Best friends share emotional tribute to Rachel McCrow after Wieambilla shooting

Friends of a young police officer killed in an ambush on the Darling Downs say being a cop was something Rachel McCrow “took pride in”, as they remembered their former Brisbane classmate.

The best friends of a young police officer who died in an execution-style killing on the Darling Downs yesterday say being a police officer was something Rachel McCrow “took pride in” as they gave an emotional tribute to their former classmate.

Constable McCrow, 29, was one of two police officers who were murdered in cold blood at a property at Wieambilla, south of Chinchilla, Monday afternoon.

The tragedy shook the nation but especially the family and friends of Const. McCrow, who are still yet to come to terms with her death.

Queensland police officer Constable Rachel McCrow (L) who was killed in a shooting at Wiembilla.

Const. McCrow, who was based at the Tara Police Station, graduated from Bray Park’s Genesis Christian College in 2010 and had a group of close friends she had shared memories with for more than a decade.

That group of friends on Tuesday told Quest News Const. McCrow, who was sworn in last year, loved being a police officer, as they all came together to remember her.

“When Rachel joined the police force we had no doubt that she would succeed,” they said.

“Her selfless nature coupled with her genuine care for others meant she was going to be an asset to any community she worked in.

“Proud is an understatement.

“Rachel not only took pride in her job but worked incredibly hard to learn and grow in this career.”

Facebook image from a Queensland Police Union post of Constable Rachel McCrow who died at a property in Wieambilla.

The group said it was hard to put into words what their friend meant to them.

“She was someone who no matter how much time passed from the last time you saw her, you could pick up right where you left off,” they said.

“Anyone that had the privilege of coming into contact with Rachel instantly warmed to her. “She was the kind of person who could make anyone feel comfortable, safe and heard.

Judy McCrow with her daughter Rachel. Picture: Facebook

“Rachel had an infectious laugh that could brighten anyone’s day and a wicked sense of humour to match.

“She lit up every room she walked into and her vivacious personality and positive energy could brighten the day of anyone around her.

“Rachel was kind, honest and brave, inspiring all those around her to be their best.

“She valued her family and friends more than anything, she was a constant support for the ones she loved, always going above and beyond to ensure they had everything they needed.”

Flowers left in tribute of Constable Rachel McCrow and Constable Matthew Arnold. Picture David Clark NCA/Newswire

Her longtime friends said “the loss of Rachel will forever be felt by us”.

“The impact this has had on all of our lives will not be forgotten,” they said.

“It cannot be said enough how much she will be missed, not only today, but everyday, there will be a piece missing at all future weddings, births and life milestones that Rachel would have cherished.

“We will play ‘wagon wheel’ one more time for you girl.

“With love from Jess, Sasha, Kirstin, Renee, Casey, Simon, Shaun and Reece.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with Rachel’s mother, Judy and her sister, Samantha.

A 58-year-old local man from a neighbouring property also died during the incident, which injured two other police officers.

Police investigations are continuing.