Mission to help others
Life-altering injury inspires former officer
A retired police officer, who refused to let a career-ending injury stop him from dedicating his life to helping others, is now raising thousands of dollars for first responders doing it tough.
Former police sergeant Shane Martin was badly injured when his vehicle was targeted during an incident in a remote North Queensland community, which led to him being medically retired in 2021 after a decade on the job.
“When I was medically retired, I was feeling very alone,” Mr Martin said.
“I felt like I let everyone down, and I still wanted to help people in some way.”
The Townsville dad went on to set up his own not-for-profit, Team Code Blue, which auctions off NRL memorabilia, from which all money goes toward supporting first responders in need of help.
The initiative – formally known as Supporting Those Who Support the Community – has raised more than $15,000 in two years.
Mr Martin said another great aspect of the charitable auctions was they also connected footy fans with their heroes.
“We’re so thankful for all the players who get involved,” he said.
“Coen Hess actually gave us his training jersey and signed it.
“It’s really special. I believe it’s a bit close to home for Coen because I believe his father is a police officer.”
Team Code Blue recently raised more than $1000 to help support the family of firefighter Isabella Nash who died after being critically injured in a Brisbane factory blaze.
Mr Martin said he knew from experience that first responders in need of assistance could “fall through the cracks” despite all the support services out there.
He said being a first responder was an “emotionally draining” job at times, especially when subjected to abuse.
“It wasn’t abnormal to be called everything under the sun, and you’re just being polite there, doing your job the best you can,” he said.