Police Minister Mark Ryan was joined by Commissioner Katarina Carroll to induct 41 recruits into the Queensland Police Service (QPS) today.
The induction ceremony, held at Townsville Stadium, acknowledges the conclusion of training of the recruits before they begin their duties as First Year Constables.
This week’s tragedy in the Western Downs has had a profound impact on the graduating cohort, with the loss of both Constable Rachel McCrow and Constable Matthew Arnold felt widely throughout the Service, including at the Townsville Academy, where Rachel graduated from around only 12 months ago.
Commissioner Carroll said the intake’s resilience in horrific circumstances spoke to each officer’s strength.
“I am particularly proud of this cohort – despite the extraordinary sadness we all feel, they are united and determined to make a difference serving their communities,” Commissioner Carroll said.
Minister Ryan thanked the recruits for their dedication and commitment to the QPS, as he congratulated the intake for this momentous achievement.
“Congratulations to our newest Recruits who officially join the Queensland Police Service as First Year Constables today,” Minister Ryan said.
“This is a sombre time for the QPS, and especially so for those at this academy – many of whom knew Rachel from her time training in Townsville.
“Rachel and Matthew will forever be remembered by all members of the QPS
“And so too, should all members of the QPS, including today’s newest members, remember that their selfless dedication to this career will always be valued by the Queensland community.
“Intake 47 will play a pivotal role in protecting and serving our community throughout their entire career with the QPS.
“On behalf of the State, I thank you for your commitment, dedication, and service, as you go forth to serve and protect.”
Commissioner Carroll also congratulated the new recruits on their efforts and welcomed them to the QPS community.
“Congratulations to the newest members of the Queensland Police Service,” Commissioner Carroll said.
“Mourning the loss of Constable Matthew Arnold and Constable Rachel McCrow has made this a sombre time for the QPS.
“Through these tragic events, the values of QPS shine through, and our people rally and answer the call.
“I welcome you into the QPS family. I know you will serve with honour and integrity like many others within our organisation.
“Our family has a bond like no other, you will create friendships that will last your entire career, built and tested in hardship.
“Your individual skillsets and life experiences will be celebrated within the QPS and will benefit you throughout your career as you learn what it takes to be a successful officer in the community.”
The graduates came to Townsville for training from Queensland and beyond, with some recruits originally from South Africa, Egypt and India, holding experience in a variety of professions ranging from a member of the Australian Federal Police to administration, retail and journalism.
Throughout their training, the recruits of Intake 47 have already gained real world experience by assisting in a search operation on Magnetic Island and forensic search following an alleged triple murder in Bogie this year.
The 41 graduating recruits will spend the next 12 months as First Year Constables, rotating through allocated stations, providing them the opportunity to gain experience in a broad range of policing duties.
During the first year, they will be mentored by a senior officer, learning the skills to become a successful police officer in their community.
This intake of FYCs will be deployed throughout Queensland in the following stations:
FAR NORTH REGION
Far North District
Cairns Station 3
Mareeba Station 2
Edmonton Station 2
Smithfield Station 1
Atherton Station 1
Cooktown Station 1
Mossman Station 1
Innisfail Station 1
NORTHERN REGION
Townsville District
Ayr Station 1
Charters Towers Station 1
Ingham Station 2
Townsville Station 2
Stuart Station 2
Mundingburra Station 2
Kirwan Station 3
Deeragun Station 3
Mount Isa District
Mount Isa Station 3
CENTRAL REGION
Mackay District
Moranbah Station 2
Bowen Station 1
Proserpine Station 1
Whitsunday Station 1
Sarina Station 1
Capricornia District
Rockhampton Station 2
Gladstone Station 2
