Overpass tribute to Dave Masters
Deception Bay Overpass, which spans the Bruce Highway at Deception Bay Rd, has today been named the Dave Masters Memorial Bridge.
It honours the life of Senior Constable Masters who lost his life while on duty near the interchange on June 26, 2021.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish made the official announcement today, in conjunction with the Masters family and Queensland Police.
The ceremony included tributes from the Queensland Government, Police Commissioner, colleagues and the Masters family.
"My family and I see the bridge naming as an honour to Dave's bravery and his commitment to the community he served,” Sharon Masters said.
"We like to think Dave is now up there on the bridge overlooking and protecting the people that he swore to protect.
"We would like to thank Police Minister Mark Ryan who had a significant part to play in the naming process and of course TMR for making it happen.
"The naming of the bridge will ensure Dave's legacy will live on long after we are all gone. We as his family cannot be any prouder of Dave."
Minister Mellish said Senior Constable Masters was a “Queensland Police Service officer dedicated to keeping our community safe.
“I can think of no more fitting tribute than to name the Deception Bay Rd overpass the ‘Dave Masters Memorial Bridge’,” Minister Mellish said.
“Signage featuring the bridge name has been installed at each end of the overpass on Deception Bay Rd.
“In addition to honouring Senior Constable Masters’ contributions to QPS and our communities, we trust it will also serve as an important road safety reminder to road users.”
Police and Community Safety Minister Mark Ryan said officers demonstrate “unwavering dedication and courage in protecting the people of Queensland.
“Senior Constable Masters died doing just that and I extend my heartfelt thoughts to his family,” the State Member for Morayfield said.
“I appreciate the Masters family agreeing to the overpass naming, which evolved as a gesture of respect from Dave’s QPS colleagues and thousands of community members who supported the tribute.”
Commissioner Steve Gollschewski is “proud Dave’s legacy can live on through this memorial bridge and he can continue to be honoured for his sacrifice and the remarkable impact he had on our Service”.
Moreton District Officer A/Chief Superintendent Adam Guild said Dave Masters would always be remembered as a “well-loved colleague and mate who was dedicated to keeping others safe.
“We’re pleased to see the overpass named after Dave, just near where he was stationed, and hope the community is reminded of him each time they pass by it,” he said.
“I know I’ll be pausing to reflect on his service and bravery and to think of his family each time I drive by.”