Mrs Bell’s Fundraising for Victoria Police Legacy
On Wednesday 22 April, four Victoria Police Officers were tragically killed in a truck collision on a Melbourne freeway. Details of the horrible event have been shared widely as tributes and messages flowed in memory of the officers and in support of their friends, family, and colleagues.
The four fallen members were Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King, Constable Joshua Prestney, and Constable Glen Humphris. Members of the Victorian Police Force have banded together to raise money for Victoria Police Legacy – a foundation that supports Victoria Police families, serving or retired, those who have lost a spouse, partner, or parent. Their fundraising effort through everdayhero.com has members pledging to run 159.485kms over four weeks throughout May. This number represents the each of the four officers’ registered numbers, assigned to them when they were sworn in as police:
- 27.417km for Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor
- 40.942km for Senior Constable Kevin King
- 45.438km for Constable Joshua Prestney
- 45.688km for Constable Glen Humphris
Many of us are lucky to know passionate, committed, and hard-working police officers who are part of our local community and who work every day to protect us. One of our teachers, Mrs Merna Bell, has been running throughout May to support this cause.
Some of you may not know, but Mrs Bell was a member of the Victorian Police for over 20 years before becoming a teacher. Her husband is also a currently serving member and worked closely with Lyn Taylor, one of the tragically lost officers. Mrs Bell has seen first-hand the impact that Victoria Police Legacy can have in supporting families who have lost loved ones.
As at Wednesday 27 May, Mrs Bell has raised over $1,100 for this cause and has logged over 153 kilometres. She – along with all the members working hard to make a difference – would appreciate any support as she finishes the month.
There will be a final run this Sunday 31 May, with all the members completing the run as a relay that will cover a journey from the Police Academy in Glen Waverly, via stations where the officers worked, and finally ending at the Victoria Police Centre in Melbourne CBD.
Click here to support Mrs Bell in her fundraising effort.
Our thoughts are with all those affected by this horrible tragedy, and we thank the police for their committed duty.
You can find out more about the Everyday Hero fundraiser for Police Legacy here.
