Scars remain as 'darkest day' for police remembered

The physical and mental scars from one of Australia's most brutal bomb attacks remain fresh for those who were there and their families four decades on from the tragedy.

As police officers and pedestrians mingled outside the Russell Street police headquarters in Melbourne at lunchtime on March 27, 1986, a car loaded with sticks of gelignite exploded.

The blast fatally wounded 21-year-old Constable Angela Taylor, who was crossing the road to collect lunch for her colleagues.

A further 21 people were wounded by the blast and a series of other explosions as the fuel tanks of nearby cars ignited.

A remembrance service will be held at the Victoria Police Academy on Friday and attended by Const Taylor's parents, Marilyn and Arthur, and brother Michael.

Const Taylor suffered extensive burns and died 24 days later, marking the first time an Australian policewoman had been killed in the line of duty.

The horrific impact prompted some of those involved to leave the force and left many others struggling with physical and psychological scars.

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush called it "one of the darkest days in our force's history".

"This ceremony is an important opportunity to commemorate Angela Taylor's life and the good she stood for," he said.

"We also recognise those injured and the countless police and everyday citizens who live with the memories of what happened that day."

The attack is considered one of Australia's first and most brutal acts of terrorism, with the bomb set to explode at precisely 1pm, when most people would be heading out for lunch.

The blast was so large that debris was found three blocks away.

Police Veterans Victoria chief executive, Debra Richardson, who is a survivor of the attack, said it still lived in the hearts of those who were there.

"As a survivor, and now CEO of Police Veterans Victoria, I stand in honour of those we lost and alongside the many who continue to carry the silent scars of that day," she said.

"Remembering matters — because their service, their sacrifice and their stories must never be forgotten."

Friday's service aims to acknowledge the continued impact of the bombing on all those involved and will include a minute's silence and special tribute by the The Victoria Police Pipe Band.

There have been 178 Victoria Police members killed on duty.