Senior Constable Kelly Foster farewelled in Lithgow after tragedy

On Thursday, the Foster family stood together in front of an image of Senior Constable Foster’while her sister Leigh read a statement thanking the community for their support.

“Not only was Kelly a proud and dedicated police officer, she was a loving sister, daughter, partner and friend,” Leigh said. “She was one of a kind; tough when she needed to be, but selfless, always supporting the people around her.

“This was true throughout her life, from her earliest role as a protective big sister, to her early career as a teacher, and later as a police officer. She overcame the challenges in her life with grit and resilience and did so with a smile that lit up her whole face – and every room she entered, a sparkle in her eye and a laugh that was infectious.

“Those two days were the hardest of our lives, but our pain was made that bit more bearable by the love, generosity, support and care of the first responders,” the Foster family said.

Senior Constable Foster joined the police in August 2010, after which she commenced duties as a probationary constable at Newtown Local Area Command. She was confirmed as a constable in May 2012.

In May 2014, Senior Constable Foster joined the State Crime Command working as an intelligence analyst, before she moved to Lithgow Police Station in May last year.

During her years with the force, she was awarded the National Police Service Medal, the National Medal, the NSW Police Medal and a Commissioner’s Unit Citation in recognition of her involvement in the response to the Lindt Cafe Siege.

NSW Police Force Commissioner Michael Fuller said, earlier in her career, Senior Constable Foster had demonstrated the hallmarks of becoming a respected and successful police officer.

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“Kelly’s gentle nature, enthusiasm and commitment to her policing duties was treasured by her work colleagues and the community whom she so tirelessly served,” he said. “She was very much a shining example of an officer who truly upheld our policing traditions of professionalism, commitment, honour and courage.

“It was these exact traits that Senior Constable Foster will be forever remembered; when she selflessly put herself in danger to rescue and save another. Where, without hesitation, she valiantly went to the rescue of a companion despite the peril that was to overcome them both. Her heroism, exceptional bravery and sacrifice is beyond question”.

Commissioner Fuller awarded her the Commissioner’s Valour Award.