A Victorian Police officer and father of three who died trekking along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru has been remembered as one of the force’s finest.
Sergeant Matthew Paton, 52, tragically lost his life when he tripped and fell hundreds of metres down a steep ravine along the famous South American trail on Wednesday local time.
Rescue crews found Sergeant Paton’s body below the 50 Gradas section of the trail the following day. He and his wife had been hiking with a tour group and a guide to the historical site.
A statement released by Sergeant Paton’s family said they were shattered by his loss.
“It seems surreal at the moment – everyone is bereft,” the statement read.
“Family was the most important thing to Matt.
“He was dedicated to his family, including his wife of 31 years and their three children. He adored his family. And we adored him.
“If you were in trouble, he was the guy you wanted to have around because he would come to your aid.”
Sergeant Paton was originally from Queensland and was a passionate Brisbane Lions and Maroons supporter.
His family said he was a brilliant student who started his career as an accountant, completed his degree and worked in retail before becoming a police officer.
“He wanted to have a career where he was doing something that he could be proud of, which is why he joined Victoria Police later in life,” they said.
“He really thought that he was doing something worthwhile.”
The Paton family said they were incredibly proud of the father of three, who loved being an educator.
“Even in the last week, he was posting videos of primary school students marching in Peru and telling his recruits here that they could learn a thing or two in a joking manner,” they said.
His family said Sergeant Paton always wanted to travel to Peru and he learnt Spanish when he was in his mid-30s so he could take this trip.
“He was always up for an adventure and to learn something and to experience something new,” the statement said.
Victoria Police confirmed Mr Paton’s death on Friday following local and Australian media reports of the tragedy.
Cusco Police Region Chief Virgilio Velasquez told media that Sergeant Paton and his wife arrived 12 days ago and were on a four-day hike to Machu Picchu.
“We have information indicating that he apparently tripped while crossing a wooden bridge, and he likely tried to hold onto the wooden railing, but it gave way and he slipped into the abyss along with it,” General Velasquez said.
“Unfortunately, he fell down the ravine.”
Sergeant Paton joined Victoria Police 17 years ago and worked at Cranbourne and Rosebud stations before he became an instructor at the Police Academy, where he taught recruits and trained officers responding to mental health incidents.
He was recently promoted to senior sergeant and was due to start the role next month.
Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said the thoughts of everyone at Victoria Police were with Sergeant Paton’s family and friends at this time.
“His colleagues and the entire policing family are devastated at the tragic loss of a wonderful, caring person,” he said.
“Matt had the ability to talk to anyone and everyone.
“The morale and welfare of his friends and workmates was always his priority.
“He will be remembered for his selflessness, amazing sense of humour, extreme kindness and inclusion of all.”
The Code 9 Foundation, a charity dedicated to supporting first responders suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, said in a touching tribute: “Victoria Police lost one of its finest with Matt’s incredibly tragic death in Peru.
“Our thoughts are firmly with Matt’s wife, three children, friends and colleagues.”
The Victoria Police Football Club also paid tribute to Sergeant Paton, remembering him as “a great block, mentor and friend to many members” of their club.
“We send our condolences to Matt’s wife, his three children and those within his wide friendship circle in these difficult times,” a post read.
According to Go Andes, the Inca Trail is about 46km long and it can take travellers up to five days to trek to the 500-year-old world heritage site.
The trail accommodates 500 hikers per day plus 200 guides, and is booked out by tourists up to 12 months in advance.
It is rated moderately difficult with “very demanding mountainous sections” and simple descents surrounded by incredible nature, according to Machu Picchu Terra.
Machu Picchu is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and sits 2840m above sea level.
It is accessed by a trail that winds its way up steep mountains above Cuscuo’s Sacred Valley.
A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesman said consular assistance was being provided to Sergeant Paton’s family.
“ We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time,” a spokesman said.
“Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”
