OBITUARY - Dr Ray Shuey

2 October 1945 - 20 August 2024

Dr Raymond Shuey AM APM, PhD, R.R.S.P., B.A (Police Studies), Dip. Crim., Dip. Govt. Investigations. FAIM., FIPAAV., died on 20 August 2024, at Epworth Hospital in Melbourne, after a long battle with illness. He was a tireless champion for road safety and police reform. His life of service was marked by fidelity, courage, and endurance in the face of personal tragedy and professional challenges.

A Life of Service

Ray was a Vietnam war veteran. He joined Victoria Police in 1962, rising through the ranks to become Assistant Commissioner for Traffic and Operations before his retirement in 2003. Throughout his 41-year career in law enforcement, he demonstrated unwavering dedication to improving safety on Victoria's roads and within the police force itself. Ray joined the Board of the Pedestrian Council of Australia in 2005 and became Chairman in 2022.

Pioneering Road Safety Initiatives

Ray’s courage in tackling complex issues head-on led to significant reductions in Victoria's road toll. He spearheaded initiatives that increased enforcement and education programs, saving countless lives. His personal experience with road tragedy, including the loss of his brother David in a 1974 crash, fueled his passion for road safety.

Project Beacon: A Legacy of Reform

Perhaps his most enduring legacy is Project Beacon, a groundbreaking program he led in 1994. This initiative transformed how police respond to mental health and critical incidents, dramatically reducing police shootings and emphasising a "minimum use of force" philosophy. His integrity and vision for positive change reshaped police culture and practices.

Continued Advocacy in Retirement

Ray's endurance was evident in his tireless work post-retirement. He completed a PhD in international road safety in 2012 and continued to consult globally on road safety and operational safety issues. As President of the International Safety Foundation, he facilitated the transfer of life-saving equipment to lower-income countries, demonstrating his commitment to global safety.

Recognition and Honours

Ray's contributions were widely recognised. He was named Victoria's 2020 Senior Australian of the Year and received the Australian Police Medal. His academic achievements included a Bachelor of Arts in Police Studies, multiple diplomas, and numerous professional affiliations.

A Lasting Impact

Ray’s life was characterised by an unwavering commitment to saving lives and improving safety systems. His fidelity in pursuing evidence-based reforms, courage in facing personal and professional challenges, and endurance in advocating for safety until his final days have left an indelible mark on policing and road safety in Australia and beyond. He is survived by his family and remembered fondly by colleagues at the Pedestrian Council of Australia and countless others whose lives were touched by his work. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of safety advocates and law enforcement professionals.