THE Queensland Police Service has kicked off the year by welcoming 136 recruits as sworn officers, including a new officer posted to Goondiwindi.
This month’s graduation sees recruits with a range of diverse experiences including past service with the Australian Defence Force and Queensland Ambulance Service, as well as international policing backgrounds and finance industry experience.
Recruits have completed eight-and-a-half-months of training, developing skillsets to empower decision-making in service of the community, and in supporting fellow frontline officers.
Recruit training involved practical and theory components, providing recruits with valuable skills related to community safety, attending mental health related incidents, investigating and preventing domestic and family violence as well as scenario-based training.
Commissioner of Police, Steve Gollschewski, said this month’s cohort sets the tone for another strong year of recruitment.
“I am pleased to welcome these new officers into the QPS and know they will serve their communities with honour,” Mr Gollschewski said.
“This year, QPS is reaffirming its commitment to a strong recruitment pipeline, with a focus on attracting the right people that align with our values.
“In 2024, we had a 36 per cent increase of appointments into the Service compared with the 2023 year.
“It is great to see so many people interested in the challenging and rewarding career that the QPS offers and I’m looking forward to what 2025 will bring.”
First Year Constable Bing Cheng said becoming a sworn officer is a dream come true.
Cheng was working in the finance industry assisting the community with banking security when his childhood dream resurfaced after assisting in a car accident at school drop-off.
“I stopped to help a parent in shock after a traffic accident, helping the first responder and directing traffic while still in my pyjamas,” Cheng said.
“Becoming a police officer is the ultimate way I can contribute to my community and do something my kids can be proud of, while keeping their future safe.
“My goal in the service is not to be in specialist units, but to be part of the front line, in the community.”
Camryn Hayden gained a diverse skillset before becoming a recruit, to ensure she could be an outstanding police officer.
Hayden worked as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher with QAS, and said the experience provided her with a solid foundation before transitioning to QPS.
“Working in my prior role exposed me to high pressure situations, critical decision making and fuelled my passion for fostering strong relationships and serving the community,” Hayden said.
“I understand the significance of engaging with people during their most vulnerable moments and I am eager to expand that impact by being a member of the QPS.
“The continuous support and mentorship provided by the facilitators at the academy, through sharing their expertise and personal career experiences, created a genuine and supportive learning experience.”
