Far North Queensland safety boosted with 16 new officers

Queensland Corrective Services welcomed 16 new custodial correctional officers and celebrated four retiring officers with more than 108 years of combined service at a ceremony held in Mareeba recently.

The new officers were inducted into their vital roles on the front line of public safety and will now deploy to Lotus Glen Correctional Centre (LGCC).

Deputy Commissioner Custodial Operations Gary McCahon commended the important role officers played in community safety across the state and welcomed the new officers.

“Queensland communities are safer thanks to the hard work of all officers in preventing re-offending and helping offenders lead crime-free lives, and I thank them for that,” Deputy Commissioner McCahon said.

“Our officers perform an often-unseen role, working to protect the safety of all Queenslanders, so it’s wonderful to be able to acknowledge the dedication and important work they do.

“Congratulations and welcome to our newest officers,” Deputy Commissioner McCahon said.

Some of the state’s most experienced officers were also recognised, with four LGCC officers receiving Long Service and Good Conduct Medals for their combined 108 years of service.

Deputy Commissioner McCahon commended the officers on their long-standing commitment to their roles.

“To perform the role for decades requires remarkable personal resilience and an absolute commitment to public safety, Deputy Commissioner McCahon said.

LGCC General Manager, Chief Superintendent Gabby Payne said it was hard to fathom how many lives the officers had turned around, how many crimes they prevented from occurring and how many families had a brighter future thanks to their ongoing commitment to the rehabilitation of prisoners, and the safety and security of the centre.

“Officers with this level of lived experience provide our newer officers with a steady hand and a wise ear to guide them through the dynamic environments that are our prisons, helping to keep them safe, and I thank them for their commitment to public safety,” Ch. Supt. Payne said.

Ch. Supt. Payne said LGCC had an active recruitment campaign underway to fill 54 CCO positions, as well as a number of positions in program delivery and administration.

“It is an exciting time to join Queensland Corrective Service, as we use the five principles of Corrections 2030 – safety, excellence, empowerment, respect and accountability – to strive towards providing world-class corrective services,” Ch. Supt. Payne said.

“I encourage passionate people from all walks of life to consider a career in corrective services and joining the front line of public safety to help transform lives and improve community safety.

“If you think you have what it takes to keep your community safe and want a rewarding career, I encourage you to apply,” Ch. Supt. Payne said.