Maitland-based Inspector Tim Seymour led his colleagues through the streets of Newcastle yesterday in a march to celebrate NSW Police Force’s 150th anniversary and to remember the police officers who died in the line of duty during that time. 

The moving minute’s silence to the fallen was in stark contrast to the pomp and ceremony of the parade.

Inspector Seymour, the parade commander, led 150 senior police and detectives, including 17 from Maitland, from Newcastle police station to the foreshore. 

Fellow Maitland policemen Sergeant Darren Waters, senior constable Michael Steele and constable Glen Reid also held pivotal roles in the parade which concluded with a special ceremony.

Supervisor Sergeant Maurice Towers of the Central Hunter command was one of five policemen recognised for their length of service in the force. 

Sergeant Towers has been with the force for 40 years and said he was “honoured and very proud” to receive the award during the 150th year.

“When I joined the force it was 110 and the job has been very rewarding,” he said.

“I am very proud.”

Police Minister Michael Gallacher attended the ceremony along with deputy commissioner Nick Kaldas and other distinguished guests. 

Mr Kaldas spoke of the courage police showed in running towards danger and “righting the wrongs” as well as their positive impact on people’s lives.

He said the force had undergone several changes with the development of social media technology and would continue to serve the public with dedication and adapt to their environment. 

A prayer and a minute’s silence remembered officers killed in the line of duty. 

Inspector Seymour said it was a poignant moment in the ceremony. 

“I am proud that we are remembering our colleagues who have been killed on duty,” he said.