THE WHITSUNDAYS have welcomed four new police officers following one of the biggest swearing in ceremonies in more than 20 years.
The Bowen and Proserpine Police Stations have each welcomed one new officer and the Whitsunday Police Station (Cannonvale/Airlie Beach) has welcomed two new officers.
In all, Queensland has gained 128 new police officers, following a Queensland Police Service (QPS) swearing-in ceremony, in Brisbane, last Thursday (September 19).
About 3,000 extra police personnel are expected to come online following the Queensland Government’s $1.28bn investment in the Community Safety for Queensland Plan.
More than 750 people attended last week’s graduation, including families, as their loved ones began their policing journeys.
Police Minister Mark Ryan said it was a ‘privilege’ to congratulate the 128 new First Year Constables, as they began their rewarding new careers.
“Today marks a milestone as we welcome one of the largest cohorts in over two decades,” he said.
“This, combined with the significant increase in applicants and graduates over the past 12 months, demonstrates an increasing desire to contribute to keeping our communities safe.
“I wish each of you every success as you embark on your policing careers.”
During the eight-month Recruit Training Program, the cohort underwent extensive training in operational policing issues, physical skills, driving, firearms and field craft.
The new intake includes individuals with past experience in defence, healthcare, retail and skilled trades, with the youngest of the new officers 19-years-old and the oldest 51.
The new officers will now be deployed across Queensland to undertake further training and ‘on the job’ development.
Following the ‘Challenging, Rewarding, Policing’ campaign, last year, the QPS has graduated 850 recruits in the past 12 months, a 68 per cent increase on the previous year.
Specialty areas include Water Police, the Mounted Unit, Bike Squad, Cyber Crime, Highway Patrol and the District Crime Prevention Unit.
Learn more at https://www.policerecruit.qld.gov.au/events.
