Fundraiser for slain Gold Coast detective, Australia

Source:  9News

Sports stars and media identities have joined supporters of the Queensland Police Service on the Gold Coast to raise funds for the family of detective Damian Leeding, who was shot dead in May.

About 1,200 people attended a fundraising lunch hosted by TV presenter Karl Stefanovic on Wednesday at Jupiter's Hotel and Casino.

As well as the detective's wife and children, Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said funds would go to Police Legacy which cares for the families of fallen officers, and the Community Supporting Police organisation.

"It's a continuation of the outpouring of support the police department has seen, which we are very grateful for, since the tragic death of Detective Senior Constable Damian Leeding on the first of june this year," Comm Atkinson said.

"Nothing will bring Damian back but I know his family and his colleagues are greatly encouraged by the support they've received from the broader community since that terrible tragedy occurred.

"We rely on and need the support of the Queensland community to do our work effectively and that outpouring of support since the tragedy involving Damian has just been quite extraordinary, and I think it's been unprecedented, but it's very reassuring for us to know that quiet, latent support is there."

Police Minister Neil Roberts said the entire force appreciated the extent of the support given by the community of Queensland.

"I genuinely believe that support has always been there," he said.

"When you talk to people on the street about how they feel about their local police there's always a high regard and a high level of support.

"It's really major instances such as this tragic death which enable people to express that in so many ways, and today is just one more example."

Tina Coco from Donate life Queensland said the donation of Damian Leeding's organs illustrated the importance of families talking about organ donation.

"The most important thing is telling your family, because when the time comes, it's your family who are actually asked what your wishes were, and they make that decision.

"As a police officer Damian was looking after the community during his life and he made that generous decision to donate and help people after his death."