Retired officers from across the Shoalhaven were honoured on Thursday as part of the special event.

Fifteen former officers took part in the day, designed to acknowledge and recognise the efforts of former officers.

“It is important we recognise the great work each of you have done for our organisation and the contribution and service to the people of NSW,”  Acting Superintendent Thone said.

“We honour your contribution and sacrifice and ongoing legacy of our retired NSW Police officers.

“Policing is a dangerous profession, and the risk taken by all our officers as they serve the community daily comes with inherent danger.

“Some of our fellow officers have unfortunately paid the ultimate price with significant injury and loss of life.

“This loss is a reminder of the sacrifice of all of our officers, both sworn and unsworn.”

Acting Superintendent Thone said it didn't matter what duties officers performed, they had all contributed to making NSW police one of the most progressive and modern law enforcement agencies in the world.

“That connection will never leave you,” he said. “We that remain, and those whom are beginning their police careers are honoured to continue your tradition.”

The gathering also marked the loss of a number of retired police officers who have passed away during the year - John Davey, Stephen Dennett, Les Duffy, Bruce Durrant, Des Hennessy, Shirley Jones [wife of Wally Jones], Dennis Matts, John McGlynn, Bruce Sandry and John Windsor.

A minute’s silence was held in their memory.

“The world we live in has definitely changed,” Acting Superintendent Thone said.

“Terrorism is a major factor of policing in the modern day and as a result many of the community engagement and events are policed with a different focus and you will see in the future police on patrol carrying long arms.

“Our procedures have changed in relation to armed offenders from a contain and negotiate policy to an active seek and neutralise the threat - with lethal force if necessary.

“We are living in a different world in this regard from the past. However the basis of policing has not changed.”

The retired officers were treated to a number of presentations regarding the technology used by current-day officers and were also given an insight into a couple of recent local operations.

Each was also presented with a special pin to mark Retired Police Officers Day.