State Parliament MPs including Member for MacKillop Nick McBride have expressed their deep regret at the death of Lucindale police officer Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty near Bordertown last month.
Mr McBride last week supported a condolence motion moved by Acting Premier Dr Susan Close.
The speeches were witnessed by senior police including Acting Commissioner Linda Williams.
“Brevet Sgt Jason Doig – or ‘Doigy’ as he was affectionately known, was a highly respected police officer who had been the Officer in Charge of the Lucindale Police Station for the past 12 years,” Mr McBride said.
“‘I acknowledge his bravery, sacrifice and service to SAPOL.
“I acknowledge the bravery of Sergeant Michael Hutchinson – who was wounded during the incident, and the bravery and heroism shown by Constable Rebekah Cass who also attended.
“Jason was a much loved and respected member of the community. He was an important part of the cultural and social functioning of the district.
“He was also someone I called a friend – someone who, over the years – had invited me to go fishing and motor bike riding – invites I – sadly – due to other commitments – was never able to accept.
“The death of a police officer in a regional community hits hard – especially in a town like Lucindale.
“Jason was the type of officer who would turn up at the local pub, tell those inside that he was on duty – with the intent to give people the opportunity to make good choices.”
Mr McBride said Brevet Sgt Doig’s position as a police officer was “never clouded by friendship, and he administered his police work without fear or favour”.
“He was big on ‘prevention’ policing,” he said.
“He liked nothing more than to see a line of cars parked at the local footy oval on a Sunday morning – evidence that people had – the night before – found an alternative way home – rather than risk it and drive after having a few drinks.
“He was there when the region was impacted by bushfires – like at Keilira and Blackford.
“He put his community first – and he wore his uniform with pride.
“As is often the case, tragedies can be the catalyst for really learning about a person.
“Since his death, people in Lucindale, Naracoorte, Bordertown and surrounding areas have come together and shared stories about Jason – and those stories have made people laugh – and cry.
“At Lucindale last month – a wreath laying ceremony, attended by the Acting Commissioner Linda Williams and other dignitaries, drew hundreds of people. This was testament to the high regard in which Jason was held.
“The night before – landmarks here in Adelaide were lit up in blue – a sign of respect that Jason would never have believed – or expected.
“Jason was – quite simply – a genuine, kind bloke. He loved his motorbikes, his boat, fishing, and his beach house at Robe.
“He loved a chat – particularly if it involved talking about his motorbikes – a trait that led to many an ‘eye roll’ from the person on the receiving end of his passionate discussion.
“He was always the first to help out, even if he was in his ‘casual clothes’ and not officially on duty.
“He was a fierce advocate for the ‘country cop’, and the role they played in keeping communities safe – and we know he did that – to the very end.”
Mr McBride said Brevet Sgt Doig was “a cut above the rest”.
“His death -and the injury of Sgt Michael Hutchinson, and bravery of Constable Rebekah Cass – serves as a powerful reminder of the risks associated with being a first responder,” he said.
“They serve our community, put their lives on the line every day for us – and we should be forever grateful.
“To Jason’s mother Faye Edwards, step-father Robert Edwards and brothers Brett and Greg – the MacKillop Electorate sends its deepest sympathies for the devastating loss you are feeling.
“But you should also feel incredibly proud of your son and brother – and the indelible mark that he has left on the people and community of the South East.”
