Fallen officer’s legacy lives on 20 years after his death
TWO decades have passed since Senior Constable Norm Watt was killed while on duty, and his comrades in blue ensure his service and sacrifice is not forgotten.
The officer, who was stationed with the Rockhampton District Dog Squad at the time of his death, grew up in Chinchilla and completed his schooling in the country town.
Watt and his partner, dog Zeus, were called to a hobby farm at Alton Downs on July 20, 2000, after reports came through that a man had fired three shots at a friend.
During the night as officers cordoned off the residence, the killer snuck out of the house and hid in bushes where he shot at Watt.
Watt, who had been checking the boundary fence of the property with another officer, dropped to the ground after being fatally wounded in the groin.
A Chinchilla Neighbourhood Watch representative said local officers took a moment on Monday to remember their fallen brother in blue.
Thy said he would never be forgotten in the town thanks to a memorial plaque in his honour at the Chinchilla Police Station.
Another tribute to the fallen officer can be found out on the water.
The QPV Norm Watt, a 17m monohull patrol and enforcement vessel was named after the fallen officer earlier this year.
Watt’s mother Rosalie said at the time the naming meant a lot to her, and she would be forever proud of her son and his selfless service to the police force.
“Its hurts in a way, but it’s nice to think that Norm’s spirit will be enjoying it, gliding around the ocean on a brand new police boat,” she said.