The thin blue line of policing in NSW is to become a little thicker with the graduation of 261 new probationary constables from the Police Academy in Goulburn last week.
‘Class 337’ includes 176 policemen and 85 policewomen who will now complete 12 months on-the-job training as probationary constables and study for the Associate Degree in Policing Practice before being confirmed to the rank of constable.
Of the group, 234 were born in Australia and 27 overseas. Their countries of origin include New Zealand, China, Serbia, Wales, India, Ecuador, South Africa, United States, Germany, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore and Canada.
Thirty four are between 19 and 20 years of age; 129 are between 21 and 25; 62 between 26 and 30; 15, 31 to 35; 12, 36 to 40; and nine over 40.
Police Commissioner, Mick Fuller said the newly-attested officers were now taking up postings at police stations across the State.
“This marks the end of the first chapter in these new officers’ policing careers,” Commissioner Fuller said.
“However, it also represents the start of the next chapter, where they will experience the great challenges and rewards of serving the community as police officers,” he said.
“To uphold the values of the NSW Police Force takes hard work, dedication and commitment, and all these new officers have demonstrated they have the drive to succeed.”
The ceremony also saw officers with 153 years combined service retire. These were Detective Chief Superintendent Wayne Gordon, Detective Superintendent Michael Plotecki, Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Thomas and Chief Inspector Kim Sorensen.
