of ethical and diligent service and the NSW Police Force Certificate of Service, for service between January 20, 2003 to April 10, 2019.