Tasmania’s two longest serving police officers were recognised for their service at the inaugural presentation of National Police Service Medals at Parliament House in Canberra.  

“These new national medals are awarded to sworn police officers in recognition of their role in protecting the community,” said the Commissioner of Tasmania Police, Darren Hine.

The National Police Service Medal is awarded on the recommendation of the relevant Commissioner to officers with a minimum of 15 years of service.

On Monday 19 September 2011, the Prime Minister Julia Gillard presented the first of these new medals to the two longest serving officers from each jurisdiction.

“Representing Tasmania Police are two well respected officers, 1/C Constable Tony Buckingham and Detective Senior Constable Robyn Button.  These officers have between them dedicated 8 decades of service and the Medals are recognition of their past and future commitment to ethical and diligent service,” said Mr Hine.

Constable Buckingham began his career in 1965 as a Junior Constable in Hobart CIB.  He has served in Burnie, Strathgordon and in CIB in Southern District for 28 years.  For the past 11 years he has served the East Coast based at Orford.

Tasmania’s longest serving female officer, Constable Robyn Button, signed up in 1977 and started work in Hobart uniform.  She has served in Hobart CIB and is currently based at Kingston CIB.

“I offer my congratulations and thanks to them both for their hard work and commitment to the Tasmanian community,” said Mr Hine.

The National Police Service Medal will be presented to the more than 570 eligible Tasmanian officers, past and present, over the next 12 months.