South Australia Police (SAPOL) has announced that the winner of the 2022 South Australia Police Officer of the Year is Superintendent Mark Syrus from Yorke Mid North Local Service Area.
The award is presented annually by the Rotary Club of Unley on behalf of the wider community, highlighting the quality of service provided by the State’s Police force.
Acting Police Commissioner Linda Williams congratulated Superintendent Syrus on his award saying he has served SAPOL for 42 years in frontline policing, specialist roles, supervisory and management positions along with service to country communities.
“This award seeks to acknowledge police officers who have demonstrated exemplary courtesy, courage, kindness, understanding, compassion and devotion to duty in the eyes of the community,” Acting Commissioner Williams said.
“It also recognises an outstanding and committed police officer who serves the community through significant off-duty community volunteering,” she said.
Superintendent Syrus (pictured) accepted the award saying he was fortunate to do what he loves to do and can see the rewards of it amongst young people facing difficulties.
“I am humbled by being nominated for this prestigious award and as a police officer, there can be no greater reward than being acknowledged for your efforts from the community that we serve,” Superintendent Syrus said.
His nomination was made by the Chief Executive Officer of Operation Flinders Foundation, David Wark who said Superintendent Syrus had volunteered with Operation Flinders since 1995 and during that time provided guidance and support to thousands of young people.
Mr Wark said Operation Flinders provided young people facing adversity with an eight-day adventure therapy program based in the northern Flinders Ranges.
He said Superintendent Syrus had been the Team Leader of 27 exercises where he worked directly with young people, guiding them on their eight day trek over rugged terrain and carried backpacks containing essential supplies, food rations and basic camping equipment.
Superintendent Syrus said Operation Flinders gave him a way to contribute to the young people of South Australia.
“By temporarily disconnecting participants from modern society pressures, it provides for reflection and the building of self-confidence through new experiences and being challenged in a safe and supportive environment,” he said
Superintendent Syrus was presented with his award at the Royal Adelaide Show by Rotary Club members in the presence of Acting Police Commissioner Linda Williams.
