Christmas comes early for Course 75

This time of year highlights the spirit of giving, and 18 graduates are ready to give policing their all and to “make a difference”.

Ranging in age from 18 to 48, 14 men and four women bring diverse backgrounds to the role, including American, Indian, Iranian, Greek, Serbian, French and Indigenous Australian.

Some recruits journeyed from interstate, including from New South Wales and the Northern Territory, while others came from regional areas including Whyalla and Penola.

Before joining SAPOL, Course 75 members worked across a variety of industries, including in sales, information and technology, hospitality and social work. Some also bring experience as a sport’s coach, carpenter, orderly, Police Security Officer and Prison Officer.

Ben was in the United States Marine Corps from 1997-2005, and most recently worked as a service technician in various industries before SAPOL.

“I think that being in the Marine Corps prepared me the most for being a police officer,” he said.

“I learned leadership most importantly, but also how to deal with people and high-stress situations.”

Over nine months at the academy, Ben enjoyed the operational training, and a hands-on approach when it came to learning. He looks forward to a metropolitan posting.

Fellow graduate Sophia brings supervisor and leadership experience to policing.

“I was a member of the Murray Bridge and Tailem Bend Blue Light committees, and this was a valuable experience as I was working alongside police officers and could watch how they manage a range of situations that arise from dealing with members of the public,” she said.

“I was also a member of the Murray Bridge Scout Group for approximately 10 years, and this helped me develop leadership skills and independence. Through Scouts I travelled to America and Canada for a World Jamboree.”

Sophia looks forward to a regional posting and has long aspired to work within Aboriginal communities to make change.

Damon was studying to become a lawyer in Canberra before joining the blue family and enjoys playing basketball in his free time.

“I believe my time studying to become a lawyer helped me throughout the Constable Development Program in making it easier to retain information for exams, and in having an understanding of how policing plays a part in the broader legal system,” he said.

“I was attracted to SAPOL due to its many different career pathways and being able to move and be outside throughout the workday, and to help the community.”

Excited to begin at a metropolitan posting, Damon was grateful for the support of peers and mentors.

Ben hopes to one day work in the Serious and Organised Crime Branch, while Damon aspires to become a detective in Eastern District. Sophia plans to join the Special Crime Investigation Section to pursue work in victim management.

Course 75 members will be posted across metropolitan and regional locations including Port Augusta, Berri, Mount Gambier, Whyalla and Port Pirie.

SAPOL is currently recruiting and is keen to hear from people interested in an inspiring career with unmatched experiences and rewards.

If you're looking for job security, career progression pathways and a chance to make a real difference in local communities visit Achievemore - Join Us (police.sa.gov.au)

Video link: https://youtu.be/kjwYe2_APEk

Sophia, Damon and Ben are among Course 75 members who graduated today from the South Australia Police Academy.