Backup is Three Hours Away: A raw account of remote area policing

by Mark Tregellas

Embark on a gripping adventure with Mark 'Trigger' Tregellas in Backup is Three Hours Away, a true crime memoir chronicling nearly three decades of policing Victoria's remote coastal region. Trigger never knew what each shift would bring – tragedy, laughter, adventure, danger – sometimes all on the same day.
Trigger's personal journey, fuelled by a thirst for adventure and special forces training, led him to the frontline of policing. He faced life-threatening situations and earned commendation for his exceptional and courageous service, recognition that came at a personal cost. Through Trigger’s career he sustained severe injuries, including a broken spine, a gunshot wound to the face and PTSD.
Trigger delves into encounters with peril, unexpected twists, and heartbreaking moments, shedding light on the motivations that drive officers to willingly confront the unknown. Despite the physical and mental toll, his story is one of triumph, showcasing a resilient mindset honed through exhaustive training and the overcoming of life's challenges, including a brush with cancer.
Backup is Three Hours Away is a genuine portrayal of policing, from the unpredictable and humorous moments to heart-wrenching tragedy. Trigger's narrative transcends the typical law enforcement tale, revealing indomitable human spirit and resilience – a powerful and inspirational testament to the highs and lows of a career dedicated to service.                                                                                                                                                                                                                             
 For anyone who has dreamt about going on a cop ‘ride-along’ to see what really happens on a shift - this book is for you! Thirty years of policing in some of the most remote and inhospitable areas in Australia, condensed into 60 bite-sized chapters, ranging Diving headfirst into a speeding boat while 3 kilometres offshore to arrest poachers, outwitting a career criminal with links to terrorists, subduing three Nazi-linked extremists from attacking a young girl late at night while dressed only in pyjamas,  locating a decapitated head up a tree still encased in a motorcycle helmet. Traumatic, dramatic, suspenseful and at times farcical. Then there are the multiple bravery awards! There is a thin line that separates bravery from recklessness when risking your life to save others. But when you are trained, dedicated, intelligent and resourceful, members of the Thin Blue Line are ready, willing and able to take those calculated risks. Mark “Trigger” Tregellas has faced the demons and lived to tell the tale!
Richard Rolfe AM Vice Patron - Australian Bravery Association

Genres: Nonfiction, Biography, Memoir

310 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 5, 2024

Reviews

[Nikki Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mark Tregallas aka. ‘Trigger’ is a police officer who has worked for 3 decades in remote areas of Australia.

In this book he shares raw accounts of his remote area policing - many situations that just insane and utterly unbelievable. This man has seen and been through a lot and it’s truly mind blowing and not to mention that he is also so very lucky to be alive after being shot in the face in a freak accident that shocked me to my core.

This was such an easy listen and the stories shared were oh so gripping. The Chapters of The Teeth, Getting Shot in the Face and The Body in the Shower will not leave me in a hurry and I have already shared these with others around me.

I truly appreciate Marks honesty in this book - especially that around his PTSD and how he has overcome many challenges that life has thrown his way and I admire his ability to connect with communities and the people in these stories - if you are in the police force or have family going into the police force, I highly recommend picking this up.

[Tanis Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a raw account of remote area policing in Mark 'Trigger' Tregellas's native Australia, and it's an unusually compelling read - sixty one brief anecdotal chapters in roughly chronological order by a man driven to make each day an adventure. The author takes us from his childhood, to exploring in Amazonia, to the remotest outback of his own country during his 31 years career in law enforcement. These anecdotes are in turn frightening, grizzly, funny and profound, written with a light touch like a DIY manual on how to live life to the full. For a tester, how did he manage to survive a bullet between his eyes? Awards for valour abound of the kind normally reserved for men and women in conflict zones, and throughout it all, he remains touchingly concerned about protection of our natural world.
Photographs of the author are there, all six feet and seven inches of him. I would like to have seen more photographs scattered throughout the text. For me, pictures in real-life accounts help bring a story to life, but with or without them it's the best read I've had in years, and from a gifted author

[Robert McDowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I sat at same table as Mark at Australian Commando Assoc (Vic) Annual Dinner in August this year (2024). He gave a talk about the book. He spoke well and I found it most interesting, as did everyone.
Trigger was previously unknown to me despite both being in the Association. I am 20 years older and our service in 2 Commando Coy as it was previously known, now 2 Coy, First Commando Regt was not contemporaneous.
At the time I was greatly impressed with Trigger, the man. I bought two copies of the book and have only just now got around to reading. I read in just three days. A page turner. I found the book exciting and a great insight to policing in general and remote policing in particular. Challenges so varied, met with resolute courage, compassion and wisdom.
Coppers I knew back in the day, 60 odd years ago, are all old men now. The Assoc is tight, and we remember tough going during training. The Green Beret was not part of uniform issue; it had to be earned. Training was hard, frequently in miserable conditions. They were not interested to see how you endured paddling a two-man WWII kayak in summery conditions. They wanted to see how you behaved with the kayak half-full of water in mid-winter paddling for 10 hours, some against the tide.
Trigger's early days resembled mine - a traveller itinerantly employed until returning home aged 29, penniless, realising this had been a life well lived but the experience was hardly a negotiable instrument for groceries at the Supermarket (or Pub) and so, I settled.
Trigger chose a life of ongoing adventure in which he was called upon to face danger from the elements, situational risk, and violent criminals. For decades.
An exemplary Copper. An exemplary man. Wouldst there were more. There will be and I'm sure there are but few. Very few.

Well done, Trigger

[Robin Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very readable book about a country cops life and experience. Well written, it draws out the facts, the emotion, and the love for what he does and did. A compassionate person "Trigger" aka Mark Tregallas gives both amusing and educational insights into the key incidents in his life in a rural and then very remote police stations. Family insights are interesting. Phew, is all I can say, but be be aware, you start it, you won't put it down as each brief but well crafted vignette unfolds. The last chapter on the fires had me very misty eyed. You will not walk away from this book without a very positive view and high respect of our Police. Thanks Trigger.

[Michael Callagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A highly entertaining read on remote policing in Australia. The author does not pull punches in his stories which range from dramatic to funny to terrifying. His police work is interspersed with family life and the dedication that police in country areas have for their communities. Above and beyond in one of the chapters, I was amazed at just how far police are willing to help those in need. Also in the mix are jobs where the author comes close to death. An amazing read that I have not seen in other police memoirs.

[Marlee Roche · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was very informative and made me more passionate about becoming a police officer. This book highlighted highs and lows about a police career but taught me that everyday will be different and I will make a difference in some people’s lives. Some stories in here were confronting and I hope to god I do not have to deal with situations like them, some stories were boring, but most of all I learnt that a cops job isn’t meant to be hard on everyone, but also show kindness and support to the community they are in. I think I could do that and help the people in my community

[Joan O'Callaghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never read such a gripping personal account of policing. I never knew how much time and effort country cops put into their community or the dangers they faced. The book alternates between heart stopping action and raising three resilient, adventurous daughters. The authors journey had him surviving encounters that ranged from ridiculous to deadly. At times I couldn't put the book down. I really recommend it.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got totally sucked into the storyline of this one, and found myself up reading into the wee hours. At times hilarious, at times confronting but at all times, filled with a sense of community. Fantastic real life reflection of life on the force with all the positives and drawbacks these experiences bring with it.

[Olwen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cracking read. Great for a long train trip...but be careful not to miss your stop!

[Katie Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing read that really shows what the life of a cop can be like, especially a country cop. Extremely well written, and I couldn't put it down - read it one sitting!

[Mary Marne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried, I was there with him every step of the way….

In "Backup is Three Hours Away," Mark 'Trigger' Tregellas delivers a riveting memoir that plunges readers into the unpredictable world of remote area policing in Australia. Spanning three decades, Tregellas's narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions, blending moments of humour, tragedy, danger and adventure, often within the same chapter.
His thirst for adventure and unwavering commitment to service led him to some of the most isolated coastal regions, where each shift presented new challenges. From diving headfirst into a speeding boat offshore to arrest poachers, to subduing extremists while dressed only in pyjamas, his stories are as diverse as they are compelling.

The memoir doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of policing. Tregellas recounts sustaining severe injuries, including a broken spine and a gunshot wound to the face, and his battle with PTSD.

"Backup is Three Hours Away" transcends the typical law enforcement narrative. For those who've ever wondered what it's like to patrol remote and inhospitable areas of Australia, Tregellas offers an unfiltered, genuine portrayal that is both inspiring and thought-provoking. This memoir is not just for those interested in policing but for anyone seeking a story of courage, perseverance, and the complexities of the human experience in the face of adversity. Tregellas's narrative is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve and the strength required to navigate the unpredictable terrains of both the Australian bush and life itself.

[Andrew Bates · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met Mark back in the late 1980's when serving as a police officer in a small, coastal fishing community in Tasmania. He was pretty much in the same boat, serving in a similar community in far west Victoria. We both connected immediately but unfortunately lost touch almost as quickly.

Coming across "Back up is Three Hours Away" on the local book shop shelves the other day, I immediately recognised the nickname "Trigger", after nearly 40 years.

From the first page, Trigger takes you on a remote policing journey, covering his extensive career with Victoria Police. Whilst many books of this genre concentrate on the big city Detectives and major criminal take downs, Trigger shows us that all of that and more also happens in remote, regional Australia, mostly out of sight and mind, but just as thrilling and dangerous as the big smoke action.

Policing for him, as it has done for many of us, came at a price. Relationships and mental health, usually integral to one another, suffer severely in the quest to serve the community. "Back up is Three Hours Away", a title that sums up this ride along with Trigger, is truly a heartwarming journey during a period of great change in policing in Australia - from the 1980's transition from old school to the profession it now is.

Well done, Trigger.

[John Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just finished reading this. It is a gripping exploration of the challenges faced by law enforcement in remote locations. Drawing from his own experience in law enforcement, Tregellas brings authenticity and a raw, unfiltered perspective to the narrative. Isolation and vulnerability are central themes, with Tregellas effectively conveying the mental and physical toll of the protagonist’s environment. The writing is straightforward and unembellished, suiting the intense and often stark subject matter. The pacing balances action with reflective moments, enhancing the depth of the characters. While some plot twists are predictable, the book’s authenticity and detailed portrayal of police work in remote areas stand out. Tregellas’s experience lends credibility and immersion to the story. It is a compelling read that offers a unique, honest look at the life of law enforcement officers in remote areas. It is a must-read for fans of true crime and those interested in the human side of policing, showcasing resilience and dedication in challenging conditions.

[Stuart Wardrop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Backup is Three Hours Away: A raw account of remote area policing

Great read. If you want to read about a Country policeman in various locations around Victoria, this is a must read for you.
It contains a number of chapters, with each chapter a different story. The stories contain some fascinating insight to country Policing.
Mark's impact on the country community makes for a great read.

[Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibes: Frontline Reality, High Stakes Policing

I love a solid friend book recommendation and my friend Kate knows me far too well, especially when it comes to gripping non-fiction audiobooks. I hit play the moment she suggested Mark ‘Trigger’ Tregellas’s story, I hit play without hesitation.

This was one of those audiobooks I genuinely couldn’t stop listening to.

Mark shares what it’s like to be a police officer in a remote community, where backup isn’t always minutes away. This story captures this so well including the close relationships built in small towns, the adrenaline of saving lives and the confronting reality of crime scenes. I’d especially recommend this to anyone considering policing as a future career.

The individual experiences shared gave me a range of emotions. Some were laugh out loud funny, others were heavy, confronting and potentially triggering and more than a few felt so wild they were almost hard to believe. Exaggerated or not, every story was compelling in its own way.

Each chapter jumps straight into a new incident, keeping the pace fast. The nearly eight hour audiobook flew by which is always a great sign.

While some moments felt a little over the top, this was still a fascinating and immersive memoir that kept me hooked from start to finish.

[Darren Everitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very entertaining read! From hilarious to tragic, sometimes almost simultaneously. An insight into what can be "a policeman's lot".

As a resident of one of the towns where Mark served, I had heard some of the stories. At least one directly from Trigger's mouth. To have these tales, some of which seemed like urban myths, confirmed and detailed, is most satisfying if not a little disturbing!

[Stephen Anset · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read, finally my family can understand what I did for most of my 32 year career in Victoria Police. This book is a great insight into what Police actually do in remote locations. From signing stat decs to investigating murders and everything in between. Now when people ask, "What did you actually do in the Police Force ?" I say read this book.

[Fiona Raitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mark Tregellas has led a very adventurous life as well as an admirable life of service to the communities he has worked in. Mark is a natural storyteller. Mostly, this is an easy and very amusing read but he also tells of some moments of fear and sadness which are part of a policeman's duty. A very entertaining and memorable book.

[Sally Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book. Very interesting autobiography. An eye opener to what the police deal with on a daily basis, and what they do over and above to keep our communities safe.
A very interesting personal life as well. I highly recommend this book.

[Yasmine Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely fantastic book! From the very first chapter I felt like I was truly on a journey... unlike any other... And found I could not put it down untill the very end! I strongly recommend this book... it is well worth the read!

[Harrison Drummer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an awesome account of an Aussie policeman’s stories in rural Victoria. Some stories were better than others, but it painted a nice picture of a life’s work as a policeman. Some funny stories too.

[Louise Cropley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Refreshly honest account of some grisly situations and hilarious stories of horses in showers, this book is an easy read with bite size chapters.

[Craig Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read couldn’t put it down

[Dianna Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing life

I have learnt so much about policing in remote areas from this book and I have the greatest admiration for the serving officers.

[Georgie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

[Janine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible account of how one person, a down-to-earth Aussie police officer, can make such an impact. What amazing adventures and challenges to read about.

[Denise Tannock · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a great quick read, short chapters that made me want to read what was next.

[Ian Bronson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read, would love to read a second edition or even see the book made into a tv series would make great Australian TV. This is a book I will read again

[Carter Ridgway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really a great book, Mark Tregellas is a fantastic and inspirational guy.

[Cookie1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

An informative read about how things go for country police officers.