ASouth East Mayor has publicly praised local and visiting police officers for their efforts over the busy festive season.

The population of Robe swells to an estimated 15,000 at this time with Robe District Mayor Lisa Ruffell grateful for the enhanced presence of the officers in blue.

“The extra support and police presence did not go unnoticed and was key to reducing incidents and damage compared with previous years,” she said.

“I want to thank SAPOL officers for their dedication to help keep our community and its visitors safe over the summer period.

“It was also great to have the SAPOL boat in Robe policing the waters and ensuring boat users had the correct gear and were operating in a safe manner.”

In another reference to the emergency services in her monthly message, Mayor Ruffell struck a sombre tone.

She paid tribute to long-serving Robe Country Fire Service Brigade captain Rodney McMartin who died in December.

“It was such an honour to pay my respects to Rodney at his funeral and watch the procession of CFS, and emergency service vehicles pass by in Victoria Street,” Mayor Ruffell said.

“He will forever be remembered as a dedicated and inspirational community member.”

Mr McMartin was posthumously given the 2023 Australia Day Mayoral Award.