A Northern Tasmanian police officer with more than 38 years’ service has been announced as the inaugural recipient of the Keith Smith Community Policing Award.
Announcing the award in Launceston today, Commissioner Donna Adams said that Senior Constable Annabel Shegog was selected unanimously by a panel after receiving multiple nominations from community members and within Tasmania Police.
“Tragically one of our own, Constable Keith Smith, was killed in the line of duty in the state’s north west in June this year,” Commissioner Adams said.
“Keith was a well-respected and dedicated police officer who was committed to providing meaningful support to individuals while building lasting relationships founded on trust and service
“As a fitting tribute to Keith, the inaugural Keith Smith Community Policing Award honours those who go beyond traditional policing by building trust, fostering partnerships, and improving the social cohesion of their communities.”
Commissioner Adams said that with more than 38 years’ service with Tasmania Police, Senior Constable Shegog is a trusted and familiar face in Northern Tasmania.
“Nominations outlined numerous examples of how Senior Constable Shegog’s dedication to community policing has helped build safer, more connected neighbourhoods in the north of the state, and consistently makes a real difference in people’s lives,” she said.
“Senior Constable Shegog is known for her genuine care, cultural awareness, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
“Whether she’s supporting newly arrived refugee families, chatting with seniors at a Crime Stoppers event, or speaking to students about online safety and respectful relationships, she brings warmth, professionalism, and a deep sense of responsibility to every interaction.
“A regular at schools, community events, and local initiatives like ‘Cuppa with a Cop,’ Senior Constable Shegog often gives her time outside of work hours to make sure people feel heard and supported.
“Her work with Neighbourhood Watch, multicultural organisations, and service clubs like Lions and Rotary has helped bridge gaps and build lasting trust between Tasmania Police and the community.”
Commissioner Adams said that Senior Constable Shegog’s approach is all about prevention, inclusion, and respect.
“She leads by example, and her quiet strength, kindness and integrity have earned her the respect of colleagues and community leaders alike,” she said.
“Her service to the community reflects the compassion, service, and trust that Constable Smith embodied throughout his 25-year career, and demonstrates an outstanding commitment to community policing.
Nominations for the Award came from members of the Tasmanian community as well as within Tasmania Police. The Award was open to currently-serving police officers who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to community-focused policing and engagement and whose service to the community reflects the compassion and trust that Constable Smith embodied throughout his 25-year career.
The panel members were Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman, Assistant Commissioner Robert Blackwood, Community Engagement Commander Jo Stolp, and Northern District Commander Marco Ghedini.
For more information about the award visit https://www.police.tas.gov.au/about-us/keith-smith-community-policing-award/