Twelve new police officers are ready to hit the road after today graduating from the South Australia Police (SAPOL) Academy.
Ranging in age from 20-38, seven men and five women have been welcomed into the service following nine months of thorough training.
Course 70 members offer a variety of former work experience, including from hospitality, retail, as a business owner, shed hand and support worker, electrician, and pharmacy assistant. Others bring transferrable skills as a previous Police Security Officer and Royal Canadian Mounted Police Officer.
Some of today's graduates also bring unique life experience through Filipino, Dutch, and Canadian backgrounds.
Before joining SAPOL, Virginia worked two seasonal jobs on a farm – packing corn and working on a vineyard – before pursuing a dream policing career.
She also played/refereed soccer and futsal, played basketball, and volunteered as a country firefighter.
"I am an active person, and love the idea of being out on patrol," Virginia said.
"Something that interests me is the victim-side of policing. I am an empathetic person and have always been intrigued on the idea of being able to support and help victims. There are other areas such as dog squad that I am interested in too."
Fellow graduate, Craig, worked as a former furniture removalist before following a new career path through SAPOL.
Having three children and being involved in local football led Craig towards working in a secure team-environment after fleeting, intensive study.
"It's amazing how much you learn, how quickly the academy life goes, and how fast pace it is," he said.
"I found during outphase the teams are supportive and accommodating. I look forward to continuing learning on the road and experiencing police life."
Moving to Adelaide from Beachport on the Limestone Coast to gain a Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Science, Brianna hopes to put her study into practice and one day work in Crime Scene Investigations and Forensics.
She encouraged others thinking about a policing career to take the leap.
"If you are considering joining just do it. It's an unforgettable experience and you will make lifelong friends," she said.
"Give everything your best go and put yourself forward."
Course 70 graduates will be stationed to metropolitan and regional postings, including Port Augusta and the Murray Mallee Local Service Area.
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)
Course 70 graduates Craig, Virginia, and Brianna were among 12 police officers to graduate today from the South Australia Police Academy.
