A medal rewarding gallantry or distinguished service within the police and fire services of Britain and her overseas dominions will find a new home in the Tasmania Police Museum today.

Only ten Tasmania Police Officers were ever awarded the Kings Medal, instituted by Royal Warrant of 7 July 1909.

Constable Louis Henry Rooke was stationed at Fingal during devastating floods of 1911. The land was underwater from unprecedented heavy flooding forcing people to take refuge in trees.

Constable Rooke displayed great courage, resource and had “great presence of mind” as recorded by the Weekly Courier of the time. He had a craft constructed and went in the flood water to find and save lives.

His actions were described in a Mercury report from Wednesday 1 February 1912 stating that “The Attorney-General has received notification that the King has been pleased to award the King’s medal to Constable Louis Henry Rooke, for conspicuous bravery at Fingal during heavy floods.” Constable Rooke received the award on 22 June 1912.

Tragically Constable Rooke died of illness only ten years later. He was only 46 and still a serving police officer.

A man highly regarded by his colleagues and those who encountered him. The Weekly Courier described Louis as being “Capable and zealous, held in high esteem.”

The descendants of Constable Rooke have kindly donated the Kings Medal awarded to Louis Henry Rooke, to the Tasmania Police Historical Group. It will be displayed in the Tasmania Police Museum in honour of Constable Rooke’s service.

Today Commissioner Darren Hine will be presented with the donated Kings Medal from the Rooke Family at 3pm at the Tasmania Police Museum, Bathurst Street, Hobart.