Community Unites to Create Wine in Memory of Fallen Police Officers
Making wine in memory of officers killed by Dezi Freeman
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In Porepunkah, Victoria, locals and police officers have come together to pick grapes and produce a wine blend in memory of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart, who were killed in the line of duty in August 2025. Proceeds from the wine will support families of police officers through Police Legacy.
- 01Grapes were picked in memory of two police officers killed in August 2025.
- 02The wine produced will support Police Legacy, benefiting police families.
- 03The event has fostered community healing and support.
- 04The winery aims to raise over $50,000 from wine sales.
- 05The wine is expected to be ready in a year and may be named after the AFL Bombers.
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In a heartfelt tribute, police officers and residents of Porepunkah, Victoria, have gathered to pick grapes in memory of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart, who were tragically killed by Dezi Freeman on August 26, 2025. The community effort took place at Feathertop Winery, which served as a command post during the police operation following the incident. The winery will produce a shiraz cabernet blend, with sales aimed at raising over $50,000 for Police Legacy, an organization dedicated to supporting families of police officers. Wayne Gatt, chief executive of the Police Association of Victoria, expressed that this initiative is a fitting way to honor the fallen officers and foster community healing. Detective Sergeant Chris Hill, who worked closely with Thompson, reflected on the emotional impact of the tragedy. The wine, still unnamed, is expected to be ready for consumption in a year, and Hill humorously suggested it could be called 'The Bomber' in tribute to Thompson's love for the AFL Bombers. This event not only commemorates the officers but also strengthens the bond between the police and the community they serve.
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This initiative not only honors the memory of fallen officers but also provides financial support to their families, fostering a sense of community solidarity.
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