A heart full of generosity and a lifetime dedicated to helping others have made Brian Edward APM, OAM, former Police Chief Superintendent and The Portsea Camp’s regional champion of Geelong, a local hero. At 84, Brian remains on a mission to ensure that children in need across Geelong experience the joy, growth, and adventure of life-changing outdoor camps—fostering lasting memories and positive connections.
A Lifelong Dedication to Supporting Youth
Since retiring in 2002 from a distinguished 45-year career with Victoria Police, Brian has devoted his time to supporting children facing hardship. As the children’s camp coordinator for the Lions Club Geelong Corio Bay, he has spent more than two decades providing young people with opportunities to experience the great outdoors.
Recognized for Service and Contributions
Brian’s dedication to the police force and tireless fundraising efforts have garnered significant recognition, including the Australian Police Medal in 1996 and the prestigious Order of Australia Medal in 2021 for his 45 years of service and significant contributions to community organisations. More recently, Brian was awarded the 2023 Westfield Geelong Gate Local Hero award. His work speaks volumes, and its impact is truly felt in the lives of the hundreds of children he has helped.
Fundraising Success: Making a Difference
Over the past 23 years, Brian has secured more than 100 grants and raised over $400,000 through various channels, including the Geelong Community Foundation, Geelong Magistrates’ Court, and other local philanthropic trusts. Through his efforts, he has helped sponsor nearly 1,400 children, enabling them to attend transformative five-day wilderness camps at Licola and Making a Difference adventure camps at The Portsea Camp.
A Journey Full of Excitement and Adventure
Referred to Brian through family support services such as The Smith Family, refugee programs through Cultura, or local schools, children embark on their camp journey with excitement and anticipation. Brian and his volunteers fondly recall the joy on the children’s faces as they board the McHarry’s bus from Geelong, make the scenic crossing on Searoad Ferries, and arrive at The Portsea Camp, ready for their summer adventure.
“They love the whole experience—wide-eyed as they look for dolphins during the ferry ride, and once at camp, they can’t wait for the challenges and activities ahead. From high ropes and kayaking to talent shows, it’s a chance for them to grow, make friends, and experience a world beyond their usual surroundings.”
A Passion for Helping Young People
For decades, Brian has volunteered as a camp leader, ensuring that children have the best possible experience and supporting other volunteers in making each camp a success. This commitment to youth is not a new chapter for Brian—it has been part of his life since his early days in the police force. As a Junior Police Trainee from 1957 – 1959, Brian was required to qualify as a Youth Leader by undertaking the Victorian Association of Youth Clubs and YMCA courses – it was at that time in 1958, Brian attended The Portsea Camp, formerly The Lord Mayors Camp and began volunteering with the Kilsyth Youth Group.
Brian’s passion for working with young people continued throughout his entire police career, including ten years on the board of Bethany Community Support and today that passion for helping children lead, happy, healthy and fulfilling lives is stronger than ever.
“I’ve always been passionate about helping young people find positive experiences and removing the barriers they often face. It really does make a difference and can be the turning point that helps them build a brighter future.”
A Special Experience: January 2025 Camp
The most recent camp in January 2025 at Portsea was particularly special. Forty children from The Smith Family, along with a dedicated team of volunteers, participated in the summer adventure camp. The mix of 104 children and 38 leaders made for a memorable and enriching experience.
“It was a real privilege to witness the leadership and dedication of Damon Veitch, the Make a Difference camp coordinator,” Brian says. “I first recruited Damon as a junior assistant many years ago, and to see his growth and leadership now is incredibly fulfilling.”
Looking Toward the Future
Looking ahead, Brian remains as committed as ever to ensuring these opportunities continue for years to come.
“I’ve already started applying for grants so we can provide these wonderful experiences at The Portsea Camp to even more children from Geelong each year,” he shares. “As a community, together we can achieve great things. I hope my work inspires others to give back and help those who are less fortunate.”
Since April 2024, Brian has raised over $40,000 and sponsored 65 children to attend The Portsea Camp. His work is a testament to the power of community, kindness, and the incredible difference one person can make in the lives of others.
