THE GOVERNMENT has marked a significant achievement in enhancing Queensland’s policing efforts, with 155 new officers graduating in the state’s largest police graduation ceremony in 33 years.
This milestone reflects the Government’s commitment to bolstering police numbers and restoring safety across Queensland, including in Hervey Bay, where new officers like Constable Kiara Hill will soon hit the streets to serve the community.
The diverse cohort of graduates includes law students, former business owners, security officers, and even former police officers from countries such as New Zealand, the UK, and South Africa.
Their backgrounds and experiences are as varied as the regions they will serve.
In fact, these new recruits have already been making their mark, having assisted with evacuations and door-knocked hundreds of residents to help during the recent ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in South East Queensland.
Their proactive approach in such critical situations showcases the readiness and dedication they bring to the Queensland Police Service (QPS).
Hervey Bay’s Newest Officer: Constable Kiara Hill
One standout in the latest batch of graduates is Constable Kiara Hill, who hails from Beaudesert and previously worked as a stable hand.
Now, Kiara is excited to start her journey as a frontline officer in Hervey Bay.
"I’ve always wanted to help the community and make it a safer place for people," Constable Hill said.
"The knowledge and skills I’ve gained during my time at the academy have been my highlight, and I’m so excited to be moving to Hervey Bay."
Hervey Bay residents can look forward to having someone passionate about safety and community at the helm.
Constable Hill’s commitment to serving her new community reflects the broader goals of the Crisafulli Government to ensure safer streets through a growing, well-equipped police force.
Supporting Queensland’s Police Force
The addition of 155 new officers is just the beginning, with over 750 recruits currently training at Queensland Police academies and more than 2,100 applicants in the recruiting pipeline.
This is part of a larger strategy to enhance police presence across the state, from Brisbane and the Far North to regional areas like Mt Isa, Rockhampton, and of course, Hervey Bay.
Premier David Crisafulli emphasised the Government’s focus on supporting law enforcement to ensure safety for Queenslanders.
“Our Government promised we would put more officers on the ground, and every day we are making sure that the police frontline is stronger,” Premier Crisafulli said.
He also highlighted the importance of the recent $31.1 million funding boost, which will be directed towards high-visibility patrols in crime hotspots.
The Government’s strategy includes tackling the Youth Crime Crisis by providing officers with the support and resources they need to succeed.
The Road to Reinforcing Community Safety
Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy shared his pride in the new officers, noting their rapid integration into Queensland communities.
“This is a milestone achievement for not only the QPS but for each and every one of our graduating officers today," he said.
“Their efforts, especially in the lead-up to Cyclone Alfred, showed exactly the kind of commitment and community spirit that define the Queensland Police Service.”
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie echoed this sentiment, emphasising that the Crisafulli Government is committed to giving police the laws and resources they need to do their
jobs effectively.
As Constable Hill and her fellow officers begin their roles across the state, Hervey Bay residents can rest assured knowing that the Crisafulli Government is working to ensure their safety and security with a stronger, better-supported police force.
With fresh faces like Constable Hill joining the team, Hervey Bay is ready for the next chapter in building a safer community for all.