Five new graduates will join the Orana Mid-Western Police District (OMWPD) after the first graduation ceremony of 2021 was held in Goulburn on Friday.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the new recruits will be spread across the vast district, with three to join stations within the electorate.
“These new police officers have chosen a career of service and will be a vital asset to our communities,” Mr Saunders said.
“Dubbo, Wellington and Narromine will each be getting a new officer, while the other two will be stationed at Gilgandra and Coonamble, and they will get the chance to learn a lot with some very experienced officers already attached to the district.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott joined NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller APM at the attestation ceremony and congratulated the incoming officers and welcomed the return to a full ceremony after last year’s events were disrupted by COVID-19 restrictions.
“Over the course of last year, we have seen first-hand the crucial role our police officers play in protecting the community and we owe them a debt of gratitude for their efforts,” Mr Elliott said.
“These officers will join a NSW Police Force that has been strengthened by investment from the NSW Government, including the delivery of 1500 additional officers over four years and the commitment to a $60 million upgrade to Goulburn Police Academy.”
Class 345 includes 139 men and 55 women. Some recruits entered the NSW Police Academy straight from school or university, while others left established professional careers and trades such as teachers, ambulance officers and a jockey.
The NSW Government has committed $583 million over four years to deliver 1500 new police officers – the biggest single increase for the NSW Police Force in more than 30 years.