Sen Const Cath Nielsen received the Valour Award after attempting to save the life of Sen Const Brett Forte while under fire

SENIOR Constable Cath Nielsen has received a “bittersweet” award for bravery for attempting to save the life of slain officer Brett Forte.

Senior Constable Cath Nielsen has spoken for the first time since the death of her police partner Senior Constable Brett Forte.

After receiving her Valour Award for bravery in attempting to save Constable Forte’s life, Constable Nielsen said she was honoured and extremely humbled.

“Today for me is a bitter sweet day,” she said.

“I’m very humbled by this experience.

“I accept this on behalf of my friend Brett.”

Senior Constable Catherine Nielsen is presented with the Valour Award. Picture: Liam Kidston.

Senior Constable Brett Forte was killed on duty on May 29. Picture: Annette Dew

Constable Nielsen said if Constable Forte were here today, he would probably make fun of her.

“He would make some wise crack,” Constable Nielsen said.

“He would say something inappropriate like he always does.”

Constable Nielsen accepted Queensland Service’s highest honour in front of a packed theatre in Toowoomba this morning.

Senior Constable Scott Hill, Senior Constable Stephen Barlow and Constable Brittany Poulton also received the same honour.

Constable Nielsen pulled Constable Forte from their upturned police vehicle while under fire, after he had been shot twice in the chest on May 29.

Constables Hill, Barlow and Poulton assisted in the rescue effort.

Constable Nielsen smiled as she was presented her award by Commissioner Ian Stewart and Police Minister Mark Ryan.

Constable Forte’s family sat in the crowd.

An emotional Senior Constable Susan Forte — Constable Forte’s widow — watched on.

Commissioner Stewart said it was a very important day for the Queensland Police Service.

“(The Forte family’s) courage in being part of this ceremony is acknowledged,” he said.

“We’re so grateful. It means so much that they’re here today.”