Tributes have flowed after the passing of respected Tasmania Police officer Rob Cooke

Sergeant Rob Cooke has been described as “larger than life” and a “selfless legend” who was admired by many, as a heartbreaking Mercury column he wrote in recent years is re-shared >>

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POLICE Legacy Tasmania chair Rob Cooke has been described as a “larger than life individual” and a “selfless legend” who was admired by many.

The death of the country sergeant last week has been met with shock from community members who knew him.

Mr Cooke worked 31 years with Tasmania Police, serving roles in traffic, the public order response team, uniform and radio dispatch.

In recent years he worked as part of a two-man team in the Oatlands subdivision.

He was also a long-serving member of the Police Association of Tasmania, having served in significant roles, including Deputy-Vice President (2013-2018) and Vice President (2018-2019), before he retired on the grounds of ill health.

Mr Cooke’s family paid tribute to “an incredible man” who died less than a month before his 50th birthday.

Tasmania Police sergeant Rob Cooke.

“Our beautiful son, we will miss you so much. Part of our heart has gone with you. Love you so much, mum and dad (and Sammie the dog).”

Other family members said “our hearts are broken, yet so full of pride”.

“An amazing selfless legend, gone way too soon. Rest easy Rob. Miss you and love you – [nephew] Matt.”

“My heart is heavy. I admired and love you so much. So many wonderful memories I’ll keep. Go gently Rob, finally some sleep, [sister] Shell x.”

Police Association of Tasmania president Colin Riley described Mr Cooke – whose widow is a current member of Tasmania Police – as a man who “advocated and brought significant change for members”.

“He was a larger-than-life individual – genuine, enigmatic, a strong advocate and well-respected and liked by all ranks within Tasmania Police,” Mr Riley said.

“Rob’s passing leaves a significant hole that will be very difficult to fill, if at all. He was a unique person who inspired, challenged, argued and encouraged all of us to be better than what we are now. Rest In Peace.”

Radio dispatch operator Senior Sergeant Rob Cooke (left) speaks with Police Commissioner Darren Hine and Police Minister, Rene Hidding

Meanwhile, dozens of Tasmanians paid their respects on social media.

“He was such a kind, hardworking, top Aussie bloke. I hope he has found peace,” one user wrote.

“Thank you for your service in keeping our state safe,” another post read.

In a Talking Point penned to the Mercury in 2018, in which he welcomed the announcement of additional officers to the force, Mr Cooke spoke of the workload Tasmania police officers faced.

“All of the officers talk about how you don’t actually relax at home, because you are waiting for the phone to ring. When you go to bed, your sleep patterns are disturbed for the same reason,” part of Mr Cooke’s article says.

“You can pull an eight or nine-hour day and get home at 7pm, be called out to an incident 100km away and stay at work until 5am.”

Police Legacy Tasmania described Mr Cooke – a founding member of the organisation – as a “passionate leader for our important charity”.

“His unwavering commitment and initiatives assist our current legatees and this will be an ongoing benefit for those of the future,” Police Legacy Tasmania said in a Facebook post.

Anyone seeking support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.