NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione will welcome 182 new recruits into the Force at an attestation ceremony in Goulburn this morning (Friday 2 May 2014). Members of “Class 321” of the Associate Degree in Policing Practice will begin work as probationary constables on Monday morning (5 May 2014) at 56 local area commands across NSW. “I could not be prouder of the men and women who are joining our ranks today,” Commissioner Scipione said. “They are about to embark on a career that they will find to be as rewarding as it is challenging. “Whether they’re serving communities in Sydney, or in regional areas, or out in the bush, I am confident they will display the same dedication, professionalism and enthusiasm they have shown throughout their time at the academy,” Commissioner Scipione said. The probationary constables will now complete 12 months’ on-the-job training, along with additional study by distance education with Charles Sturt University. They will then officially graduate with their associate degree and be confirmed in the rank of constable. The recruits marching out today come from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds. While many were born in Australia, others hail from countries as varied as China, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Belgium, France, India, Iran, Vietnam, Italy, Lebanon, Netherlands and South Africa. Sixteen identify as being from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background. The recruits also vary widely in age – from 19 to 53 – as well as where they live. Some joined straight out of school or university, while others previously worked in careers such as a gym owner, chef, mechanic, supermarket cashier, cheerleader, and even a shark-dive coordinator. (A full demographic profile of today’s attesting class can be found at the end of this media release.) At today’s ceremony, Commissioner Scipione will also pay tribute to two retiring police officers with more than 70 years’ combined service. Susan Waites joined the NSW Police Force in July 1982. Mrs Waites officially retired last year at the rank of superintendent, having served as commander at Holroyd, The Hills and, finally, Kings Cross Local Area Commands. During her more than 30-year career, Mrs Waites worked not only in general duties, but also at the NSW Police Force Academy; as Human Resources Manager for what was then called the Inner Metropolitan Region; and at the Police Royal Commission. Over the years, Mrs Waites has received several awards in recognition of her service, including the Australian Police Medal, the National Police Service Medal, and the Commissioner’s Community Service Citation in recognition of her long-term support of NSW Police Legacy. Also marching off the parade ground today is Sergeant Harley Willcox, who will retire in July 2014 after 40 years of service to NSW Police.
Posted on: Fri, 02 May 2014 00:32:06 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015