In front of the acting Commissioner of Police Linda Williams and proud family and friends, the members of Course 36 will graduate from the South Australia Police Academy today.
The 11 men and 10 women who have spent the last 12 months studying a range of important topics - including the law, investigational technique, police procedures, operational safety, firearms and driver training – will now begin their careers as Probationary Constables.
They will now undertake a 16 to 18-month probationary period that aims to build on the skills they've developed and to provide valuable in-field experience.
Each of those graduating today is enthusiastic about the challenging, diverse career which lies ahead of them.
"I am beyond excited to graduate and to begin my career, which will hopefully be a long and prosperous one with the South Australia Police," said Savanna Calabro (left). "I love the idea of coming to work and experiencing new and exciting things every day."
After a year of university study she joined the police, and is now being posted to the Western District in Adelaide.
Her fellow graduate Maria Bucon is also heading to Adelaide's western suburbs, and similarly joined SA Police after time at university – graduating from Flinders in 2017 with a Bachelor of Justice and Society.
"I have always been drawn to the fact that SA Police have such a huge variety of specialty areas that will allow me to diversify my career and learn new things whenever I feel the need for change," she said.
"I believe that a police career is one of the most challenging and rewarding careers, and one that suits my personality better than any other."
Classmate Benjamin Bauer was an electrician for eight years before joining SA Police, using his trade skills to help build, renovate and sell homes.
Now he's excited about tackling a new project – a career that is challenging and has the potential for growth.
He is being posted to the Eastern District in Adelaide and will be patrolling in the central business district, with a long term aim to progress to STAR Operations.
SA Police are always recruiting, and offer more than 40 career options – including working as a police officer, protective security officer, community constable and in administration or support roles. If you are interested in joining our team visit the website: https://www.police.sa.gov.au/join-us