Western Australian Police Minister, Paul Papalia and Police Commissioner, Col Blanch, joined the loved ones of four fallen police officers for a historic commemorative rugby game at the weekend.
The officers tragically lost their lives on January 26 2001, when their Cessna 310 crashed as they were returning from a disturbance in remote Kiwirrkurra, east of Newman.
The annual Bloody Slow Cup is held in honour of Senior Constable Donald Everett, 49, Senior Constable Phillip Ruland, 32, First Class Constable David Dewar, 31, and Constable Gavin Capes, 27.
“It has been 23 years since the four police officers lost their lives and we will never forget their sacrifice and dedication to duty,” said WA Police Minister Paul Papalia.
“The officers were answering a call for help from the community but were tragically unable to return home to those they loved, and who loved them.
“The Bloody Slow Cup rugby match has been an ongoing effort to ensure these officers’ sacrifice is never forgotten and even though the last match has been played we will always be there to offer our support to their families and walk with them in their grief.”
The event was created in 2005 by the officers’ friends and former colleagues, then Senior Sergeant Geoff Stewart and Constable Tony Signal, and has been held in Newman ever since.
It begins with a remembrance service at the crash site and culminates with a charity rugby union match between teams representing Australia and New Zealand. Other sports are also played throughout the day.
For two decades the Bloody Slow Cup has brought the community together to remember and attracted hundreds of people to the Pilbara town. However, Saturday was the end of an era with the final match being played in Newman.
“I’d like to acknowledge the tireless work of WA Police Legacy, supporting those left behind and I’d also like to thank the community of Newman for being home to this important event for the past two decades,” said the Minister.
While the competition will no longer go ahead, the sacrifice made by the four police officers will never be forgotten and loved ones will continue to pay tribute in their own way, he said.
The Bloody Slow Cup has led to life-long memories, enduring bonds and funds raised for WA Police Legacy, a not-for-profit charity that looks after the families of deceased police officers.
