Tributes flow for Rob
POLICE Legacy Tasmania chair Rob Cooke has been described as a “larger than life individual” and a “selfless legend” who was admired by many.
The death of the country sergeant last week has been met with shock from community members who knew him.
Mr Cooke worked 31 years in Tasmania Police.
POLICE Legacy Tasmania chair Rob Cooke has been described as a “larger than life individual” and a “selfless legend” who was admired by many.
The death of the country sergeant last week has been met with shock from community members who knew him.
Mr Cooke worked for 31 years with Tasmania Police, serving roles in traffic, the public order response team, uniform and radio dispatch.
In recent years he worked as part of a two- man team in the Oatlands Subdivision.
He was also a long- serving member of the Police Association of Tasmania, having served in significant roles, including Deputy- Vice President ( 2013- 2018) and Vice President ( 2018- 2019), before he retired on the grounds of ill health.
Mr Cooke’s family paid tribute to “an incredible man” who died less than a month before his 50th birthday.
“Our beautiful son, we will miss you so much. Part of our heart has gone with you. Love you so much, mum and dad ( and Sammie the dog).”
Other family members said “our hearts are broken, yet so full of pride”.
“An amazing selfless legend, gone way too soon. Rest easy Rob. Miss you and love you — [ nephew] Matt.”
“My heart is heavy. I admired and love you so much. So many wonderful memories I’ll keep. Go gently Rob, finally some sleep, [ sister] Shell x.”
Police Association of Tasmania president Colin Riley described Mr Cooke — whose widow is a current member of Tasmania Police — as a man who “advocated and brought significant change for members”.
“He was a larger- than- life individual — genuine, enigmatic, a strong advocate and well- respected and liked by all ranks within Tasmania Police,” Mr Riley said.
Meanwhile, dozens of Tasmanians paid their respects on social media.
“He was such a kind, hardworking, top Aussie bloke. I hope he has found peace,” one user wrote.
In a Talking Point penned to the Mercury in 2018, in which he welcomed the announcement of additional officers to the force, Mr Cooke spoke of the workload Tasmania police officers faced.
Police Legacy Tasmania described Mr Cooke — a founding member of the organisation — as a “passionate leader for our important charity”.
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