Northampton police take out team gong in WA Police excellence awards

Northampton police officers have been celebrated for going above and beyond in their efforts to keep the community safe during cyclone Seroja, winning the team category at this year’s WA Police Excellence Awards.

Northampton was one of the worst-affected areas when Seroja carved a path of destruction through WA in April, with more than 70 per cent of buildings damaged or destroyed within the Shire boundaries.

Almost every business lost power, except the Northampton police station which had a back-up generator.

That crucially enabled local police to set up the station as a command post for recovery and support, with SES and DFES crews working out of the building.

Recognised for their ability to keep residents safe in those challenging circumstances, Northampton police station pipped two other finalists to take an award back to the Mid West.

Northampton officer Sen. Const. Brock Lucev said it was a humbling experience.

“We were all worthy winners,” he said.

“It’s quite embarrassing to be honest. We don’t do the job for recognition, but it is nice to be recognised.

“Commissioner (Chris) Dawson was very proud of us and the work we do.”

Attending the awards ceremony at Optus Stadium on Thursday morning, Northampton police received a $5000 prize to be spent on team development.

Sen. Const. Lucev said the small Mid West town was still in a recovery process eight months on from the natural disaster.

“It has changed the look of town,” he said.

“There are still houses and buildings with tarp on their roofs. Some buildings had to be demolished so there are a few vacant blocks.

“With harvest time the farmers are so busy doing their own thing. A lot haven’t been able to comprehend the damage and assess where they are at.”

Sen. Const. Lucev said Northampton police had grown closer to the community since Seroja hit.

“People manage traumas differently,” he said.

“We are there to support people as much as we can.”