The Redcliffe Hockey Club hosted its annual Brett Forte Memorial Match on Saturday, October 5, bringing together police officers and athletes to honour a fallen colleague who once played on these same fields.
The event, organised by the club’s old boys, commemorates senior constable Forte, who was tragically killed in the line of duty near Toowoomba in 2017.
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Brett Forte memorial details
Former Kookaburras captain Mark Knowles, whose achievements include Olympic, World Cup, and Commonwealth gold medals, strengthened the Police side. Local talent Hannah Cullum-Sanders, fresh from helping Redcliffe’s women secure the Brisbane Premier League 1 grand final victory, represented the club team.
The fixture has previously featured other Olympic stars including gold medalists Nikki Hudson and Angie Lambert, demonstrating the ongoing commitment of Australia’s sporting community to honour senior constable Forte’s memory.
“This match is a big part of our family calendar,” said Chris Forte, Brett’s brother, who participated in Saturday’s game. “It’s remembering Brett and supporting Police Legacy by raising money which will be distributed to the families of fallen police officers.”
Widow’s inspiring journey
While the memorial match celebrates Brett’s sporting legacy, his impact continues to inspire change, particularly through his widow’s remarkable journey. Senior constable Susie Forte, Brett’s widow, was recently admitted as a lawyer, completing her legal studies while maintaining her duties as a police officer and raising their children.
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“During the inquest into her husband’s death, Ms Forte was inspired to study law in order that she might be in a position to assist people as she herself had been assisted,” barrister David Funch told the Supreme Court during her admission ceremony.
While continuing her service with the Queensland Police Service, Susie aims to become a legal advocate for domestic violence survivors.
Published 11-October-2024