North Queensland academy welcomes newest police officers

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has welcomed 47 new officers to the frontline, following their graduation from the QPS Academy in Townsville.

The ceremony marks the completion of the 36-week recruit training program at the QPS North Queensland campus, where recruits develop an understanding of the region’s unique needs and become equipped to serve diverse communities across the state.

The new officers, aged between 19 to 43, bring a wealth of skills and valuable perspectives from backgrounds including defence, sales and retail, youth work and skilled trades.

Acting Commissioner of Police Brett Pointing APM congratulated the new constables, acknowledging the important role they will play in supporting frontline policing across Queensland.

“Policing is an incredibly rewarding career that offers the opportunity to serve with purpose, build strong community connections and help shape safer, more connected communities,” Acting Commissioner Pointing said.

“These officers will become an integral part of the communities they serve and make a valuable contribution to keeping Queenslanders and visitors safe.”

Constable Bucktrout is inducted
Constable Finucane is inducted
Constable Tanner is inducted

Former electrician and fire service volunteer, Constable Dylan Bucktrout will bring his extensive experience as a team leader in high-pressure environments to his new role serving the Townsville community.

“After 15 years in the radio electronics industry, I wanted a career where I could make a real difference in people’s lives. Policing has given me that opportunity, while also challenging me to grow both personally and professionally,” Constable Bucktrout said.

“My 11 years as a volunteer firefighter in Western Australia taught me the importance of teamwork, leadership, and staying calm under pressure. Those experiences have been invaluable as I step into my role as a police officer, proudly serving the Queensland community.”

Also among the graduates is Constable Malachi Tanner, who will commence his policing career in Innisfail.

“Working as a builder’s labourer and on banana farms, I’ve always had a strong work ethic, but I wanted to try something different. I was drawn to a career where I could connect with people more and help build stronger, safer communities,” Constable Tanner said.

“I’ve loved every bit of the training – learning so many new skills, forming friendships that I hope will last a lifetime, and being supported by staff who have helped us build a strong foundation for frontline policing.”

Former sales and administration professional, Constable Peta Finucane, continues her family legacy as a third-generation police officer, embarking on her new chapter serving the Mareeba community.

“After an extensive career in retail, real estate, and operations management, and with our children now grown, I decided to pursue a diverse and rewarding career change,” Constable Finucane said.

“Adjusting to full-time training after 20 years in the workforce was challenging, but the facilitators at the Townsville academy were incredibly supportive of each recruit’s unique background and needs.”

“If you’re considering joining the QPS, I’d say give it a go and be prepared to work hard. It’s been an incredible experience that’s pushed me out of my comfort zone and has also been deeply rewarding.”

Recruits at graduation parade
Recruit awards are presented
Recruits and banner party
Newly sworn police constables on parade

This intake of First Year Constables will be deployed throughout Queensland at the following stations:

RegionDistrictStationTotal
Brisbane Region (10)North Brisbane (5)Ferny Grove1
Fortitude Valley1
Sandgate2
Stafford1
South Brisbane (5)Cleveland1
Coorparoo1
Dutton Park1
Upper Mount Gravatt2
Central Region (1)Mackay Whitsunday (1)Whitsunday1
Far Northern Region (12)Far North (12)Atherton2
Cairns3
Gordonvale1
Innisfail1
Mareeba1
Smithfield3
Tully1
Northern Region (19)Mt Isa (2)Mt Isa2
Townsville (17)Ayr1
Charters Towers1
Deeragun2
Kirwan4
Mundingburra2
Stuart2
Townsville5
South Eastern Region (5)Gold Coast (3)Broadbeach1
Coomera1
Mudgeeraba1
Logan (2)Browns Plains1
Logan Central1

A career with the Queensland Police Service offers diverse roles, unique challenges, and the chance to make a real difference every day. From emergency response and crime prevention to community engagement and public safety, no two days are ever the same.

From our bustling cities to remote towns and pristine coastline, policing in Queensland offers a career and lifestyle as diverse as the communities you’ll serve.

Looking for a career that stands for more? Stand with us in a challenging and rewarding career. Visit policerecruit.qld.gov.au to apply now.

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