Honoured … Keilor Downs Constable Stephen Eppingstall was awarded the station’s best and fairest. 37688 Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI
By Belinda Nolan
WHEN most people win an award, they want to shout it from every rooftop.
That’s where Steven Eppingstall differs.
The Keilor Downs Police Constable was so embarrassed by a recent commendation, he didn’t mention it to anybody.
Const Eppingstall was voted by his colleagues as being the most outstanding police member at the station’s annual awards.
Described as a “best and fairest” honour, the award is aimed to recognise the achievements of a police officer who has made an exceptional contribution to the station.
Although his colleagues can’t speak highly enough of him, the award came as a shock to the humble constable, who has only been in the force for four years.
“I always try my best to do my job but I was pretty surprised I came out on top,” he said.
Const Eppingstall said he had been humbled by the award but admitted he’d copped his fair share of ribbing as a result.
“There’s always going to be a bit of that around your mates, but luckily for me I can give it back as good as I get,” he joked.
Although he previously worked in the army, Const Eppingstall said he was confident he’d found his true calling. He rated capturing a burglar last Christmas as one of the highlights of his career.
“I don’t do what I do to win awards,” Const Eppingstall said.
“When you get a result it’s very rewarding because it’s confirmation you’re doing your job.” Const Eppingstall has hopes to be promoted to Brimbank’s Criminal Investigations Unit in the coming years.
