Graduation time for Course 79

Ranging in age from 22 to 35, 11 men and three women begin their policing careers after 9.5 months of thorough training.

The 14 new police officers bring a variety of former work experience, including from retail, grain testing, health and fitness, refrigeration, and as Police Security Officers.

Prior to joining SAPOL, Sam was working as a personal trainer and enjoyed hitting the jiu-jitsu mats.

“I’ve always wanted to be a police officer, but what started off as wanting to fight crime, became a desire to do something more with my life and partake in an exciting, challenging and rewarding career,” he said.

“Following my time at the academy, I’m a more self-assured, confident and capable individual.”

Fellow graduate Renae alternated seasonal jobs grain testing and cellar hand vintage work, with working as a refit merchandiser before becoming a police officer.

“This experience will benefit me in policing as no two working days were the same, and I have a variety of different skills,” she said.

“I am excited to see where my career will take me as there are endless opportunities in different areas of policing.”

Dylan was working as an RAA retail sales consultant before joining SAPOL and has played cricket since a young age.

“Policing appealed to me since I was young, and this is due to the difference police make in the community and even being able to help one person who is having their worst day,” he said.

“I have gained better conversational skills as well as dealing with people more confidently.”

Sam hopes to one day work in STAR Operations, while Renae is open to any SAPOL career path but particularly interested in Dog Operations Unit, and Dylan has ambitions to become a District Duty Inspector and would love to eventually work in the executive leadership team.

Sam encouraged anyone interested in a SAPOL career to “put the work in”.

“If you feel you will struggle with the fitness side of the training, train. If you feel it will be the academic portion, you’ll have a hard time with, study,” he said.

Renae said the past 9.5 months have been the toughest but most rewarding she had experienced.

“If you’re thinking about joining, now is the time,” she encouraged.

Dylan similarly urged people looking for a new career to “just go for it”.

“It is a great time to join, and you will make lifelong friends,” he added.

“Make sure you have some good study habits and fitness habits when you join.”

Course 79 members will be stationed to metropolitan and regional postings, including Whyalla, Port Pirie, and Port Augusta.

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)

Sam, Renae, and Dylan are excited to embark on new policing careers after today graduating from Course 79.