Our community is shocked and devastated by the tragedy that has unfolded in Porepunkah today. It is the most terrible of days with the loss of two serving police officers and the serious injury of a third. 

To the families and friends and colleagues of the two police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, my heart breaks for your immeasurable grief and I join with all our community in standing by you in this most terrible of times. To the third officer seriously injured, also in the line of duty I join in the prayers for your recovery. 

Everyone deserves to make it home at the end of their shift. It is utterly heartbreaking that two members serving our community will not do so today.  

This appalling event has shaken not only Porepunkah, but communities right across the North East, and indeed the nation. While we may be geographically spread, we are close-knit, and in moments like this we feel the loss together.  

I want to acknowledge and thank the police and emergency services who are continuing to respond to this ongoing incident. 

I also thank the local community for their cooperation during the police response. In particular, the principal and staff of Porepunkah Primary School, who kept their students safe and calm during lockdown for many hours. 

As this is an ongoing situation I urge members of our community to pay attention to and follow the information and instructions provided by Victoria Police. 

ENDS