A Sunshine Coast tradesman is set to build a new career with the Queensland Police Service, after completing a comprehensive training course.
Caleb Freebody was among a cohort of 14 people recently welcomed to the QPS, as protective service officers (PSO).
He will start his new role in Brisbane, after an eight-year career as a skilled carpenter.
“I decided to pursue a career as a PSO as I’ve always enjoyed helping my community in any way I can, so this career change will allow me to continue that commitment on a daily basis,” he said.
“The communication, professionalism and self-development skills I have gained through the PSO training program have been highly valuable, and I look forward to putting them to use in my career with the QPS.”
The 14 PSOs joined the ranks of the QPS after their graduation from the academy in Brisbane.
PSOs play a crucial role by providing security services to state infrastructure and facilities, ensuring the safety and security of Queenslanders.
Superintendent Keiryn Dermody congratulated the new PSOs and welcomed them.
“These new officers bolster the service with their diverse backgrounds and wealth of experience from their previous professions which include Queensland police officer, customer service, teaching and youth justice,” she said.
“They will play a vital role in our commitment to the evolving needs of Queensland communities. I wish them all the best as they move forward in their careers.”
PSO Brooke Nielsen, who comes from a retail management background, said her experience liaising with police through workplace situations drew her towards a career serving the community.
“I am looking forward to the vast opportunities for career development that the service has to offer, as well as further developing my academy training, particularly critical thinking and situational awareness in various environments I will be working in,” she said.
“There are so many places a career with the QPS can take you, and having lived in various regions across the state, including Darling Downs, Wide Bay and the Gold Coast, I look forward to the prospect of serving regional Queensland in the future, following my initial deployment in Brisbane.”
PSO recruits undertake a comprehensive seven-week, full-time training program at the academy at Oxley, where they earn a training salary to support them through their studies.
The training program covers ethics and integrity, legislation relevant to their duties, communication training surrounding de-escalation of incidents and communication with clients.
Recruits also undertake operational skills and tactics training, which includes safe use of force and other procedures, all of which prepares them for the operational duties they will undertake.
The new PSOs will be deployed to the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Caboolture and Mackay.
The Protective Services Group offers diverse opportunities for people looking for a fulfilling career with job security and ample avenues for professional advancement.
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