A FATHER and son have hit the road in a once-in-a-lifetime patrol through the streets of Bendigo.
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One has been a copper for 34 years and the other two months.
Tony and Cohen Kekich have both been seconded to the Bendigo Highway Patrol unit for a few weeks and have not let the chance slip by.
"It's a very proud moment to be able to work alongside my son today," Tony said.
"Our bosses are really supportive. I once said to one of them them, 'all I want to do is work one shift with my son and I will be a happy man for the rest of my life'," Tony said.
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That shift began on Tuesday morning.
Neither officer was sure exactly what the dynamics would be like in their patrol car.
"Yes, it could be interesting," Cohen said as the pair prepared to begin their shift.
"When the time comes we will have to be serious, but I think we will also have a laugh."
Tony said the pair planned to patrol roads around town.
"We'll see what comes our way. It will be the usual: traffic stops, breath tests and speed detection," he said.
"And we might assist other police already out there (on the roads) as well."
Constable Cohen Kekich grew up hearing stories of policing from his father.
"It was probably something I was always keen on doing. From everything he told me about it, it seemed like a pretty good job," he said.
Cohen was working at a bank when he realised it was time to get out from behind a desk and become a police officer.
"I loved the bank, when I was there. But I felt like I needed a change to something different," Cohen said.
"I've always been interested in being part of the community and I felt like Victoria Police was the best way to go."
Cohen said he was loving his new career. He is usually based in Castlemaine.
"It's a little bit quieter than here (in Bendigo) but there is still plenty to do and lots of challenges," he said.
Tony had been on hand with advice and insights ever since Cohen decided to become a police officer.
The acting senior sergeant said one piece of advice was the most important.
"We've got to look after the vulnerable. We are the ones they use to find answers and bring justice," Tony said.
"So if there's one thing I would like to pass on to Cohen it's to be the best he can be, in that respect."
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