Senior Constable Kelly Foster, who lost her life trying to save another, was farewelled by friends, colleagues, family and a grieving community.
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It was a tragic start to the new year when the highly regarded police officer, stationed at Lithgow, in the NSW Central Tablelands, lost her life.
Sen Const Foster died trying to rescue her 24-year-old companion from a whirlpool at Mount Wilson in the Blue Mountains on Saturday, January 2.
A significant gathering bade the fallen police officer farewell and a funeral procession with a marching escort followed at the end of the church service.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions not everyone who wanted to pay their respects in person was able to, but instead were encouraged to view the procession leaving the church.
The Lithgow community formed a united, socially-distanced front as they watched an police cars, bikes, marching officers and horses follow the hearse.
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Local businesses showed their respect by flying a sea of blue balloons in Lithgow's Main Street.
One business owner, Glenda Anthes, said it was important to show respect no matter who the person was.
"Anyone who dies doing something like that, trying to save someone else, whether they are paid to do it or not, deserves to be recognised and honoured," she said.
"Heroes deserve to be recognised."
Bianca Villa owner Renee Di Franco said that the balloons didn't just show support for Kelly, but also the other police officers in the area.
"Who are we as humans if we don't show our support? The police are beautiful here and they become friends, so this is a show of unity and support by the Lithgow community," she said.
The Chifley Police District thanked the community for its love and support in the days since Sen Const Foster's death.
"On behalf of Kelly's family and the broader NSW Police Force family, thank you for your ongoing support," a Facebook post read.
Sen Const Foster attested on August 27, 2010, after which she commenced duties as a probationary constable at Newtown Local Area Command.
She was confirmed as a constable in May 2012.
Sen Const Foster joined the State Crime Command in May 2014 and worked as an intel analyst until May 2020.